A wide variety of cases can be filed in small claims court, including:
Breach of contract: This could include a dispute over a contract for services, such as a home repair contract, or a dispute over a contract for goods, such as a purchase agreement for a car.
Property damage: This could include a dispute over damage to your car, your home, or your personal property.
Personal injury: This could include a dispute over injuries sustained in a car accident, a slip-and-fall accident, or a dog bite.
Landlord-tenant disputes: This could include a dispute over security deposits, rent overcharges, or repairs.
Consumer disputes: This could include a dispute over a defective product, a misleading advertisement, or a breach of warranty.
Here are some specific examples of cases that have been filed in small claims court:
- A customer sues a store for the cost of a defective product.
- A tenant sues a landlord for the return of their security deposit.
- A homeowner sues a contractor for failing to complete a home repair project.
- A pedestrian sues a driver for injuries sustained in a car accident.
- A buyer sues a seller for the cost of a used car that turned out to be defective.
What types of cases cannot be filed in small claims court?
Some types of cases cannot be filed in small claims court. These include:
- Cases that involve more than $10,000 in damages.
- Cases that involve divorce, child custody, or child support.
- Cases that involve complex legal issues.
- Cases that involve a claim against a government agency.
If you are unsure whether your case can be filed in small claims court, you should contact your local court clerk’s office.
Small claims court is a good option for people who need to resolve a dispute quickly and inexpensively. If you have a dispute that falls within the types of cases that can be filed in small claims court, you should consider filing a claim.
This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Contact us today to discuss your specific situation.