A small claim has several jobs, not one.
Use this map to identify the procedural job in front of you. Your state and local court control the exact forms, monetary limits, service timing, and post-judgment remedies.
01
Before Filing
Check the fit
02Filing the Case
Prepare the filing
03Serving the Defendant
Give proper notice
04Evidence & Preparation
Build the record
05At the Hearing
Present the case
06Collecting a Judgment
Enforce payment
07Defaults & Appeals
Handle post-trial issues
08If You Are the Defendant
Respond to a claim
The stages are an educational map, not a universal court rule. A case can settle, be dismissed, be continued, include a counterclaim, or take a different local route.