King County Small Claims Court, Texas

Can I file my case in 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, you could sue a dry cleaner for ruining your clothes and ask for money to replace the clothes, but you cannot ask the judge for an order for the dry cleaner to repair your clothes. This type of relief would be injunctive relief.

Clerk’s Role in Small Claims Court Actions

We recommend contacting the King 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. Remember, the court clerk is trained to assist with procedural questions, but is not able to give legal advice.

How are trials conducted?

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. It will likely be pretty quick. However, if a party wishes for a jury trial, it will likely last a few hours.

Small Claims Court Case Types

A variety of cases are handled in small claims court. From a security deposit on a rental to a motor vehicle accident. The only types of cases that are prohibited are an assignment of a claim (whereby you transfer your interest in a case for someone else to collect), a divorce, or a case filed by a collection agency or agents. King County Small Claims Court cases are heard in 1 courthouses in King County.

King County Small Claims Court
King County Small Claims Court

Can I appeal my case?

Appeals are allowed if the amount of the award exceeds $250.00.

Small Claims Court Venue

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).

Do I need A Lawyer?

Small claims court litigants in Texas normally represent themselves without an attorney. This is because cases involving $10,000 or less usually do not justify the cost of an attorney. Nevertheless, you are allowed to retain one if you desire. (Texas Government Code Section 28.003).

Judges for Small Claims Court Cases in King County

The justice of the peace for King County presides over small claims court actions for King County.

King County Court Locations

Countywide Courthouse in the City of Guthrie

This courthouse is located at:

P O Box 67
Guthrie, TX 79236-0067

This courthouse handles cases for Countywide. The phone number for the court is (806)596-4481. And you can email the court by clicking here.

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