Sue in small claims court without a lawyer.
Small claims court is designed for everyday disputes — unpaid debts, security deposits, property damage, and more. Check your state's limit and filing fees to see if your case qualifies.
Why small claims court works
Small claims court is designed for self-representation. Most states prohibit or discourage attorneys, keeping the process accessible and affordable for everyone.
Filing fees are typically $30–$100. Cases are usually heard within 30–70 days of filing. You get a decision the same day as your hearing in most cases.
A small claims judgment is a real court order. If the defendant does not pay, you can garnish wages, levy bank accounts, or place liens on property.
How to win in small claims court
A step-by-step guide to filing, preparing your case, and presenting your evidence effectively.
Read the Full Guide →Small claims guides
Browse all guides →Step-by-step guide to filing, preparing evidence, and presenting your case effectively.
What happens from the day you file to the day you get a judgment — and what to do if you win.
Wage garnishment, bank levies, and other tools for actually getting paid after you win.
Contracts, receipts, photos, texts, emails — what counts as evidence and how to present it.