How to file small claims in Arizona

Sue for up to $3,500 in the Justice Court (Small Claims Division); filing fee around $35.

Arizona's Small Claims Division caps claims at $3,500 with no appeal and no lawyers — regular Justice Court goes to $10,000 if you need more.

• Dollar limit: $3,500 — $3,500 in the Small Claims Division of Justice Court — one of the lower caps. Justice Court (not small claims) goes to $10,000.
• Filing fee: $35 — About $26–$45 plus service.
• Where to file: Justice Court (Small Claims Division)
• Lawyers at the hearing: not allowed — you represent yourself

1. Confirm your claim is at or under the dollar limit and within the statute of limitations for your claim type.
2. Send a written demand letter first — most courts expect it, and it often gets you paid without filing.
3. Get the correct filing form (often a "Statement of Claim" or "Plaintiff's Claim") from the Justice Court clerk or the court's website.
4. File the form with the Justice Court for the county where the defendant lives or where the dispute happened, and pay the filing fee.
5. Arrange service of process so the defendant is officially notified (by the sheriff, certified mail, or a process server, per local rules).
6. Gather your evidence — contract, texts, photos, receipts, the demand letter — and bring organized copies to your hearing.
7. Show up on your court date and present your case; if you win, ask the judge how to collect the judgment.
8. Arizona's Small Claims Division has NO appeal and bars lawyers unless both parties agree — consider regular Justice Court (up to $10,000) for bigger or contested claims.

What are you suing for?

• Suing for unpaid loan in Arizona: 6 years to file
• Suing for security deposit in Arizona: 6 years to file
• Suing for property damage in Arizona: 2 years to file
• Suing for unpaid rent in Arizona: 6 years to file
• Suing for contractor dispute in Arizona: 3 years to file

Source: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 22-503. Reviewed 2026-06-17 (verify with the court clerk).

Nearby states: California ($12,500) · Nevada ($10,000) · New Mexico ($10,000) · Utah ($15,000).

General legal information, not legal advice. Rules change and vary by county and court; consult a licensed attorney or your court clerk.

Updated July 2026