Legal Research and Memorandum Writing

Course Info:

Course Introduction

This course provides a step-by-step guide to trial preparation and trial presentation in the Small Claims Court. Important topics include the decision to sue, investigating claims, collection procedures, and the process of commencing the action, bringing it to trial, and enforcing judgements. This is an important permitted area of practice for licensed paralegals in Ontario, even more so as of January 1, 2010 when the monetary jurisdiction of the court was raised to $25,000. Students will work with the Small Claims Court rules and forms and will learn how to draft Small Claims Court pleadings and motions. The course will address the professional standards of the Law Society of Upper Canada for Small Claims advocacy.

Course Prerequisites

Introduction to the Legal System and Civil Litigation or equivalent knowledge and experience.

Course Notes

Students enrolled in this course receive text and/or other related resource materials. There is a final exam to evaluate student progress for this course. Participants who receive 70% or higher overall will receive a certificate.

Course Breakdown

Module 1: Introduction to Small Claims Court

Module 2: Preliminary Considerations and Commencing an Action

Module 3: Drafting, Issuing, and Serving the Claim

Module 4: Default Proceedings; Defence

Module 5: Motions

Module 6: Settlement Conference and Hearings

Module 7: Trial Hearing and Motion for New Trial

Module 8: Enforcement of Judgments

  • Program: Legal Programs

  • Of interest to: Individuals interested in pursuing a career in a law firm, or legal office, and who wish to broaden their knowledge of small claims courts.

  • Course aim: To familiarize students with small claims court in the province of Ontario.

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