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Texas

Small claims court in Texas

Texas handles small claims in Justice of the Peace courts, with a $20,000 cap. Lawyers are permitted but not required. The losing party can appeal de novo to County Court at Law within 21 days.

Important: Texas combined its old 'small claims' procedure with the broader Justice Court rules in 2013; all consumer claims under $20,000 now follow the Justice Court Rules of Civil Procedure.
Max claim (individual)
$20,000
Filing fee
$54.00
Filing → judgment: 8-14 weeks
Court
Justice of the Peace Court
In person; remote available

The rules at a glance

Lawyers allowed?
Yes
Corporations allowed?
Yes
Right of appeal?
Yes — 21 days
Appeal goes to
County Court at Law (de novo trial)

Frequently asked

How much can I sue for in Texas small claims?
Up to $20,000, plus court costs, in Justice of the Peace court.
Are lawyers allowed in Texas Justice Court?
Yes, both sides may have lawyers, but the rules are simplified and self-representation is common.

Other states

Not legal advice. Procedures vary by court and change periodically. Always confirm details with the clerk's office or the official court website (linked above) before filing.