Florida Small Claims
Florida filing basics for renter claims, consumer disputes, contractor disputes, unpaid wages, and property damage cases.
General Information Only: This page provides general educational information as of January 2025. Court rules and fees change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local County Court or the Florida Courts website.
Florida
County Courts - Small Claims Division
Start with the Florida path that fits your dispute
These five claim tracks are the main audience paths we are optimizing. Use the matching guide, then verify Florida limits, fees, mediation expectations, and county court details below.
Florida rental money disputes
Start with renter guidance, then verify Florida limits, venue rules, and county court details on this page.
ConsumersFlorida consumer disputes
Use the consumer guide for refunds, warranty issues, and scams, then confirm Florida filing costs and service rules below.
ContractorsFlorida contractor claims
Use the contractor guide for bad workmanship and unfinished jobs, then match the claim to the right Florida court.
WorkersFlorida wage-related claims
Use the wage guide to organize unpaid paycheck issues, then confirm whether Florida small claims is the right venue.
Property ownersFlorida property damage claims
Use the property-damage guide for vehicle, home, and belongings damage, then verify Florida claim caps and local court procedures.
$8,000
As of 2023
$55-$300
Based on amount
Allowed
But not required
Often Used
Before trial
Key Information
1Who Can File
- Individuals 18 or older
- Businesses and corporations
- Government agencies
- Assignees of claims
2Venue Rules
- Where defendant resides
- Where incident occurred
- Where contract was signed
- Where property is located
Common Case Types
Security Deposits
Landlord-tenant disputes
Property Damage
Auto accidents, vandalism
Unpaid Services
Work performed, not paid
Contract Disputes
Broken agreements
Consumer Issues
Defective products
HOA Disputes
Fee and assessment issues
Statutes of Limitations
You must file your claim within these time limits from when the issue occurred:
Filing Process Overview
Complete Statement of Claim
Fill out Form 7.010 or your county's small claims form
File with Clerk
Submit to County Court Clerk and pay filing fee
Serve the Defendant
Sheriff service, process server, or certified mail
Pre-Trial Mediation
Many counties require mediation before trial
Attend Trial
Present your case if mediation doesn't resolve it
Mediation is Common
Florida courts frequently use mediation to resolve small claims disputes before trial. This can save time and lead to faster settlements. Be prepared to negotiate.
Tip: Many cases settle at mediation. Bring your best evidence and be ready to compromise.
Official Resources
Find Your County Court
Florida has 67 counties, each with its own County Court system. Find the court for your area.
View Florida CountiesLegal Disclaimer
This information is provided for general educational purposes only and may be outdated. Laws and procedures change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local County Court or consult a licensed attorney. This is not legal advice. See our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.