Common Questions

I’m being sued in small claims court

Small claims court is designed to be a “do-it-yourself” kind of court, where ordinary people can handle their own cases, whichever side they’re on. Small claims court is for claims up to $35,000.

Note: On June 1, 2017, the limit for small claims increased to $35,000 from $25,000. The Civil Resolution Tribunal now accepts small claims disputes up to $5,000. See the Provincial Court's resource, Important Changes to Small Claims Court for more information.

Good starting points include:

  • Small Claims BC, from the Justice Education Society, is a website that provides information about what to expect in small claims court. If you are going to court in Vancouver or Richmond, this site has information about the special small claims procedures in those locations.
  • Replying to a Claim in Small Claims Court, from the provincial government, covers what is involved if someone is making a claim against you in small claims court.
  • Being Sued in Small Claims Court, a fact sheet from the Canadian Bar Association BC Branch, provides an overview of your options.
The Civil Resolution Tribunal's Solution Explorer is available for Small Claims matters. Find free legal information and self-help tools, and also apply for dispute resolution for claims $5000 and under.

Need more help?

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Last reviewed July 2018
tags
small claims court, going to court, representing yourself, replying to a claim, being sued, self-represented litigants, self-help