Connecticut Small Claims Court Guide
Everything you need to know about filing a small claims case in Connecticut — dollar limits, filing fees, court locations, and step-by-step guidance.
Connecticut Quick Facts
Maximum Claim
$5,000
Filing Fee
$95
Court fees added to your case — not due today
Court
Small Claims Court (Superior Court)
Overview
Small Claims in Connecticut
Connecticut small claims court is a session of the Superior Court and handles civil disputes where the amount claimed does not exceed $5,000. The court provides a streamlined process for resolving monetary disputes without requiring attorney representation. Connecticut's small claims procedure is designed to be accessible and affordable for individuals and businesses alike.
The filing fee in Connecticut is $95, which conveniently includes the cost of service of process. This fee is recoverable as a court cost if you prevail in your case. The court handles service by mailing the summons and complaint to the defendant, simplifying the process for self-represented litigants.
Connecticut is distinctive in that attorneys are not permitted to represent parties in small claims court. Both individuals and businesses must appear on their own behalf, though they may seek legal advice before filing. The informal proceedings allow the judge to question parties and witnesses directly.
Connecticut small claims court is commonly used for collecting unpaid debts, recovering security deposits, seeking compensation for property damage, and resolving breach of contract matters. The court can award monetary judgments, including filing fees and court costs, which are recoverable from the losing party. Cases are filed in the Superior Court serving the area where the defendant lives or where the dispute occurred.
Where to File
File in the Superior Court (Geographical Area) where the defendant lives or where the incident occurred. The court handles service by mail as part of the filing fee.
Service of Process
Connecticut small claims court handles service of process for you. The court mails the summons and complaint to the defendant by certified and regular mail as part of the $95 filing fee. If mail service fails, you may arrange alternative service through a process server.
Statute of Limitations
Written contracts: 6 years. Oral contracts: 3 years. Property damage: 2 years. Personal injury: 2 years. Fraud: 3 years from discovery.
Appeal Rules
Either party may appeal to the Superior Court within 5 days of the judgment. The case is retried de novo.
File Your Connecticut Small Claims Case
We handle the paperwork — research, document preparation, court filing, and defendant serving.
Start My CaseConnecticut FAQ