Dallas County small claims cases are heard by the Dallas County Justice of the Peace Courts. You can sue for up to $20,000 (Tex. Gov't Code § 27.031(a)(1)). PettyLawsuit prepares your demand letter and TX court paperwork in 5 minutes for $29. Facts verified August 2026.
How Much Can You Sue For in Dallas County?
"civil matters in which exclusive jurisdiction is not in the district or county court and in which the amount in controversy is not more than $20,000, exclusive of interest" (Tex. Gov't Code § 27.031(a)(1)). Justice court civil jurisdiction, exclusive of interest.
Dallas County Small Claims Filing Fees
Filing fees are set per justice court. Check the fee schedule for your precinct when you file.
Where to File in Dallas County
- JP 1-1, South Dallas Government Center, 8301 S. Polk Street, Suite 2100, Dallas, TX 75232
- JP 2-1, Garland Office, 140 N. Garland Avenue, Garland, TX 75040
- JP 3-1, North Dallas Government Center, 6820 Lyndon B. Johnson Freeway, Suite 3100, Dallas, TX 75240
- JP 4-1, Grand Prairie Government Center, 106 W. Church Street, Suite 205, Grand Prairie, TX 75050
- JP 5-1, East Dallas Government Center, 3443 St. Francis Avenue, Dallas, TX 75228
- JP 5-2, Oak Cliff Government Center, 702 E. Jefferson Boulevard, Suite 2100, Dallas, TX 75203
Locate your Dallas County Justice of the Peace: https://www.dallascounty.org/government/jpcourts/
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I sue for in Dallas County small claims court?
The limit is $20,000. Justice court civil jurisdiction, exclusive of interest. Per Tex. Gov't Code § 27.031(a)(1): "civil matters in which exclusive jurisdiction is not in the district or county court and in which the amount in controversy is not more than $20,000, exclusive of interest"
Where do I file a small claims case in Dallas County?
Cases are filed with the Dallas County Justice of the Peace Courts. One filing location is JP 1-1, South Dallas Government Center, 8301 S. Polk Street, Suite 2100, Dallas, TX 75232. Use the court's official locator to confirm the right location for your dispute.
How much does it cost to file in Dallas County?
Filing fees are set per justice court. Check the fee schedule for your precinct when you file.
What should I do before filing in Dallas County?
Send a formal demand letter first. Many defendants respond once a certified letter arrives, and a dated demand letter documents that you asked for payment before suing. PettyLawsuit writes and mails yours for $29 in about 5 minutes.