What is the monetary limit?

Ontario sets a Small Claims limit that has been increased over time. Confirm the current figure before filing — claiming above it means the wrong forum, and you generally cannot split one claim to fit.

Can a paralegal represent me?

Yes. Licensed paralegals may represent parties in Ontario Small Claims Court, which is usually far cheaper than a lawyer and a genuine advantage over Quebec's model.

What is a settlement conference?

A mandatory pre-trial meeting before a judge or referee to explore settlement and narrow issues. Many claims resolve there.

I won but haven't been paid — now what?

A judgment is not self-executing. You must take enforcement steps such as garnishment or a writ of seizure and sale. Ask the court about enforcement forms.

Small Claims Court Toronto — Suing for Money Owed

Small Claims Court — Toronto

Small Claims Court is a branch of the Superior Court of Justice for lower-value money claims, with simplified procedure and much lower cost. Unlike Quebec, Ontario permits representation — by a lawyer, a licensed paralegal, or yourself — which makes paralegals the practical, affordable option for many claims.

What it does

Hears claims for money or return of property up to the monetary limit
Runs settlement conferences before trial
Issues judgments and enforcement orders

Matters it hears

Unpaid invoices and loans
Property damage and minor negligence claims
Contract disputes and deposits
Unpaid wages within the limit
Consumer disputes

Appeals & review

Appeals generally go to Divisional Court (Ontario).

Appeals go to the Divisional Court, generally only where the amount exceeds a threshold.

Appeal and review deadlines are short and strictly applied. Treat the decision date as the start of a clock.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the monetary limit?: Ontario sets a Small Claims limit that has been increased over time. Confirm the current figure before filing — claiming above it means the wrong forum, and you generally cannot split one claim to fit.
Can a paralegal represent me?: Yes. Licensed paralegals may represent parties in Ontario Small Claims Court, which is usually far cheaper than a lawyer and a genuine advantage over Quebec's model.
What is a settlement conference?: A mandatory pre-trial meeting before a judge or referee to explore settlement and narrow issues. Many claims resolve there.
I won but haven't been paid — now what?: A judgment is not self-executing. You must take enforcement steps such as garnishment or a writ of seizure and sale. Ask the court about enforcement forms.

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General information about jurisdiction and process, not legal advice. LegalCounselNearMe is not a law firm and is not affiliated with Small Claims Court — Toronto. Procedures, forms and fees change — the official site is authoritative.