Small Claims

The Small Claims Division handles civil disputes that involve amounts of money up to $8,000. This division is responsible for assisting citizens in filing a small claim action by providing the necessary forms, instructional materials and references on small claims process.

Summons
After you file your small claims case, each person or business you are suing must be served with a summons/notice to appear in court on the date and time scheduled when you initially filed your claim. Additional fees are required for service of process on the parties being sued.

Money Collection
The court cannot collect money damages for you. Once a settlement or a judgment is rendered by the court, the case is closed, and any subsequent activity, including collection efforts will reopen the case. Per Florida Statute, the reopen fee for any civil action requiring judicial involvement will be required to be paid at the time of filing each pleading including motions, affidavit of amount due, motion for contempt or show cause, etc.

The reopen fee is $25 for all claims of not more than $500 and $50 for all claims of more than $500.

Mediation
Reasons the Judge will require mediation:

Mediation is economical
Settlement is viewed as fair by both parties
One court meeting
No need to subpoena evidence or witnesses and depend on their presence at trial
No extensive trial preparation
Preserves personal and business relationships
Allows debtors to arrange repayment plans, avoid a judgment, and preserve credit reputation
Protects privacy and avoids the publicity of trial
Both parties remain in control and participate in a "win-win" solution
The agreement is final and the dispute resolved