How to Sue in Small Claims Court

Small Claims Court

Small Claims Court is a way to resolve disputes cheaply and quickly. The rules are simple. The court hearing is informal. The parties represent themselves.

• The person who files the case is the Plaintiff.
• The person being sued is the Defendant.

You begin a case by filling out a Plaintiff's Claim and filing it with the court.

How much can I sue for?

An individual can file two cases each year for as much as $7,500. For each additional case filed, you can only sue for $2,500 or less. A business or corporation can file two cases each year for as much as $5,000. For each additional case filed, they can only sue for $2,500 or less.

Can I file for more than $7,500?

No. You can reduce the amount of your claim or sue in a higher court. You cannot split your claim into two cases to meet the limit.

Are there time limits to file my case?

Yes. If your case is not filed in time, the Judge can dismiss it. You must file your case before:

• Written contract - four years from the date the contract was broken;
• Oral contract - two years from the date the contract was broken;
• Personal injury - two years from the date of the injury or from the date you discovered you were injured;
• Property damage - three years from the date the damage happened;
• Fraud - three years from the date you discovered you were defrauded.

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