How African Firms Can Pursue Court Proceedings in the Czech Republic

Q: What is the most common mistake African companies make?

Failing to send the pre-litigation demand letter (předžalobní výzva). This oversight often bars the recovery of legal costs even if the case is won. Contact consultation@arws.cz to ensure compliance.

Key Steps for Starting a Case

Mgr. Vojtěch Sucharda

|Attorney|Czech Bar Association Reg. No. 14692

ARROWS law firm

Published:2/8/2026Updated:6/30/2026

Pursuing legal claims in the Czech Republic as an African business requires navigating a complex procedural system fundamentally different from most common law jurisdictions. This article provides practical guidance on jurisdiction rules, filing requirements, evidence standards, cost structures, and enforcement mechanisms, ensuring African firms understand the critical decisions and procedural steps necessary before initiating court action.

Key takeaways

Jurisdictional decisions define your strategy: African companies must verify if Czech courts have authority. The "default" is the defendant's domicile, but contracts can change this.

Pre-filing compliance is mandatory: Missing the pre-litigation demand letter or failing to apostille a Power of Attorney can ruin your case or cost recovery.

No discovery means you must prepare early: You cannot fish for evidence later. Gather all proofs before filing.

Costs are significant but recoverable: Expect to pay 5% court fees upfront. The loser pays principle applies, incentivizing strong cases.

Enforcement is separate: Winning in court is step one; a private bailiff handles actual collection.

ARROWS law firm

245 007 740 consultation@arws.cz

Conclusion

Pursuing court proceedings in the Czech Republic requires strict adherence to procedural formalities and a strategic approach to evidence. From the critical pre-litigation demand letter to the specificities of the electronic payment order, success depends on navigating the rules correctly from day one.

The lawyers at ARROWS Law Firm have extensive experience representing international clients in Czech commercial disputes and combine in-depth knowledge of Czech procedural law with the practical capability to manage cross-border enforcement.

If you are contemplating a commercial claim against a Czech counterpart, engaging counsel before filing is essential to ensure procedural compliance and protect your right to cost recovery. To discuss your specific situation, please write to consultation@arws.cz.

FAQ - Litigation in the Czech Republic for African Businesses

1. What is the most common mistake African companies make?

Failing to send the pre-litigation demand letter (předžalobní výzva). This oversight often bars the recovery of legal costs even if the case is won. Contact consultation@arws.cz to ensure compliance.

2. Can I conduct my Czech lawsuit in English?

No. All proceedings are in Czech. Evidence in other languages must be translated by a court-certified translator.

3. How long does a commercial lawsuit take?

Typically 12-18 months for a first-instance judgment. Complex cases take longer. Payment orders can be faster.

4. What is the court fee for a CZK 5 million claim?

Approximately CZK 250,000 (5%).

5. Is arbitration better?

It offers confidentiality and international enforceability (New York Convention), but requires a valid arbitration agreement. It is often preferable for complex international trade disputes.

ARROWS law firm

245 007 740 consultation@arws.cz

About the author

Mgr. Vojtěch Sucharda

Associate, partner

LinkedIn|Czech Bar Association Reg. No. 14692

Managing Partner ARROWS International | Head of Legal Practice Group ETL Global

sucharda@arws.cz 245 007 740

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Disclaimer:

The information contained in this article is for general informational purposes only and serves as a basic guide to the issue as of 2026. Although we strive for maximum accuracy, laws and their interpretation evolve over time. We are ARROWS Law Firm, a member of the Czech Bar Association (our supervisory authority), and for the maximum security of our clients, we are insured for professional liability with a limit of CZK 400,000,000. To verify the current wording of the regulations and their application to your specific situation, it is necessary to contact ARROWS Law Firm directly (consultation@arws.cz). We are not liable for any damages arising from the independent use of the information in this article without prior individual legal consultation.