The South African government has increased the monetary jurisdiction of Small Claims Courts from R20,000 to R30,000, aiming to enhance access to affordable and efficient justice.

Deputy Minister Andries Nel emphasized that this change, effective from 1 August 2026, allows more citizens to resolve civil disputes without costly litigation.The reform aligns with the goal of creating a people-centred justice system that is accessible to all, regardless of financial means.

Small Claims Courts handle cases like unpaid loans, faulty goods, and service disputes, with a straightforward process that requires no legal representation.Over 36,600 cases were registered last financial year, highlighting the courts' significant impact.The expansion is part of broader efforts to ensure constitutional rights are exercised by all citizens, marking a step toward equitable justice.

This adjustment reflects the government's commitment to simplifying legal processes and making justice more approachable for everyday South Africans.