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Small Claims in Quebec

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

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 instructions in your court documents
    Hearing: scheduled after service
    Payment: due as required by the judge
    Default Judgment: possible if the defendant does not appear
    Missing deadlines may slow down or affect your case.

  • You can settle at any time before the hearing.


    Try to Settle Early
    You can contact the other party directly to try to resolve it.


    If you settle:

    • Put the agreement in writing

    • File it with the court


    Mediation
    Some judicial districts offer mediation.
    This is voluntary and can help avoid a hearing.
    If no agreement is reached, your case moves forward.

    ​

    Court Hearing
    Your case will be heard by a judge at the Court of Québec.


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

    • Your documents neatly organized

    • Copies for the judge and the defendant

    • Witnesses if needed


    The judge will ask questions and review evidence from both sides.
    You may get a decision immediately or later in writing.

    ​

    Judgment & Enforcement
    If You Win
    The judgment will say what the defendant must pay.
    If they do not pay, you can enforce the judgment using:

    • Wage garnishment

    • Bank seizure

    • Seizure of property

    Enforcement information


    If You Lose
    You may be required to follow the court’s decision.
    Small Claims Court decisions cannot be appealed, except in rare cases.

  • Where to File
    You must file in the courthouse for the area where:

    • The defendant lives or

    • The issue happened

    Courthouse locations


    What to Bring

    • Your completed form

    • Copies of your evidence

    • Your filing fee

    The clerk stamps your claim and gives you copies to serve.

    ​

    Serve the defendant
    After filing, you must officially deliver the claim to the defendant.


    How to Serve
    Service can be done by:

    • Bailiff (most common and safest)

    • Registered mail

    • Hand delivery in limited cases


    Filing a Claim Information


    Proof of Service
    After serving the documents, you must file proof of service with the court.

  • Before filing, get everything ready.


    Send a Demand Letter
    Try to fix the problem before going to court. Your letter should:

    • Explain what happened

    • Say what you want

    • Give a deadline (10–30 days)

    • Say you will file a claim if nothing is resolved

    Send it with tracking and keep proof.


    Gather Your Evidence
    Collect all information that supports your case:

    • Receipts, contracts, invoices

    • Emails, screenshots, text messages

    • Photos or documents

    • A short timeline of events


    Fill Out the Correct Form
    Use form SJ-870E to file a Small Claims case.


    Include:

    • The correct name and address of the defendant

    • A clear explanation of the problem

    • The exact amount you are claiming

  • Québec Small Claims Court
    Use Small Claims Court for:

    • Claims up to $15,000

    • Disputes about money

    • Problems with a product or service

    • Damage to property

    • Debt or repayment issues

    • Basic contract disagreements


    Small Claims Court is designed so people can represent themselves. Lawyers are normally not allowed.


    Québec Superior Court
    Use the Superior Court for:

    • Claims over $15,000

    • Bigger or more complex cases

    • Claims needing special court orders


    More than $15,000:
    You must file in Superior Court.


    Less than $15,000:
    Your case usually belongs in Small Claims Court unless the law says otherwise.


    Small Claims Court information

In This Guide

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