Small Claims Court Time Limits
Small Claims Court Time Limits
Here is a list of some of the most common time limits in the Ontario Small Claims Court. Be advised that in some cases these time limits can be varied by a court and in other cases they cannot. We recommend that you consult with a paralegal or a lawyer if you find yourself having an issue with any small claims court time limits.
If more than six years have passed since a judgment was issued a Notice of Garnishment or a Writ of Seizure and Sale may only be issued with leave of the court.
Duration of a Notice of Garnishment or a Writ of Seizure and Sale.
After which a claim will be dismissed if the matter has not been settled, disposed of by way of a court order or the plaintiff has not taken steps to obtain a judgment or a trial.
Limitation period to file most Lawsuits.
Waiting period before forcing a sale under a Writ of Seizure and Sale of Lands.
Time from first Defence filed that a Settlement Conference is to be held.
Generally the last chance before trial when one can amend or disclose documents. This, however, is one of the small claims court time limits that can be varied by a judge.
Minimum time a Notice of Examination must be served before a hearing.
How long a Defendant has to file a Defence after being served.
Time to file a Defendant’s Claim after filing a Defence.
Time before a Settlement Conference one has to disclose documents. This is another one of the small claims court time limits that has a certain degree of flexibility to it.
Minimum time a summons must be served upon a witness before a Trial.
Minimum time to serve a Motion before a hearing a date.
Amount of time ascribed to mail/courier delivery of documents.
Deadline to file a Motion before the hearing date.
Deadline to file motion response before the hearing date.
Amount of time one must normally wait before accessing a court file after a hearing.
Looking for Representation?
JUSTICE MATTERS: We are a paralegal firm that practices exclusively in the Ontario Small Claims Court. Paralegals, like lawyers, are licensed through the Law Society of Ontario and we can represent you from start to finish in your small claims court lawsuit.
Professional Representation Makes a Difference.™
