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Florida Small Claims Court Limits
Florida's small claims limit is $8,000. Cases over this amount go to County Court.
Court Name: Small Claims Division of County Court
Official Website: https://www.flcourts.org/Resources-Services/Court-Improvement/Self-Help-Information/Small-Claims
Filing Fees in Florida
Filing fees vary based on the amount you're claiming:
| Claim Amount | Filing Fee |
|---|---|
| Under $100 | $55 |
| $100 - $500 | $80 |
| $500 - $2,500 | $175 |
| $2,500 - $8,000 | $300 |
Fees vary by county. Service fees are additional ($10-40).
Serving the Defendant
Certified mail is cheapest. Sheriff service costs around $40.
Allowed Service Methods:
- Certified mail
- Sheriff service
- Private process server
Important: You must serve the defendant at least 5 days before the hearing date.
What to Expect at Your Hearing
After filing, you'll typically wait 30-60 days for your hearing date.
Attorneys Allowed: Attorneys are permitted in Florida small claims court. Mediation is often required before trial.
Appeals
Either party can appeal within 30 days to Circuit Court.
Florida Statute of Limitations
You must file your lawsuit within these time limits from when the dispute occurred:
| Type of Claim | Time Limit |
|---|---|
| Written Contract | 5 years |
| Oral Contract | 4 years |
| Property Damage | 4 years |
| Personal Injury | 4 years |
Do I Need a Demand Letter Before Filing?
Florida courts often require pre-suit mediation. A demand letter helps establish your claim and may be required by the mediator.
Create Your Free Demand Letter
Before going to court, try sending a demand letter. It's free, takes 5 minutes, and often resolves disputes without filing.
Create Free Demand LetterFrequently Asked Questions
What is the small claims court limit in Florida?
The Florida small claims court limit is $8,000. Claims over this amount must be filed in County Court.
How much does it cost to file small claims in Florida?
Filing fees range from $55 (under $100) to $300 (claims $2,500-$8,000), plus service fees.
Is mediation required in Florida small claims court?
Yes, many Florida counties require pre-trial mediation. This is an attempt to settle before going to trial.
Can I have a lawyer in Florida small claims court?
Yes. Unlike some states, Florida allows attorneys to represent parties in small claims court.
More Resources: All State Guides | Demand Letter Templates | Statute of Limitations Lookup