Texas Small Claims Court:
Complete Guide to Filing
& Winning
Understand the Texas small claims process step-by-step. Learn what you can sue for, how long it takes, and how to prepare your case — with tools that make the process faster and less stressful.
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We provide state-specific demand letter services across the country. Find your state below to see our tailored guides and packages for your exact dispute.
How Small Claims Court Works in Texas
Small claims court in Texas is part of the Justice Court system, designed to make justice affordable and accessible. If your case is for $20,000 or less, you can use this court to resolve disputes without needing a lawyer.
This guide covers:
Who can file and what you can sue for
How to file step-by-step
What to expect at your hearing
What happens if you win or lose
How demand letters can help you resolve disputes before court
Who Can File in Texas
Individuals, businesses, and even landlords can file, as long as:
Claim is $20,000 or less
Case is civil, not criminal
Filed in the correct jurisdiction (usually the defendant’s county)
What You Can Sue For in Texas
Common small claims include:
Unpaid debts, loans, or wages
Property damage or unreturned items
Breach of contract
Landlord/tenant disputes like security deposits
Poor services or defective products
❌ You cannot use small claims for divorce, child support, or criminal issues.
Filing Process (Step-by-Step)
Confirm eligibility – Claim under $20,000
Choose the right court – County of defendant’s residence or incident
Collect evidence – Contracts, texts, emails, receipts, photos, witnesses
Complete the Petition Form – “Petition: Small Claims Case”
File & Pay – $50–$100 filing fee
Serve the Defendant – Constable, sheriff, or process server ($75–$100)
Get your hearing date – Usually 1–3 months after filing
Attend hearing – Present your evidence, answer judge questions
Timelines in Texas Small Claims
Filing → hearing: 1–3 months
Judgment: Few days to weeks
Appeals: Within 21 days
If You Win
Court issues judgment
Defendant legally must pay
If not, you can pursue:
Wage garnishment (with restrictions in Texas)
Bank levy
Property liens
If You Lose
You may owe court costs
Can appeal within 21 days
Civil matter only (not criminal record)
Serving the Defendant in Texas
Proper service is crucial:
Constable/Sheriff (most common)
Certified Process Server (faster, especially for evasive defendants)
Certified Mail (sometimes allowed)
Why Start with a Demand Letter
Shows good faith to the court
Often convinces the other party to settle
Creates strong written proof of your attempts
💡 Tip: We prepare and send Texas-specific demand letters for $39. Many cases resolve without ever going to court.
Our Texas Small Claims Court Help
With our service, you get:
Guidance on correct jurisdiction & forms
Step-by-step filing instructions
Help preparing your evidence package
Optional Trial Prep Kit ($199) with courtroom tips & FAQs
Clients using our Trial Prep Kit reported feeling 95% more confident in court compared to going in unprepared.
What You Can Sue for – Examples in Texas
Contractor takes money but never finishes work
Neighbor damages fence or property
Friend borrows money and refuses to repay
Landlord won’t return deposit after lease ends
Auto repair shop charges for work not done
What Happens After Judgment?
If the defendant doesn’t pay voluntarily:
You can request the court to enforce payment
May place liens on property or bank accounts
Garnishment limited in Texas, but other collection tools exist
Resources – Texas Small Claims Court
Texas Courts – Justice Courts (Small Claims)
Texas Justice Court Petition – Small Claims Case (Form 502)
Harris County (Houston) Justice Courts – Small Claims
Dallas County Justice Courts – Small Claims
Travis County (Austin) Justice Courts – Small Claims
Bexar County (San Antonio) Justice Courts – Small Claims
Step 1
Answer a Few Simple Questions
Tell us what happened — who owes you, how much, and why. Our system guides you step-by-step with no legal jargon.
Step 2
We Draft Your Texas Demand Letter
Using your answers, we instantly generate a professionally written, legally sound Texas demand letter tailored to your situation.
Step 3
We Mail It for You
We print and mail the legal demand letter directly to the recipient via USPS — creating proof you attempted to resolve the matter before court.
Ready to Send Your Texas Demand Letter?
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Got questions about how Sue.com works, what’s included in each package, or what happens after your letter is sent? We’ve got you covered — quick, clear answers to help you move forward with confidence.
How much can I sue for in Texas small claims court?
You can file for disputes up to $20,000 in a Texas Justice Court. This includes money owed, property damage, or contract disputes.
Do I need a lawyer in Texas small claims court?
No, small claims court is designed for people to represent themselves. Most cases are handled without attorneys.
How long does a small claims case take in Texas?
From filing to hearing, cases usually take 1–3 months, depending on the court’s schedule. Judgment is often issued within days or weeks after the hearing.
What happens if the defendant doesn’t pay after I win?
You may need to take collection steps such as bank levies, liens, or wage garnishment (though Texas limits garnishment in many cases). The judgment is enforceable for up to 10 years and can be renewed.
Do I have to send a demand letter before filing?
It’s not legally required in Texas, but strongly recommended. Courts often look favorably if you tried to settle first, and many cases resolve after a well-written demand letter.