Small Claims Court, answered plainly.

It is a branch of the Superior Court of Justice that handles civil money and property disputes up to a set limit, using simplified rules so people can participate without a lawyer.

The monetary limit is $50,000, not counting interest and costs. Claims above that amount belong in the Superior Court unless you give up the excess.

Yes. Paralegals licensed by the Law Society of Ontario are authorized to represent clients in Small Claims Court, including at trial.

You can. The rules are simplified for that reason. Many people still choose representation because deadlines, service and evidence rules are easy to get wrong.

Money owed under a contract, unpaid invoices, loans, damage to property, and the return of personal property valued within the limit.

It cannot deal with matters like family law, most residential tenancy disputes (those go to the Landlord and Tenant Board), title to land, or claims above the monetary limit.

Usually in the court location where the defendant lives or carries on business, or where the events giving rise to the claim happened.

No. You may represent yourself, hire a licensed paralegal, or hire a lawyer.

Yes, hearings are generally open to the public and court records are largely public documents.

Yes. A corporation is normally represented by a licensed representative or, in limited circumstances, an authorized officer or employee.

Yes, if the work was deficient, incomplete or abandoned and your loss is within the monetary limit. Photos, the contract and an independent estimate to fix the work all help.

Yes. Unpaid invoices are one of the most common Small Claims matters.

Most residential tenancy disputes go to the Landlord and Tenant Board instead. Some claims, such as those made after the tenancy ends or outside the Board's jurisdiction, may belong in Small Claims Court.

Rent arrears and damage claims for a current residential tenancy generally go to the Landlord and Tenant Board. Small Claims Court may be available in certain circumstances, such as after the tenant has moved out.

You may be able to claim for property damage and certain uninsured losses within the limit. Injury claims are often more complex and may exceed the limit.

Yes. Bank records, e-transfers and messages discussing repayment are strong evidence even without a formal loan agreement.

Yes, where the other party failed to deliver the goods or services the deposit was paid for.

Possibly, depending on where the seller is located and whether the Ontario court has jurisdiction over them.

There are several routes, including the Ministry of Labour and the courts. Which is best depends on the amount and the type of claim.

Yes, where you can show the neighbour caused the damage and prove the cost of repair.

Consumer disputes are common in Small Claims Court, especially where a product or service was misrepresented.

Claims of that nature are legally complex and are not always available. Have the facts reviewed before assuming a claim exists.

A mandatory meeting before a judge who helps the parties narrow the issues and explore settlement before trial.

Some events are heard in person and others remotely. Your licensed representative can attend for you in many circumstances.

It depends on the court location and complexity. Some matters resolve in a few months; contested trials frequently take a year or more.

Contracts, invoices, receipts, photos, messages, and witnesses who can speak to what happened. Documents must be shared with the other side ahead of the hearing.

Yes, and you can summons a witness who will not attend voluntarily.

The court may award costs, but Small Claims Court awards are limited by the Rules and are discretionary.

The judgment confirms the debt. If it is not paid voluntarily, you must take enforcement steps to collect.

Enforcement options can include garnishing wages or bank accounts, a writ of seizure and sale, or examining the debtor about their finances.

A judgment is generally enforceable for a number of years and can be renewed, so circumstances may improve. Collection is never guaranteed.

Appeals from Small Claims Court go to the Divisional Court and are subject to strict deadlines and thresholds.