Online Services |
|
|
|
|
|
Small Claims Cases
About the Small Claims Court
Creation
The Small Claims Court in Texas is created under Chapter 28 of the Texas
Government Code. It has concurrent jurisdiction with the Justice Court
in actions by any person for the recovery of money in which the amount
involved, exclusive of costs, does not exceed $20,000.00. Before September 1, 2020, the jurisdiction of the justice courts was limited to claims up to $10,000.00; and before September 1, 2007, the jurisdiction of the small claims court was limited to claims up to $5,000.00. Jurisdiction
is the power of the court to entertain an action, consider the merits,
and render a valid judgment.
Presiding Judge
Each Justice of the Peace sits as the judge of the Small Claims Court.
Persons Not Allowed to Bring Claims in Small Claims Court
In general, an assignee, a money lender, and a collection agent may not
bring an action in the Small Claims Court.
An assignee of a claim or any other person seeking to bring an action
on a claim which has been assigned is prohibited from seeking relief in
the Small Claims Court.
A person who is primarily engaged in the business of lending money with
interest may not file a claim in the Small Claims Court.
A collection agency or a collection agent is also prohibited from bringing
an action in the Small Claims Court. See Section 28.003, Texas Government
Code.
Representation
In the Small Claims Court, a person may represent himself or herself,
and may, if he or she so chooses, be represented by an attorney. See Section
28.012, Texas Government Code.
A corporation does not have to be represented by an attorney in the Small
Claims Court. See Section 28.003, Texas Government Code. However, a person appearing on behalf of a corporation in Small Claims Court should be prepared to show authority to act on behalf of the corporation.
Designation of Parties
In legal terms, the party bringing the action is called the "Plaintiff."
The one against whom the action is brought is called the "Defendant."
More
Information about Small Claims Cases
|
|
|
General Information
This information is furnished to you to provide basic information
relative to the law governing procedures for small claims cases in the
Harris County Justice Courts.
The Harris County Justices of the Peace and the Clerks of
the Harris County Justice Courts are not allowed to give legal advice.
You are urged to review the applicable laws and to consult an attorney
of your choice for further information or answers to specific legal questions.
You have the right to a trial by a jury and to be represented
by an attorney of your choice, or to represent yourself.
Disclaimer: The law is constantly changing and there may
be times when the information on this web site will not be current. This
information is provided for general informational purposes only and is
not intended as legal advice. This information is not a comprehensive
treatment of the subject and is not a substitute for advice from an attorney.
|
|