Complete step-by-step guide to filing in small claims court. Step 1: Send a demand letter giving the defendant 30 days to pay. This is often required by courts and shows you made a good faith effort to resolve the dispute. Include the amount owed, a brief explanation of why, and a deadline for payment. PettyLawsuit generates professional demand letters with applicable laws cited. Step 2: If they don't respond, gather your evidence including contracts, receipts, invoices, photos, emails, text messages, and any other correspondence. Organize everything chronologically. Step 3: Determine the correct court based on where the defendant lives, where the incident occurred, or where a business has a registered agent. Step 4: Complete the required forms for your state. Each state has different forms - PettyLawsuit provides state-specific templates. Step 5: Pay the filing fee, which ranges from $30-$200 depending on your state and claim amount. Some states offer fee waivers for low-income plaintiffs. Step 6: Serve the defendant via certified mail, process server, or sheriff. Proper service is critical - improper service can result in case dismissal. Step 7: Attend your hearing and present your case clearly. Bring copies of all evidence. Dress professionally. Be respectful to the judge. Explain what happened chronologically. State exactly what you're asking for. The judge typically decides the same day. Step 8: If you win, collect your judgment through wage garnishment, bank levy, or property lien. PettyLawsuit simplifies this entire process. File online in 5 minutes for just $29. Tips for success: Keep all original documents and bring copies for the court. Practice explaining your case in under 5 minutes. Stay calm and focused during the hearing. If you don't understand something, ask the judge for clarification. Small claims courts are designed for self-representation so don't be intimidated by the process.