Make a Claim in the Small Claims Court
Use our tools to draft your Letter of Demand or Summons quickly and easily.
Important Disclaimer
Please note that mysmallclaim provides general information and tools to assist you in drafting legal documents. We do not offer specific legal advice. It's your responsibility to ensure that the content of your documents is accurate and appropriate for your situation. If you require legal advice, please consult a qualified attorney.
Find AttorneyFrequently Asked Questions
What is a Letter of Demand?
Think of it as your first official step. It's a formal letter telling the other person what they owe you (or need to do), and giving them a chance (usually 14 days) to sort it out before you involve the court.
Read the Official Rule (Rule 7)When should I draft a Summons?
Draft a Summons only *after* you've sent a Letter of Demand and the 14-day waiting period has passed without a satisfactory outcome. The Summons is the document that formally starts the court case.
Read the Official Rule (Rule 8)How long does the process take?
The small claims process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. After sending a Letter of Demand, you must wait at least 14 days before filing a Summons. Once your case is filed, court dates depend on how busy your local court is.
What claims qualify for Small Claims Court?
Small Claims Court handles cases with monetary values up to R20,000. It typically deals with disputes like unpaid debts, property damage, minor contract disagreements, and refunds for goods or services. Cases involving divorce, custody, interpretation of wills, or malicious prosecution don't qualify.