Small claims courts exist in every state. The purpose is to allow the court to decide small claims matters quickly and with little expense to the party bringing the action. Business owners in particular prefer to bring their matters in small claims courts because they save substantial amounts of money by not retaining a lawyer or otherwise finance lengthy litigation. They also save time since the court usually hears small claims matters within weeks of filing.

Each state has different qualifying factors and dollar limits for the filing of small claims. In most states, you cannot sue in small claims court if the matter in dispute involves more than $10,000. In addition, no state allows the filing of a suit that contains criminal allegations or involves a divorce. Take advantage of the many resources available to help you file and present a small claims legal action.

1. Determine whether your case qualifies for small claims court help.

2. Contact state offices for small claims court basics in your jurisdiction.

3. Seek free small claims court assistance from state legal aid societies.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find out if you can bring your suit in a small claims court

Not all classes classify as small claims. You must check the limits and other small claims court basics set by your state's judicial system.

I recommend: Nolo provides trustworthy legal advice to the public through a comprehensive website that is easy to use. The site lists the dollar limits for small claims by state and provides other information on bringing your case in any small claims court. LearnAboutLaw.com is another website offering free legal advice. Check out its explanation of personal jurisdiction in small claims courts.

Contact your state's small claims court office for information on how to file and present your case

Some states do not allow lawyers to represent you in small claims matters. In addition, small claims courts in some states have strict procedural rules to follow while others do not. The only way to find out is to contact the state's own small claims court office.

I recommend: New Jersey State Judiciary walks you step by step through the filing of your complaint, including the filing fees and how you can prepare for trial. The Judicial Council of California provides specific small claims court information on each of its counties. It also explains how to research your case before trial.

Seek small claims court assistance from a legal aid society in your state

These agencies offer help with all non-criminal matters, including small claims, and can provide educational materials at no cost.

I recommend: The Legal Aid Society in New York City not only offers a self-help website online but will also offer you free legal advice on any small claims matter brought in New York City’s five boroughs. The Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles maintains seven separate offices, each dealing with a specific area of the law. Contact its administrative offices for small claims court assistance.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Make sure to ask the small claims court in your jurisdiction whether you can appeal a decision rendered on your claim.