Small Claims Court

Recover Up to $12,000 in
Pennsylvania Small Claims

File or defend small claims cases in Allegheny County Magisterial District Courts. We prepare complaints, answers, counterclaims, and supporting motions—all properly formatted for PA courts.

$12,000
Maximum Claim Amount
30-45 Days
Typical Time to Hearing
No Lawyer Needed
Designed for Self-Representation

Common Small Claims Cases

Small claims court handles many types of civil disputes

Unpaid debts or loans
Breach of contract
Property damage
Security deposit disputes
Consumer complaints
Defective products/services
Vehicle accidents (property damage)
Unpaid invoices

Small Claims Documents

Everything you need to file or defend a small claims case

Small Claims Complaint

Initiate your claim

$4920 min

Answer to Small Claims

Respond to a lawsuit

$3915 min

Counterclaim

Sue the plaintiff back

$3915 min

Motion for Continuance

Request hearing delay

$2910 min

Discovery Requests

Request evidence

$4920 min

Subpoena for Documents

Compel records

$2910 min

Motion for Default Judgment

When defendant doesn't respond

$3915 min

Appeal to Common Pleas

Appeal MDJ decision

$7925 min

Small Claims Process

1. File Complaint

Submit your complaint and pay filing fee (~$45-$125) at the MDJ

2. Serve Defendant

Court serves defendant by certified mail or constable

3. Attend Hearing

Present your case to the Magisterial District Judge

4. Collect Judgment

If you win, collect your award (may require additional steps)

Tips for Success in Small Claims

  • • Bring all documentation: contracts, receipts, photos, correspondence
  • • Organize evidence chronologically with a summary sheet
  • • Practice presenting your case in 5 minutes or less
  • • Arrive early and dress professionally
  • • Be respectful and address the judge as "Your Honor"

Ready to File Your Claim?

Our AI helps you articulate your case clearly with all required legal elements.

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