Case Value & Jurisdiction in Ontario Small Claims Court

Not every dispute belongs in Small Claims Court. The court has a monetary limit and jurisdiction rules that decide whether your case qualifies.


At Cordaie Paralegal Services, we help clients determine if Small Claims Court is the right path — saving time, money, and frustration.


Find out now if your case qualifies.


★★★★★
“I’ve contacted several paralegals and they are the fastest and most informative. Damian gave me useful advice right from the initial consultation. I will definitely retain him.”
— Kelly Y., Verified Google Review


Calculator, documents, and money illustrating the $35,000 monetary limit for Small Claims Court in Ontario

The Monetary Limit: $35,000


  • In Ontario, Small Claims Court handles disputes up to $35,000, not including interest and costs.
  • If your claim is over $35,000, you have two options:
  1. Abandon the excess amount to proceed in Small Claims Court, or
  2. File your case in the Superior Court of Justice.


For many clients, it makes sense to stay in Small Claims Court because it’s faster, simpler, and less expensive — even if that means giving up a small portion of the claim.


What Types of Cases Belong in Small Claims Court?


Small Claims Court in Ontario handles a wide variety of disputes, including:

  • Unpaid debts and loans
  • Unpaid invoices or services rendered
  • Contract disputes (breach of agreement, non-performance)
  • Property damage (vehicle, home, personal property)
  • Unpaid rent or landlord-tenant damages (outside LTB jurisdiction)
  • Business-to-business disputes


We assess your situation and confirm whether Small Claims Court is the correct forum for your case.


Group of professionals reviewing documents, representing different types of cases in Ontario Small Claims Court such as debts, contracts, property damage, and business disputes
Professional guidance showing which cases do not belong in Ontario Small Claims Court, such as family law, landlord and tenant disputes, or personal injury over $35,000

What Cases Don’t Belong in Small Claims Court?


Some disputes must be filed elsewhere, not in Small Claims Court. Examples include:

  • Family law issues (divorce, custody, support) → Family Court
  • Employment law cases over $35,000 → Superior Court of Justice
  • Landlord & Tenant disputes (rent arrears, eviction) → Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB), unless it’s for damages outside the LTB’s authority
  • Personal injury claims over $35,000 → Superior Court of Justice


Filing in the wrong court can waste time and money. We’ll ensure you file in the right place from the start.

Why Jurisdiction Matters


If your case is filed in the wrong court or exceeds the monetary limit:

  • The court may dismiss your case.
  • You may have to start over in the correct court.
  • You could even be ordered to pay the other side’s costs.


Avoid costly mistakes — let us confirm your case qualifies before you file.

Paralegal in Ontario advising client on Small Claims Court case and ensuring documents are filed correctly to avoid dismissal
Paralegal in Ontario reviewing Small Claims Court documents while assisting clients virtually and ensuring claims are filed correctly

Why Choose a Paralegal for Small Claims Court?


  • ✔ We analyze your case to ensure it falls within Small Claims Court jurisdiction
  • ✔ We advise whether to abandon excess amounts strategically
  • ✔ We file the claim correctly to avoid dismissal
  • ✔ We represent you throughout the process for maximum success


Our expertise means you don’t waste time in the wrong court — and you maximize your chances of recovery.



FAQs – Case Value & Jurisdiction in Ontario Small Claims

  • 1. What is the maximum amount I can sue for in Ontario Small Claims Court?

    Up to $35,000, excluding interest and legal costs.

  • 2. Can I split my claim to stay under $35,000?

    No. Splitting claims to fit under the limit is not allowed.

  • 3. What if my claim is $37,000?

    You can either abandon $2,000 to stay in Small Claims Court or file in the Superior Court. 


    If you elect the later, a paralegal will not be able to represent you.


  • 4. Can I sue for unpaid rent in Small Claims Court?

    Generally, rent arrears must be handled by the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB). 


    However, property damage claims against tenants can often be filed in Small Claims Court.

Client Success Story


★★★★★

"Damian’s care, dedication, and expertise truly set him apart. He approached my case with empathy and patience, making me feel like more than just another client. His deep knowledge of the legal system, combined with confidence and clarity, achieved results far beyond what I ever experienced with lawyers. He was a beacon of hope during one of the darkest times in my life." - Abdul H. – Verified Google Review

Unsure If Your Case Qualifies? Let’s Find Out.


Jurisdiction and case value rules in Ontario Small Claims Court can be tricky — but you don’t have to figure it out alone.


Book Your Free Consultation and let our paralegals confirm if your case belongs in Small Claims Court. We’ll guide you on the right path from day one.


Call: 844-4-WIN-4-ME

Or Book Online in Minutes – Fast, Private & Confidential