Litigation in Hungary: A Guide for Businesses and Individuals

At our firm, we understand that navigating the Hungarian legal system can be challenging, especially for international clients and businesses. Whether you’re involved in a contractual dispute, a debt collection matter, or a complex commercial case, our team is here to guide you through the process with clarity, efficiency, and a commitment to achieving the best outcome.

Understanding the Hungarian Litigation System

Hungary’s legal system is based on civil law traditions. Litigation typically starts in first-instance courts, which are either the district courts (járásbíróság) or high courts (törvényszék), depending on the case’s value and subject matter. Certain cases, like commercial disputes exceeding a certain threshold, are handled by high courts as courts of first instance.

The system is three-tiered:

1. First Instance – District or high courts
2. Second Instance – Regional courts or courts of appeal
3. Supreme Court (Kúria) – Limited review focusing on points of law

Typical Stages of Litigation

Litigation in Hungary generally follows these stages:

• Filing the claim: The claimant must submit a statement of claim detailing the facts, legal basis, and evidence.
• Preliminary review: The court examines formal requirements.
• Service of claim and defence: The defendant has 45 days to file a defence (can be shorter in certain cases).
• Hearing and evidence-taking: Hearings are held for witness examination, expert opinions, and oral arguments.
• Judgment: Courts usually deliver written judgments after deliberation.
• Appeal: Parties have 15 days to appeal a first-instance decision.

Costs and Duration

Litigation costs in Hungary include:

• Court fees (6% of the claim value, up to a cap)
• Legal fees (agreed upon with your lawyer)
• Expert and translation fees, if applicable

While straightforward cases may be resolved within a year, complex disputes can take several years, especially if appeals are involved.

Enforcement of Judgments

Once a judgment becomes final, it can be enforced through Hungarian bailiff services. Foreign judgments can also be enforced in Hungary under EU regulations or international treaties, but certain formalities apply.

Why Work With Us?

Our team combines local expertise with an international perspective. We speak your language—literally and figuratively—helping you understand your case and your options at every stage. We offer:

• Clear communication
• Practical advice
• Effective representation in and out of court

Whether you’re a business facing a contractual dispute or an individual seeking justice, we are ready to assist you with litigation in Hungary.