From first call to final payment — nine clear stages.
Court procedure is where most self-represented people get stuck. Here is the whole path in plain English, so you always know what happens next.
- No legal jargon
- Every deadline explained
- We handle the paperwork
- Free case assessment
The Timeline
Nine stages of a Small Claims case.
Not every case reaches every stage — most resolve before trial. Enforcement only matters if the other side refuses to pay.
- 01
Consultation
We listen to what happened, review your documents, and tell you plainly whether Small Claims Court is the right forum and whether the amount fits within the $50,000 limit.
- 02
Preparing documents
We identify the correct legal parties, calculate what is owed including interest, and draft the Plaintiff's Claim or Defence with the supporting documents attached.
- 03
Filing the claim
The claim is issued at the correct Small Claims Court location — usually where the defendant lives or where the events happened. Court filing fees apply at this stage.
- 04
Serving documents
The other side must be served in the way the Rules require. Improper service is one of the most common reasons a case is delayed or thrown out.
- 05
Defence
The defendant normally has 20 days from service to file a Defence. If nothing is filed, the plaintiff can move to note them in default and seek judgment.
- 06
Settlement conference
A mandatory meeting before a judge who helps the parties narrow the issues and explore resolution. Many Ontario claims end here without a trial.
- 07
Trial
If no agreement is reached, both sides present evidence and witnesses. As your licensed representative we can speak for you in the courtroom.
- 08
Judgment
The judge decides the outcome and may order costs. A judgment is a court order — but it is not automatically money in your pocket.
- 09
Enforcement
If the debtor does not pay, enforcement tools such as garnishment of wages or bank accounts, or a writ of seizure and sale, may be available.
What We Do
Where a paralegal saves you time.
- Naming the correct legal party on the claim
- Calculating principal, interest and costs
- Drafting and filing court forms correctly
- Arranging valid service and proof of service
- Preparing you for the settlement conference
- Presenting evidence and argument at trial
Costs
Court fees are separate.
The Ontario court charges its own filing and step fees, which are set by the province and change from time to time. Those are paid to the court, not to us. Our professional fees are quoted separately and in writing.
See fees and court costs for details, or book a free assessment.
Free, No Obligation
Not sure which stage you are at? We will tell you.
A licensed Ontario paralegal reviews your situation and explains your options.
Common Questions
Process questions, answered.
Still have questions? Call (437) 755-5816 for a free consultation.
How long does the whole process take?
It varies by court location and complexity. Straightforward matters can resolve in a few months; contested matters that reach trial often take a year or longer. We give you a realistic estimate for your court.
Do I have to attend the settlement conference?
Parties are generally expected to attend or be available. We attend with you or on your behalf where permitted, and prepare you for what the judge will ask.
What is a default judgment?
If a defendant does not file a Defence in time, the plaintiff can ask the court to grant judgment without a hearing on the merits.
Is Small Claims Court less formal than other courts?
It is designed to be more accessible, but the Rules of the Small Claims Court still apply — deadlines, service requirements and evidence rules all matter.
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 moreFees & Court Costs
How our fees work and what the court charges.
Read moreSmall Claims FAQ
Answers to the questions Ontarians ask most.
Read moreFree Case Assessment
Tell us what happened — we reply within 24 hours.
Read moreNeed something else? Contact Aria Legal or browse our other services: Landlord & Tenant Board, Traffic Tickets, Notary Services.