What is the small claims limit in Texas?

Texas small claims procedure was consolidated into the Justice Court system in 2013 under the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure for Justice Courts (Rules 500-510).

1. Monetary Limit — Government Code § 27.031 and TRCP 500.3 cap the Justice Court's jurisdiction at $20,000, exclusive of statutory interest and court costs but including attorney fees.

2. Filing Fee — Set by each county; typically $54-$100 for filing plus $80-$155 for service of citation by sheriff or constable. Some counties charge by claim amount.

3. Lawyers — Texas allows attorneys to appear in Justice Court. Corporations and LLCs do not need a lawyer (TRCP 500.4); employees, owners, or property managers may represent the entity.

4. Statute of Limitations — Standard Texas SOLs apply: 4 years for written and oral contracts (Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 16.004), 2 years for personal injury and property damage (§ 16.003), 2 years for trespass and conversion.

5. Where to File — TRCP 502.4: county and precinct where (a) defendant resides, (b) the cause of action arose, (c) the contract was to be performed, or (d) defendant's principal office is located.

6. Service — Citation served by constable, sheriff, certified mail (return receipt), or court-approved private process server. Defendant must answer by 10:00 a.m. on the Monday following 14 days after service (TRCP 502.5).

7. Appeal Rights — Either party may appeal within 21 days of judgment by filing an appeal bond (TRCP 506.1). Appeal is de novo in the County Court at Law and the case is tried fresh.

This is legal information, not legal advice.