Learn how to file a small claims court case step by step. Calculate filing fees, claim limits, and timeline by state. Free guide. Not legal advice.
Small claims court is designed for people without lawyers — it is intentionally simple, fast, and inexpensive. You can sue for unpaid invoices, security deposits, property damage, and most disputes under $10,000-$25,000 depending on state. Most cases are resolved within 30-70 days. Our guide walks you through every step from filing to judgment.
Maximum claim amounts by state: California $12,500, Texas $20,000, New York $10,000, Florida $8,000, Illinois $10,000, Georgia $15,000, Colorado $7,500. Filing fees range from $30-$100 for most states. If you win your case the defendant is typically ordered to pay your filing fees in addition to the judgment amount.
Strongest evidence for small claims: Written contracts or agreements, Text messages and emails documenting the dispute, Receipts, invoices, and payment records, Photographs of damage or condition, Bank statements showing payments or non-payment, Witness statements or witnesses in person, Expert estimates for repairs. Organize everything chronologically and bring 3 copies of each document.
Filing fees range from $30-$100 depending on state and claim amount. California: $30-$75. Texas: $54-$100. New York: $15-$20. Florida: $55-$300 depending on amount. Service of process (officially notifying defendant) adds $25-$75. Total to file most small claims cases: $75-$175.
No — small claims court is specifically designed for self-representation. In fact several states including California prohibit attorneys from appearing in small claims hearings. The process is simplified, judges are accustomed to non-lawyers, and court staff can help with procedural questions though not legal advice.
Winning a judgment does not guarantee payment — you must collect it. Options: Wage garnishment (court orders employer to withhold portion of wages), bank levy (court orders bank to transfer funds), property liens (attached to real property until paid), and till tap (sheriff collects from business cash register). Collecting a judgment can take months and requires additional court filings.
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The How to File Small Claims Court — Step by Step Guide by State uses the same formulas, rates, and reference data that financial planners, professionals, and government sources publish. Results are estimates intended for planning and education — for situations involving large sums or legal consequences, confirm with a qualified professional before acting.
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