Florida Small Claims Court Guide

Florida County Courts handle small claims up to $8,000. Mediation often required. File in defendant's county. Florida small claims courts handle cases up to $8,000. Cases are heard in County Court.

Who Can File in Florida Small Claims Court

Individuals, businesses, and corporations. Minors need a parent or legal guardian to file.

Where to File Your Florida Case

File in the county where the defendant lives, where the incident occurred, or where a contract was signed.

How to File Small Claims in Florida - Step by Step

1. Send a Demand Letter - Before filing, send a formal demand letter giving the defendant 30 days to respond. PettyLawsuit generates professional demand letters with Florida laws cited. $29 to start.
2. File Your Claim - If the defendant doesn't respond, file your case at the correct Florida court. Filing fees range from $30 to $200 depending on your claim amount.
3. Serve the Defendant - Service by sheriff or certified mail. Florida also allows service by private process server.
4. 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.
5. Collect Your Judgment - If you win, enforce the judgment through legal collection methods.

Common Small Claims Cases in Florida

• 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

Florida Court Hearing Tips

• Organize documents by date
• Bring 4 copies of everything
• Prepare a brief summary
• Bring all contracts and receipts
• Have witnesses ready
• Dress conservatively
• Address the judge as 'Your Honor'

Judgment Collection Options in Florida

• Wage garnishment (head of family exemption applies)
• Bank account levy
• Property seizure
• Judgment liens
• Proceedings supplementary

Appeals in Florida

Appeals must be filed within 30 days to Circuit Court. Requires filing an appeal bond.

Filing Costs & Fee Breakdown

Small claims filing fees in Florida 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 $8,000 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 Florida

Every type of claim has a deadline for filing. In Florida, 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 Florida 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