Where Should You File Your Small Claims Case?

File In the Correct Venue

You must file your Small Claims case in the correct court location — this is called the venue. If you file in the wrong courthouse, your case may be dismissed unless all defendants show up and agree to have it heard there. Keep in mind: you can’t choose a courthouse just because it’s closest to your home.

In most cases, the correct courthouse will be:

• Where the defendant lives or does business

• Where the dispute occurred, or

• Where a contract was made or broken

Choosing the proper venue is important to avoid delays or dismissal of your claim.