Sue a Company in Small Claims Court
The fastest, most affordable way to get justice from businesses. No lawyers, no complex procedures - just straightforward resolution in 30-60 days.
No Attorney Required
Companies can't use expensive lawyers to intimidate you
Quick Resolution
Cases resolved in 30-60 days vs years in regular court
Low Cost
Filing fees under $100 vs thousands in regular court
Informal Process
Simple procedures designed for non-lawyers
Level Playing Field
Companies have no procedural advantage
Judge Assistance
Judges help ensure fair proceedings
| State | Maximum Limit | Filing Fee | Time to Trial |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $10,000 | $30-$75 | 20-70 days |
| New York | $10,000 | $15-$20 | 20-30 days |
| Texas | $20,000 | $54 | 21-45 days |
| Florida | $8,000 | $55-$300 | 60-120 days |
| Illinois | $10,000 | $75-$137 | 30-60 days |
| Pennsylvania | $12,000 | $35-$53 | 30-60 days |
| Ohio | $6,000 | $45-$60 | 30-60 days |
| Georgia | $15,000 | $45-$55 | 30-60 days |
| North Carolina | $10,000 | $96 | 30-40 days |
| Michigan | $6,500 | $30-$65 | 30-90 days |
Use Small Claims When:
- Claim is under your state's limit
- You want quick resolution (30-60 days)
- Case involves clear damages
- You have good documentation
- Company is local or does business in your state
- You want to avoid attorney fees
Avoid Small Claims When:
- Damages exceed state limit
- Case requires complex discovery
- You need injunctive relief (court orders)
- Multiple defendants in different states
- Class action potential exists
- Company is in bankruptcy
Service Issues
- Poor quality work from contractors
- Unfinished home repairs
- Defective auto repairs
- Moving company damage
Product Disputes
- Defective products
- Items not as described
- Warranty violations
- Non-delivery of goods
Contract Breaches
- Broken service agreements
- Unpaid invoices
- Deposit not returned
- Subscription disputes
Property Damage
- Vehicle damage
- Property repairs needed
- Security deposit disputes
- Negligent damage
Before Filing
Send Demand Letter
Required in many states, shows good faith attempt
Calculate Damages
Ensure amount is within small claims limit
Find Company Info
Legal name and registered agent address
After Filing
Serve the Company
Through registered agent or authorized person
Prepare Evidence
Organize documents, photos, witnesses
Present Your Case
Clear, concise presentation to judge
Documentation Tips
- Keep Everything: Save all emails, texts, receipts, and contracts
- Timeline: Create a chronological list of events with dates
- Photos: Take pictures of defects, damage, or issues
- Witnesses: Get written statements from anyone who saw the issue
Presentation Tips
- Be Organized: Present evidence in logical order
- Stay Factual: Stick to facts, avoid emotional arguments
- Be Concise: Judges appreciate clear, brief presentations
- Bring Copies: Have 3 copies of all documents (you, judge, defendant)
Ready to Take That Company to Court?
Don't let businesses push you around. File in small claims court and get the justice you deserve - quickly and affordably with PettyLawsuit.