How to File Small Claims in New JerseyStep-by-Step Instructions for All 21 Counties
Everything you need to successfully file and win your small claims case in New Jersey. From filing to collection, we guide you through each step.
$29 service fee + court filing fees
Complete Filing Instructions
Check Your Eligibility
Before filing, ensure your case qualifies for New Jersey small claims court.
- ✓ Claim amount: Maximum $5,000 for small claims
- ✓ Type: Money damages only (no evictions or restraining orders)
- ✓ Time limit: Within statute of limitations (usually 6 years)
- ✓ Defendant: Must be in New Jersey or incident occurred here
Determine the Right County
Choose the correct county court based on these rules:
Primary Rule
File where the defendant lives or has a business
Alternative
File where the incident occurred or contract was signed
Gather Your Information
Collect all necessary details before starting your complaint:
- • Full legal name (individual or business)
- • Complete address for service
- • Phone number if available
- • Exact amount owed (itemized)
- • Date(s) of incident
- • Clear description of what happened
- • Contracts or agreements
- • Receipts and invoices
- • Photos or correspondence
Complete the DC-6 Form
Fill out the Small Claims Complaint form accurately:
File at the Courthouse
Visit the Special Civil Part office to file your complaint:
What to Bring:
- • Completed DC-6 form (original + 2 copies)
- • Filing fee payment ($54-79)
- • Valid ID
- • Evidence copies (for your records)
Filing Tips:
- • Arrive early (courts open 8:30 AM)
- • Bring exact change or money order
- • Ask for receipt and case number
- • Request service instructions
Serve the Defendant
Certified Mail ($8-15)
- • Most common method
- • Request return receipt
- • Keep tracking number
- • File green card with court
Personal Service ($40+)
- • Sheriff or process server
- • Required if mail fails
- • Get affidavit of service
- • More reliable for evasive defendants
Prepare for Your Hearing
Once scheduled, thoroughly prepare your case presentation:
Organize Evidence:
- • Create 3 copies of all documents
- • Arrange chronologically
- • Highlight key information
- • Prepare evidence list
Practice Your Presentation:
- • Keep it under 5 minutes
- • Focus on facts, not emotions
- • Prepare for defendant's arguments
- • List questions for defendant
Collect Your Judgment
If you win, follow these steps to collect your money:
Voluntary Payment:
Give defendant 30 days to pay voluntarily. Send a polite reminder with judgment copy.
Enforcement Options:
- • Wage garnishment (up to 10% of wages)
- • Bank account levy
- • Property lien
- • Sheriff's sale of assets
All 21 County Court Locations
What to Expect at Your Hearing
Before Court
- • Arrive 30 minutes early
- • Check in with clerk
- • Find your courtroom
- • Turn off phone
- • Review your notes
- • Dress professionally
During Hearing
- • Stand when speaking
- • Address judge as "Your Honor"
- • Present facts clearly
- • Show evidence when asked
- • Don't interrupt
- • Answer questions directly
Hearing Timeline
After Court
- • Get judgment copy
- • Understand payment terms
- • Note appeal deadline (45 days)
- • Begin collection if won
- • File satisfaction when paid
- • Keep all records
Post-Judgment Collection Process
Collection Timeline
Send payment demand with judgment copy
Request defendant's financial information
Begin wage garnishment or asset levy
Collection Methods
Wage Garnishment
- • Up to 10% of gross wages
- • Employer withholds directly
- • File with defendant's employer
- • Continues until paid in full
Bank Levy
- • Freeze bank accounts
- • Seize available funds
- • Need bank information first
- • One-time collection
Property Lien
- • File with county clerk
- • Attaches to real estate
- • Paid when property sells
- • Good for 20 years
Personal Property Levy
- • Sheriff seizes assets
- • Auction for payment
- • Cars, jewelry, equipment
- • Expensive but effective
Ready to File Your New Jersey Small Claims Case?
Skip the courthouse visits and complex forms. We handle everything from filing to service, ensuring your case is properly prepared for success.
$29 service fee + court filing fees