This master’s thesis examines the criteria for defining commercial disputes under the Slovenian Civil Procedure Act and their significance for the correct application of procedural rules and the provision of effective judicial protection. The thesis is based on the finding that the proper procedural qualification of a dispute is not merely a formal issue, but substantially affects the subject-matter jurisdiction of the court, the course of proceedings, and access to extraordinary legal remedies. The central subject of analysis are the subjective and objective criteria as regulated by Articles 481 to 483 of the Civil Procedure Act, as well as their interpretation in judicial practice. The subjective criterion is based on the legal status of the parties, whereas the objective criterion defines the commercial nature of a dispute according to its subject matter or substantive legal relationship, regardless of the status of the parties involved. The thesis also analyses specific issues relating to sole proprietors, for whom a combination of criteria is applied, exceptions concerning disputes involving property rights, and related disputes arising in connection with bankruptcy proceedings, where the objective criterion often plays a decisive role. Part of the research is dedicated to joinder of parties, regulated by Article 191 of the Civil Procedure Act, which allows the application of commercial litigation rules also to parties who would not independently meet the criteria of a commercial dispute. In this context, the thesis highlights procedural risks, particularly for natural persons who may find themselves in the position of a party to commercial litigation. The analysis of case law demonstrates that the Supreme Court plays a crucial role in harmonizing interpretative standards and ensuring legal certainty. The thesis concludes that the system of criteria for defining commercial disputes under the Civil Procedure Act is fundamentally appropriate, but requires a high level of professional legal assessment, particularly in borderline cases. The correct application of these criteria is essential for the legality of proceedings, protection of parties’ rights, and trust in the judicial system.
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