Demand Letters, Claim Preparation & Court Filing Guidance
For amounts over these limits, consider limited civil court or reducing your claim.
Small claims court requires that you first attempt to resolve the dispute. A demand letter serves as evidence you tried to settle before suing. It often leads to resolution without court.
Fees vary slightly by county. These are typical amounts.
You generally must file in the county where:
If wrong venue, defendant can ask the court to dismiss or transfer.
These are templates only. Court forms and procedures may change. Verify current requirements with your local court. The accuracy of these documents is not guaranteed.
Notify defendant in writing. Keep copy as evidence you tried to resolve.
Complete SC-100 (Plaintiff's Claim) form and pay filing fee at courthouse.
Have someone 18+ (not you) deliver papers. Must be 15+ days before court date.
File SC-104 showing defendant was served before your hearing.
Present your case to the judge. Bring all evidence and witnesses.
If you win, you may need to take additional steps to collect.
Free legal assessments, demand letter generators, and courthouse info for your city.