Small Claims Court Resources for Self Represented LItigants

Being a self represented litigant means that you do not have a lawyer and are choosing to represent yourself in a legal proceeding. LawCentraAlberta provides links to basic information resources that may be of assistance to you,  as well as those listed in the other Preparing for Court sections (see the menu on the left).

To get started and learn more about small claims in Provincial Court check out the following LawCentral topic pages and suggested resources listed below:


CPLEA Suggested Resources

Not sure where to begin finding answers to your questions. Get started with our suggested resources. See additional resources below for more information.

Alberta Resources

The Alberta Court of Justice is primarily the point of first entry into the justice system. The Provincial Court hears most of the criminal and civil cases in Alberta. All criminal cases start in Provincial Court, and 95% conclude there. Most civil cases also take place in Alberta Court of Justice. For example, cases involving landlord and tenant, most other claims involving less than $100,000 and many traffic, regulatory and bylaw enforcement hearings take place here. A majority of family law cases and child welfare cases are also heard by the Alberta Court of Justice.

This website contains forms that are available for use by the Bar and other members of the public, as well as notices governing practices or procedures within the different regions or divisions of the Provincial Court.

Related legal topic(s): Civil law, Courts and court judgments, Legal process

This section of the Alberta Court of Justice website explains about using mediation to resolve a lawsuit. You may request mediation or the court may select your lawsuit for mediation once a Dispute Note has been filed. This program is free to the parties involved.

Related legal topic(s): Mediation and alternative dispute resolution

This website offers information to consider before you sue, if you are being sued, and the process that is involved. Information that is available on this website includes: The Basics; Civil Claim Flowchart; Before You Sue; Is it Worth Suing?; If You Have to Sue Someone; Forms Needed for a Civil Claim; Service of Documents; If You are Being Sued; Mediation and Pre-Trial Conferences; Adjournments; Default Judgment; Preparation for the Hearing; Witnesses; Courtroom Etiquette; After the Appearance; and Appeals.

Related legal topic(s): Civil actions, Legal process, Small claims court

The "Civil Matters: What to Do in Court" video provides tips and information on how to prepare for a Civil Claims trial if you are a Plaintiff, Defendant or Witness, including what documents you may need, how to present evidence, and how to address the judge. Video Transcripts are available in:  English | Spanish | French | Arabic | Hindi | Punjabi | Urdu

Related legal topic(s): Civil actions, Legal process, Self-representation

The information presented in this brochure includes a generaldescription of proceedings in court, some specific information on the procedures involved when you want to sue someone or are being sued,and suggestions on how to prepare your case.It is recommended that you read this entire booklet before commencing the Civil Claims process.

Related legal topic(s): Civil actions, Legal process, Self-representation, Small claims court

This information discusses the procedures of the Civil Division of the Provincial Court. The Civil division is often referred to as Small Claims Court. The purpose is to make you aware of your legal rights and responsibilities. Information is provided by Calgary Legal Guidance funded in part by the Alberta Law Foundation.

Related legal topic(s): Civil actions, Courts and court judgments, Legal process, Small claims court

This pamphlet from the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta explains some basic points about the Alberta Rules of Court. It may assist you if: you have a legal problem and are looking at your options; you are deciding whether to hire a lawyer or represent yourself; you are already representing yourself; or you have questions for your lawyer about the court process. The Alberta Rules of Court apply to the Court of King’s Bench of Alberta. They do not apply in Provincial Court (Small Claims Court). This 2 page full-colour PDF is available for free download.

Related legal topic(s): Civil actions, Legal process, Self-representation