SK -- Effective January 1, 2007 the monetary limit for cases that may be heard by small claims court will increase from $10,000 to $15,000.

The government plans to review the limit over time, with the intention of raising it in stages to $25,000.

"This government is committed to the ongoing operation of a small claims court that is accessible for the average person," Justice Minister Frank Quennell said.

Amendments to The Small Claims Act establish a pre-trial case management process for small claims matters. A case management judge will be available to assist the parties settle the matter without going to trial.

If settlement attempts have not resolved the dispute, the judge may give any necessary directions to the parties to ensure the trial proceeds quickly and efficiently.

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