Litigation and court disputes in Serbia
Commercial disputes between companies go to the commercial courts, and other civil disputes go to the basic and higher courts. We represent foreign and domestic clients in all instances, and also look for a settlement where it serves the client.
Types of disputes
We handle disputes from contracts, claims for payment, damages, property and employment disputes. We also act in proceedings for securing claims before or during a lawsuit.
- Commercial disputes between companies
- Claims for payment and payment orders
- Damages claims
- Property and ownership disputes
- Employment disputes
- Interim measures
How a lawsuit runs
A case starts with a statement of claim. The defendant replies, and the court holds a preparatory hearing and main hearings, takes evidence and issues a judgment.
A first-instance judgment can be appealed, generally within 15 days of service. Certain final judgments can be challenged further by extraordinary legal remedies.
Settlement and mediation
Many disputes end in a court settlement or through mediation. We give you a realistic view of the case so you can decide whether to settle.
Foreign parties in Serbian courts
Foreign parties have the same rights as Serbian ones. Documents in a foreign language must be filed with a certified Serbian translation, and hearings are held in Serbian. We keep you informed in English at every stage.
How we handle it
- Case assessmentWe review the facts and documents and explain the options and risks.
- Pre-trial stepsWhere useful, we send a demand or propose a settlement before going to court.
- FilingWe prepare and file the statement of claim or the response.
- HearingsWe represent you at all hearings and report to you after each one.
- Judgment and appealWe explain the judgment and, if needed, file or answer an appeal.
- EnforcementIf the judgment is in your favour and is not paid, we start enforcement.
What to send us
- Contracts and annexes
- Correspondence between the parties
- Invoices, payment records and statements
- Court documents already received
- Names of possible witnesses
- Power of attorney for our office
Frequently asked questions
How long does a court case take in Serbia?
It depends on the court, the complexity and the number of hearings. Simple payment cases can be resolved quickly, while complex disputes with expert evidence take much longer.
Do I have to attend court in Serbia in person?
In most cases no. We represent you under a power of attorney. The court may call you to testify as a party, which can sometimes be arranged by video link or through a foreign court.
What is the deadline for an appeal in Serbia?
The general deadline for an appeal against a first-instance civil judgment is 15 days from service. Shorter deadlines apply in some procedures, such as small-value disputes.
Who pays the costs of the lawsuit?
As a rule, the losing party pays the costs of the winning party, in proportion to success in the case. Costs include attorney fees under the Tariff, court fees and expert fees.
Can a foreign company sue in Serbia?
Yes. A foreign company can sue and be sued in Serbia. In some cases the defendant may ask the foreign plaintiff to provide security for costs, unless an international agreement or reciprocity excludes this.
Is mediation available in Serbia?
Yes. Mediation is regulated by law and can be used before or during a lawsuit. A settlement reached in mediation can be made enforceable.
How are your fees set?
Fees follow the Serbian Attorney Tariff. You receive a written offer before work starts.
Talk to a lawyer
Describe your case in a few sentences. We reply within 24 hours on working days and tell you whether and how we can help.
- srdjan@bogiceviclaw.com
- +381 65 678 4991
- Viber
- +381 63 104 9891