Frequently Asked Questions

You can sue for most civil matters in which the amount in controversy is not more than $20,000, exclusive of interest. You cannot ask for a divorce in Justice Court, nor can you sue for slander or defamation, or to recover title to land, or enforce a lien on land. You may sue to recover a specific article of property if the value of the property is less than $20,000. The Justice Court is not able to require another party to do or refrain from doing any act. Know the value of your claim. If you are represented by an attorney, you may be able to recover attorney's fees, but the total amount of your claim, exclusive of interest, may not exceed $20,000.

The Justice Court must collect fees for filing a Petition in the Justice Court. A summary of the current costs can be found above in "Justice Court Fees".

You will need to determine who owns the business. Is it a corporation, a partnership, or a sole proprietorship? It is your responsibility to make sure that you are suing the proper party and that you have named an appropriate person as an agent for the service of the process.

If the business is a corporation, you will need the correct name of the corporation, and the name and address of the corporation's registered agent, or its president or vice president.

If the business is a partnership, you will need the name and address of at least one of the partners.

If the business is a sole proprietorship, you will need the name and address of the owner of the business.

Business ownership may be determined from the Chambers County Clerk's Assumed Name Records.

Information about corporate entities may be obtained from the Corporation Division of the Office of the Secretary of State at 512-463-5555, or the Office of the State Comptroller at 800-252-1386.

A Judge or Court clerk cannot advise you whether or not to file a lawsuit. Filing a lawsuit should be a last resort if you are unable to resolve your dispute with the other party. But, do not wait too long to present your claim as it must be filed within any applicable statute of limitations.

Gather all of the information you need to prove your claim. Collect all records, such as copies of contracts, invoices, or other agreements. Compile a list of witnesses with their names, addresses, and telephone numbers.