Hawaii Small Claims Court Guide
Everything you need to know about filing a small claims case in Hawaii — dollar limits, filing fees, court locations, and step-by-step guidance.
Hawaii Quick Facts
Maximum Claim
$5,000
Filing Fee
$30–$80
Court fees added to your case — not due today
Court
District Court (Small Claims Division)
Overview
Small Claims in Hawaii
Hawaii small claims court is a division of the District Court and handles civil disputes where the amount claimed does not exceed $5,000. The court provides a simplified and affordable process for resolving monetary disputes without requiring attorney representation. Hawaii is distinctive in allowing counterclaims up to $20,000, even though the original claim limit is $5,000.
Filing fees in Hawaii range from $30 to $80 depending on the claim amount. These fees are recoverable as court costs if you win your case. The informal proceedings are designed for self-represented litigants, and attorneys are not permitted to appear on behalf of parties in small claims court.
Hawaii 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. The tropical climate and tourist economy mean many cases involve visitor-related disputes, rental car damage, and hospitality industry matters.
To file, you must submit a complaint form to the District Court serving the area where the defendant lives or where the dispute occurred. After filing, the court issues a summons for service on the defendant. The hearing is typically scheduled within 30 to 60 days, and the judge may rule immediately or within a few days.
Where to File
File in the District Court where the defendant lives, works, or where the incident occurred. For business defendants, file where the business is located.
Service of Process
Service may be completed by certified mail, sheriff, or a private process server. Certified mail is commonly used for small claims cases in Hawaii. The defendant must be served at least 20 days before the hearing.
Statute of Limitations
Written contracts: 6 years. Oral contracts: 6 years. Property damage: 2 years. Personal injury: 2 years. Fraud: 2 years from discovery.
Appeal Rules
Either party may appeal to the Circuit Court within 10 days. The case is retried de novo.
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