Small Claims Court is a special court in City, Town or Village courts where you can sue for money:
- Up to $5,000 in City Courts
- Up to $3,000 in Town and Village Courts
You cannot sue to make someone do something or for pain and suffering. For example, you can’t use Small Claims Court to get back your laptop that you lent your friend.
This guide is long but helpful. Use the table of contents to go to the section you need:
- What is Small Claims Court?
- Who can use Small Claims Court?
- Which Small Claims Court do I use?
- How do I start my small claims case?
- Can the person I am suing sue me?
- Who tells the person I am suing about my claim?
- Can I postpone my trial?
- Special rules for suing a public agency
- How do I get ready for my trial?
- Can I have witnesses at my trial?
- Can the defendant and I agree to settle our case before the trial?
- What do I do on the day of my trial?
- Who will decide my case?
- What is an arbitrator?
- What happens during my trial?
- What if I do not agree with the Court’s decision?
- How do I get my money if I win?
- How do I find the debtor’s money and property?
- How do I use an Information Subpoena?
- What is an enforcement officer?
- Are there other ways to make a debtor pay without using an enforcement officer?
- Commercial Small Claims in City Courts
- Special rules for commercial transaction cases
- Resources County Clerk Offices
- How to find Court locations and phone numbers
- Where to get help
Last Reviewed: May 19, 2023