How Much Can I Sue For Defamation Of Character: Civil Legal Guide. Understanding how much can i sue for defamation of character and your civil legal options, explained in plain language. Defamation requires a false statement of fact (not opinion) that was communicated to someone else and caused you harm. Some statements, like a false claim that you committed a crime or are unfit for your profession, are treated as damaging on their face. Save screenshots, dates, and the names of anyone who saw or heard the statement, because that record is the heart of the claim. Filing a small claims case comes down to four things: confirming the court that covers where the dispute happened or where the defendant is, filing before your state's statute of limitations runs, properly serving the other party, and organizing your evidence chronologically. Most hearings are informal and decided the same day, and you do not need a lawyer to walk through any of it. Do you need a lawyer for how much can i sue for defamation of character? In most cases, no. Small claims court is designed for people representing themselves, and a demand letter can often resolve the matter before any filing. How much does it cost? A professional demand letter through PettyLawsuit is $29, and small claims filing fees (if you ever need them) typically run $30 to $200 and are often recoverable if you win. When you're ready, PettyLawsuit turns this into action: a professional demand letter sent by certified mail for $29, and, if it comes to that, the correct small claims forms for your state with step-by-step filing help. Most disputes settle once a formal demand letter arrives, so you may never see a courtroom.