Texas (TX)
Small Claims Court in Texas
Reviewed May 11, 2026
Suing for under $20,000 in Texas? You do not need a lawyer. This page covers the rules, the filing fee, the forms, and what to bring on hearing day - written for people who have never been to court.
Texas small claims at a glance
- Jurisdictional limit
- $20,000
- Filing fee
- $54-$103
- Court name
- Justice Court (Small Claims Docket)
- Controlling statute
- Tex. R. Civ. P. 500-507
- Attorneys permitted
- Yes
- Appeal window
- 21 days
The 5-step process in Texas
- Send a demand letter. Many Texas courts expect proof of a pre-suit demand attempt. See our demand letter guide for a template.
- File the complaint. Pay the $54-$103 filing fee at the justice court (small claims docket). The clerk assigns a case number and a hearing date.
- Serve the defendant. Texas typically requires sheriff service, process server, or certified mail with return receipt. Personal service by the plaintiff is usually not allowed.
- Prepare for the hearing. Bring three copies of every document, a one-page chronology, the demand letter with proof of service, and an itemized damages calculation.
- Collect after you win. A judgment is a piece of paper. Collection in Texas happens via wage garnishment, bank levy, or property lien - a separate process that can take 3-12 months.
Attorneys in Texas small claims
Attorneys may represent parties.
Common questions about Texas small claims
How much can I sue for in Texas small claims court?
Texas small claims court handles claims up to $20,000. If your claim is worth more, you can still use small claims by agreeing to drop the amount above the limit, or you can file in regular civil court instead.
How much does it cost to file a small claims case in Texas?
The filing fee in Texas is typically $54-$103, paid at the justice court (small claims docket). If paying the fee would be a hardship, most courts let you ask for a fee waiver.
Can a lawyer represent me in Texas small claims court?
Attorneys may represent parties. Either way, most people handle small claims on their own — the process is designed to be used without a lawyer.
How long do I have to appeal a small claims decision in Texas?
You generally have 21 days after the judgment is entered to file an appeal in Texas. Check the paperwork the court gives you for the exact deadline and where to file.
Do I need a lawyer to file a small claims case in Texas?
No. Small claims court in Texas is built for people representing themselves. You bring your documents, explain what happened in plain terms, and the judge decides. Organizing your evidence ahead of time is the most useful step you can take.