The article discusses the features of collecting contractual penalties from counterparties in the framework of civil proceedings. In particular, the basis for the collection of a contractual penalty under civil contracts and the circumstances that allow counterparties to claim a reduction in the amount of such a penalty, as well as the general procedure for presenting and justifying claims for the collection or reduction of a penalty both in pre-trial proceedings and during the trial, are examined. . The article also discusses the difference between a contractual penalty and a penalty established by law, as well as questions about the permissible amount of the penalty, the initiators of the appointment and reduction of the penalty.