Colorado County Courts handle small claims up to $7,500. Denver has dedicated small claims division. Colorado's small claims limit is $7,500 as of 2026. The combined value of money, property, specific performance, or cost to remedy a covenant violation cannot exceed $7,500.00. A larger claim may be reduced and the balance waived, but a claim cannot be divided into two cases. Always verify current limits with your local court.
Who Can File in Colorado Small Claims Court
A claim may be filed if at least one party being sued resides, is regularly employed, has an office for the transaction of business, or is a student in the county, or owns rental property in the county that is the subject of the claim.
Where to File Your Colorado Case
File in the county where at least one defendant resides, is regularly employed, has an office for the transaction of business, is a student, or owns the rental property that is the subject of the claim.
How to File Small Claims in Colorado - Step by Step
- Send a Demand Letter - Before filing, send a formal demand letter giving the defendant a clear deadline to respond. PettyLawsuit generates professional demand letters with Colorado laws cited. $29 to start.
- File Your Claim - If the defendant doesn't respond, file your case at the correct Colorado court. Filing fees are typically $26-$70.
- Serve the Defendant - Service may be made by certified mail sent by the clerk (with the cost deposited in advance), by the sheriff, or by a private process server. The defendant must be served at least 15 days before trial and written proof of service must be provided to the court.
- Attend Your Hearing - Present your evidence and the judge makes a decision, often the same day. Hearing timelines vary by court.
- Collect Your Judgment - If you win, enforce the judgment through legal collection methods.
Common Small Claims Cases in Colorado
- 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
Colorado Court Hearing Tips
- Bring 3 copies of every document (one for you, judge, and defendant)
- Organize documents chronologically in a binder
- Prepare a brief opening statement (2-3 minutes)
- Stick to facts and avoid emotional arguments
- Bring all original documents and receipts
- Dress professionally (business casual minimum)
- Arrive 30 minutes early to find parking and courtroom
Judgment Collection Options in Colorado
- Wage garnishment (court order required, limits vary)
- Bank account levy through the court
- Property liens on real estate
- Payment plans negotiated with the debtor
- Debtor examination to locate assets
Appeals in Colorado
A notice of appeal must be filed within 14 days of the judgment, and the appeal proceeds according to C.R.C.P. 411.
Filing Costs & Fee Breakdown
Small claims filing fees in Colorado are typically $26-$70. Confirm the current amount with the clerk before filing. If you win, the court may order the defendant to reimburse your filing costs. Many courts offer fee waivers for those who demonstrate financial hardship.
Statute of Limitations in Colorado
Every type of claim has a filing deadline, and the deadline depends on the claim type. Filing after the deadline means your case can be dismissed regardless of its merits. Confirm the current Colorado statute of limitations for your claim type before filing, and send a demand letter as soon as possible to preserve your rights.
Evidence Checklist for Colorado 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
How do I file a small claims case in Colorado?
Send a written demand first. Then file with the small claims division of the county court where the defendant lives, works, does business, or attends school, and pay the $26-$70 filing fee. Service is by certified mail through the clerk, the sheriff, or a private process server. PettyLawsuit prepares the demand letter and court paperwork for you.
What is the small claims limit in Colorado?
The general limit is $7,500. The combined value of money, property, specific performance, or cost to remedy a covenant violation cannot exceed $7,500.00. A larger claim may be reduced and the balance waived, but a claim cannot be divided into two cases. Verify the current limit with the court before filing.
Do I need a lawyer in Colorado small claims court?
Parties generally represent themselves. A party who wants to be represented by an attorney must file a Notice of Representation of Attorney (JDF 256) at least 7 days before trial, after which the other party may also have an attorney; if a party is already an attorney the other party may also be represented without filing the notice.
How much does it cost to file?
Filing fees are generally $26-$70. The plaintiff filing fee is $31.00 for a claim of $500 or less and $55.00 for a claim over $500 up to $7,500. Defendant and counterclaim fees range from $26.00 to $46.00, and a Rule 369 Contempt of Court filing is $70.00. Confirm current fees with the clerk.
How long do I have to sue in Colorado?
Time limits depend on the claim type. In Colorado, common statutes of limitations are written contracts 3 years, oral contracts 3 years, personal injury 2 years, property damage 2 years. Confirm the deadline for your specific claim.
What if the defendant does not show up?
You can ask the court for a default judgment. You still need to show evidence of your damages.
How long is a judgment enforceable?
Judgment enforcement periods and renewal rules vary. Check with the Small Claims Court (a division of the County Court) clerk.
Can a Colorado small claims case be moved out of small claims court?
A defendant may remove the case by filing a Notice of Removal (JDF 251) and paying the applicable county or district court filing fee at least 7 days before trial. Removal to county court can allow recovery up to $25,000.
Will a judge or a magistrate hear a Colorado small claims case?
A magistrate or a judge may hear the case. A party who wants a judge instead of a magistrate must file an Objection to a Magistrate Hearing Case (JDF 259) at least 7 days before the trial date.