Ontario Small Claims Court Process — Simple, Strategic, and Courtroom-Ready
Understand each step before you file or defend a claim
Small Claims Court follows a strict, step-by-step process. Missing a deadline, filing the wrong document, or misunderstanding the next stage can delay your case—or cost you the outcome entirely.
This guide explains how Small Claims Court works in Ontario, from filing a claim or defence to settlement conferences, motions, and trial. Whether you’re starting a claim or responding to one, knowing what comes next gives you a clear advantage.
Our Ontario licensed paralegals use this same process every day to help clients prepare properly, avoid mistakes, and move through Small Claims Court with confidence and strategy.
✔ Licensed by the Law Society of Ontario
✔ Flat-Fee Pricing — No Hidden Costs
✔ Serving Clients Across Ontario
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“Damian took the time to thoroughly listen and provided clear guidance that left me feeling far more confident about my case.” — Matthew H., Former Client
Why Understanding the Process Matters
Whether you’re suing for unpaid work or defending a Small Claims action, the Ontario court process can be confusing, frustrating, and time-consuming — especially if you’re unfamiliar with legal procedures or deadlines.
That’s where we come in.
We’ve helped countless Ontarians like you move confidently through Small Claims Court — from filing to trial and even enforcement. Here’s the clear, step-by-step breakdown of what to expect — and how we simplify it for you.
Need help understanding where your case fits?
Get a free case review with a licensed Ontario paralegal — we’ll walk you through your options and next steps.
Don’t Let Procedure Derail Your Claim
The process may look simple, but mistakes at any stage can lead to dismissal, delays, or judgment against you.
When you hire a licensed Ontario paralegal, you get:
- Perfect paperwork & filings
- Deadline tracking
- Courtroom advocacy
- Settlement negotiation
- Judgment enforcement
- Peace of mind
Think Your Case Is Too Small or Too Messy?
We’ve helped Ontario clients:
- Recover losses from defective renovations and contractor disputes
- Collect and resolve unpaid invoice and loan claims
- Defend claims that are without merit or legally unfounded
- Enforce judgments using garnishments, writs, and court-approved collection steps
Many clients come to us feeling stuck after being ignored, blocked, or left in silence. We step in to analyze the facts, prepare the paperwork, and show up in Small Claims Court—bringing momentum back to cases that felt stalled, messy, or uncertain.
Don’t Give Up Without a Strategy
The right advocate can shift your case from confusing to organized, and from silent to moving forward.
HOW IT WORKS
Ontario Small Claims Court Process — Step by Step
Navigating Small Claims Court in Ontario doesn’t have to be confusing. Here is the clear path from filing to collecting — in plain English, with no legal jargon. Whether you’re suing for unpaid work or defending a claim, this guide shows what happens next and where a licensed paralegal fits in.
Ready to start your case the right way?
Get your free case review now.
Step 1: Prepare & File the Claim
We start by gathering your facts, calculating the amount owed (up to $50,000), and drafting your Plaintiff’s Claim. We file it electronically or in-person and pay the court fee. We double-check everything — names, numbers, facts — so your claim isn’t rejected for errors.
Step 2: Serve the Defendant
We’ll Handle It Properly for You. The court requires proper legal service of documents to the defendant(s). We arrange personal service, courier, or another court-approved method — and file the required Affidavit of Service.
⚠️Important: If service isn’t done right, the court can throw your case out. We make sure it’s bulletproof.
Wait for a Defence or File for Default
The defendant has 20 days to respond. If they do, we review and prepare for the next steps. If they don’t, we help you apply for a default judgment — quickly and properly.
Defendants often try to delay or avoid service. We stay on top of it so you don’t lose momentum.
Attend the Settlement Conference
We’ll Negotiate for the Best Outcome
A mandatory conference is held with a judge or deputy judge to explore settlement options. You must bring your documents and be prepared to discuss your case. We attend with you — or on your behalf.
Most cases settle here. We negotiate firmly and look for smart resolutions without trial.
Trial & Enforcement
If settlement fails, we go to trial. We organize your evidence, prepare witnesses, draft legal arguments, and represent you in court. This is where strong advocacy makes the difference.
If you win, the court issues a judgment. But collecting is another battle.
We help enforce it via:
- Wage garnishment
- Writs of seizure and sale
- Bank garnishment
- Debtor examinations
- And more
We turn your judgment into actual money — not just a piece of paper.
Why Ontario Clients Choose Cordaie Paralegal Services
✔ Licensed & experienced advocates
Licensed by the LSO, with experience working directly with courts across the province. You get knowledgeable support from professionals who understand how local processes work in Ontario.
✔ A clear, guided process
We take care of the paperwork, deadlines, submissions, and follow-ups, while keeping you informed in plain, practical terms. No confusion, no guessing—just a streamlined process that moves your file forward efficiently.
✔ Transparent, flat-fee pricing
No hourly billing pressure. You receive one confirmed rate for your file, quoted before HST and excluding disbursements. Flexible payment options are available, so getting help feels less stressful and more accessible.
✔ Support across all of Ontario
Whether you’re in Toronto, Ottawa, Hamilton, London, Peel, Durham, or any other Ontario community, we serve you virtually or in person for eligible Small Claims and record-related matters. Province-wide service means you can access support without unnecessary travel or disruption.
Start With a Case Review
Your case deserves a licensed advocate who takes the process off your shoulders and puts strategy back on your side. That’s the Cordaie difference.
“Damian listened carefully, demonstrated a clear understanding of my situation, and provided guidance that made me feel confident moving forward.”
Matthew H., Former Client
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We Assist Clients Across Ontario—No Matter Where You Are, We Help Resolve Your Small Claims Court Matter
Where you live shouldn’t make resolving a Small Claims Court dispute harder. Whether you're in Toronto, Ottawa, Mississauga, Hamilton, or any other Ontario community, our team delivers a straightforward, remote-friendly process so you never have to navigate court procedure alone. Most steps can be handled virtually—meaning fewer disruptions, less stress, and no unnecessary courthouse trips just to get your case moving.
Our Ontario-wide Small Claims Court services are built for efficiency and clarity, offering transparent flat-fee pricing before HST, experienced case preparation, and responsive court advocacy when required. Whether you're filing a claim, defending one, or exploring enforcement or settlement options, you get a licensed paralegal advocate who organizes the details, prepares the strategy, and keeps your matter on track from the beginning—anywhere in Ontario, remotely or in person.
Ontario Small Claims Court FAQs — Clear Answers, Practical Next Steps
Get clear, practical answers to the questions Ontario Small Claims Court clients ask most—from claim limits and filing steps to enforcement and unpaid judgments. We break down key topics like how much you can sue for and what happens if the other side doesn’t pay, all in plain, stress-free language so you can feel informed and ready to move forward.
If you’re unsure about eligibility or next steps, you can speak directly with an LSO licensed Ontario paralegal at no cost—no hourly pressure, no judgment. And if your questions go beyond this page, we’re here to help with an early, strategic case review that gives you real direction.
Still Have Questions?
Get your free case review today.
1. How much can I sue for in Small Claims Court in Ontario?
As of October 1, 2025, you can sue for up to $50,000, not including interest or legal costs.
This includes unpaid invoices, property damage, contract breaches, and more.
2. Do I need a paralegal or lawyer for Small Claims Court?
You’re not required to have legal representation, but most people benefit from having a licensed paralegal.
We handle paperwork, deadlines, negotiations, and trial advocacy — giving you a stronger case and less stress.
3. How long does a Small Claims Court case take in Ontario?
It depends. Here’s a general timeline:
- Filing to response: 2–3+ weeks
- Settlement conference: 2–4+ months
- Trial (if needed): 6–12+ months
- Enforcement: Varies (weeks to months)
Important: Trial scheduling timelines differ across Ontario, and many courthouses are experiencing heavy backlogs, which can delay when a Small Claims Court matter reaches trial.
We help you stay prepared and on track, no matter the wait.
4. What happens if I win but the other side doesn’t pay?
We can help you enforce your judgment using legal tools like:
- Wage garnishment
- Seizure of assets
- Bank account garnishment
- Debtor examinations
Important: Winning is just step one — collecting is where we come in strong.
5. Can I still file if the defendant lives in a different city or province?
Yes — you can usually file where the incident occurred or where the defendant lives or does business.
We handle Ontario-wide Small Claims cases, and can guide you if cross-jurisdictional rules apply.
6. What if I’ve already filed and need help part-way through?
We can step in at any stage — whether you’ve just filed, are preparing for trial, or need help collecting.
You don’t need to go it alone.
7. What if I’m being sued and don’t know what to do?
If you’ve been served, the clock is ticking — usually you have 20 days to respond.
We’ll review your situation, draft your defence, and represent you in court if needed.
8. What if I can’t find the person I need to sue?
If the defendant is avoiding service or can’t be located, we use legal methods to:
- Track them down
- Apply for substituted service
- Preserve your legal rights
What You Need to Get Started With a Small Claims Court Matter
Starting a Small Claims Court matter in Ontario doesn’t have to feel confusing. To begin, you’ll typically need key details such as the amount of your claim (up to $50,000), the correct legal name of the individual or business you’re filing against, supporting documents, and any evidence that backs your position—like contracts, invoices, messages, photos, or receipts. Having these organized early helps prevent delays and common filing mistakes.
We make getting started easier by giving you a free, confidential case review, followed by flat-fee, courtroom-ready support if you choose to move forward. Whether you’re filing a claim, defending one, or exploring enforcement or settlement options, you’ll get clear direction from a licensed Ontario paralegal advocate who handles the process with you, not above you.
