Program Chair
Lydia Stewart Ferreira
Deputy Judge (retired), Small Claims Court, Ontario Superior Court of Justice
“Small Claims” are getting bigger and bigger.
The stakes are higher than ever. With the Court’s monetary jurisdiction now increased to $50,000—a significant jump from just a few years ago—Small Claims Court matters carry greater risk, responsibility, and opportunity. What does this change mean for your practice? Have your professional obligations shifted along with it?
In an information-packed morning session, leading practitioners will break down the practical impact of the Court’s expanded monetary jurisdiction and walk you through the most important developments from the past year. You’ll gain clear, actionable insights and proven strategies you can apply to your practice immediately.
This program is essential for both plaintiff and defendant advocates who appear before the Small Claims Court, including lawyers and paralegals looking to stay current, manage risk, and advocate effectively in a higher-stakes environment.
Can’t Make the Date? Registration includes 120-day unlimited, online access to the recorded program.
What You’ll Learn
Key updates on procedural and substantive developments in Small Claims Court
Practical tips and strategies on how to approach the settlement conference to get a favourable result
Best practices when dealing with unrepresented parties
Critical case law updates affecting your practice
Who Should Attend
Lawyers
Paralegals
Faculty
Program Chair
Lydia Stewart Ferreira
Deputy Judge (retired), Small Claims Court, Ontario Superior Court of Justice
Instructors
Sarah Cha
Counsel, Operational Support Branch, Court Services Division, Ministry of the Attorney General (Ontario)
Michelle Haigh
Precision Paralegal Services
Lai-King Hum
Deputy Judge; Founder, The Hum Law Firm
Marcel Mongeon
Deputy Judge, Mediator & Arbitrator
Agenda
Register
Printable registration form
If a downloadable form is required, please contact OsgoodePD@osgoode.yorku.ca.
“Is financial assistance or funding available?”
As law evolves, we know how important it is to stay up to date. We also understand the financial implications of continuously upgrading your professional skills and knowledge. For more information on available options, including Job Grants, OSAP, please visit:
CPD and Accreditation
OsgoodePD is an accredited provider with the LSO, the Law Society of BC and NY CLE Board. Select your location to view the eligible hours you may claim.
| Substantive | 2h 50m |
|---|---|
| Professionalism | 30m |
| Total | 3h 20m |
| Substantive | 2h 50m |
|---|---|
| Professionalism | 30m |
| Total | 3h 20m |
Are you reporting hours from a previous date?
View our CPD & Accreditation page to see previously calculated hours for this course.
Deeper Learning Opportunities
LLMs
Are you a law graduate or an executive/senior professional with at least 5 years of specialized experience? Consider a full-time or part-time LLM degree.
Part-time LLMs Full-time LLMsThe Osgoode Certificate
Stay competitive with deep dives into the most critical issues in law. Taught by leading experts and designed for flexible learning, choose from multi-day programs or take courses at your own pace to build towards a certificate.
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Do you have an LLB/JD? Consider taking a single LLM course for deeper learning in a specific area of practice – all credits will apply towards a Professional LLM.
Explore LLM coursesFrequently Asked Questions
Client and Technical Support
Have questions? Get advice in person, by email or over the phone.
Program content questions
Stéphane McRoberts, Program Lawyer
smcroberts@osgoode.yorku.ca
Registration questions
Technical support
Online Technical Requirements
To ensure you do not encounter any issues that will impact or limit your learning experience, please review the following information.