Small Claims Court Ontario 2025: What You Can Claim and How to Start

What Is Small Claims Court in Ontario?

Ontario's Small Claims Court is a branch of the Superior Court of Justice that handles civil disputes involving amounts up to $35,000. It's designed to be accessible — the rules are simpler than in higher courts, and you don't need a lawyer to participate. That said, having a licensed paralegal represent you gives you a significant edge, especially against a party that is represented.

What Kinds of Claims Can You Bring?

Small Claims Court is the right venue for: unpaid invoices or debts, security deposit disputes with a landlord (amounts over $35,000 must go to a higher court), breach of contract claims, property damage disputes, consumer disputes over goods or services that weren't delivered as promised, wrongful dismissal claims where the amount sought is under $35,000, and disputes over loans between individuals.

You cannot bring family law matters, criminal charges, or disputes involving amounts over $35,000 to Small Claims Court. Those require a different court or tribunal.

How Do You Start a Small Claims Court Case?

To start a claim, you file a Plaintiff's Claim (Form 7A) at the Small Claims Court office in the jurisdiction where the dispute arose or where the defendant lives or carries on business. The filing fee in Ontario is based on the amount claimed — for claims over $2,500, it's $102 as of 2025. The defendant then has 20 days to respond with a Defence.

After pleadings are filed, most cases go through a Settlement Conference — a meeting where a judge tries to help both sides settle. If no settlement is reached, the case proceeds to trial. Preparation for that trial, including organizing evidence and understanding procedure, is where a paralegal earns their fee.

Should You Hire a Paralegal for Small Claims?

The rules allow self-representation, but the other side may show up with a paralegal or lawyer — and they'll know procedural moves you don't. A paralegal drafts your pleadings properly, identifies weaknesses in the opposing case, prepares you for examination, and presents your case professionally. The cost of representation is often recoverable if you win, as the court can award partial costs.

Sheybani Legal — Small Claims Representation in Toronto & GTA

Sheybani Legal handles Small Claims Court matters for both plaintiffs and defendants across the GTA, Aurora, Newmarket, and surrounding areas. If someone owes you money or you've been wrongly sued, call us at 647-326-9651 for a free consultation. We'll give you an honest assessment of your case before you spend a cent.