Handle your Ontario Small Claims case yourself, step by step
Know which step you're on, what to file next, and when it's due.
Plain-language help for people going to court without a lawyer.
Where am I in my case?
Whether you're the PlaintiffThe person who starts a court case by filing a claim. In Small Claims Court, this is usually the person asking to be paid. or the DefendantThe person or business being sued. A defendant can answer the claim by filing a defence., three quick questions show where you might be.
Question 1 of 3
Are you suing someone or being sued?
How to find out
If you received court papers called a Plaintiff's Claim with your name on them, you are being sued. If someone owes you money or damaged your property and you want the court to order them to pay, you would be suing.
How it works
Step 1: Answer a few questions
Tell us about your case in plain language. No legal words needed.
Step 2: Get your personal roadmap
See what to do next, what to file, and when it's due.
Step 3: Prepare your documents
Use our guides, tools and forms to get your papers ready to file with the court and ServeTo deliver court papers to the other side in a way the court rules allow, so they officially know about your case. them on the other side.
What you get
Personal roadmap
A clear plan for your own case, one step at a time, so you always know what comes next.
Deadline tracker
Your important dates in one place, with the days left counted for you.
Drafted claim or defence
Answer simple questions and get a first draft written in the way the court expects.
Court-ready PDF
Download your forms and documents together, in order and ready to file.
Questions people ask
Do I need a lawyer?
No. Many people handle their own Small Claims case, and the court process is built so you can. If your case is complicated or a lot is at stake, a lawyer or a licensed paralegal can still help, even for one part of it.
Is GoSelfRep legal advice?
No. GoSelfRep gives legal information and document tools, not legal advice. We explain each step in plain words and help you prepare your papers. You make the decisions in your case.
How much can I claim?
You can claim up to $50,000 in Small Claims Court, not counting interest and costs. Use our free "Can I use Small Claims Court?" checker to see if your case fits.
What if I was served with a claim?
Don't ignore it. There is a time limit to respond, and if you miss it, the court can decide the case without hearing from you. Write down the date you got the papers, then read our guide to responding to a claim. With a free account, GoSelfRep helps you track your deadline and prepare your defence.
Is my information private?
Yes. The details you enter about your case are used only to build your roadmap and your documents. We never sell your information. Our privacy policy explains what we keep and how to delete it.
Is GoSelfRep part of the government or the courts?
No. GoSelfRep is an independent service. We are not affiliated with the Government of Ontario or the courts. You still file your papers with the court yourself.