Step-by-step guide to filing a small claims case in Florida. Learn the process, required forms, fees, and how to prepare your case — max claim $8,000.
Filing a small claims case in Florida is designed to be accessible to anyone without a lawyer. Whether you're suing a landlord, contractor, or someone who owes you money, the process follows these key steps. The maximum claim amount in Florida is $8,000, and cases are heard in the County Court — Small Claims Division.
Your claim must be $8,000 or less. Small claims cannot handle criminal matters, family law, or injunctions.
File in the county where the defendant lives, where the contract was signed, or where the incident occurred.
Download and fill out the Statement of Claim (Form SC-100) from the Florida Courts website or pick it up at the clerk's office.
File with the Clerk of the County Court. Fees range from $55 to $300 depending on claim amount.
Florida requires both parties to attend a pretrial conference where you'll try to settle. If no settlement, a hearing date is set.
Present your case with all evidence. Florida small claims hearings are informal — speak directly to the judge.
The current limit is $8,000 (as of 2020), not including court costs and interest.
It's a mandatory meeting before trial where both parties try to reach a settlement. If they can't, the case proceeds to a hearing.
Several Florida counties offer online filing through the Clerk's e-filing portal. Check your county's clerk website.
From filing to hearing, most cases take 30–90 days depending on the court's schedule.
Yes, Florida allows post-judgment interest on money owed.
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