Section 193 quinquies — Continuous trial in small claims
Statutory text (Thai original)
ในคดีมโนสาเร่ ให้ศาลนั่งพิจารณาคดีติดต่อกันไปโดยไม่ต้องเลื่อน เว้นแต่มีเหตุจำเป็น ศาลจะมีคำสั่งเลื่อนได้ครั้งละไม่เกินเจ็ดวัน
English translation
In a small claims case, the court shall sit to try the case continuously without postponement, unless there is a necessary cause, in which case the court may order a postponement not exceeding seven days at a time.
This English translation is provided for reference only and has not yet been firm-verified — always rely on the Thai original.
Firm annotation
Section 193/5 caps the length and frequency of adjournments to keep small claims cases moving. The default rule is a continuous hearing; a postponement is allowed only for a necessary cause, and each postponement is limited to seven days. This continuous-trial requirement complements the single-hearing structure of section 193 and the court's active evidence-management powers under sections 193 ter and 193 quater. Together they distinguish small claims from ordinary procedure, where hearings are more often spread across multiple dates.
Why this matters in practice
Plan for a small claim to be heard and decided in a short, continuous span rather than dragged out over months. Postponements are hard to obtain and short when granted, so prepare all your evidence and witnesses for the hearing rather than counting on later dates. If you cannot proceed on the day, you will need a genuinely necessary reason. See our guide on going to court in Thailand.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a small claims trial take?
Section 193/5 requires the court to try a small claim continuously without postponement, so it is designed to conclude quickly rather than over many separate dates.
Can a small claims hearing be postponed?
Only where there is a necessary cause, and under section 193/5 each postponement may not exceed seven days at a time.