A small claims lawsuit is a voluntary and simplified procedure. Small claims court may only decide lawsuits in which the plaintiff's claims are not more than $3,500 and the defendant's counterclaims are not more than $3,500, not counting interest and costs.
Civil Forms. Filing in limited or general jurisdiction. A civil action filed in a general jurisdiction court is a claim against another party for damages of an amount over $10,000.00. Parties in a civil lawsuit may be represented by attorneys and appeal their case to a higher court.
Every justice court in Arizona has a small claims division to provide an even more inexpensive and speedy method for resolving civil disputes involving no more than $3,500. The small claims division is available to any person or company who wishes to file a small claims action.
The plaintiff files a document (complaint) with the clerk of the court stating the reasons why the plaintiff is suing the defendant, and what action the plaintiff wants the court to take. A copy of the complaint and a summons are delivered to (served on) the defendant.
Any individual, partnership, association or corporation may file a small claims suit for a situation in which the dispute is for $3,500 or less. Attorneys are not allowed in small claims court unless both parties agree.
Conclusion: Going to small claims court may be worth it for $500, but it will determine how you weigh your costs versus benefits. At a minimum, it is worth it to send a demand letter.
Criminal cases amounting to a felony, and misdemeanor cases not otherwise provided for by law; forcible entry and detainer actions (evictions of renters); proceedings in insolvency (however, bankruptcy is handled in federal court);
A civil action filed in a limited jurisdiction court is a claim against another party for damages of an amount up to $10,000.00. These lawsuits are designed to resolve civil disputes before a justice of the peace. Parties in a civil lawsuit may be represented by attorneys and appeal their case to a higher court.
Your request can be submitted at our front counter, mailed to the Maricopa Municipal Court, 39600 W Civic Center Plaza, Maricopa, AZ 85138 or emailed. The form must be filled out completely otherwise it will not be processed. Your request must specify your name/agency and information requested.
Superior courts serve as both court of first instance for felonies and other cases, as well as an appellate court for matters appealed from municipal and justice courts. The superior court is the state's only general jurisdiction court and it hears the widest variety of cases.