Small Claims Court Act 61 of 1984

Small claims courts are located across the world, including in Zastron, South Africa.

Small claims courts provide citizens a quick, inexpensive way to solve minor civil disputes. Such courts are found worldwide. The Small Claims Court Act 61 of 1984 established a small claims court in Zastron, South Africa.

Location

The Small Claims Court Act 61 of 1984 was signed by Johannes Hendrik de Lange, Deputy Minister for Justice and Constitutional Development of the Republic of South Africa. The seat of the court is in Zastron.

Rules

Typically, claims cannot exceed R 3000, the South African rand, the currency used in Zastron. Claims can only be instituted by individuals, not companies or corporations. Lawyers are not allowed in small claims court. All court rulings are final. No appeal is allowed.

Ordering a Court Appearance

To set up a small claims court date, citizens must file a letter of demand specifying the charge against the defendant and how much money the plaintiff is seeking. If the plaintiff wins the case, the court decides how much the defendant must pay.

History

Since 1984, the Small Claims Court Act has been amended several times. The act set up small claims courts in Lydenburg, Tshilwavhusiku and Victoria West. The act says the court can handle land, mortgage bond and credit agreement disputes, as well as other inexpensive claims.

References

• SabinetLaw: Small Claims Courts Act
• Mutual and Federal: Small Claims Court
• Zastron Government: Small Claims Courts Act