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Tennessee Small Claims Court Limits
Tennessee has one of the highest small claims limits at $25,000. No limit for eviction suits or recovery of personal property.
Court Name: General Sessions Court
Official Website: https://www.tncourts.gov/programs/self-help-center
Filing Fees in Tennessee
Filing fees vary based on the amount you're claiming:
| Claim Amount | Filing Fee |
|---|---|
| Typical Range | $50-100 |
Filing fees vary by county. Additional fees for service of process.
Serving the Defendant
Service must be completed at least 6 days before the trial date.
Allowed Service Methods:
- Personal service by sheriff
- Certified mail
- Process server
Important: You must serve the defendant at least 6 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 Tennessee General Sessions Court but most parties represent themselves.
Appeals
Either party may appeal to Circuit Court within 10 days for a new trial.
Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
Tennessee has one of the highest small claims limits at $25,000. Cases are heard in General Sessions Court.
What is small claims court called in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, small claims cases are heard in General Sessions Court.
How long do I have to sue for personal injury in Tennessee?
Tennessee has a short 1-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. Act quickly.
How do I appeal a Tennessee small claims judgment?
Either party may appeal to Circuit Court within 10 days. The appeal results in a new trial (trial de novo).
More Resources: All State Guides | Demand Letter Templates | Statute of Limitations Lookup