HELP AND GUIDANCE WITH YOUR SMALL CLAIMS CASE

Small Claims Lawyer

A small claims court lawyer plays a crucial role in ensuring clients receive fair and effective representation within the context of small claims proceedings. Whether it’s advising on the viability of a case, preparing legal documentation, negotiating settlements, or presenting arguments in court, a small claims court lawyer can alleviate some of the stress or discomfort that is common when dealing with any legal matter.

Disputes and disagreements are an inevitable part of life. Sometimes these disagreements can escalate to a point where legal intervention is required but not all disputes have to go to higher courts.

If your civil claim is under $100,000 then you can file a small claim in the Alberta Court of Justice, also known as the small claims court. However, filing a small claim can be complex and confusing and many people turn to small claims lawyers to help them navigate the Alberta provincial court system.

A small claims expert can provide you advice and guidance on your small claims matters. By engaging a DLegal small claims lawyer, you gain an ally who will navigate the complexities and legal procedures of the Alberta Small Claims court system. Our small claims litigation lawyers are committed to having your claim resolved quickly and with the best possible outcome for your case.

Get Started
DLegal Law Office - Case

Small Claims Court Lawyer

A small claims court lawyer is a legal professional who specialises in handling cases that fall under the jurisdiction of small claims courts. Small claims court lawyers are well-versed in the laws, regulations and court procedures specific to Alberta courts, allowing them to provide tailored advice and legal representation to their clients.

Types of Small Claims

There are several types of small claims that can be filed with the Small Claims Court.

Unpaid Debts:

This is where someone owes money to another party and hasn’t repaid it. This could include cases like outstanding personal loans, unpaid credit card balances, or invoices for services provided.

Property Damage:

In this type of claim, people seek compensation for damage caused to their property. Landlords might file claims against tenants for damages beyond normal wear and tear, and individuals might file claims against others for property damage caused by negligence.

Contract Disputes:

Contract disputes arise when one party believes the other party has failed to uphold the terms of a legally binding agreement. This can include cases related to breached service contracts, construction agreements, or any situation where an agreed-upon arrangement has not been honoured.

Consumer Complaints:

These claims encompass complaints about products or services that were not delivered as promised. This could involve defective products, services that didn’t meet expectations, or situations where warranties or guarantees weren’t honoured.

Landlord-Tenant Disputes:

Disagreements between landlords and tenants can involve a range of issues. Common disputes include disagreements over security deposits, unpaid rent, eviction procedures, maintenance responsibilities, or breaches of the rental agreement.

Employment Disputes:

Employment-related claims might involve unpaid wages, wrongful termination, or workplace issues such as harassment or unfair treatment. These cases can arise from disputes between employees and employers.

Real Estate Disputes:

These claims include forfeited deposits from a real estate purchase contract, seller’s failure to disclose material defects of the property, disputes over costs of repairs or replacement in the house, unpaid property taxes or liens.

How A Small Claims Court Lawyer Can Help Your Case?

The following legal services offered by small claims lawyers span a spectrum of crucial activities, each contributing to the pursuit of justice within the small claims court framework.

Legal Consultation and Case Assessment

Small claims lawyers offer thorough legal consultations, examining the specifics of your dispute. They assess the strength of your case, discuss potential outcomes, and provide a clear understanding of the legal aspects involved.

Legal Advice and Guidance

Throughout the process, small claims lawyers provide continuous legal guidance. They answer your questions, keep you updated on case progress, and help you navigate critical decisions.

Case Strategy Development

Building a strong case requires a well-defined strategy. Small claims lawyers create a customised plan tailored to your situation. This plan outlines the steps they’ll take to achieve your desired outcome through negotiation, settlement, or court trial.

Document Preparation

Small claims lawyers handle the preparation of essential legal documents. They draft documents like your court application, or the civil claim form, and defence, ensuring accuracy and compliance with court requirements to effectively present your side of the dispute.

Negotiation and Settlement

Negotiation is a key skill of small claims lawyers. They engage in discussions with the opposing party to pursue favourable settlements. Through skilful negotiation, they work to reach resolutions that align with your legal rights and best interest.

Legal Research and Analysis

Thorough research is crucial for building a compelling case. Small claims lawyers delve into legal research to analyse laws, regulations, and precedents relevant to your dispute, strengthening your arguments.

Evidence Gathering and Preparation

Collecting and organising evidence is fundamental to your case’s success. Small claims lawyers help identify and gather relevant evidence, ensuring it’s well-prepared for presentation.

Court Representation

If negotiations falter and you have to attend court, small claims lawyers provide adept representation in court. They present your case persuasively, cross-examine witnesses, and address challenges raised by the opposing party before a judge.

Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution

Many disputes find resolution through mediation or alternative methods. Small claims lawyers guide you through these processes, ensuring your interests are safeguarded while working towards mutually agreeable outcomes.

Compliance with Court Rules

There are specific rules and procedures in the Small Claims Court process. Lawyers who specialise in Alberta small claims law ensure your case adheres to these rules, avoiding pitfalls that could delay or jeopardise the resolution process.

The Small Claims Court in Alberta

An understanding of the intricate mechanics of the Alberta Small Claims Court is pivotal to navigating its landscape effectively.

The Small Claims Court in Alberta operates within a jurisdictional range that includes civil claims of up to $100,000 in monetary value, making it suitable for a wide array of disputes. In contrast to higher courts, the small claims court operates within a less formal framework which prioritises procedural efficiency. The rules of evidence are more relaxed compared to higher courts, thereby simplifying and streamlining the process.

Before reaching the trial stage, the court places a strong emphasis on mediation as a means of dispute resolution. Mediation involves the intervention of a neutral third party to facilitate an agreeable resolution. In cases where mediation proves unsuccessful, the matter progresses to trial. At this stage, both parties present their arguments, evidence, and witnesses to the judge, who then delivers a judgement.

How Long Do I Have to Make a Claim in a Provincial Court?

The time aspect of filing claims in a provincial court is governed by the Limitations Act in Alberta. This legislation stipulates a timeframe calculated either from the date of awareness or discovery of the claim or as of the date when the claim arose. However, the exact duration may vary based on the nature of the claim, emphasising the need to take timely action when pursuing legal remedies.

Will My Small Claim Go to Trial?

Not all small claims cases go to trial. In fact, many cases are resolved through negotiation, mediation, or settlement before reaching the trial stage. A skilled small claims lawyer will work to resolve your case amicably through these alternative methods whenever possible. If a resolution cannot be reached, the case will proceed to trial, where the judge will make a decision based on the evidence presented by both parties.

Choose The Right Small Claims Lawyer

Filing a claim with the Small Claims Court in Alberta can be complex and confusing. The small claims lawyers at DLegal are here to navigate you through the Alberta small claims law. Our small claims lawyers can provide you with the necessary guidance, protection, and legal representation to manage the small claims process effectively. They will ensure that your legal rights are protected and work towards achieving a favourable resolution to your small claims dispute.

Lawyer & Notary
Anna Dunaeva

Anna perpetually works to surpass her clients' expectations. Through continuous communication, Anna delivers on her commitment to keep clients at the centre of her practice.

View Anna's Bio Explore our People

News & Resources

Subscribe to our Newsletter to Stay Updated on Legal News

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.