About small claims court and this eligibility wizard.
How accurate is this eligibility wizard?
This wizard estimates your eligibility based on the most common factors courts consider — evidence strength, limitation periods, written agreements, and prior settlement attempts. It is educational only. A licensed paralegal or lawyer should review your specific facts before you file.
Does this wizard provide legal advice?
No. This tool provides general legal information to help you understand the small claims process. It is not legal advice and does not create a lawyer-client relationship. Consult a licensed legal professional for advice about your case.
What is the small claims court limit in my province or state?
Limits vary widely. In Canada: Ontario $50,000; British Columbia $25,000; Alberta $50,000; Quebec $15,000. In the US: California $12,500; Texas $10,000; New York $10,000; Florida $8,000. The wizard factors your jurisdiction's limit into your eligibility score.
How long does small claims court take?
Most small claims cases in Canada resolve in 3–6 months. In the US, timelines range from 30 days (simple cases) to 6+ months. The wizard estimates your specific timeline based on your dispute type and jurisdiction.
Do I need a lawyer for small claims court?
No — small claims court is specifically designed for self-represented litigants. You cannot use a lawyer at the hearing in some provinces (e.g. Ontario). The wizard's results page includes a personalized checklist of documents and steps you can take without legal help.