What is the small claims limit in Ohio?

Ohio small claims procedure is governed by Ohio Revised Code Chapter 1925.

1. Monetary Limit — ORC § 1925.02 sets the jurisdiction of the small claims division at $6,000, exclusive of interest and costs (raised from $3,000 in 2008).

2. Filing Fee — Set locally. Typical fees: $35-$50 for filing plus $15-$45 for service. Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Columbus Municipal Courts charge in the $50-$95 range. Indigent fee waivers via affidavit of indigency.

3. Lawyers — Permitted. Corporations may be represented by a bona fide officer, salaried employee, general partner, or trustee in small claims (ORC § 1925.17), but the representative cannot engage in cross-examination, argument, or other "acts requiring legal skill."

4. Statute of Limitations — Standard Ohio SOLs: 8 years for written contracts (ORC § 2305.06), 6 years for oral contracts (§ 2305.07), 2 years for bodily injury and property damage (§ 2305.10), 4 years for fraud (§ 2305.09).

5. Where to File — Municipal Court or County Court small claims division of the territorial jurisdiction where (a) defendant resides, (b) defendant has its principal office, or (c) the cause of action arose (ORC § 1901.20).

6. Service — By certified mail by the clerk; if returned undeliverable, may be re-served by ordinary mail or process server. Defendant must be served at least 7 days before the hearing (ORC § 1925.04).

7. Hearing — Informal; magistrate or judge presides. No formal Rules of Evidence apply (ORC § 1925.07). Hearing typically within 15-40 days of filing.

8. Transfer to Regular Docket — Defendant or court may transfer the case to the regular Municipal Court docket if defendant counterclaims for more than $6,000 or for equitable relief (ORC § 1925.10).

9. Appeal Rights — Either party may appeal to the Court of Appeals within 30 days of judgment (App. R. 4). Review is on the record from the magistrate.

This is legal information, not legal advice.