Small Claims

The Small Claims Courts were created so that individuals would have a speedy, reasonably inexpensive and uncomplicated means of resolving disputes. You may represent yourself without an attorney. Courts are for your benefit. It is your right to make use of the courts to peacefully settle your disputes. Effective July 1, 2021, the maximum amount that can be sought in Small Claims Court increased to $10,000.00.

The small claims procedures are not complex. The Plaintiff fills out a form stating why the Plaintiff believes the Defendant owes him/her money or that the Defendant has property which should be returned to the Plaintiff. Each party will explain his or her side of the story to the Judge at trial. The Judge may ask questions of each party to determine the complete facts of the case. The Judge will make a decision based on the facts and evidence presented by the parties and on the law as it applies to the facts.

A good case can be lost if you do not prepare your case before the trial or if you fail to effectively present your evidence at the trial. Proper preparation and effective presentation of your evidence greatly increase your chances of success in Small Claims Court, either as a Plaintiff or a Defendant.

For more information, see the LaGrange County Small Claims Manual.

Small Claims Rules

Even though Small Claims Courts are a speedy, reasonably inexpensive and uncomplicated means of settling disputes and disagreements, there are still some basic rules established by the Indiana Supreme Court that apply to Small Claims cases. Please make sure to read the rules and follow the rules as they are written.