Watch Small Claims

Small Claims is an Australian legal drama series that follows the story of two women who team up and represent themselves in court as they fight to get justice for their loved ones. The series stars Claudia Karvan as Jo Collins, a single mother who is struggling to make ends meet after her husband's death, and Rebecca Gibney as Maddie Finn, a high-powered lawyer who has made a name for herself by fighting for the underdog.

The show is set in the fictional town of Waringa, New South Wales, and follows a different case each episode. Jo and Maddie become unlikely allies after Jo approaches Maddie for legal advice following the death of her husband in a car accident. Jo believes the accident was caused by the dangerous road conditions, and despite the lack of evidence, Maddie agrees to help her. With a mix of legal expertise and emotional intelligence, Maddie and Jo navigate the legal system together and fight for justice.

One of the main themes throughout the series is the contrast between the haves and the have-nots, as well as the injustice that often accompanies this. The show often critiques the legal system for favoring the wealthy and powerful, while the average person is left to struggle. This is exemplified in the case of Jo and Maddie, where they face an uphill battle against a wealthy developer who wants to build a resort on the local beach, despite it being a sacred site for the indigenous community.

The show also highlights the emotional struggles and personal lives of the main characters. Maddie is a successful lawyer, but struggles to connect with her family and often puts her career before her personal life. Jo, on the other hand, is still grieving the loss of her husband and trying to be there for her daughter. There are also several love interests and romantic subplots throughout the series, which add an extra layer of complexity and depth to the characters.

One of the strengths of Small Claims is its ability to create compelling and complex characters. Both Jo and Maddie are flawed and multifaceted, and the show does not shy away from exploring their weaknesses and vulnerabilities. Throughout the series, their relationship develops and evolves, and the audience sees the two women become close friends and allies.

Another strength of the show is its focus on social issues, particularly in relation to the environment and indigenous rights. The show explores the impact of development on the environment and the people who live there, as well as the struggle for indigenous communities to have their sacred sites and cultural heritage respected.

Overall, Small Claims is a gripping legal drama that combines compelling characters with important social issues. The series is a testament to the power of ordinary people fighting for what is right, and the importance of banding together to make a difference. With strong writing, talented actors, and a captivating story, Small Claims is a must-watch for anyone who loves legal dramas and social justice stories.