A relatively small dispute can be difficult to pursue through ordinary litigation because legal costs quickly become disproportionate to the amount claimed. The higher limit gives consumers and small business owners another practical avenue when a business or individual owes them money, in cases that might otherwise not be worth pursuing.
Source: Department of Justice
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an attorney in Small Claims Court?
No — legal representation is not required.
Can a company bring a claim as a plaintiff?
The Small Claims Court rules generally allow natural persons to institute claims; businesses can be defendants in qualifying matters.
Does every dispute qualify?
No — certain categories of disputes are excluded, even if the amount is below R30,000.