The trader refused me. Do I have to go to court?
You do not — and it costs you nothing. Alternative resolution of consumer disputes under Act 391/2015 lets you settle a dispute with a trader quickly, less formally and above all free of charge. The bodies resolve disputes at no cost — you pay no fee. The timescale: the whole process should be concluded within 90 days of starting; in more complex cases it can be extended by 30 days, and repeatedly. Where to go: the statutory bodies are the Slovak Trade Inspection, the energy regulator and the regulator for electronic communications — plus private bodies entered on the ministry's list.
📋 The rules
- Governed by Act 391/2015
- Resolution of the dispute is free of charge
- The timescale: normally within 90 days
- In complex cases +30 days, repeatedly
- Bodies: the Trade Inspection and the regulators
🔓 Exceptions
- Private bodies on the ministry's list may also resolve disputes
- The aim is an amicable resolution — an agreement between both sides
- Once both sides consent in writing, the agreement becomes legally binding
⚠️ Penalties & fines
Most people give up once a trader rejects their complaint — while holding a free remedy in their hands. Alternative dispute resolution is free, less formal than a court, and normally takes up to 90 days. You need no lawyer. Pick the right body: for ordinary goods and services it is the Slovak Trade Inspection; for energy, the energy regulator; for telecoms, the relevant regulator. How it ends: the aim is an amicable resolution — an agreement between you and the trader. Once both sides consent in writing to its wording, the agreement becomes a binding legal basis. If no agreement is reached, the route to court remains open to you.
📎 Official sources
- Slovak Trade Inspection · Alternative dispute resolution →
- Slov-Lex · Act 391/2015 →
- Ministry of Economy · Consumer protection →
❓ Frequently asked
What does it cost?
Nothing. The alternative dispute resolution bodies handle disputes free of charge. That is one of the central aims of the Act — a consumer should not be deterred simply by the fear of costs.
How long does it take?
The resolution should be concluded within 90 days of starting. In more complex cases the period can be extended by 30 days, and repeatedly. It remains far quicker than a court.
Where should I turn?
For ordinary goods and services, the Slovak Trade Inspection; for energy, the energy regulator; for telecoms, the relevant regulator. Private bodies on the ministry's list may also resolve disputes.
What is the outcome?
The aim is an amicable resolution — an agreement between you and the trader. Once both sides consent in writing to its wording, the agreement becomes a binding legal basis.
What if we reach no agreement?
The route to court remains open. Alternative dispute resolution does not take away your right to sue — it is a cheaper and faster attempt, not a last resort.
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