1. What Is a Statement of Claim in Broward County Small Claims Court?
A Statement of Claim is the formal document required to initiate a case in Broward County Small Claims Court. It outlines the details of your dispute, including the parties involved, the amount of money sought, and the reasons for the claim.
2. Monetary Limits for Small Claims in Broward County
- Maximum Claim Amount: $8,000 (excluding court costs, interest, and attorney’s fees).
- Claims exceeding this amount must be filed in the Civil Division of the County Court.
3. Steps to File a Statement of Claim in Broward County
Step 1: Obtain the Statement of Claim Form
- Visit the Broward County Clerk of Courts website to download the form.
- Alternatively, pick up a copy at the Broward County Courthouse.
Step 2: Complete the Form
Provide accurate and detailed information, including:
- Plaintiff’s Information: Your name, address, and contact details.
- Defendant’s Information: Name, address, and contact details of the person or business being sued.
- Claim Details:
- A brief description of the dispute (e.g., unpaid debt, property damage).
- The exact amount being claimed.
Step 3: File Your Claim
- Submit the completed form at the Broward County Clerk of Courts, Small Claims Division.
- Pay the filing fee, which is based on the amount of the claim:
| Claim Amount | Filing Fee |
|---|---|
| Up to $100 | $55 |
| $101–$500 | $80 |
| $501–$2,500 | $175 |
| $2,501–$8,000 | $300 |
Step 4: Serve the Defendant
- Notify the defendant by serving them a copy of the filed claim.
- Approved methods include:
- Certified Mail (handled by the Clerk’s Office).
- Sheriff’s Office or a process server.
- Service fees vary depending on the method used.
Step 5: Attend the Pretrial Conference
- A pretrial conference will be scheduled, where both parties meet to discuss settlement options.
- If no settlement is reached, the case proceeds to trial.
4. Costs Associated with Filing a Small Claim in Broward County
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Filing Fee | $55–$300 |
| Service Fee (Certified Mail) | $10–$15 |
| Sheriff’s Service Fee | $40–$60 |
5. Benefits of Small Claims Court in Broward County
- Cost-Effective: Low filing fees and no requirement for legal representation.
- Efficient: Cases are resolved faster than in higher courts.
- User-Friendly: Designed for self-representation with simplified procedures.
6. Tips for Filing a Successful Statement of Claim
- Be Accurate: Provide complete and correct details for the defendant and claim amount.
- Gather Evidence: Collect receipts, contracts, photos, or communication records to support your claim.
- Practice Your Explanation: Prepare to present your case clearly and concisely at the pretrial conference or trial.
- Meet Deadlines: Ensure your forms are submitted and the defendant is served on time.
- Consider Settlement: Be open to negotiating a resolution before proceeding to trial.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can businesses file claims in Broward County Small Claims Court?
Yes, businesses can file claims as long as the dispute falls within the $8,000 limit.
2. Do I need a lawyer to file a claim?
No, Small Claims Court is designed for self-representation, though you may consult a lawyer for advice.
3. What happens if the defendant doesn’t respond or appear?
The court may issue a default judgment in your favor.
4. How long does it take to resolve a small claim?
Most cases are resolved within 1–3 months, depending on the court’s schedule.
5. Can I recover court costs if I win?
Yes, the court may include filing and service fees in the judgment amount.
8. Conclusion
Filing a Statement of Claim in Broward County Small Claims Court is a straightforward process designed to resolve disputes involving amounts up to $8,000. By following the steps outlined above and preparing your case thoroughly, you can confidently navigate the system and seek a fair resolution. For more information, visit the Broward County Clerk of Courts website.
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