Client won't pay - is a Statutory Payment demand or Small Claims Court a better choice?

[purpleplatypus2022]

So after many months happily freelancing I've finally had a client who won't pay. It's an £800 job, part of which are expenses so I'm actually out of pocket on this one.

Client said they were happy with the finished products and going to pay but nothing. Multiple emails, phone calls etc. and no response.

So to get my money I'm going have to step it up a gear. As I understand there are two basic ways of doing this:
. Statutory Demand for payment.
. Pursue a claim in the Small Claims Court.

Does anyone know which will be the better option?

Small Claims Court very quick and easy. Don't know what a statutory demand is so can't comment on that.

Have you sent a ‘final demand, before action’ letter/email?

yep

I did a small claims court submission and it was simple. You can charge interest and some other fees too (can’t remember exactly). The client got cold feet and paid up as soon as notified.

Small claims court without a doubt

Ok thanks guys.

The statutory demand appears to relate more to forcing their company to close if they fail to pay.

Is the small claims route fairly straightforward? I understand you can submit it all online. Will there need to be a physical (or remote) hearing at some point?

Most cases settle out of court. Failing that - there will likely be a remote hearing.