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Pennsylvania Small Claims Court Limits
Pennsylvania small claims court limit is $12,000 for all plaintiffs. Cases are heard in Magisterial District Court.
Court Name: Magisterial District Court
Official Website: https://www.pacourts.us/courts/minor-courts/
Filing Fees in Pennsylvania
Filing fees vary based on the amount you're claiming:
| Claim Amount | Filing Fee |
|---|---|
| Typical Range | $50-100 |
Filing fees vary by county and claim amount. Service fees additional.
Serving the Defendant
The court mails service by certified mail. At least 8 days notice required.
Allowed Service Methods:
- Certified mail (court sends)
- Personal service by constable
- Posting (if other methods fail)
Important: You must serve the defendant at least 8 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 Pennsylvania Magisterial District Court but most parties represent themselves.
Appeals
Either party may appeal to Court of Common Pleas within 30 days for a new trial.
Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
The Pennsylvania small claims court limit is $12,000 for all plaintiffs, handled by Magisterial District Court.
What is small claims court called in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, small claims cases are heard in Magisterial District Court (formerly called District Justice Court).
How long do I have to sue for breach of contract in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, you have 4 years to file a lawsuit for breach of written or oral contract.
How do I appeal a Pennsylvania small claims judgment?
Either party may appeal to Court of Common Pleas within 30 days. The appeal results in a new trial.
More Resources: All State Guides | Demand Letter Templates | Statute of Limitations Lookup