What can a judge in Small Claims Court do?

A judge in Small Claims Court has the authority to make sole decisions on the case without a jury. This is a fundamental characteristic of small claims proceedings, where cases are typically simplified in order to expedite the legal process and reduce the complexities associated with larger court cases. In this environment, a judge serves as the sole decision-maker, assessing evidence and making rulings based on the information presented by both parties.

Small Claims Court is designed for resolving minor disputes—usually involving limited financial amounts—efficiently and economically. The absence of a jury trial simplifies the process, allowing individuals to present their cases directly to the judge, who then renders a decision. This streamlined approach aims to make the justice system more accessible to the general public, reflecting a commitment to resolving disputes without the extensive time and costs associated with traditional court proceedings.

Other options, such as conducting a jury trial or appealing a decision, do not align with the operations of Small Claims Court, which focuses on quick resolutions rather than multi-layered legal processes. Similarly, enforcing laws on business regulations falls outside the small claims jurisdiction, which is primarily concerned with individual disputes rather than broad regulatory enforcement.