Abstract
This article discusses the practice of allocation of litigation cost in the People’s Republic of China.  It examines the basic rule under which the losers pay all, as well as the exceptions thereto.  The article also discusses the social background for self-representation in China.  In addition, it evalutes the effectiveness of legal aid in alleviating the parties’ financial burden.  By evaluating the acceptance charges and the manadatory pre-litigation procedures, the article also studies the legislative altitude towards litigation.