Important changes to the Ontario Small Claims Court Rules – Effective June 1, 2025

Extensive amendments to the Small Claims Court Rules came into force on June 1, 2025. These changes address several key areas, including:

• methods of hearing attendance;
• procedures for amending pleadings;
• compensation for self-represented litigants;
• trial adjournments.

The most important change is the introduction of a new step called the Trial Management Conference. This allows the court to direct a conference to ensure everyone is ready for trial, narrow the issues in dispute, and encourage settlement, potentially avoiding the need for trial altogether.

These amendments represent a significant development in Small Claims Court practice, particularly in the context of the increased jurisdictional limits set to take effect in October 2025. Understanding and adapting to these changes is essential.

By Lawyers has updated all relevant publications to reflect these important changes in both law and practice, providing you with the tools needed to practice more efficiently, effectively, and with greater confidence.