Small Claims Court in Florida
State-specific overview · Courtroom Procedure
Florida small claims court handles disputes up to $8,000 and prohibits attorney representation for most claimants.
How Florida treats Small Claims Court
Florida's small claims division accepts cases involving amounts up to $8,000. Parties must represent themselves; attorneys are not permitted to appear on behalf of claimants, though defendants may be represented in certain circumstances. The process is designed to be quick and inexpensive, with informal procedures and minimal discovery. Judgments may be appealed to circuit court within 30 days, allowing a second chance if a party disagrees with the outcome.
The general definition of Small Claims Court
A court that handles minor civil disputes involving small amounts of money, usually without lawyers.
Small claims court is a simplified court system designed for people to resolve minor disputes without the expense and complexity of regular civil court. These courts typically handle cases involving amounts under $5,000 to $25,000, depending on the state. The process is informal, and people can represent themselves without hiring a lawyer. Small claims courts handle disputes like unpaid debts, security deposit disagreements, property damage claims, and contract breaches involving small amounts.
Read the full Small Claims Court entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Florida.