Arizona Justice Courts handle small claims up to $3,500. Claims over go to Superior Court. Quick hearings. Arizona Justice Courts handle small claims up to $3,500. Claims over this amount must go to Superior Court.
Who Can File in Arizona Small Claims Court
Any person, business, partnership, or corporation. Minors need a guardian ad litem or next friend.
Where to File Your Arizona Case
File in the precinct where the defendant lives or where the incident occurred. Businesses file where they have an office.
How to File Small Claims in Arizona - Step by Step
- Send a Demand Letter - Before filing, send a formal demand letter giving the defendant 30 days to respond. PettyLawsuit generates professional demand letters with Arizona laws cited. $29 to start.
- File Your Claim - If the defendant doesn't respond, file your case at the correct Arizona court. Filing fees range from $30 to $200 depending on your claim amount.
- Serve the Defendant - Service by certified mail, sheriff, or licensed process server. Defendant must be served at least 10 days before trial.
- Attend Your Hearing - Present your evidence and the judge makes a decision, usually the same day. Most cases are heard within 30-60 days of filing.
- Collect Your Judgment - If you win, enforce the judgment through legal collection methods.
Common Small Claims Cases in Arizona
- Security deposit disputes with landlords
- Unpaid wages or final paychecks
- Contractor and home repair disputes
- Vehicle accidents and property damage
- Consumer complaints against businesses
- Breach of contract claims
Arizona Court Hearing Tips
- Bring all original documents
- Prepare 3 copies of everything
- Create a clear timeline
- Bring photos if relevant
- List your witnesses
- Dress professionally
- Be respectful and brief
Judgment Collection Options in Arizona
- Wage garnishment (up to 25% of disposable income)
- Bank levy
- Property liens
- Till tap for businesses
- Debtor's examination
Appeals in Arizona
Either party can appeal within 10 days to Superior Court. Appeals are heard as new trials (trial de novo).
Filing Costs & Fee Breakdown
Small claims filing fees in Arizona typically range from $30 to $200 depending on the claim amount. Cases under $1,500 usually have the lowest filing fees ($30-$75), while claims near the $3,500 limit may cost $100-$200 to file. If you win, the court may order the defendant to reimburse your filing costs. Fee waivers are available for those who demonstrate financial hardship.
Statute of Limitations in Arizona
Every type of claim has a deadline for filing. In Arizona, written contracts typically have a 4-6 year statute of limitations, oral contracts 2-4 years, property damage 2-3 years, and personal injury 2-3 years. Filing after the deadline means your case will be dismissed regardless of its merits. Send a demand letter as soon as possible to preserve your rights.
Evidence Checklist for Arizona Small Claims Court
- Signed contracts, leases, or written agreements
- Receipts, invoices, and proof of payment
- Photos or videos of damage or defective work
- Email and text message correspondence
- Witness statements or contact information
- Your demand letter and proof of delivery
- Timeline of events organized chronologically
Frequently Asked Questions
Are lawyers allowed in Arizona small claims?
Yes, but most people represent themselves successfully without one.
How long do I have to collect?
Arizona judgments are valid for 5 years and can be renewed for another 5 years.
What about the heat - can AC issues be small claims?
Yes, habitability issues including AC in Arizona's climate can be small claims matters.
Can I get my filing fees back?
Yes, prevailing parties typically recover court costs from the losing party.