Overview

Florida’s small claims courts are designed to provide a quick, affordable, and accessible forum for resolving low-dollar civil disputes. These courts fall under the county court system and are governed by the Florida Small Claims Rules. The monetary limit — also known as the jurisdictional cap — determines which cases qualify for small-claims handling rather than full civil litigation. As of 2020, Florida raised its small-claims limit to $8,000 (excluding costs, interest, and attorney fees). This ceiling allows citizens and small businesses to pursue justice for everyday disputes — unpaid debts, deposits, service failures, or property damage — without hiring expensive counsel or enduring lengthy procedures.

The small-claims process streamlines civil justice by emphasizing informality, efficiency, and self-representation. Plaintiffs file a short “Statement of Claim,” and hearings occur within weeks rather than months. Judges focus on facts and fairness rather than technicalities. By capping the claim value, Florida ensures cases remain manageable and do not burden county-court resources. Understanding the $8,000 limit — what it includes, what it excludes, and when exceptions apply — helps filers avoid dismissal, transfer, or wasted fees.

For context, this limit covers principal damages only; courts may still award statutory interest, court costs, and sometimes attorney fees on top. If your total loss exceeds $8,000, you must either waive the excess and remain in small claims or file as a county-civil or circuit-civil case. Deciding whether to “cap” your claim requires balancing speed and simplicity against the potential recovery of higher damages. The steps below explain how Florida’s limit works in practice and how to ensure your claim stays within the proper jurisdiction.

Who Benefits and Who Can Apply

Florida’s small-claims limit primarily benefits individuals, tenants, homeowners, and small business owners who need accessible recourse for money-related disputes. Typical filers include consumers seeking refunds, contractors chasing unpaid invoices, or landlords recovering repair costs. Any natural or legal person — individual, partnership, or corporation — may file, provided the claim is monetary and under $8,000.

Self-representation is common and encouraged; attorneys may appear but are not required. Out-of-state plaintiffs can file if the defendant or transaction has a substantial connection to Florida. This flexibility democratizes justice, ensuring that even modest financial disagreements receive a fair, quick hearing without excessive expense.

Benefits of Knowing the Limit

• Ensures your case is filed in the correct division and court.
• Prevents dismissal or costly transfers to higher courts.
• Lets you weigh simplicity and speed against potential higher recovery.
• Encourages settlements by setting realistic expectations of claim size.
• Reduces filing fees and legal complexity compared to full civil suits.

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Understand Florida’s $8,000 jurisdictional limit

The defining feature of Florida’s small-claims system is its jurisdictional ceiling: $8,000 in principal damages. This figure, codified in § 34.01(1)(c), Florida Statutes, excludes interest, court costs, and potential attorney fees. In other words, if you are suing for the return of a $7,500 security deposit and the clerk adds $250 in filing and service fees plus pre-judgment interest, you still qualify because only the $7,500 principal counts toward the cap.

Why the limit matters: filing above it strips the county court of jurisdiction. If a plaintiff mistakenly claims $8,500, the case may be dismissed or transferred to county-civil (up to $50,000) or circuit-civil (over $50,000) divisions, incurring extra fees and delays. You cannot split one large claim into smaller portions to stay under the cap; courts treat that as jurisdictional manipulation. Conversely, you can voluntarily waive the excess to remain in small claims, a strategy often chosen for speed and affordability.

The limit also shapes strategy. If your claim fluctuates — for instance, an estimate still pending or damage repairs incomplete — you should file conservatively below $8,000 and reserve the right to amend upward only if discovery later confirms additional loss. Some litigants misinterpret the cap as total “value” of the case, but it is strictly the amount demanded from the defendant in the complaint. Emotional distress, punitive damages, or injunctive relief do not fit within small claims.

By internalizing this boundary early, you avoid procedural traps. Double-check calculations: subtract any partial refunds already received and verify you’re claiming a single total against each defendant. Courts appreciate plaintiffs who respect jurisdictional rules; it signals diligence and credibility. When in doubt, clerks can confirm the division but not legal strategy. LegalAtoms and other guided-filing systems automate this check, flagging amounts above $8,000 before submission, saving filers from rejection or re-filing costs.

Step 2: Calculate your claim amount precisely and document it

Accurate computation is the heart of jurisdiction. Begin by listing each loss item with supporting evidence: invoices, receipts, canceled checks, or messages confirming payment terms. For example: “$2,500 deposit paid 01/12/2025 – Ex. A (receipt)”; “$3,200 repair cost – Ex. B (estimate)”; “$1,000 refund owed – Ex. C (email).” Add these to reach the principal claim amount. Do not include filing, service, or mailing costs — the court can later add those separately.

Attach proof of any partial payments or credits to avoid accusations of exaggeration. If your demand totals $8,100, decide whether to waive $100 and proceed or re-calculate by removing non-provable portions. Documenting this voluntary waiver in your Statement of Claim clarifies intent and prevents transfer motions.

Photographic and written exhibits strengthen credibility: before-and-after photos, text confirmations, or signed estimates show clarity and professionalism. Present damages chronologically rather than thematically; judges grasp timelines faster than clustered categories. If multiple defendants share liability (e.g., business + owner guarantor), specify each share but maintain the combined total under $8,000.

Maintain a one-page “damages ledger” listing item, proof, and subtotal. Clerks and mediators rely on such ledgers to gauge case validity. If using an automated platform like LegalAtoms, this ledger populates automatically from your intake answers, minimizing arithmetic errors.

Finally, print or store digital copies for your records. Small-claims hearings move quickly; having your math and exhibits aligned shows professionalism and earns judicial confidence. Clear documentation also ensures that if the case settles during mediation, you can calculate compromise offers precisely without guessing.

Step 3: Verify that your case type qualifies for small claims jurisdiction

Not every dispute under $8,000 belongs in small claims. Florida’s jurisdictional limit applies only to straightforward money-based conflicts, not cases involving complex legal remedies or equitable relief. The case must seek a sum of money — refund, damages, reimbursement, or debt repayment — and the legal theory must be simple enough for expedited hearings under the Florida Small Claims Rules. The court’s goal is quick resolution, not drawn-out discovery or expert-heavy litigation.

Qualifying disputes include unpaid invoices, unreturned deposits, breach of simple service contracts, minor property damage, and consumer refund cases. For example, if a landscaper fails to complete a $5,000 job, a customer can sue in small claims. However, cases asking for “injunctive relief” — such as demanding someone stop construction, vacate property, or transfer a title — fall outside this jurisdiction. Likewise, eviction, foreclosure, and domestic matters (family law, custody, or protective orders) are handled separately.

It’s equally vital to consider defendant identity. Small claims courts may hear cases against individuals, businesses, or government entities, but suing the wrong entity can sink your claim even if the amount is correct. Before filing, confirm whether the business is a registered LLC, corporation, or sole proprietor by checking Sunbiz.org. The exact name and registered agent listed there must match your Statement of Claim. This step prevents service rejection and jurisdictional disputes later.

If your issue involves multiple contracts or different legal theories (like negligence plus breach of contract), assess whether consolidating them would exceed the limit. You may need to focus the small-claims filing on the simplest, clearest financial harm. Courts prefer narrow cases they can adjudicate in one short hearing. Filing multiple small related suits against the same defendant is disfavored and may be dismissed as “claim-splitting.” Instead, consolidate provable amounts into a single, comprehensive claim.

You should also rule out specialized courts or administrative paths. For example, disputes involving residential security deposits under Chapter 83 of the Florida Statutes may first require written notice to the landlord; auto repair complaints may go through the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Starting with the wrong venue delays resolution and wastes filing fees. If uncertain, consult your county clerk’s self-help desk or LegalAtoms guided intake, which checks eligibility automatically based on your answers.

In summary, before filing, confirm three qualifications: (1) your remedy is monetary only, (2) your total principal claim does not exceed $8,000, and (3) your defendant is legally identifiable and can be served in Florida. Meeting these ensures your case fits within small-claims jurisdiction, keeps your filing fee low, and positions you for a quick, enforceable judgment.

Step 4: Decide whether to waive excess damages or file in higher court

Many disputes straddle the small-claims threshold — for example, a $9,200 contractor refund or a $10,000 unpaid commission. In these scenarios, plaintiffs must choose whether to waive the excess and stay in small claims or file in county or circuit court to pursue the full amount. This decision shapes both timeline and strategy. Staying in small claims offers speed and simplicity but caps your recovery at $8,000. Moving to higher court preserves the entire amount but introduces complex pleadings, discovery, and potentially attorney representation.

Waiving the excess is perfectly legal and often practical. Under § 34.01(4) of the Florida Statutes, a plaintiff may voluntarily limit recovery to the jurisdictional cap. The waiver must be clear on the face of the filing — typically a sentence in the Statement of Claim reading: “Plaintiff hereby waives any recovery above $8,000 to maintain this action in small claims court.” This ensures the judge and opposing party know that any judgment beyond the cap is not sought or enforceable.

Consider the tradeoffs. Small claims cases often resolve in 45–90 days, with minimal procedural motions. County or circuit civil cases, by contrast, can last six months to over a year. Filing in higher court may also require pretrial discovery, mediation sessions, and potential attorney appearances, each carrying cost. For many plaintiffs, waiving a few hundred dollars in exchange for fast, low-stress resolution makes sense. Others, particularly businesses with significant contracts, may prefer to pursue the full amount despite complexity.

If you elect not to waive, file your claim in the appropriate division. Claims between $8,001 and $50,000 fall into county civil court, while those exceeding $50,000 go to circuit civil court. Filing fees scale accordingly, with small-claims cases generally under $400 total and higher divisions reaching $500 or more. The form requirements and procedural timelines differ, so consult the clerk’s office or an online resource like LegalAtoms for division-specific guidance.

Another factor is enforcement. Small-claims judgments are enforceable just like higher-court judgments, through liens, garnishments, and executions. Therefore, the recovery process is identical — the only difference lies in the case’s initial complexity. If your debtor’s assets are limited or uncertain, it might be wiser to secure a fast small-claims judgment rather than chase a slightly larger sum through a prolonged case.

Ultimately, the decision to waive or upgrade depends on your priorities: time, stress, and potential recovery. Many litigants prefer the predictability and accessibility of small claims, especially when self-represented. Others, particularly repeat business filers, may maintain standardized forms and counsel for larger disputes. Whatever your choice, make it explicit in your pleadings and proceed with documentation that aligns with the chosen court’s jurisdiction.

Step 5: File your case with the clerk and pay the filing fee

Filing marks the official start of your case, giving the court jurisdiction and creating a public record. In Florida, small claims cases are filed with the Clerk of the County Court in the county where the defendant resides, where the transaction occurred, or where the property in dispute is located. Filing may be done in person, by mail, or electronically via the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal. Each county may have specific cover sheets or standing orders, so check the clerk’s website for local requirements before submission.

You must file the Statement of Claim, the Notice to Appear (Summons), and any supporting exhibits or attachments. Attach your receipts, contracts, and evidence neatly labeled. When filing electronically, upload PDFs in legible, rotated, and properly named format—e.g., “Exhibit A_Receipt.pdf.” Most clerks reject blurry or sideways files. The filing fee depends on your claim amount:

• $55.00 for claims up to $500
• $80.00 for claims between $500.01 and $2,500
• $175.00 for claims between $2,500.01 and $8,000

You may also need to pay an issuance fee (around $10) for each summons and an additional service fee for the sheriff or process server. If you cannot afford these, file a Application for Determination of Civil Indigence. The clerk or judge will review your financial affidavit and may waive or defer fees if you meet income requirements under Florida Statute §57.081.

Once filed, the clerk assigns a case number and pretrial conference date, usually within 30–45 days. This date will appear on the Notice to Appear, which you must then have served on the defendant. Protect your filing date—it preserves your claim under Florida’s statute of limitations, typically 4 or 5 years depending on contract type. The filing date is when the clerk stamps your documents “Filed,” not when you prepare or mail them.

After acceptance, double-check the docket. The clerk’s online portal allows you to confirm your filing and track future entries, including returns of service or hearing notices. Keep all receipts and stamped copies in a physical and digital folder; these are proof of compliance and will simplify future enforcement. Filing marks the procedural turning point from preparation to litigation, setting deadlines and ensuring your claim formally exists within the judicial system.

Step 6: Serve the defendant promptly and correctly

Proper service of process is essential. Florida courts cannot issue judgments unless the defendant has been legally notified of the case. You must serve a copy of the Statement of Claim and Notice to Appear through one of three methods: personal service, certified mail (in limited counties), or a designated process server approved by the sheriff. Under Florida Small Claims Rule 7.070, the plaintiff is responsible for ensuring timely service—ideally at least 10–15 days before the pretrial date.

Personal service is the most common and reliable. The sheriff’s office typically charges around $40 per address. Provide the exact location and working hours of the defendant, and if it’s a business, include the name of the registered agent from Sunbiz.org. If the sheriff is unsuccessful, you can hire a certified process server—private professionals authorized by the circuit court—to make further attempts. They must complete a Return of Service form describing the time, place, and manner of delivery, which you must file with the clerk.

Service by certified mail is permitted in some counties, mainly for in-state defendants. The clerk handles mailing through certified delivery with a return receipt requested. However, this method is risky if the recipient refuses or fails to claim the mail; without a signed green card, service is incomplete. For out-of-state defendants, consult Florida Statute §48.194 on international or extraterritorial service.

If all personal and mail attempts fail, you may request substitute service or service by publication, but only after showing diligent search efforts—logging all dates, addresses, and attempts. File an affidavit of diligent search to demonstrate compliance. Judges are strict about this; improper service is the number-one reason small claims cases get dismissed or delayed. Always verify that your Return of Service has been filed before the pretrial conference; without it, the judge cannot proceed even if the defendant shows up voluntarily.

Remember, service is not just a formality—it ensures due process and preserves the fairness of the judicial system. Once completed, the clock starts for the defendant to appear or respond. Keep communication professional and avoid personal contact attempts; any hint of harassment or improper notice can be grounds for procedural challenge. Treat this step like logistics management: confirm every address, deadline, and receipt, and you’ll avoid the procedural traps that stall many self-represented litigants.

Step 7: Attend the pretrial conference and participate in mediation

The pretrial conference is the first scheduled court appearance in every Florida small claims case, typically held within 30–45 days of filing. It serves two purposes: (1) to determine if both sides can settle through mediation and (2) to set a clear path for trial if no settlement occurs. Attendance is mandatory—failure to appear may result in dismissal (for plaintiffs) or default judgment (for defendants). You cannot send a substitute unless the court has granted prior approval.

Arrive early, bringing three sets of your key documents: one for you, one for the opposing party, and one for the mediator or judge. Check in with the bailiff or clerk before your case is called. The judge will confirm the parties’ presence, explain procedures, and may refer the case immediately to mediation. The small claims process emphasizes resolution over litigation—judges prefer to see both sides attempt a compromise before proceeding further.

Mediation at this stage is informal and confidential. A neutral court-appointed mediator will meet with you and the opposing party—sometimes together, sometimes separately—to explore settlement options. Be concise and factual: state what you’re owed, what evidence supports it, and what resolution you’ll accept. Bring all supporting materials—receipts, contracts, texts, photos—and use them strategically. Mediators help parties craft realistic agreements, often involving partial payments, installment plans, or mutual releases.

If you reach an agreement, it must be written, signed by both parties, and submitted to the judge before you leave the courthouse. The agreement becomes enforceable as a court order once approved. Never leave with only a verbal understanding. If payment is promised, specify dates, methods, and consequences for default. Keep a copy of the signed agreement for your records.

If mediation fails, the judge will hold a brief scheduling discussion. The court may set a trial date (often within 60 days), assign deadlines for exhibit exchanges, and define any permitted discovery. Use this time to request practical relief—such as “order each party to exchange all invoices and photos within 14 days.” Judges appreciate organized, cooperative litigants who help streamline the case.

Pretrial is also your chance to evaluate your opponent. Observe whether they have documentation, counsel, or witnesses. These cues will shape your trial preparation. If the opposing party fails to appear, you may request a default judgment—but the judge will still verify service and the claim’s validity before ruling. Bring a copy of your proof of service to support that request.

Before leaving, confirm the next hearing date, time, and courtroom, and ask the clerk if you need to submit anything in advance (such as exhibit lists or witness disclosures). Mark these deadlines on your calendar and in your phone reminders. A successful pretrial conference—calm, professional, and well-prepared—either produces a workable settlement or sets you up for an efficient, evidence-driven trial.

Step 8: Prepare for trial with a clear, document-first case strategy

Trial preparation determines whether you present a coherent, persuasive case. In Florida small claims court, trials are streamlined—often 15–30 minutes per side—but that brevity magnifies the need for clarity. Judges expect concise evidence, chronological organization, and calm demeanor. Begin by reviewing your Statement of Claim and evidence file to ensure everything aligns: every dollar claimed should be backed by a specific document or testimony. Disorganized or missing exhibits are the most common reason plaintiffs lose strong cases.

Create a simple binder or digital folder labeled by exhibit number: “Exhibit A – Contract,” “Exhibit B – Payment Receipt,” “Exhibit C – Text Messages,” and so on. In the hearing, reference them by name (“Your Honor, please see Exhibit B, the invoice dated June 10, 2024”). Judges appreciate logical flow—they’re managing dozens of cases daily and will remember litigants who make their job easier. Avoid narrative tangents; stick to a linear story anchored by dates and evidence.

Prepare a two-minute opening statement. It should explain in plain English: what happened, what you’re asking for, and what proof supports it. Example: “I paid the defendant $3,000 for flooring work on January 3. He did not complete the job despite repeated promises. I requested a refund on February 10. These receipts and messages show I’m still owed $3,000.” This structure works for almost every small-claims dispute.

If you have witnesses—technicians, neighbors, employees—confirm their availability early. If someone essential won’t attend voluntarily, request a subpoena from the clerk and serve it properly (fees apply). Witnesses must have direct, first-hand knowledge; avoid calling friends who merely “heard about” events. Practice with your witnesses to ensure they understand courtroom etiquette: answer only the question asked, avoid interruptions, and speak clearly.

Anticipate defenses. If the defendant may claim you breached first or that they already refunded you, prepare exhibits and short rebuttals for each. A solid rebuttal often wins the case: “The defendant says he repaid me, but Exhibit D, my bank statement, shows no deposit.” You don’t need legal jargon—judges care about logic and credibility, not theatrics.

Finally, rehearse your closing statement: a short summary connecting the facts to your requested judgment. Example: “I’ve proven the contract, payment, and nonperformance. I respectfully request $3,000 plus filing and service costs.” Bring three copies of all exhibits—one for the judge, one for yourself, and one for the defendant—and arrive 15 minutes early with your documents in order. This professionalism sets the tone and signals seriousness.

Treat trial preparation as the blueprint for success: anticipate objections, verify your math, polish your story, and eliminate clutter. A well-prepared litigant often wins simply by being the most organized, concise, and factual person in the room.

Step 9: Present your case on trial day — clear, calm, and chronological

Trial day is the moment when preparation pays off. Florida small claims trials are designed to be informal but efficient—judges expect you to know your documents, state your story clearly, and avoid unnecessary drama. Arrive early, dress neatly, and check in with the bailiff or clerk. Bring three sets of your evidence—one for the court, one for yourself, and one for the other party. When the judge calls your case, move confidently to the podium or table and take a steady breath before speaking.

The judge will usually invite you to make an opening statement. This is your opportunity to outline your case succinctly—no more than a couple of minutes. Stick to facts and dates. A strong structure is chronological: explain what agreement existed, what went wrong, what you did to resolve it, and how much money is owed. Example: “Your Honor, I paid the defendant $1,200 for repair work on March 15. He failed to complete the job or refund me despite repeated requests. These receipts and messages show the payment and lack of performance.” Judges prefer simple language over emotional appeals.

Next, you’ll introduce evidence. Hand the judge the exhibit before discussing it: “Exhibit A is the contract signed March 1.” Pause while the judge reviews it. Explain briefly how each exhibit proves a key fact. Avoid repeating yourself or editorializing—facts carry more weight than adjectives. When showing photos, ensure they’re labeled with dates and short captions. Electronic exhibits should be printed unless your court specifically allows digital display.

If you have witnesses, call them one at a time. Begin with those who personally observed or participated in events, such as technicians, employees, or property managers. Ask open-ended, factual questions: “What did you see?” “What was agreed?” Avoid leading questions or coaching responses. Once your witnesses finish, the defendant may cross-examine them. Do not interrupt—wait to re-ask clarifying questions after the judge permits redirect. Your calm demeanor under questioning reflects credibility.

When the defendant presents their side, listen attentively. Take short notes rather than reacting verbally. If you need to clarify or rebut something, wait until the judge invites a response. Avoid interrupting or sighing—judges notice professionalism. When it’s your turn for closing remarks, summarize the evidence logically: “I’ve proven payment, nonperformance, and damages of $1,200. I request judgment in that amount plus court costs.” Keep it under two minutes. The judge may rule immediately or take the matter under advisement.

If you win, ask respectfully: “Your Honor, may I also recover filing and service fees?” Florida law allows reimbursement of these costs to the prevailing party. If you lose, thank the court and ask about post-trial options—motions for rehearing or appeals must be filed within short deadlines. Always maintain decorum, even if the outcome disappoints you. Judges remember respectful litigants favorably in future hearings. Remember that small claims is about accessible justice—clarity, honesty, and preparation win far more cases than rhetoric or confrontation.

Step 10: Post-judgment — collect efficiently and close the loop

Winning a small claims case gives you a judgment, but that’s not the same as being paid. Post-judgment collection requires persistence and record-keeping. Start by obtaining a certified copy of the judgment from the clerk—this is your official enforcement tool. Next, send a professional written demand letter to the defendant, attaching the judgment and specifying a payment deadline. Many defendants comply once they realize the judgment is final and collectible.

If payment doesn’t arrive, explore Florida’s enforcement mechanisms under Chapter 55 of the Florida Statutes. Common tools include:

• Writ of Execution — allows the sheriff to levy on non-exempt property, vehicles, or bank accounts.
• Writ of Garnishment — directs employers or banks to withhold wages or funds up to the owed amount.
• Judgment Lien Certificate — recorded through the Florida Department of State, creating a lien on the debtor’s personal property.

You may also request a Judgment Debtor Examination, where the debtor appears in court to answer questions about income, bank accounts, and assets. This discovery tool helps identify collectible sources. Keep detailed notes and copies of all correspondence and filings. Each enforcement step requires a small additional fee (typically $85–$125), but successful recovery can include reimbursement of these costs.

If the debtor owns real estate, record your judgment with the county’s clerk of court to create a lien. This lien must be satisfied before the property can be sold or refinanced. Florida judgments remain valid for 20 years, though judgment liens on personal property must be renewed every 10 years. Patience and periodic enforcement actions often yield eventual payment, especially if the debtor’s financial situation improves.

When payment is received, issue a Satisfaction of Judgment and file it with the clerk within 30 days to remove the lien and close the record. Failure to do so can create legal exposure for you. Keep copies of the satisfaction and any canceled checks for your records. If you agreed to a payment plan, document every transaction and ensure final payment clears before filing satisfaction.

Finally, take time to reflect. The small claims process can be stressful, but you’ve now navigated filing, mediation, trial, and enforcement. Your organized records will serve you well if you ever need to file another case or respond to enforcement. Completing post-judgment actions properly protects your rights, satisfies court requirements, and brings closure to the dispute—turning your judgment from paper into real-world recovery.

Costs Associated

Filing a small claims case in Florida is relatively affordable. The filing fee depends on the amount claimed: $55 (up to $500), $80 ($500.01–$2,500), and $175 ($2,500.01–$8,000). You’ll also pay about $10 per summons and $35–$60 for service of process. If you can’t afford these fees, file an Application for Civil Indigence to request a waiver. Mediation at pretrial is usually free through the county court’s program. If you win, the judge can order the defendant to reimburse filing and service fees, though attorney’s fees are rarely recoverable unless a contract allows it.

Time Required

Most Florida small claims cases resolve within two to four months. After filing, a pretrial conference is typically scheduled within 30–45 days, followed by mediation or trial within 60 days if no settlement occurs. Simple cases may finish the same day as pretrial; contested cases take longer, especially if service or evidence issues arise. Collection after judgment can extend the process depending on the defendant’s ability to pay. Prompt filing, organized evidence, and attendance at all hearings keep cases on track.

Limitations of Small Claims Court

Small claims jurisdiction is capped at $8,000 (excluding costs and interest). Courts can award only money judgments—not orders requiring repairs or specific actions. Discovery and formal evidence procedures are limited, which keeps cases simple but restricts complex claims. If your losses exceed the cap or you need an injunction, file in county or circuit civil court instead.

Risks and Unexpected Problems

Winning a judgment doesn’t guarantee payment. Defendants without wages or assets may be uncollectible. Cases can be dismissed for filing errors, missed deadlines, or improper service. Defendants may counterclaim for damages, increasing complexity. Even a victory can strain business or personal relationships, so weigh costs, time, and emotional impact before suing.

Resources

• Florida Courts Small Claims Guide
• Florida E-Filing Portal
• Florida Department of State Business Lookup
• Florida Court Clerks Directory
• Florida Legal Services