Issued by: Department: Justice and Constitutional Development
3 June 2002
The total number of Small Claims Courts is now at 139 countrywide with the institution of other Court in the Northern Province, the now Limpopo, on April 18, 2002.
Limpopo has now a total of 15 courts. "The establishment of a small claims court for this area is a further step towards the goal of bringing all communities countrywide within the reach of being able to have their small claims settled in an informal inexpensive and expeditious manner"
A local advisory board has been appointed to brief the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Dr. Penuell Maduna, MP, on the functioning of the Court, including the appointment of commissioners. The Board consist of Chairperson Mrs T W B Phatudi, a pensioner and former High School principal, Vice Chairperson: Mr. M P Mabotja, a pensioner and a Minister of religion and other members are Mr. C F Mamabolo a businessman, Mr. R M Malebatsa a pensioner and retired school inspector and Mrs M J Lekota a pensioner and retired teacher.
"With the exception of the State and legal persons such as companies, corporations or associations, anyone may institute a claim at the Small Claims Court. It can be against anyone, including the very institutions, which cannot institute a claim, within the area of jurisdictions of the Court. This Courts deals with claims not exceeding the amount of R3 000.00. If the amount exceeds, a complainant may reduce the claim amount to under R3000.00 in order to pursue his or her case".
A BREAK DOWN IN NUMBERS OF SMALL CLAIMS COURTS IN PROVINCES.
In the Eastern Cape Province, the institution of the Zwelitsha Small Claims Court on December 5, 2001 brought the total number of these courts to 14. Free State: 18; Gauteng: 17; Kwa Zulu Natal: 21; Mpumalanga: 14; Northern Cape: 6; North West: 13 and Western Cape: 21.
Chief Directorate: Public Education and Communication: Department of Justice and Constitutional Development.
Enquiries: Terrence Manase
Tel. 012 315 1677