1. What Is Dallas County Small Claims Court?
Dallas County Small Claims Court, part of the Justice of the Peace Court system, is designed to handle minor civil disputes efficiently and cost-effectively. The court deals with cases involving monetary claims up to $20,000 (excluding interest and court costs) without requiring formal legal representation.
2. Types of Cases Handled in Dallas County Small Claims Court
You can file a claim for disputes such as:
- Unpaid Debts: Loans, IOUs, or unpaid invoices.
- Property Damage: Vehicle repairs, home damage, or other property issues.
- Breach of Contract: Claims arising from unfulfilled agreements.
- Landlord-Tenant Disputes: Unreturned security deposits or damages.
- Consumer Complaints: Faulty goods or unsatisfactory services.
3. Steps to File a Claim in Dallas County Small Claims Court
Step 1: Determine Jurisdiction
- File your claim in the precinct where the defendant lives or where the incident occurred.
- Use the Dallas County Precinct Map to identify the correct court.
Step 2: Complete the Petition Form
Obtain and fill out the Small Claims Petition form (available online or at the courthouse). The form requires:
- Plaintiff (your) information.
- Defendant’s name, address, and contact details.
- A description of the claim and the amount sought.
Step 3: File Your Claim
- Submit the completed petition to the appropriate Justice of the Peace Court in Dallas County.
- Pay the filing fee, which ranges from $54 to $124, depending on the claim amount and the court.
Step 4: Serve the Defendant
- Notify the defendant of your claim using a citation issued by the court.
- Service options include:
- Certified Mail: $75.
- Sheriff/Constable Service: Fee varies by precinct.
4. Preparing for Your Small Claims Court Hearing
Gather Evidence
- Contracts, invoices, photos, repair estimates, and emails.
- Witness statements to support your case, if applicable.
Organize Your Presentation
- Create a clear timeline of events related to the dispute.
- Practice explaining your case concisely to the judge.
5. Dallas County Small Claims Court Locations
| Precinct | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Precinct 1, Place 1 | 7201 S Polk St., Ste 1, Dallas, TX 75232 | (972) 228-0280 |
| Precinct 2, Place 1 | 140 N Garland Ave., Garland, TX 75040 | (214) 643-4773 |
| Precinct 3, Place 1 | 10056 Marsh Lane, Ste 220, Dallas, TX 75229 | (214) 321-4106 |
| Precinct 4, Place 1 | 106 W Church St., Grand Prairie, TX 75050 | (972) 264-9143 |
6. What Happens After Filing a Claim?
- Hearing Date Assigned: The court will schedule a hearing and notify both parties.
- Defendant’s Response: The defendant may respond, settle, or counterclaim.
- Hearing: Both parties present their case, evidence, and witnesses. The judge makes a ruling based on the evidence.
7. Costs of Filing a Small Claim in Dallas County
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Filing Fee | $54–$124 |
| Service of Process | $75–$100 |
| Additional Motions | $10–$20 |
Fee waivers are available for individuals with financial hardship.
8. Enforcing a Judgment
If you win your case and the defendant does not pay, you can take steps to enforce the judgment, such as:
- Wage Garnishment.
- Bank Account Seizure.
- Property Liens.
9. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I file a small claims case online in Dallas County?
No, claims must be filed in person at the appropriate precinct court.
Q2: Do I need a lawyer for small claims court?
No, small claims court is designed for self-representation.
Q3: Can I appeal the court’s decision?
Yes, either party can appeal the decision within 21 days of the judgment.
Q4: How long does it take to resolve a small claims case?
Most cases are resolved within 1–3 months, depending on court schedules.
Q5: What if the defendant doesn’t show up?
The court may issue a default judgment in your favor if the defendant fails to appear.
10. Conclusion
Dallas County Small Claims Court offers a streamlined process for resolving disputes involving monetary claims up to $20,000. By understanding the filing process, preparing your evidence, and knowing your rights, you can confidently navigate the small claims court system to achieve a fair resolution.