What is the small claims limit in Arizona?

Arizona small claims is governed by A.R.S. Title 22, Chapter 5 (sections 22-501 to 22-524).

1. Monetary Limit — A.R.S. § 22-503 sets the small claims jurisdiction at $3,500, exclusive of interest and costs — among the lowest in the United States. The regular Justice Court civil division has jurisdiction up to $10,000 under A.R.S. § 22-201.

2. Filing Fee — Set by Supreme Court of Arizona: $35-$45 for filing, plus $16 sheriff or constable service per defendant. Some counties charge slightly more. Fee waivers via Application for Deferral or Waiver of Court Fees.

3. Lawyers — Prohibited unless both parties consent (A.R.S. § 22-512). Filing as small claims is considered a waiver of the right to attorney representation. Corporations may be represented by an officer, employee, or full-time agent (A.R.S. § 22-512(C)).

4. Statute of Limitations — Standard Arizona SOLs: 6 years for written contracts (A.R.S. § 12-548), 3 years for oral contracts (§ 12-543), 2 years for personal injury and property damage (§ 12-542), 3 years for fraud (§ 12-543).

5. Where to File — Justice Court precinct where (a) defendant resides or, (b) for businesses, where the principal place of business is located, or (c) where the contract was entered into or performed (A.R.S. § 22-202).

6. Service — By constable, sheriff, registered process server, or certified mail. Defendant must answer within 20 days of service (A.R.S. § 22-515).

7. Hearing — Informal proceeding before a Justice of the Peace or hearing officer. Rules of evidence and procedure are relaxed. Both parties present their case directly.

8. NO Appeal from Small Claims — A.R.S. § 22-519 specifically bars any appeal from a small claims judgment. The decision is final and binding. To preserve appeal rights, file the case as a regular Justice Court civil action instead — those judgments may be appealed to Superior Court within 14 days under A.R.S. § 22-261.

This is legal information, not legal advice.