Small Claims Court in Toronto: A Practical Guide

Toronto Small Claims Court: Overview

Toronto has the highest volume of Small Claims Court matters in Ontario — and consequently some of the longest wait times. Understanding how the Toronto court system works and what to expect helps you plan your case effectively and avoid unnecessary delays.

Where to File in Toronto

Small Claims Court matters are generally filed at the court location nearest to where the defendant lives or carries on business, or where the event giving rise to the claim occurred. Check the Ontario Court Services website (ontario.ca/courts) for the correct courthouse for your matter. Toronto has multiple locations serving different areas of the city.

Current Wait Times in Toronto

Toronto Small Claims Court wait times have increased significantly in recent years. As of 2024, parties should expect:

• Settlement conference: 4–8 months after filing
• Trial: 12–24 months after filing, depending on complexity

These wait times underscore the importance of settlement negotiations and the settlement conference — resolving your matter at the settlement conference stage saves 6–12 months of waiting for trial.

Filing Online in Toronto

Ontario's Small Claims Court online filing portal allows plaintiffs to file claims, serve documents, and track proceedings online for many matters. This is more convenient than attending the courthouse in person, particularly given current processing volumes.

Getting Legal Help in Toronto

While Small Claims Court is designed for self-represented parties, the stakes in a $35,000 matter are significant. Legal representation by a lawyer or paralegal is permitted and can significantly improve your chances of success. Alpha Mediation Group offers consultations to help Toronto residents prepare their Small Claims Court matters — call (416) 447-7033.