A contractor took my $1,200 deposit and vanished. People keep saying 'small claims'. How does it work?
How do I sue someone in small claims court?
Concerns & risks
Someone owes you money and won't pay. A lawyer seems too expensive, but you've heard of small claims court.
Wait too long and you can miss the filing deadline (statute of limitations).
Causes & evidence
Each state sets its own dollar limit and process. Overview: small claims court. Laws differ by state and country, so treat this as general info, not legal advice.
What to do
- Send a written demand letter with a deadline.
- Find your county small claims court website and check the dollar limit.
- File the claim form, pay the fee and have the defendant served.
- Bring receipts, texts, photos and a short timeline to the hearing.
Common mistakes: Common mistakes: showing up without organized evidence. Bring receipts, contracts, texts and photos. Check your court's dollar limit and filing deadlines, and make sure you name the right person or business.
Speed Man tip: Practice your story in 2 minutes. Judges love short, organized and calm.
Wrap-up: Demand letter first. File in your county small claims court. Organized evidence wins.
⚡ Speed Summary
- Demand letter first.
- File in your county small claims court.
- Organized evidence wins.
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