For claims up to a monetary sum of $50,000.00, exclusive of interest and costs, a simplified procedure is in effect which is meant to reduce the cost of litigation, thereby allowing claims of a modest nature to be pursued.
The major distinction from regular actions is that examinations of parties and witnesses before trial is not allowed. Each party is required to identify all persons who might have knowledge of the occurrences in issue in the action at an early stage of the action. This should usually result in an earlier date for trial.
The simplified rule procedure also provides for a summary trial whereby some evidence is submitted by way of affidavit. The criteria for a summary judgment is also set at a lower threshold than a regular action thereby increasing the likelihood of an early determination of the action.
Simplified Rules
For claims up to a monetary sum of $50,000.00, exclusive of interest and costs, a simplified procedure is in effect which is meant to reduce the cost of litigation, thereby allowing claims of a modest nature to be pursued.
The major distinction from regular actions is that examinations of parties and witnesses before trial is not allowed. Each party is required to identify all persons who might have knowledge of the occurrences in issue in the action at an early stage of the action. This should usually result in an earlier date for trial.
The simplified rule procedure also provides for a summary trial whereby some evidence is submitted by way of affidavit. The criteria for a summary judgment is also set at a lower threshold than a regular action thereby increasing the likelihood of an early determination of the action.