Small Claims Court
Gov't Code 27.031 — the justice court, up to $20,000
In Texas, small claims are heard in the justice court. It has original jurisdiction of civil matters where the amount in controversy is not more than $20,000, not counting interest, where exclusive jurisdiction is not in another court, and of eviction cases.
- A suit for divorce.
- A suit for slander or defamation.
- A suit to try title to land, or to enforce a lien on land.
- A suit on behalf of the state to recover a penalty, forfeiture or escheat.
The statute directs the Supreme Court's small claims rules toward a fair, quick and inexpensive resolution. If both parties appear, the judge hears the case; formal pleadings beyond the statement are not required; the hearing is informal; discovery is limited to what the judge permits; and the judge develops the facts, and may question a witness or a party.
No one is required to have a lawyer. The rules may not require a party to be represented by an attorney, and may not be so complex that a reasonable person without legal training would have difficulty understanding or applying them. A corporation need not be represented by an attorney in justice court.
Sources for this section (2)
- Gov't Code 27.031 — Jurisdiction of the justice court
- Gov't Code 27.060 — Small claims
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of September 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Texas attorney.