The situation: A former tenant stalls on returning a deposit of a few thousand yuan, and the landlord hesitates, thinking court is 'costly and slow' for a small sum.
Applicable law: The Civil Procedure Law offers streamlined tracks: 'summary procedure' and 'small-claims procedure' for clear, small money claims — often a single hearing and a final, non-appealable judgment within the amount, with low fees and less time. One may also seek a 'payment order' for undisputed fixed debts. Written evidence (contract, transfers, messages) speeds resolution.
Outcome: The landlord filed a small claim backed by the contract and deposit receipt, and a swift judgment for return was issued.
⚖️ Dispute-resolution cases · Awareness case
A Small Sum, a Big Dispute — Simplified Procedures Serve You · Yalla China
🤝 Governing law: 民事诉讼法 / Civil Procedure Law
Is a small debt worth the trouble of going to court?
Illustrative, general educational examples — not real specific facts and not legal advice; for awareness only. For an actual situation, consult a licensed lawyer.
🎓 The lesson / takeaway
Lesson: A small sum has a cheap, fast legal path. Don't give up your right thinking litigation is a burden.
🕒 Updated: 16 March 2026