Vermont Small Claims Court Guide
Everything you need to know about filing a small claims case in Vermont — dollar limits, filing fees, court locations, and step-by-step guidance.
Vermont Quick Facts
Maximum Claim
$5,000
Filing Fee
$40–$80
Court fees added to your case — not due today
Court
Small Claims Court (Civil Division)
Overview
Small Claims in Vermont
Vermont small claims court is handled by the Civil Division of the Superior 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. Vermont allows attorneys to participate in small claims hearings, though they are not required.
Filing fees in Vermont range from $40 to $80 depending on the claim amount. These fees are recoverable as court costs if you win your case. The proceedings are designed to be accessible, and the informal nature of the hearings makes it practical for people without legal training. Attorneys may participate but are not necessary.
Vermont 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.
To file, you must submit a complaint form to the Civil Division of the Superior 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, typically by certified mail or a private process server. The hearing is usually scheduled within 30 to 60 days.
Where to File
File in the Civil Division of the Superior Court 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
Service may be completed by certified mail, sheriff, or a private process server. Certified mail is commonly used for small claims cases in Vermont. The defendant must be served at least 12 days before the hearing.
Statute of Limitations
Written contracts: 6 years. Oral contracts: 6 years. Property damage: 3 years. Personal injury: 3 years. Fraud: 6 years from discovery.
Appeal Rules
Either party may appeal to the Superior or Family Court within 20 days. The case is retried de novo.
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