Washington County District Court
Filing information for Washington County District Court in Chatom, AL. Part of the Washington County small claims court system.
Small claims in Alabama — the numbers that apply at this court
$6,000
maximum claim
from $35
filing fee (published, varies by claim)
2–6 yrs
filing deadline by claim type
Yes
e-filing accepted
Published court information — verify before acting. See the full Alabama small claims guide · The form that starts a case (SM-1): every field explained.
Courthouse Details
Washington County District Court
45 Court Street
Chatom, AL 36518
Mailing Address
P.O. Box 548
Chatom, AL 36518
Hours: Monday - Friday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Area Served
Washington County
How to File at Washington County District Court
E-filing available
This court accepts electronic filing for small claims cases.
Note: The Alabama Unified Judicial System provides the AlaFile e-filing portal, which allows pro se litigants to register and file new cases, including small claims.
File in person
Bring your completed forms to the courthouse during business hours.
File by mail
Most small claims courts accept filing by mail — check with this court first. Typically you mail your completed forms with the filing fee plus a self-addressed stamped envelope for your returned copies.
Ready to get your money back?
A demand letter often settles disputes before a case is ever filed — and it only takes a few minutes.
Read the demand letter guideSmall claims rules in Alabama
How much you can sue for
Individuals can sue for up to $6,000.
Deadline to file (statute of limitations)
6 yrs written contract · 6 yrs oral contract · 6 yrs property damage · 2 yrs personal injury
Common questions
How much does it cost to file a small claims case at Washington County District Court?
Filing fees in Alabama are set by the state and run from $35 to $198, depending on how much you're claiming. If you can't afford the fee, Alabama offers a fee waiver — ask the clerk how to apply. Fees change, so confirm the current amount with the court clerk before you file.
What's the most I can sue for in Washington County?
Small claims cases in Washington County are limited to $6,000. If your claim is worth more than that, you either have to bring it in a different court or give up the amount above the limit to stay in small claims. The clerk can confirm which court fits your claim.
Can I file online at Washington County District Court?
Yes — electronic filing is available for small claims in Washington County. You can also file in person or by mail. The clerk's office can tell you which option is fastest for your case.
Where is Washington County District Court, and when is it open?
Washington County District Court is at 45 Court Street, Chatom, AL 36518. Posted hours: Monday - Friday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm. Phone: (251) 847-2239. Hours change around holidays and court closures — call ahead before you travel.
Do I have to have a lawyer to file in Chatom?
Small claims court is built for people representing themselves, and most filers do exactly that. Whether an attorney may appear varies by state — the state guide linked on this page covers the rule where you are, and the clerk can confirm it.
Answers reflect published court data. Court rules and fees change — the clerk is always the authoritative source.