Small Claims Court Canada 2025: A Complete Guide for Disputes

Dealing with legal disputes can feel intimidating, especially if you think it will involve lengthy trials and expensive lawyers. The good news is that in Canada, Small Claims Court offers a faster, more affordable, and more accessible way to resolve certain disputes. Whether you are owed money, have a contract disagreement, or are seeking compensation for damages, this guide will walk you through what Small Claims Court is, how it works, and what you can expect.

What Is Small Claims Court?

Small Claims Court is a branch of the Superior Court of Justice designed to handle civil disputes involving smaller amounts of money. It is intended to be more straightforward than higher courts, giving people the chance to represent themselves without always needing a lawyer.

As of October 1, 2025, the monetary limit for claims in Ontario has increased to $50,000. This means you can use Small Claims Court if the amount you are seeking is up to that limit. Common cases include:

• Unpaid loans or debts

• Breach of contract (e.g., a service or purchase that wasn’t delivered as promised)

• Property damage or personal property disputes

• Unpaid wages

• Landlord–tenant disputes (in certain situations)

Who Can File a Claim?

Anyone over the age of 18 can file a claim in Small Claims Court. Both individuals and businesses can be involved as either plaintiffs (the person bringing the claim) or defendants (the person responding to the claim).

You don’t always need a lawyer to go to Small Claims Court—many people represent themselves. However, having legal guidance can make the process less stressful and increase your chances of success, especially if the case is more complex.

The Process: Step by Step

1. Filing the Claim

The process starts when you complete and submit a Plaintiff’s Claim form. This form explains what you are asking for, why, and how much money is involved. Once filed, the court will issue a claim and notify the defendant.

2. Serving the Defendant

After filing, you must officially serve the defendant with a copy of the claim. This ensures they are aware of the case and have the chance to respond.

3. The Defence

The defendant can file a Defence form to explain their side of the story. They might agree to part of your claim, dispute it entirely, or even make a counterclaim.

4. Settlement Conference

In most cases, the court will schedule a settlement conference—a meeting where both parties try to resolve the dispute with the help of a judge. This is less formal than a trial and is often where many cases are resolved.

5. The Trial

If no settlement is reached, the case goes to trial. At trial, each side presents evidence and witnesses, and a judge makes a decision.

How Long Does It Take?

While Small Claims Court is designed to be faster than higher courts, timelines can vary depending on the complexity of the case and court availability. Some disputes may be resolved in just a few months, while others may take a year or longer.

Why Choose Small Claims Court?

The biggest advantages of Small Claims Court are:

• Affordability – Lower court fees and the option to self-represent make it more accessible.

• Speed – Designed to resolve disputes faster than traditional court cases.

• Simplicity – Fewer formal rules of evidence and procedure.

However, it’s important to prepare your case carefully. Missing documents or weak evidence can make it harder to win, even if you are in the right.

Do You Need a Lawyer?

While it’s possible to handle your own case, having a lawyer can provide peace of mind. Legal professionals understand court procedures, know how to prepare strong arguments, and can help avoid costly mistakes. For businesses or individuals dealing with higher-value claims (close to the $50,000 limit), professional representation is highly recommended.

Final Thoughts

Small Claims Court can be an effective way to resolve disputes without breaking the bank. Whether you are trying to recover unpaid money, resolve a contract disagreement, or seek compensation for damages, understanding the process is the first step toward justice.

At Ramachandran Law, we guide clients through the Small Claims Court with clarity and compassion. From preparing claims to representing you at hearings, our team is here to ensure your case is handled with professionalism and care. If you’re considering filing—or defending—a Small Claims case, reach out to us today for a consultation.