District of Columbia Small Claims Court Guide
Everything you need to know about filing a small claims case in District of Columbia.
Maximum Claim
$10,000
$10,000 for businesses
Filing Fee
$5–$45
Fee waiver available
Court Name
Small Claims and Conciliation Branch
Hearing Timeline
60-90 days from filing
Find your courthouse in District of Columbia
Search by city, county, or ZIP code to get the courthouse address, phone number, hours, and filing options.
How Much Can You Sue For in District of Columbia?
In District of Columbia, individuals can file small claims cases for up to $10,000. Businesses, corporations, and LLCs are limited to $10,000.
District of Columbia Small Claims Court Filing Fees
| Claim Amount | Filing Fee |
|---|---|
| Claims up to $500 | $5 |
| Claims $501–$2,500 | $10 |
| Claims $2,501–$10,000 | $45 |
If you cannot afford the filing fee, you may qualify for a fee waiver. Ask the court clerk for a fee waiver application when you file.
Statutes of Limitations in District of Columbia
You must file your claim within the time limits below, or the court will dismiss your case regardless of its merits.
3
years — written contract
3
years — oral contract
3
years — property damage
3
years — personal injury
Ready to take action in District of Columbia?
A demand letter often resolves disputes before court. Our free guide shows you how to write one in minutes.
Read the demand letter guideWhere to File in District of Columbia
Small claims cases in District of Columbia are handled by the Small Claims and Conciliation Branch. District of Columbia has 1 Superior Court division (Small Claims and Conciliation Branch).
Where to file: File at the Small Claims Clerk's Office or via eFileDC. Cases must involve a DC-based defendant, transaction, or property.
Not sure which court you need? Our step-by-step filing guide walks you through finding the right court for your case.
Find your specific courthouse: Search for your county courthouse below ↓ — get the address, phone number, hours, and see if e-filing is available.
How to Serve the Defendant in District of Columbia
After filing your claim, you must formally notify the defendant. This is called "service of process" and is required before your case can be heard.
Accepted methods: Service of process must be completed within 60 days of filing. Personal service, substituted service, or certified mail are typical methods.
Deadline: Same county: at least 7 days before hearing. Different county: at least 7 days before hearing.
District of Columbia Small Claims Court Procedures
Can I bring a lawyer?
Yes, attorneys are allowed to represent parties in District of Columbia small claims court.
Can I appeal?
Either party may appeal a final judgment to the DC Court of Appeals within 30 days.
Is e-filing available?
Yes, electronic filing is available in District of Columbia.
Are remote hearings available?
Yes, virtual/remote hearings are available in District of Columbia.
Official District of Columbia Court Resources
Find Your Courthouse in District of Columbia
Select your county to get the courthouse address, phone number, hours, and filing options.
Don't see your county? Let us know here!
Ready to take action in District of Columbia?
A demand letter often resolves disputes before court — our free guide shows you how to write one.
Read the demand letter guide