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New Hampshire Small Claims Court Limits
New Hampshire small claims court limit is $10,000 for all plaintiffs.
Court Name: Small Claims Session of District Court
Official Website: https://www.courts.nh.gov/our-courts/circuit-court/district-division/small-claims
Filing Fees in New Hampshire
Filing fees vary based on the amount you're claiming:
| Claim Amount | Filing Fee |
|---|---|
| Typical Range | $45-100 |
Filing fees vary based on claim amount. Service fees additional.
Serving the Defendant
Service must be completed at least 14 days before the hearing date.
Allowed Service Methods:
- Personal service by sheriff
- Certified mail with return receipt
- Process server
Important: You must serve the defendant at least 14 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 New Hampshire small claims court but most parties represent themselves.
Appeals
Either party may appeal to Superior Court within 30 days.
New Hampshire 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 effort at resolution.
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 New Hampshire?
The New Hampshire small claims court limit is $10,000 for all plaintiffs.
How long do I have to sue for breach of contract in New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire, you have 3 years to file a lawsuit for breach of written or oral contract.
Can I have a lawyer in New Hampshire small claims court?
Yes. Attorneys are permitted in New Hampshire small claims court, though most parties represent themselves.
How do I appeal a New Hampshire small claims judgment?
Either party may appeal to Superior Court within 30 days of the judgment.
More Resources: All State Guides | Demand Letter Templates | Statute of Limitations Lookup