Small Claims

Ontario’s Small Claims Court has long served as the accessible forum for individuals and businesses to resolve civil disputes in a cost-effective and efficient manner. As of October 1, 2025, the monetary jurisdiction of Small Claims Court is expanding to $50,000. This development represents a significant policy change with broad implications for litigants, legal practitioners,… Read More

Demand letters serve as a pivotal instrument in the resolution of civil disputes prior to litigation. Within the context of Ontario law, such letters are not merely administrative correspondence; rather, they are formal communications intended to assert legal rights, request compliance, and, in some cases, avoid the necessity of costly and time-consuming court proceedings. An… Read More

Withholding Rent: When Tenants May and May Not Do So The landlord–tenant relationship in Ontario is governed primarily by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (RTA). While tenants may feel justified in withholding rent when landlords fail to fulfil their obligations, the law provides clear guidance on when rent must be paid and what remedies are… Read More

Default Judgments in Small Claims Court: How They Work Ontario’s Small Claims Court is designed to provide an efficient forum for resolving civil disputes. However, not every defendant participates in the litigation process. When a defendant fails to file a defence within the prescribed timeline, the plaintiff may be entitled to obtain what is known… Read More

Preparing Evidence for Ontario Small Claims Court: Best Practices Litigating in Ontario’s Small Claims Court requires not only an understanding of the procedural framework but also a strategic approach to presenting evidence. The admissibility, reliability, and clarity of evidence can determine the strength of a case. Parties who prepare their evidentiary materials with precision improve… Read More