Small Claims Court Case Types
A variety of cases are handled in small claims court. Cases include damages from an automobile accident, a security deposit from a landlord, or breach of a contract. 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.
Small Claims Court Venue
In order to follow correct procedure, a small claims case needs to be filed in the proper county and precinct. In Texas, the action is filed in the County and Precinct where the defendants reside or where a contract was to be performed. (Government Code Section 28.011).
What is the trial like?
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. Additionally, the judge is allowed to ask questions of the parties and witnesses, and generally takes a more proactive role in determining the facts of a case. Trials generally are pretty short (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). Additionally, a small claims court plaintiff can only ask the court for monetary relief. You cannot seek injunctive relief. 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 would be called injunctive relief.
Ward County Court Clerk
The clerk at the courthouse can be an excellent resource for your case. This will ensure the courthouse is open and someone is available to assist with the filing of your claim. While the clerk can help you with procedural issues, the clerk is not able to give legal advice. They will direct you to an attorney if answering your question would require that. Small Claims Court cases for Ward are heard in 2 LOCATIONS throughout Ward County. 
Who is the judge in a Small Claims Court case?
A Justice of the Peace for Ward County hears small claims court cases for Ward County.
Can I appeal my case?
Yes, but only if the amount in controversy is in excess of $250.
Do I need A Lawyer?
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).
Ward County Court Locations
Precinct 1 Place 1 Courthouse in the City of Monahans
This courthouse is located at:
Box 165 Monahans, TX 79756-6500This courthouse handles cases for Precinct 1 Place 1. The court’s website can be found here. The phone number for the court is (432)943-7227. And you can email the court by clicking here.
Precinct 2 Place 1 Courthouse in the City of Monahans
This courthouse is located at:
P O Box 342 Monahans, TX 79756-0342This courthouse handles cases for Precinct 2 Place 1. The court’s website can be found here. The phone number for the court is (432)943-7237. And you can email the court by clicking here.
Can you please send me the paper work for a small claim lawsuit for a car wreck that happened in Ward County. Also when i send the certified letter for the other party to response does it have to be notarized and when and how do i file with the court. I called and was quoted $335.00 to file the claim but need help with what paper work i need to pre sue with this? The accident was on 464 and 21st street at the stop sign by Cimermex. Please call me if you have any questions. 432-967-8898.