Know the cost before you commit.
Legal work should not come with surprises. We explain what we charge, what the court charges, and what you might recover if you succeed — in writing, before we start.
- Written fee agreement up front
- Fixed fees for defined stages
- Court fees explained separately
- Free initial assessment
Service Levels
Choose how much help you need.
Every matter is different, so figures are confirmed in writing after a free review of your documents.
Document Review & Advice
A licensed paralegal reviews your documents and gives you a written opinion on your options.
Drafting & Filing
Preparation, issuing and service of a Plaintiff's Claim or Defence, with supporting documents.
Full Representation
End-to-end conduct of your matter, including settlement conference and trial attendance.
How Billing Works
Six things you can count on.
Written Quote First
You receive our fee arrangement in writing before any work begins.
Fixed Fees Where Possible
Defined stages are quoted as a flat fee so you are not billing by the minute.
Court Fees Are Separate
Filing and step fees are set by the Province of Ontario and paid to the court.
Flexible Payment
Ask about staged payments tied to the milestones in your matter.
No Hidden Charges
Anything outside the quoted scope is discussed and approved before it is done.
Costs May Be Recoverable
A successful party can ask the court to award costs, though awards are limited and never guaranteed.
Court Fees
Paid to the court, not to us.
Ontario sets its own Small Claims Court fees for issuing a claim, filing a defendant's claim, requesting a trial date and certain enforcement steps. The amounts differ for frequent and infrequent claimants and are updated from time to time, so we confirm the current figures for your matter rather than quoting a number that may be out of date.
- Fee to issue a Plaintiff's Claim
- Fee to file a Defendant's Claim
- Fee to set the action down for trial
- Enforcement step fees (garnishment, writ, examination)
- Fee waivers may be available for low-income litigants
Recovering Costs
What a costs award really means.
If you succeed, the judge may order the other side to pay part of your costs and disbursements. In Small Claims Court those awards are capped by the Rules and are entirely at the judge's discretion — they rarely cover everything, and they are never guaranteed.
Winning a judgment is also separate from collecting it. See the enforcement stage on our process page.
Free, No Obligation
Get a written quote for your matter.
Send us the details and a licensed Ontario paralegal will respond within 24 hours.
Common Questions
Fee questions, answered.
Still have questions? Call (437) 755-5816 for a free consultation.
How much does a paralegal cost for Small Claims Court?
It depends on the complexity of the matter and how far it goes. We quote in writing after a free assessment so you know the arrangement before committing.
What are the Ontario court filing fees?
The court charges its own fees for issuing a claim and for later steps such as setting a matter down for trial. These amounts are set by the province and change periodically, so we confirm the current figures for your matter.
Can I recover my legal costs if I win?
The court may award costs to a successful party, but Small Claims Court costs awards are limited by the Rules and are always at the judge's discretion. No outcome can be promised.
Do you offer contingency (no win, no fee) arrangements?
Fee arrangements must comply with Law Society of Ontario rules. Tell us about your matter and we will explain which arrangements are available to you.
Is the initial assessment really free?
Yes — the first review of your situation costs nothing and carries no obligation.
Keep Reading
Explore the Small Claims hub
Small Claims Court
The complete guide to claims up to $50,000 in Ontario.
Read moreRecover Money Owed
Suing for unpaid invoices, deposits, damages and broken contracts.
Read moreDefending a Claim
Served with a claim? Deadlines, defences and next steps.
Read moreThe Court Process
Every stage from first call to enforcing a judgment.
Read moreSmall Claims FAQ
Answers to the questions Ontarians ask most.
Read moreFree Case Assessment
Tell us what happened — we reply within 24 hours.
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