Lexipedia

Procedural costs

Procedural costs are the court costs and party compensation allocated in civil proceedings, usually influenced by the outcome.

In Swiss civil litigation, procedural costs generally include court costs and compensation for the opposing party’s necessary legal expenses. The allocation often follows the principle that the unsuccessful party bears the costs, though the court may adjust this depending on settlement, partial success or procedural conduct. Court tariffs and party compensation are shaped by cantonal rules and the type or value of the dispute. Cost exposure is a practical factor when deciding whether to sue, settle or appeal.