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Small Claims in Nunavut

Clear, province-specific guidance on small claims procedures, filing limits, fees, and court processes in Nunavut.

Always confirm current rules with the appropriate court in your jurisdiction.

Important Note

This information is for general guidance and is not legal advice. Small claims rules, fees, and claim limits may change. Always confirm curent details with your local court.

  • Response Times
    Serve the Claim: as soon as possible after filing
    Defendant Reply: according to timelines given in court documents
    Hearing: scheduled after proof of service is filed
    Payment: due according to the judge’s order
    Default Judgment: possible if the defendant does not respond
    Missing deadlines may delay your case.

  • Many Small Claims disputes settle at this stage.


    Try to Settle Early
    You can negotiate with the defendant. If an agreement is reached:

    • Put it in writing

    • File it with the court to close the claim


    If No Settlement
    Your claim will move to a pre-hearing or directly to a hearing.

    ​

    Court Hearing
    If your claim continues, a judge of the Nunavut Court of Justice will hear your case.


    What to Expect
    Hearings are meant to be simple. Bring:

    • All your evidence organized

    • Copies for the judge and the defendant

    • Witnesses if necessary

    You will explain what happened and answer the judge’s questions.
    A written judgment may be given later or at the hearing.

    ​

    Judgment & Enforcement
    When the hearing is over, the judge will issue a written judgment.


    If You Win
    The judgment states how much you are owed.
    If the defendant does not pay, you can enforce the judgment through:

    • Wage garnishment

    • Bank account garnishment

    • Seizure of property

    Small Claims Court Guide


    If You Lose
    You must follow the court’s decision.
    Appeals must follow the rules of the Nunavut Court of Justice.

  • Once your documents are ready, file your claim with the Nunavut Court Registry.


    Where to File
    File your claim at the courthouse nearest:

    • Where the defendant lives, or

    • Where the dispute occurred

    Court Registries


    What to Bring

    • Completed Small Claims form

    • Supporting documents

    • Filing fee

    The clerk will stamp your forms and give you copies to serve on the defendant.

    ​

    Serve the defendant
    After filing, you must serve your claim on the defendant.


    How to Serve
    Service may be done by:

    • Personal service

    • Registered mail

    • Courier requiring signature

    • Process server

    Serving Documents Guide


    Proof of Service
    You must file proof of service with the court.
    Keep all tracking and delivery confirmations.

  • Before filing, take time to organize your case.


    Send a Demand Letter
    Try resolving the issue first. Include:

    • What happened

    • What you want

    • A clear deadline for response

    • Notice that you will file a claim if there is no reply

    Send it by trackable mail and keep proof.


    Gather Your Evidence
    Collect everything that supports your claim:

    • Receipts, contracts, and invoices

    • Screenshots, emails, messages

    • Photos of damage or proof of loss

    • A simple timeline of events


    Complete the Correct Form
    Forms are available from the Nunavut Court of Justice.
    Small Claims Forms


    Include:

    • The defendant’s correct legal name

    • A clear short explanation of what happened

    • The amount you are claiming (up to $20,000)

  • Nunavut Small Claims Court
    Use Small Claims Court for:

    • Claims up to $20,000

    • Debts or unpaid bills

    • Property damage

    • Problems with products or services

    • Contract or agreement disputes

    • Recovery of money owed

    Small Claims Court is meant to be simple. Most people represent themselves.


    Nunavut Court of Justice (General Division)
    Use the Court of Justice for:

    • Claims over $20,000

    • More complex civil matters

    • Cases needing injunctions or special court orders

    • Appeals and judicial reviews


    Larger than $20,000:
    Claims above this amount must be filed in the regular civil division of the Nunavut Court of Justice.


    Smaller than $20,000:
    Claims under this limit generally belong in Small Claims unless the matter is excluded or requires a remedy only available in the general civil court.


    Visit the Nunavut Making a Small Claims Guide.

In This Guide

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