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Vermont Small Claims Court Limits
Vermont small claims court limit is $10,000 for all plaintiffs.
Court Name: Small Claims Division of Superior Court
Official Website: https://www.vermontjudiciary.org/self-help/debt-collection-small-claims
Filing Fees in Vermont
Filing fees vary based on the amount you're claiming:
| Claim Amount | Filing Fee |
|---|---|
| Typical Range | $55-100 |
Filing fees vary based on claim amount. Fee waivers available.
Serving the Defendant
The court mails service. At least 14 days notice is required.
Allowed Service Methods:
- First-class mail (court sends)
- Certified mail
- Personal service by sheriff
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 Vermont small claims court but most parties represent themselves.
Appeals
Either party may appeal to Superior Court within 30 days.
Vermont 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 Vermont?
The Vermont small claims court limit is $10,000 for all plaintiffs.
How is the defendant served in Vermont small claims court?
The court typically mails service by first-class mail. If that fails, certified mail or sheriff service may be used.
How long do I have to sue for breach of contract in Vermont?
In Vermont, you have 6 years to file a lawsuit for breach of written or oral contract.
How do I appeal a Vermont 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