Nevada Small Claims Court Guide
Everything you need to know about filing a small claims case in Nevada — dollar limits, filing fees, court locations, and step-by-step guidance.
Nevada Quick Facts
Maximum Claim
$10,000
Filing Fee
$66–$196
Court fees added to your case — not due today
Court
Small Claims Court (Justice Court)
Overview
Small Claims in Nevada
Nevada small claims court is a division of the Justice Court and handles civil disputes where the amount claimed does not exceed $10,000. The court provides a simplified and affordable process for resolving monetary disputes. Nevada is distinctive in allowing attorneys to participate at the presiding judge's discretion, unlike many other states that prohibit attorney representation entirely.
Filing fees in Nevada are tiered: $66 for claims under $1,000, $86 for claims of $1,001–$2,500, $106 for claims of $2,501–$5,000, $146 for claims of $5,001–$7,500, and $196 for claims of $7,501–$10,000. These fees are recoverable as court costs if you win your case.
Nevada has transitioned away from certified mail service, so private process service or sheriff service is typically required. This means serving the defendant may cost more than in states that allow certified mail. The court can award monetary judgments, including filing fees and court costs, which are recoverable from the losing party.
Nevada small claims court is commonly used for collecting unpaid debts, recovering security deposits, seeking compensation for property damage, and resolving breach of contract matters. To file, you must submit an affidavit and claim form to the Justice Court serving the area where the defendant lives or where the dispute occurred. The hearing is usually scheduled within 30 to 60 days.
Where to File
File in the Justice Court of the township where the defendant lives, works, or where the incident occurred. For business defendants, file where the business is located or where the contract was to be performed.
Service of Process
Nevada has transitioned away from certified mail service. Service is typically completed by a private process server or sheriff. The defendant must be served at least 10 days before the hearing.
Statute of Limitations
Written contracts: 6 years. Oral contracts: 4 years. Property damage: 3 years. Personal injury: 2 years. Fraud: 3 years from discovery.
Appeal Rules
Either party may appeal to the District Court within 5 days. The case is retried de novo.
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