Types of Cases
Most cases for the recovery of money can be heard in small claims court. From a security deposit on a rental to a motor vehicle accident. Under Texas law, collections cases and claim assignments cannot be heard in small claims court.
Can I appeal my case?
A party can appeal a ruling if the amount of the judge’s award is in excess of $250.00.
Small Claims Court Clerk
We recommend contacting the Brooks County court clerk before proceeding down to the courthouse to file your action. This will ensure the courthouse is open and someone is available to assist with the filing of your claim. Also, while the clerk can answer questions about procedures, the clerk cannot give legal advice.
Where do I file my small claims court case?
You should file your action in the County and specific Precinct where the defendants reside or where the defendant has contracted to perform. (Government Code Section 28.011).
What can I expect at trial?
Small claims court trials are very informal compared to a regular civil trial. This allows the trials to be conducted in a much more informal fashion. Furthermore, the judge is allowed and often ask questions of witnesses and parties to help understand the facts of a case. A small claims court trial is much quicker, often lasting between 15-20 minutes. A jury trial will likely last longer, probably a few hours.
Limit (or Jurisdiction) of Small Claims Court
The plaintiff’s demand for money cannot exceed $10,000. (Texas Government Code 28.093). Another restriction of small claims court is that a plaintiff can only seek monetary relief (an award of money). The court has no authority to issue an injunctive or equitable award. For example, if you pay a painter $1,000 to paint your house and the painter does not even begin, you cannot ask the court to issue an order for the painter to paint your house. You could only ask the court for an award of money. Small Claims Court cases for Brooks are heard in 4 LOCATIONS throughout Brooks County. 
Do I need to hire an Attorney?
In Texas, small claims parties generally represent themselves without an attorney. This is largely because the amount at issue in the case is not large enough to justify the hiring of an attorney. Nevertheless, you are allowed to retain one if you desire. (Texas Government Code Section 28.003).
Judge
A Justice of the Peace for Brooks County hears small claims court cases for Brooks County.
Brooks County Court Locations
Precinct 1 Place 1 Courthouse in the City of Falfurrias
This courthouse is located at:
This courthouse handles cases for Precinct 1 Place 1. The court’s website can be found here. The phone number for the court is (361)325-4153 – ext. 209 .
Precinct 2 Place 1 Courthouse in the City of Falfurrias
This courthouse is located at:
P O Drawer 5516 Falfurrias, TX 78355This courthouse handles cases for Precinct 2 Place 1. The court’s website can be found here. The phone number for the court is (361)325-4901 – ext. 201 . And you can email the court by clicking here.
Precinct 3 Place 1 Courthouse in the City of Falfurrias
This courthouse is located at:
P O Box 541 Falfurrias, TX 78355-0541This courthouse handles cases for Precinct 3 Place 1. The court’s website can be found here. The phone number for the court is (361)667-3303.
Precinct 4 Place 1 Courthouse in the City of Falfurrias
This courthouse is located at:
P O Drawer 5516 Falfurrias, TX 78355This courthouse handles cases for Precinct 4 Place 1. The court’s website can be found here. The phone number for the court is (361)325-4901 – ext. 229 . And you can email the court by clicking here.