New small claims court opens in Booysens

JOHANNESBURG - A new small claims court has opened its doors in Booysens, Johannesburg, marking the 417th such court across South Africa.

Deputy Justice Minister Andries Nel said the court will help bridge the gap for communities that cannot afford private lawyers.

The move comes as demand for small claims courts continues to rise, with thousands of cases registered across the country this year alone.

The court, based at the Booysens Magistrate’s Court, will hear disputes of up to R20,000 without legal representation.

The government is considering raising that limit to R50,000.

The deputy justice minister pointed to the impact of the system, with over 8,000 claims worth nearly R58 million registered nationwide in just the first quarter of this year.

He also paid tribute to commissioners and clerks who volunteered their time, calling their commitment "a testament to the spirit of service and justice".

The court will sit every Wednesday afternoon and has already issued dozens of demands since its proclamation in June.