Hawaii Small Claims Court Guide
Everything you need to know about filing a small claims case in Hawaii.
Maximum Claim
$5,000
Filing Fee
$35
Fee waiver available
Court Name
Small Claims Division (District Court)
Hearing Timeline
30–60 days from filing
Find your courthouse in Hawaii
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 Hawaii?
In Hawaii, individuals can file small claims cases for up to $5,000. This limit applies to both individuals and businesses.
Hawaii Small Claims Court Filing Fees
| Claim Amount | Filing Fee |
|---|---|
| Standard filing fee | $35 |
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 Hawaii
You must file your claim within the time limits below, or the court will dismiss your case regardless of its merits.
6
years — written contract
6
years — oral contract
2
years — property damage
2
years — personal injury
Ready to take action in Hawaii?
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 Hawaii
Small claims cases in Hawaii are handled by the Small Claims Division (District Court). Hawaii has 4 circuit District Courts.
Where to file: File in the circuit where the defendant lives or where the cause of action arose
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 Hawaii
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: Personal service or certified/registered mail
Deadline: Service must be completed at least 15 days before the hearing.
Hawaii Small Claims Court Procedures
Can I bring a lawyer?
No, attorneys are generally not allowed to represent parties in Hawaii small claims court. You must represent yourself, though you can consult with a lawyer before your hearing.
Can I appeal?
No appeal from small claims
Is e-filing available?
No, e-filing is not currently available for small claims in Hawaii. You must file in person or by mail.
Are remote hearings available?
Remote hearings are available in some Hawaii courts. Check with your specific court location for current policies.
Official Hawaii Court Resources
Find Your Courthouse in Hawaii
Select your county to get the courthouse address, phone number, hours, and filing options.
Hawaii County
Hilo area
(808) 961-7515
Honolulu County
Honolulu area
(808) 538-5629
Kalawao County
area
(808) 244-2846
Kauai County
Lihue area
(808) 482-2303
Maui County
Wailuku area
(808) 244-2846
Don't see your county? Let us know here!
Ready to take action in Hawaii?
A demand letter often resolves disputes before court — our free guide shows you how to write one.
Read the demand letter guide