News Desk Reporter
The monetary limit for cases heard in Small Claims Courts will increase from R20 000 to R30 000 from 1 August, expanding access to a low cost legal process for civil disputes.
The increase is the first in seven years and is intended to allow more claimants to pursue civil matters without the need for legal representation.
Small Claims Courts provide a simplified and affordable process for resolving disputes, helping to reduce the cost and time associated with litigation.
Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Andries Nel said the higher limit would make it easier for more citizens to enforce their rights.
“By increasing the monetary jurisdiction to R30 000, we are enabling more South Africans to enforce their rights without having to embark on costly and time-consuming litigation.
“This measure forms part of government’s broader programme to build a people-centred justice system that is accessible, affordable, efficient and responsive to the needs of every person in our country.
“For many South Africans, justice begins in the Magistrates’ Courts and the Small Claims Courts. Every practical step we take to remove financial and procedural barriers brings us closer to fulfilling the constitutional promise that everyone is equal before the law and has the right to equal protection and benefit of the law,” Nel said.
The increase comes as the country marks the 30th anniversary of the Constitution.
“Access to justice is one of the cornerstones of our constitutional democracy. Small Claims Courts demonstrate that justice does not have to be expensive or complicated to be effective. They ensure that ordinary people can resolve everyday disputes fairly, speedily and with dignity,” he said.
According to the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, the country’s 418 Small Claims Courts registered about 36 000 cases worth R257 million during the last financial year.
A further 8 825 cases, with a combined value of R64 million, were registered during the first quarter of the current financial year.
The courts deal with a range of civil matters, including unpaid loans, debt recovery, consumer complaints, faulty goods, contractor disputes, vehicle damage claims, property disputes and certain credit agreement matters.
The department said anyone wishing to lodge a claim can seek assistance from the clerk at their nearest Small Claims Court. It added that further increases to the monetary limit are being considered.