How to File a Civil Lawsuit in Egypt: The Basic Steps

Before filing, a lawyer typically needs to prepare a complete file that usually includes: a properly drafted statement of claim, supporting documents, and a copy of the client's identification. Then comes determining the competent court — a pivotal step generally based on the defendant's place of residence or the place where the disputed obligation is to be performed, and the type and value of the dispute.

Under the Civil and Commercial Procedure Law, a lawsuit is generally initiated by filing a statement of claim with the clerk's office of the competent court. Articles 63 through 66 of this law require the statement to include core information such as the names, capacities, and addresses of the parties, a clear account of the facts, the legal grounds relied upon, and the specific relief requested. After the prescribed fees are paid, the clerk's office registers the case, assigns it a case number, and sets the date of the first hearing.

After the case is registered, the other party is formally served by court bailiffs, to notify them of the lawsuit and give them the opportunity to prepare their defense. At the first hearing, procedural matters are typically reviewed before the substance of the dispute is addressed, and Egypt's litigation system generally provides two levels of review on the merits, in addition to the possibility of cassation on certain points of law.

These steps are a general educational overview only — deadlines, fees, and the specific requirements of each case vary. To discuss your specific situation, you can book a consultation with our team.