Small Claims courts

The SCC's monetary jurisdiction is currently for all claims below $10,000 and this level is expected to increase to $25,000 in the future. The intention of the SCC is that it is a people's court and the idea is that you should not have to hire a lawyer.  Since the monetary jurisdiction is at $10,000 and is expected to increase more people are not able to handle the case themselves so they are starting to use lawyers and paralegals. 

The number of people being represented by paralegals is growing, however paralegals do not have insurance, continuing education and qualifications that lawyers have.
Types of cases that are seen in a SCC include: auto repairs, lease and rental disputes, real estate, home renovations, visa and credit agencies, furniture claims, tribunals and personal injury.

Deputy judges are appointed for a term and they are paid $232 per day. There is a pool of 25 judges and the SCC schedule is determined a year in advance.  The SCC only gives an order for payment or recovery of personal property and they are not responsible for any further follow up. The SCC is informal, hearsay evidence is allowed, judges can decide anything (in good conscience) and it is not intended to provide a moral lesson.

How to take your case to the SCC? You can head on over to the Superior court on Hurontario Street and pick up the information guide or see the information guides on the website http://www.attorneygeneral.jus.gov.on.ca/english/courts/guides/