What is the small claims limit in Florida?

Florida small claims procedure is governed by the Florida Small Claims Rules (Rules 7.010-7.345).

1. Monetary Limit — Rule 7.010(b) sets the limit at $8,000, exclusive of costs, interest, and attorney fees (raised from $5,000 effective Jan. 1, 2020).

2. Filing Fee — Florida Statutes § 34.041 sets a sliding scale: $55 up to $100, $80 for $100-$500, $175 for $500-$2,500, and $300 for $2,500-$8,000. Service fees ($40+ per defendant) are additional.

3. Lawyers — Attorneys are permitted at all stages. Many small claims litigants appear pro se. Corporations may be represented by an officer, director, or employee (Rule 7.050(a)(2)).

4. Statute of Limitations — Standard Florida SOLs apply: 5 years for written contracts (§ 95.11(2)(b)), 4 years for oral contracts and negligence (§ 95.11(3)), 2 years for wage claims and certain professional malpractice.

5. Where to File — County Court (small claims division) in the county where (a) the contract was breached, (b) defendant resides, (c) the property is located, or (d) the cause of action accrued (§ 47.011).

6. Service — Sheriff, certified process server, or court-approved private server. Defendant must be served at least 5 days before the pretrial conference. Mailed service by certified mail with delivery receipt is permitted in some counties.

7. Pretrial Conference — Rule 7.090 requires all parties to attend a mandatory pretrial conference, where mediation is often ordered. Failure to appear results in default or dismissal.

8. Appeal Rights — Either party may appeal to the Circuit Court within 30 days of judgment (Fla. R. App. P. 9.110). Review is on the record, not de novo.

This is legal information, not legal advice.