Small Claims Court Vs Justice Court Texas

Overview

Texans often use the terms “small claims court” and “justice court” interchangeably, but in reality, they describe different aspects of the same judicial structure. Since reforms enacted by the Texas Legislature in 2013, all small claims courts were merged into the Justice Courts system, streamlining local civil jurisdiction under a single umbrella. However, the term “small claims” still survives as a case category—one focused on resolving monetary disputes of modest amounts quickly, inexpensively, and without the need for an attorney. Understanding the distinction between the two is essential for anyone preparing to file or defend a civil claim at the local level.

A Justice Court is the official name for the court that hears small claims cases, among others. It is presided over by a Justice of the Peace (JP), an elected official who serves as both a judicial officer and a community magistrate. Justice Courts handle several types of matters: small claims, debt claims, repair and remedy actions, and evictions. The Small Claims Court label refers to one of those categories, specifically designed for straightforward monetary disputes valued at $20,000 or less, excluding interest and court costs. While the physical courtroom and judge are the same, the governing rules, procedures, and purposes differ slightly depending on whether the case is categorized as a small claim or another type of civil action.

The Justice Court system was restructured to make legal access uniform across Texas. Before 2013, separate “small claims courts” operated alongside Justice Courts, often causing confusion because the two shared similar powers but had different procedural rules. Today, the two have effectively merged. All filings are made in Justice Court, but litigants still refer to their case as a “small claims” matter when describing the type of dispute being heard. The following ten steps explain, in clear and detailed terms, how these courts function, how they differ in practice, and what Texans should know before choosing which procedure applies to their civil dispute.

Who Can File in Small Claims or Justice Court in Texas

Any adult individual, partnership, corporation, or limited liability company with a dispute valued at $20,000 or less (excluding interest and court costs) can file in a Texas Justice Court under the small claims category. The system is open to residents, landlords, tenants, independent contractors, small business owners, and consumers who seek to recover money or property without the complexity or cost of higher courts. The key qualification is that the dispute must involve civil, not criminal, matters—meaning it concerns financial loss, property damage, or contract performance, not criminal wrongdoing.

Typical filers in small claims include everyday Texans who have paid for goods or services that were never delivered, tenants who need security deposits returned, or service providers such as mechanics, landscapers, and plumbers seeking unpaid balances. Landlords can use small claims procedures to recover rent after a tenant vacates but must use eviction procedures (a separate docket within Justice Court) to regain possession of property. Retailers and small businesses also use small claims courts to resolve customer disputes over defective merchandise or unpaid invoices.

A person does not have to be a Texas resident to file in a Justice Court, but the claim must be filed in the correct county and precinct—usually where the defendant lives, conducts business, or where the event occurred. This venue requirement prevents forum shopping and ensures fairness. For corporations or LLCs, an authorized representative such as an owner, officer, or employee can appear without an attorney, provided they are familiar with the facts of the case. This rule (found in Texas Rule of Civil Procedure 500.4) underscores the accessibility of small claims, especially for micro-businesses and sole proprietors.

Individuals under the age of eighteen or persons declared legally incapacitated must file through a parent, guardian, or legal representative. Similarly, estates or trusts may appear through executors or trustees. Nonprofits and public agencies may file claims for restitution, reimbursement, or damages if the dispute fits within the jurisdictional limit. There are virtually no restrictions based on income, citizenship, or occupation; the system is designed to accommodate all Texans equally, whether they are a retiree seeking reimbursement for a faulty repair or a small contractor recovering payment for completed work.

Benefits of Using Small Claims vs Justice Court in Texas

The principal benefit of Texas’s unified Justice Court system is accessibility. Small claims procedures allow residents to resolve disputes quickly, inexpensively, and without lawyers, while maintaining the full authority of a court of law. Because the small claims process is integrated into the Justice Court structure, litigants gain the advantages of a simplified hearing while retaining the ability to appeal or enforce judgments through formal channels. This blend of informality and enforceability makes small claims an efficient, reliable mechanism for local justice.

One of the most important advantages is cost efficiency. Filing fees for small claims average around $50–$100—significantly lower than in County or District Courts—and attorney fees are optional. Parties can represent themselves, submit simple evidence such as receipts or photos, and obtain binding judgments often within 60 days. By contrast, larger Justice Court cases, such as debt or eviction proceedings, can require more documentation, longer hearings, and occasionally professional representation, increasing both expense and complexity.

Another benefit is speed. Small claims hearings are set more quickly than other Justice Court dockets, often within one to two months. This fast turnaround encourages prompt payment or settlement and minimizes financial disruption. Justice Courts handling other civil categories, such as debt or property disputes, may take longer due to procedural motions or statutory notice requirements. For individuals seeking quick reimbursement or resolution, small claims is the optimal route.

Small claims also promote procedural fairness. The Justice of the Peace takes an active role in guiding unrepresented litigants, explaining rights and processes in plain English. The Texas Rules of Evidence are applied flexibly, allowing judges to consider informal proof if it assists justice. This judicial flexibility levels the playing field for those without legal training, ensuring that truth and equity—not technicalities—determine the outcome.

From a systemic perspective, the merger of small claims into Justice Courts in 2013 created uniformity statewide. Every county now applies consistent rules and jurisdictional limits, reducing confusion and administrative overhead. Citizens no longer need to determine which local court handles their case—everything is filed under the Justice Court umbrella. Yet, the small claims label remains valuable as it signals the court’s simplified process for cases involving modest sums.

Step 1: Understanding the Judicial Structure of Texas Justice Courts

The Texas judicial system is composed of multiple levels, and Justice Courts form the foundation of that structure. They are the lowest tier of courts in Texas, authorized by Texas Government Code Chapter 27. Every county is divided into precincts, each with its own Justice of the Peace. These judges serve as the first point of access to the civil justice system, handling local disputes that do not exceed the monetary threshold of $20,000 and dealing with certain criminal, administrative, and civil matters that larger courts are not designed to process efficiently.

Historically, Texas maintained separate small claims courts that operated under simplified rules of procedure. However, the 2011 Legislature abolished those standalone small claims courts through House Bill 79, consolidating their jurisdiction under the existing Justice Courts effective May 1, 2013. This reform unified case management, standardized filing processes, and ensured all local civil cases were handled within the same administrative framework. As a result, there is no longer a separate courthouse for small claims; instead, there are Justice Courts that hear small claims cases as one of several docket types.

Justice Courts have four principal categories of civil jurisdiction: (1) Small Claims, (2) Debt Claims, (3) Repair and Remedy actions (for landlord-tenant issues involving habitability repairs), and (4) Evictions. The distinction lies mainly in the subject matter and legal complexity. Small claims cases are reserved for general money disputes that do not require intricate contract analysis or statutory interpretation—examples include unpaid rent, damaged property, or failure to return a deposit. In contrast, debt claim cases usually involve credit card debts or financial contracts, and eviction actions are governed by specialized landlord-tenant law.

The critical takeaway is that “small claims court” no longer exists as an independent judicial body but as a simplified procedural category within the Justice Court system. Every Texas resident, therefore, interacts with a Justice Court whenever they file or defend a small claims case, whether they realize it or not. This structural clarity improves accessibility and ensures consistent judicial standards statewide. Understanding this relationship between Justice Courts and small claims helps litigants know where to file, what procedures apply, and how to navigate the process without confusion or delay.

Step 2: Jurisdictional Limits and Case Types

One of the primary differences between small claims and Justice Courts lies in the concept of jurisdiction. “Jurisdiction” means the legal authority of a court to hear and decide certain types of cases. Justice Courts in Texas have limited civil jurisdiction, meaning they can hear cases only up to a maximum dollar value and of specific types. As of current law, the jurisdictional ceiling for any Justice Court civil case—including small claims—is $20,000 exclusive of interest and court costs. This limit is uniform statewide, ensuring predictability regardless of the county or precinct where you file.

Small claims cases specifically focus on simple disputes over money or property. Typical examples include a contractor suing for unpaid work, a tenant demanding a returned deposit, a consumer requesting reimbursement for defective goods, or a neighbor seeking payment for property damage. Debt claims, by contrast, often involve creditors, lenders, or collection agencies seeking payment under written contracts or promissory notes. While both are handled by the same judge, small claims cases are typically less formal, faster to schedule, and easier for self-represented parties to present.

In addition to small claims and debt cases, Justice Courts also handle repair and remedy and eviction cases, each governed by its own procedural rules. Repair and remedy actions allow tenants to request court orders compelling landlords to make essential repairs or reimburse them for costs of fixing dangerous conditions. Eviction cases deal strictly with the possession of property and unpaid rent disputes. These two categories move on faster timelines, often requiring hearings within ten to twenty-one days due to housing-related urgency.

Understanding which case type applies is critical to filing correctly. Misfiling a case—for example, filing a complex contractual dispute as a small claim—can lead to dismissal for lack of jurisdiction. Similarly, if the amount in controversy exceeds $20,000, the Justice Court lacks authority, and the claim must be filed in a County or District Court. Choosing the right category ensures the judge can legally issue a ruling and that your case proceeds efficiently.

Because small claims are designed to be accessible to everyone, the rules allow informal pleadings and relaxed evidentiary requirements. Filers need only provide a short statement of their claim, the amount requested, and basic supporting facts. The Justice of the Peace ensures fairness by helping both sides understand procedure and ensuring neither gains advantage through legal technicalities. This simplicity is the defining feature that distinguishes the small claims process within Justice Courts from higher-level civil litigation.

Step 3: Differences in Procedure and Formality

Although small claims and Justice Courts share the same physical courtroom and judge, the level of formality differs depending on the case type. Small claims cases are intentionally informal to make justice accessible to individuals without lawyers. The procedures are simplified, deadlines are shorter, and evidentiary rules are applied flexibly so that litigants can focus on presenting facts rather than legal technicalities. The Justice of the Peace plays an active role in guiding proceedings, explaining rules, and maintaining balance between parties with and without representation.

In a small claims case, parties usually file petitions using plain-language forms available through the Texas Justice Court Training Center or local court websites. Hearings are scheduled within weeks rather than months, and trials typically last less than an hour. The emphasis is on swift, equitable resolution. In contrast, other civil matters within the Justice Court—especially debt or repair and remedy cases—may involve stricter pleadings, formal discovery, or procedural motions resembling those used in higher courts.

Another procedural distinction is the allowance of self-representation. In small claims, any individual may appear on their own behalf without an attorney. Businesses may be represented by an employee, owner, or officer without hiring counsel, which helps reduce cost. However, in debt or eviction cases, companies often choose to retain attorneys because those matters can raise legal defenses under contract or property law. This flexibility reflects the legislature’s intent to keep small claims approachable and inexpensive.

The burden of proof also differs slightly in practice. In small claims cases, plaintiffs must show their claim by a “preponderance of the evidence”—that it is more likely than not that they are owed money or property. Judges are empowered to weigh credibility informally, focusing on fairness and practical evidence like receipts, photos, or text messages. In higher courts or more complex Justice Court cases, evidentiary rules become stricter, and judges rely more heavily on written motions and legal argumentation.

This procedural informality does not mean small claims cases lack authority. Judgments issued in small claims carry the same legal weight as those from any other court of law and are enforceable statewide. However, because Justice Courts also handle other dockets, the distinction lies not in power but in process. In short, the Justice Court provides the forum, while the small claims designation defines the simplified, citizen-friendly procedure used within that forum.

Step 4: Filing Process in Small Claims vs Other Justice Court Cases

Although both small claims and other civil matters are filed in the same Justice Court, the procedural simplicity of small claims cases distinguishes them from other categories. When you file a small claim, you’re expected to complete a brief petition using plain language forms provided by the Texas Justice Court Training Center or your local precinct clerk. The form captures basic information such as the names of the parties, a short description of the dispute, the amount claimed, and your mailing address. The goal is accessibility — anyone, regardless of legal training, should be able to initiate a claim without confusion or legal counsel.

By contrast, filing other types of Justice Court cases, such as debt or repair and remedy actions, often involves more structured forms and stricter adherence to procedural rules. Debt cases, for instance, must cite the underlying contract or credit agreement, attach supporting documents, and comply with fair debt collection statutes. Repair and remedy actions require the tenant to provide evidence of written notice to the landlord before filing, and eviction petitions demand additional compliance with Texas Property Code requirements.

Filing fees also vary slightly but generally remain affordable — typically between $54 and $100 depending on the county. Small claims actions usually require only one filing fee and one service fee per defendant, while eviction and repair cases may involve multiple fees for writs, notices, or sheriff’s service. For those unable to afford fees, both small claims and other Justice Court case types allow a Statement of Inability to Afford Payment, which waives court costs when approved.

One subtle but important procedural difference lies in how pleadings are evaluated. In small claims, judges allow flexibility — petitions are not dismissed for minor omissions or imperfect formatting. In contrast, debt or contract-based cases might face dismissal if key documentation is missing. This leniency reinforces the small claims court’s purpose as a people’s court, prioritizing fairness over formalism.

Once a small claim is filed, the clerk issues a citation and forwards it to the local constable or sheriff for service. The defendant must respond within 14 days of service. Hearings are generally scheduled within 45–60 days of filing, compared to longer timelines in more complex dockets. This expedited pace is one of the key features that differentiate small claims from other Justice Court cases. For self-represented litigants, this simplicity reduces stress and cost while still offering a structured path to justice.

Step 5: Representation and Legal Guidance

One of the most important distinctions between small claims and other Justice Court cases lies in representation. In Texas small claims cases, individuals and businesses can represent themselves without hiring an attorney. This self-representation policy is enshrined in Texas Rule of Civil Procedure 500.4, which expressly allows parties to appear “in person or by authorized agent.” This makes small claims proceedings particularly attractive to tenants, contractors, small business owners, and individuals seeking quick relief without incurring attorney’s fees.

Justice Courts hearing debt or eviction cases, however, often operate under more complex procedural rules that make legal representation advisable, if not essential. Creditors, landlords, and commercial plaintiffs typically engage attorneys because these cases involve nuanced statutes, such as the Texas Property Code or Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. In such proceedings, missing a filing deadline or presenting inadequate evidence can lead to automatic dismissal.

Another area where the courts differ is the degree of judicial assistance. In small claims cases, judges take an active role in explaining procedures, ensuring both sides understand the process, and allowing broader latitude in presenting evidence. In debt or eviction cases, judges maintain a more formal posture, expecting compliance with procedural norms. This difference reflects the legislative intent behind small claims reform — to make local courts accessible to ordinary Texans who might otherwise avoid litigation altogether.

For businesses, the ability to appear without an attorney in small claims cases offers a financial advantage. A small contractor can sue for unpaid work or damaged tools without hiring legal counsel, while an individual can recover deposits or damages independently. However, businesses must still send an authorized representative who is familiar with the facts of the case. Failure to appear or appoint a proper agent can result in dismissal or default judgment.

Legal resources are widely available for those navigating small claims without representation. The TexasLawHelp.org portal and county clerks’ websites provide sample petitions, guidance documents, and fee schedules. For more complex Justice Court cases, such as evictions or repair actions, consulting an attorney can be prudent to avoid procedural pitfalls. Ultimately, the ability to represent oneself in small claims court underscores the system’s accessibility — a defining difference from other, more formal Justice Court proceedings.

Step 6: Hearing and Trial Experience

The hearing process provides the most visible difference between a small claims case and other Justice Court matters. Small claims hearings are deliberately informal, typically held in open court before a Justice of the Peace without a jury. The goal is to facilitate open discussion and equitable resolution rather than to mirror the complexity of higher courts. Hearings often last 30 to 60 minutes, allowing both parties to present documents, photos, receipts, and witness testimony directly.

The judge guides the conversation, asks clarifying questions, and determines which evidence is most relevant. The Texas Rules of Evidence are applied “liberally,” meaning hearsay or informal proof may still be considered if it helps establish fairness. The process favors practical truth over procedural formality. For this reason, small claims hearings are often described as “community courts,” where justice is dispensed efficiently and personally.

By contrast, other Justice Court cases — particularly debt and eviction actions — follow more rigid structure. Debt claim hearings may involve cross-examination, written discovery, and motion practice. Eviction trials often proceed on accelerated timelines with property possession at stake, leaving little room for informal dialogue. Judges in those cases must adhere closely to statutory mandates under the Texas Property Code and federal housing laws.

In both types of hearings, the Justice of the Peace serves as both fact-finder and law interpreter. However, small claims hearings allow a broader narrative. Parties can speak freely without procedural constraints, focusing on fairness, reasonableness, and credibility. The environment is intentionally approachable: litigants can address the court directly, ask questions, and respond without the formality of legal language.

Decisions are typically issued immediately after the hearing, or mailed within a few days. Written judgments state who won, how much is owed, and how payment should be made. These judgments carry full legal force statewide, regardless of the informal nature of the hearing. This combination of simplicity, speed, and enforceability makes small claims hearings distinct from any other type of civil proceeding in Texas.

Step 7: Appeals and Post-Judgment Remedies

Once a Justice Court issues a decision, parties have the right to appeal — but the process varies depending on the type of case. In small claims, any losing party can appeal to the County Court at Law for a trial de novo (a completely new trial). This right ensures fairness and prevents irreversible errors in informal proceedings. To initiate an appeal, the losing party must file a Notice of Appeal within 21 days of the judgment and post an appeal bond or cash deposit. If approved, the entire case is transferred to County Court, where it begins anew under more formal rules.

Other Justice Court case types follow similar timelines but may involve additional technicalities. For example, eviction appeals require a bond or deposit within five days of judgment due to the urgency of possession issues. Debt claim appeals must include payment of costs and compliance with statutory procedures for transcripts or exhibits. The County Court treats all Justice Court appeals as fresh cases but expects full procedural adherence, including motions and discovery.

If no appeal is filed, small claims judgments become final after 21 days and can be enforced through writs of execution, garnishment, or judgment liens. In debt or eviction cases, post-judgment remedies follow more complex routes due to the nature of the obligations. Regardless of category, all Justice Court judgments are binding and enforceable statewide.

Appeals represent one of the strongest procedural safeguards within Texas’s decentralized court system. They ensure that a litigant dissatisfied with an informal outcome has access to a higher, legally rigorous forum. This dual-tier structure — Justice Court followed by County Court — reflects the state’s balance between accessibility and legal precision. It is the mechanism that harmonizes the informal spirit of small claims with the due process required of a modern judicial system.

Step 8: Judgment, Enforcement, and Final Orders

Once a Justice Court hearing concludes, the judge will issue a written judgment that formally decides the case. Whether filed as a small claim or another civil action, this judgment carries identical legal authority and enforceability. The document specifies who won, the exact amount awarded, and any post-judgment interest due under Texas law. In small claims cases, judgments are typically simpler—one party owes money to the other, payable within a certain timeframe. In debt, eviction, or repair and remedy cases, the judgment may also include specific orders, such as returning property or vacating a residence.

The Justice Court’s judgment becomes final twenty-one days after it is signed unless a party files an appeal. If payment is not made voluntarily, the prevailing party may request the court to issue a writ of execution authorizing the constable or sheriff to seize non-exempt property to satisfy the debt. Other available tools include abstracts of judgment—which create property liens—and writs of garnishment to collect from bank accounts. Even though the small claims process is informal, the enforcement mechanisms are identical to those used in higher courts, ensuring full legal effect.

In more complex Justice Court actions, particularly those involving leases or consumer credit, enforcement may intersect with specialized statutes like the Texas Property Code or Texas Finance Code. For example, landlords may enforce possession through a writ of possession, while creditors may file a post-judgment garnishment. Small claims judgments, by contrast, rarely involve such additional orders—they focus almost exclusively on payment of money damages. This practical difference highlights how the “small claims” classification simplifies the enforcement phase.

If a losing party disagrees with the decision, they can still appeal to the County Court at Law for a new trial. However, once the appeal window closes, Justice Court judgments are fully enforceable and reportable. The creditor can file an abstract in the county property records, potentially affecting the debtor’s ability to sell or refinance real estate until payment is made. The enforcement rights conferred by a small claims judgment therefore extend beyond mere collection—they protect the winning party’s ability to secure payment long after trial.

Ultimately, while Justice Courts and small claims share identical judicial authority, their distinction is procedural. A small claims case prioritizes speed, fairness, and accessibility; a Justice Court judgment, regardless of docket type, represents final, binding law. Once entered, the court’s order becomes a powerful legal instrument to ensure accountability and uphold local justice.

Step 9: Recordkeeping, Appeals, and Public Access

Justice Courts in Texas maintain official records of all small claims and other civil cases, ensuring transparency and accountability. After judgment, both parties can obtain certified copies of the court’s decision, writs, or filings for enforcement or recordkeeping. Small claims judgments are public records, meaning employers, lenders, and background-check services may access them. Maintaining accurate documentation—such as payment receipts or satisfaction notices—is essential for both plaintiffs and defendants.

Appeal rights provide a uniform layer of review across all Justice Court case types. Any party may file a Notice of Appeal within twenty-one days of judgment, accompanied by the appropriate bond or deposit. In small claims appeals, the County Court holds a trial de novo, effectively restarting the case from the beginning. This approach ensures that procedural informality at the Justice Court level never compromises fairness. Debt, eviction, and repair cases follow the same general timeline, though eviction appeals must be filed within five days due to housing urgency.

Each Justice Court maintains its own docket management system, but filings and appeals are standardized through eFileTexas.gov, the statewide e-filing platform. Many courts also accept filings by mail or in person. Digital modernization has made Justice Court records more accessible, allowing parties to track their cases, download forms, and confirm court dates online.

Transparency extends to oversight: Justice Courts are audited by the Texas Judicial Council and the Texas Justice Court Training Center, ensuring procedural compliance and public accountability. This oversight guarantees that small claims cases remain consistent in quality and fairness across Texas’s 254 counties. Whether you file a $500 dispute in Travis County or a $10,000 claim in Bexar County, the procedural framework and appeal rights are identical.

In essence, recordkeeping and appeal access demonstrate the fusion of local accessibility and statewide uniformity that defines the post-2013 Justice Court system. Texans benefit from a court structure that values efficiency while preserving full due-process rights—a system where the label “small claims” reflects simplicity, not lesser justice.

Step 10: Key Differences Summarized — Small Claims vs Justice Court

By the end of the process, the differences between small claims and Justice Courts can be summarized as functional rather than structural. The Justice Court is the institution—its jurisdiction defined by statute, its judges elected by precinct. The small claims process is the simplified pathway available within that court for everyday Texans. Both share the same courtroom, the same judge, and the same legal authority, but the rules governing evidence, filings, and attorney participation vary to accommodate accessibility.

Small claims cases emphasize speed, simplicity, and self-representation. They exist to allow citizens and small businesses to recover money without hiring a lawyer or enduring lengthy litigation. Hearings are conversational, filing fees are modest, and appeals are straightforward. In contrast, other Justice Court cases—debt, eviction, or repair—serve more specific legal purposes, often involving statutory obligations, landlord-tenant rights, or creditor protections. They require more documentation, adherence to stricter deadlines, and sometimes legal counsel.

The merger of small claims into the Justice Court system created uniformity, but the underlying philosophy remains distinct. Small claims continue to embody Texas’s promise of accessible justice—law made practical for everyday people. Understanding that the “small claims court” is not a separate institution but a simplified case category within the Justice Court helps citizens navigate the system confidently and make informed choices about filing, appeals, and enforcement.

In summary:

• Justice Court is the official court entity established by statute.
• Small Claims is a type of case heard in Justice Court under simplified procedures.
• Both have jurisdiction up to $20,000.
• Small claims emphasize accessibility; Justice Court encompasses additional civil case types.
• Judgments from either are equally binding and enforceable statewide.

This integrated model reflects a broader principle: local courts should serve communities efficiently while preserving fairness. Texas’s unified approach to small claims and Justice Courts achieves exactly that.

Associated Costs

Filing fees for small claims and other Justice Court cases vary by county but generally range between $54 and $100, plus service fees for each defendant (typically $75–$100). Optional post-judgment writs, abstracts, or garnishments incur separate costs averaging $5–$25 each. Appeals to County Court require an additional filing fee (around $200) and a bond or cash deposit based on the judgment amount. Litigants unable to afford these expenses can submit a Statement of Inability to Afford Payment, which waives all mandatory costs upon approval.

Typical Timeline

Small claims cases in Justice Courts typically move from filing to final judgment within 60 to 90 days. Evictions may conclude in under 30 days due to statutory acceleration. Debt and repair cases can extend to 120 days depending on evidence and discovery. Appeals add roughly three to six months to the timeline, depending on County Court docket availability. Despite these variations, the small claims process remains one of the fastest judicial remedies available in Texas.

Limitations and Considerations

While accessible, small claims courts cannot issue injunctions, restraining orders, or decide criminal matters. They are limited to monetary damages under $20,000 and may not hear cases involving title to land or family law disputes. Justice Courts themselves are courts of limited record, meaning appeals require a new trial in County Court. Parties seeking broader remedies or complex interpretations of law must file in higher courts. Understanding these boundaries prevents misfiling and saves time.

Authoritative Resources

• Texas Justice Court Training Center — official small claims and Justice Court procedural resources.
• eFileTexas.gov — electronic filing portal for all Justice Court and small claims actions.
• TexasLawHelp.org — self-help guides, forms, and procedural outlines for small claims litigants.
• Texas Government Code Chapter 27 — establishes Justice Court jurisdiction and duties.
• Texas State Law Library — comprehensive repository for statutes, rules, and forms.