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Indiana Small Claims Court Limits
Indiana small claims court limit is $10,000 for all plaintiffs.
Court Name: Small Claims Court (Township or Marion County)
Official Website: https://www.in.gov/courts/publications/small-claims-manual/
Filing Fees in Indiana
Filing fees vary based on the amount you're claiming:
| Claim Amount | Filing Fee |
|---|---|
| Typical Range | $35-85 |
Filing fees vary by county. Additional fees for service by sheriff.
Serving the Defendant
Service must be completed at least 10 days before the hearing date.
Allowed Service Methods:
- Personal service by sheriff
- Certified mail
- Private process server
Important: You must serve the defendant at least 10 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 Indiana small claims court but are not required.
Appeals
Either party may appeal to Superior Court within 30 days.
Indiana Statute of Limitations
You must file your lawsuit within these time limits from when the dispute occurred:
| Type of Claim | Time Limit |
|---|---|
| Written Contract | years |
| Oral Contract | years |
| Property Damage | years |
| Personal Injury | years |
Do I Need a Demand Letter Before Filing?
Sending a demand letter is recommended to demonstrate good faith before filing suit.
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 Indiana?
The Indiana small claims court limit is $10,000 for all plaintiffs.
How long do I have to sue for breach of contract in Indiana?
In Indiana, you have 10 years for written contracts and 6 years for oral contracts from the date of breach.
How much does it cost to file small claims in Indiana?
Filing fees typically range from $35 to $85 depending on the county. Sheriff service fees are additional.
Can I have a lawyer in Indiana small claims court?
Yes. Attorneys are permitted in Indiana small claims court, though many parties represent themselves.
More Resources: All State Guides | Demand Letter Templates | Statute of Limitations Lookup