What Qualifies as a Claim? The Most Common Real-Life Examples
Do you have a right – or just a feeling?
Many people believe they are owed something – but legally, not every promise or handshake is enforceable. “But we agreed!” doesn’t mean much in court. To be recoverable, a claim must be legally grounded and provable.
This article explains what counts as a debt or claim under Czech law – and what doesn’t.
This article is part of the guide:
People often search: what is an enforceable debt, can I claim unpaid invoice, what documents do I need for court, what counts as proof. Here’s a clear breakdown of the most common claim types I encounter in practice.
What is a claim under Czech law?
A claim (pohledávka) is a right to demand something from another person – typically a payment, the return of something, or fulfillment of a contract. A claim may arise from:
a contract (e.g., sales, services, lease)
an unpaid invoice
a private loan (even without interest)
damages or liability
unjust enrichment
a court ruling
👉 The key is that a claim must be specific, provable, and enforceable.
Common types of claims
1. Unpaid invoice
Goods or services were delivered, but not paid for.
You need a due date and proof of delivery.
2. Private loan
A written contract is helpful, but even emails or a bank transfer can serve as evidence.
3. Unreturned deposit or down payment
If the service wasn’t provided, the deposit must be returned.
4. Unpaid rent or utilities
Common in landlord-tenant relationships.
5. Breach of contract
If services were defective or incomplete, you can claim a discount or refund.
6. Compensation for damage
If someone caused you material damage (e.g., broken item), you may claim compensation.
7. Unjust enrichment
If someone benefited at your expense without legal reason – e.g., mistaken payment.
What looks like a claim – but isn’t
“He said he’d pay me, but we had no contract.”
“I lent him cash, no proof.”
“We had a verbal deal, but no written record.”
👉 These may be morally right, but legally unenforceable without proof.
Lawyer’s advice
A claim you can’t prove is worthless in court. Even informal deals should be backed by bank transfers, emails, or texts. When in doubt, have your case assessed before spending time or money chasing a debt.
❗ Not sure whether your claim is legally enforceable?
I’ll review your case quickly and tell you whether recovery is realistic. Fixed-price consultation can save you frustration and costs.
Contact a legal professional – I specialize in debt collections.
Learn more here.
- Publikováno:
- Naposledy aktualizováno: 14/07/2025
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What Qualifies as a Claim? The Most Common Real-Life Examples
Print Do you have a right – or just a feeling? Many people believe they are owed something – but legally, not every promise or