Wheeler County Small Claims Court, Texas

What can I expect at trial?

The trial is relatively informal compared to a normal trial. In fact, the judge in small claims court is charged with developing facts of the case and may question or summon witnesses. 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. A small claims court trial is much quicker, often lasting between 15-20 minutes. However, if a party wishes for a jury trial, it will likely last a few hours.

Clerk’s Role in Small Claims Court Actions

The clerk is often the first person small claims court litigants interact with in their case. The clerk is knowledgeable at all of the procedures and will be able to inform you of any specific local procedures for Wheeler County. We recommend calling the clerk’s office to ensure the courthouse is open. Remember, the court clerk is trained to assist with procedural questions, but is not able to give legal advice.

Types of Small Claims Cases

Most cases for the recovery of money can be heard 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 Jurisdiction

The plaintiff’s demand for money cannot exceed $10,000. (Texas Government Code 28.093). Small claims parties can only recover money. The court has no authority to issue an injunctive or equitable award. Say your landscaper breaks a sprinkler head. You can ask the court for money to replace the sprinkler head, but you cannot ask the court for an order requiring the landscaper to physically replace the sprinkler head. You could only ask the court for an award of money.

Judge

A Justice of the Peace for Wheeler County hears small claims court cases for Wheeler County. Small Claims actions are heard in 2 courthouses throughout Wheeler County.

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).

Can I hire an attorney?

In Texas, small claims parties generally represent themselves without an attorney. The reasoning behind this is because the amount is $10,000 or less, hiring an attorney becomes cost prohibitive. However, you are allowed to retain one if you choose.

Can I appeal my case?

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

Wheeler County Court Locations

Precinct 1 Courthouse in the City of Wheeler

This courthouse is located at:

P O Box 452

Wheeler, TX 79096-0452

This courthouse handles cases for Precinct 1. The court’s website can be found here. The phone number for the court is (806)826-5768. And you can email the court by clicking here.

Precinct 2 Courthouse in the City of Shamrock