Small Claims Court – Introduction:
The Small Claims Court provides an inexpensive way to resolve minor disputes. The Small Claims Court is meant for the ordinary persons who cannot afford civil litigation and operates in a very informal and cost-effective manner.
The Small Claims Court is governed in terms of the Small Claims Court Act 61 of 1984. It is for natural persons (i.e. not juristic persons) wanting to institute a minor civil claim against either another natural person or juristic person.
You can also institute claims against companies and associations. However, the claims are limited to certain civil disputes that involve amounts up to R20,000.00. This excludes the State, meaning a person cannot, for example, institute a claim against a municipality. Claims instituted at the Small Claims Court are dealt with quickly and cheaply without claimants having to appoint an attorney.