Small Claims
Small Claims Court Filing Deadlines: What You Need to Know
Filing a claim in Ontario’s Small Claims Court requires strict adherence to procedural and statutory deadlines. These deadlines determine not only when a claim must be initiated but also how long a party has to respond, serve documents, or take enforcement action after a judgment. Missing a filing deadline can result in a dismissal, loss… Read More
Tenant Rights When Landlords Fail to Provide Vital Services
In Ontario, tenants are entitled to a safe and habitable living environment. The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (RTA) defines “vital services” as those necessary for a rental unit to remain livable. These include heat, hot and cold water, electricity, gas, and fuel, as well as, in certain cases, air conditioning where it is part of… Read More
How Collection Agencies Use Small Claims Court in Ontario
In Ontario, collection agencies act on behalf of creditors to recover unpaid debts from individuals or businesses. Their authority to collect is derived from either a direct assignment of the debt or a contractual agreement with the creditor. These agencies are governed by the Collection and Debt Settlement Services Act (CDSSA), which outlines how they… Read More
Can I Sue for $50,000 in Small Claims Court? Soon—Yes!
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
Drafting Effective Demand Letters Prior to Litigation
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
