Small Claims Court & Civil Matters

Expert representation for disputes up to $35,000

Comprehensive Small Claims Court Services

Ontario's Small Claims Court provides an accessible forum for resolving disputes up to $35,000. Our experienced legal team guides you through every step of the process, from initial claim preparation to post-judgment enforcement.

Monetary Limits

Small Claims Court handles disputes up to $35,000 (excluding interest and costs). Claims exceeding this amount must be filed in Superior Court of Justice.

Types of Claims

Contract disputes, property damage, unpaid debts, personal injury (minor), landlord-tenant issues, consumer protection matters, and professional service disputes.

Court Procedures

Simplified procedures designed for self-representation, but legal representation significantly improves success rates and procedural compliance.

We Can Prepare You For:

Proper preparation is crucial for success in Small Claims Court. We ensure all documentation is complete, deadlines are met, and your case is positioned for the best possible outcome.

Plaintiff's Claim

Complete preparation and filing of your claim, including proper court forms, evidence organization, and ensuring all legal requirements are met for claims up to $35,000.

Filing of Defence

Strategic defence preparation within the 20-day deadline, including dispute analysis, legal defenses identification, and comprehensive response to plaintiff's allegations.

Defendant's Claim

Counter-claim preparation when you have claims against the plaintiff, including cross-examination strategies and evidence compilation for your counter-allegations.

Garnishments

Post-judgment enforcement through wage garnishment, bank account seizure, and other collection mechanisms to recover awarded damages.

Writ of Seizure/Sale of Land

Real estate enforcement procedures to secure judgment collection through property liens and potential forced sale of debtor's real estate assets.

And More

Additional services including examination of judgment debtors, asset searches, payment plan negotiations, and other enforcement mechanisms.

We Can Represent You At:

Professional legal representation significantly improves your chances of success. We advocate for your interests at every stage of the court process.

Settlement Conferences

Mandatory pre-trial conferences where we negotiate on your behalf to reach favorable settlements and avoid costly trial proceedings.

Motions

Representation for various court motions including adjournment requests, adding parties, amending claims, and procedural applications.

Trials

Complete trial representation including witness examination, evidence presentation, legal argument delivery, and advocacy for maximum compensation.

Adjournments

Strategic postponement requests when additional preparation time is needed or circumstances require rescheduling of court proceedings.

Assessment Hearings

Specialized hearings to determine damage amounts when liability is admitted but compensation quantum is disputed.

And More

Additional representation including enforcement hearings, contempt proceedings, appeals to Divisional Court, and post-judgment applications.

Small Claims Court Expertise

Pre-Trial Procedures:

Plaintiff's Claim (Form 7A) - Initial court filing with $35,000 maximum
Defence (Form 9A) - Must be filed within 20 days of service
Defendant's Claim (Form 10A) - Counter-claims against plaintiff
Settlement Conference - Mandatory mediation attempt
Motion procedures for interim relief and procedural matters

Post-Judgment Enforcement:

Garnishment of wages (up to 20% of gross wages)
Garnishment of bank accounts and other debts
Writ of Seizure and Sale of Personal Property
Writ of Seizure and Sale of Land (real estate liens)
Examination of Judgment Debtor hearings

Key Court Information

Filing Fees (2024)

Claims up to $500: $25 • Claims $500.01-$3,000: $75 • Claims $3,000.01-$5,000: $145 • Claims over $5,000: $220 • Additional fees for motions, garnishments, and enforcement

Time Limitations

Most claims must be filed within 2 years of the incident. Contract claims: 2 years from breach. Property damage: 2 years from damage. Personal injury: 2 years from injury date.

Court Locations

Claims must be filed in the court office closest to where the defendant lives or carries on business, or where the incident occurred. Online filing available for certain claims.

Evidence Requirements

Documentary evidence, witness statements, expert reports (if applicable), photographs, contracts, receipts, and any other relevant proof supporting your claim or defence.

Appeal Rights

Appeals to Divisional Court available within 30 days, but only on questions of law. No appeals on findings of fact. Leave to appeal required for claims under $2,500.

Our Small Claims Process

We guide you through every step of the Small Claims Court process with expertise and dedication to achieving the best possible outcome.

Claim Assessment

We evaluate your case merits, calculate potential damages, and determine the best legal strategy for your small claims matter.

Document Preparation

Complete preparation of all court forms, evidence compilation, and ensuring compliance with Small Claims Court Rules.

Court Representation

Professional representation at all court appearances including settlement conferences, motions, and trial proceedings.

Judgment Enforcement

Post-judgment collection services including garnishments, asset seizure, and other enforcement mechanisms to recover your award.