What is Small Claims Court?

Ontario's Small Claims Court

Small Claims Court is a court of the Ontario of Superior Court of Justice. Small Claims Court matters have a less formal process. It is where parties can sue for monies owed up to $50,000, and/or the return of property valued at $50,000.

Unlike the higher Ontario Superior Court of Justice - Civil, Small Claims Court process is less complex, allowing matters to be heard much quicker. On average cases can be at trial in approximately six to eight months. This of course depends on the workload of the court and the complexity of the case matters.

Matters before the Small Claims Court are heard before a Deputy Judge. Deputy Judges are appointed by the Regional Senior Judge of the Superior Court of Justice, with the approval of the Attorney General. To be appointed as a Deputy Judge, a candidate must have been a practicing lawyer for a minimum of 10 years. Deputy judges are appointed for a three year term and can be renewed every three years, until age 65 which then their terms are renewed every year, until age 75.