Small Claims Legal Representative in Ottawa
Helping Ottawa plaintiffs recover what they are owed — and defendants protect themselves against unfair claims. Clear strategy from the first consultation.
Why work with a licensed paralegal for small claims court
Most Small Claims Court matters in Ontario are handled by licensed paralegals because they are authorized to represent clients in this court. For straightforward debt collection, contract disputes, unpaid invoices, property damage claims, and many matters under the $50,000 limit, a licensed paralegal can provide focused and practical representation.
Nick Lefebvre handles Small Claims Court matters for J. Solomon Law, including both plaintiff and defendant files. He can help assess whether your matter belongs in Small Claims Court, explain the process clearly, and guide you through the steps from the first consultation.
Claims near the $50,000 limit
When the amount at stake is close to the Small Claims Court limit, every step matters. Proper documents, clear evidence, and strong preparation can make a significant difference in how the claim is presented.
When the other side is represented
If the other party has legal representation, it is important to have someone who understands the Small Claims Court process and can help protect your position.
Practical guidance from the start
Nick can review the facts, explain your options, and help determine whether moving forward makes practical and financial sense based on your situation.
We represent plaintiffs and defendants
Small Claims Court matters can involve people trying to recover money, as well as people who have been served with a claim and need to respond. Nick assists both sides with clear, practical representation.
Unpaid invoices or debt
A customer, client, or contractor owes you money and will not pay. We can help prepare your claim, organize the supporting evidence, and guide the matter through settlement conference or trial.
Property or vehicle damage
If someone damaged your property and refuses to pay for repairs, we can help document the damages, assess the claim, and present the evidence clearly.
Contract or service disputes
If a contractor performed poor work, a supplier failed to deliver, or an agreement was breached, we can help assess whether Small Claims Court is the right path.
Consumer disputes
If a business misrepresented its services, refused a refund, or failed to deliver what was promised, we can help determine whether Small Claims Court is the right path.
Recovering money owed
We assist with claims involving unpaid loans, unpaid services, deposits, or other money owed under an agreement.
Enforcing a judgment
Winning a judgment does not always mean payment happens automatically. If the other party does not pay, we can advise on enforcement options available through the court.
Defending a claim against you
If you have received a Plaintiff’s Claim, you must respond properly. We can review the claim, explain your options, prepare your Defence, and help protect your position.
Filing a Defendant’s Claim
If you are being sued but also have your own claim against the plaintiff, we can help prepare a Defendant’s Claim so your side is fully presented to the court.
Disputing the amount claimed
The plaintiff may have inflated the claim or included amounts that are not recoverable. We help identify weaknesses in the claim and respond properly.
Negotiating a settlement
Many Small Claims Court matters resolve before trial. We can help negotiate firmly and practically to reach a fair resolution where possible.
Preparing your defence evidence
We help organize documents, messages, invoices, contracts, photos, and other evidence needed to respond to the claim.
Representation at court steps
We assist with settlement conferences and hearings so your response is organized, clear, and presented properly.
How Small Claims Court works in Ontario
Understanding the basic terms used in Ontario Small Claims Court can help you know what to expect before starting or responding to a claim.
The $50,000 Limit
Ontario Small Claims Court handles civil disputes where the amount claimed is $50,000 or less, excluding interest and costs. Claims above this amount generally need to be brought in the Superior Court of Justice.
Plaintiff’s Claim
This is the document that starts a Small Claims Court action. It identifies the parties, explains what happened, states the amount claimed, and sets out the legal basis for the claim.
Defence
This is the defendant’s written response to the Plaintiff’s Claim. If a Defence is not filed within the required timeline, the plaintiff may be able to request default judgment.
Settlement Conference
A settlement conference is a required step before trial. It gives both sides an opportunity to discuss settlement, narrow the issues, and understand what may happen if the matter proceeds.
Default Judgment
If a defendant does not respond to a claim within the required time, the plaintiff may ask the court for judgment without a full hearing.
Enforcing a Judgment
Winning a judgment does not always mean payment happens automatically. If the other party does not pay, enforcement steps may be needed, such as garnishment or other court-approved collection methods.
Nick Lefebvre
Nick Lefebvre is a licensed Paralegal at J. Solomon Law. He assists clients with Small Claims Court matters and is committed to making the legal process feel clear, accessible, and manageable.
Nick began his legal journey after graduating from Carleton University with an undergraduate degree in Law in 2021. He later completed the Paralegal Program at Algonquin College in 2022 and obtained his licence from the Law Society of Ontario in 2023.
His legal training includes matters within the paralegal scope of practice, including Small Claims Court and Landlord/Tenant matters. On the small claims side, Nick helps clients understand the process, prepare properly, and move forward with confidence.
Book a Consultation with NickSmall Claims Court FAQs
Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive about Ontario Small Claims Court.
What is the maximum amount I can claim in Ontario Small Claims Court?
Ontario Small Claims Court currently handles claims of up to $50,000, excluding interest and costs. Claims above this amount generally proceed in the Superior Court of Justice.
How long do I have to file a Small Claims Court claim?
In most cases, Ontario's Limitations Act provides a two-year limitation period from the date the claim was discovered. Certain situations may differ depending on the facts.
Do I need a lawyer or paralegal for Small Claims Court?
You may represent yourself, but many people choose legal representation to ensure documents are prepared correctly, deadlines are met, and their case is presented effectively.
Can Small Claims Court cases settle before trial?
Yes. Many matters resolve during negotiations or at the mandatory settlement conference before reaching trial, saving both time and expense.
What happens if the other party does not pay after judgment?
A judgment does not automatically result in payment. Additional enforcement options, such as garnishment or writs, may be available depending on the circumstances.
Can Nick Lefebvre represent me in Small Claims Court?
Yes. As a licensed Paralegal with J. Solomon Law, Nick Lefebvre is licensed by the Law Society of Ontario to represent clients in Ontario Small Claims Court matters.
Request a Small Claims Court consultation
Fill in the form and Nick will be in touch within one business day to discuss your situation and answer your questions — with no obligation to proceed.
Please include the key details of your matter, the amount being claimed, whether any court documents have been served, and any important deadlines.
Ottawa, ON K2J 5W2
