What's stopping you from doing your own small claims case

Got ripped off, stiffed on a deposit, or left with unfinished work? If the dispute is for a small enough dollar amount, you can often handle it yourself in small claims court! Let the Playbook coach you through it.

Where are you right now?

Pick the one that fits. Each path walks you through the free guides in order.

Ready to sueSomeone owes you money or property and you're getting ready to file.

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Just got suedYou were served with small claims papers and want to get organized.

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Just researching? Small claims basicsThinking about it, or learning how small claims works for now.

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Many people decide that hiring a lawyer does not add up for a small claim. Small Claims Coach is built to help you handle your case yourself, without a lawyer — but if your situation is complicated, does not fit our samples, or a deadline is close, you may want to call a lawyer.

Get the free starter kit →A free checklist for your timeline, what you're asking for, your proof, and the other side's name and address Preview the Playbook →A filled-in sample of your state's claim form, checklists, a timeline and a hearing outline. $149 for your first year (introductory offer), then $199 a year. Join now.

Start free. Add the Playbook when you're ready.

Free, for every state: which court, the dollar limit, where to file, and the basic steps.

The Playbook: a filled-in sample of your state's claim form with a box-by-box guide (made-up case), your state's Playbook section, a document checklist, exhibit labels, a one-page timeline and a hearing-day outline. You do the work; the Playbook hands you the plays.

See what's inside →

Thinking about calling a lawyer about your thousand-dollar dispute?

Small claims is set up so you can bring or answer a case without a lawyer. The Playbook coaches you from your first step to hearing day: every state and DC has a filled-in sample claim form (for Mississippi, Oklahoma and Wyoming it's a sample layout we made, so you'd get the real form from the court clerk), plus your state's Playbook section and prep guides that work in any state. One membership covers every state. $149 for your first year (introductory offer), then $199 a year. Join now.

See the Playbook

Recent posts

Sued in Small Claims Court? What to Do NextBeen sued in small claims court? Don't panic. Read the papers, calendar the hearing, gather your proof and prepare calmly, one step at a time.

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How to Save Text Messages and Screenshots as Evidence for Small Claims CourtHow to save texts, screenshots, photos, and receipts so the who, the when, and the whole conversation are there when you need them.

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Illustration of a white clipboard with ten orange check marks on a navy gradient, with the words 10 Things to Do Before You Sue.

10 Things to Do Before You Sue in Small Claims CourtBefore you file in small claims court, take these 10 steps: try to resolve it, send a written demand, gather proof, and check the limit, deadline, and court.

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Small Claims Coach uses public information to build the Playbook, which coaches you as you organize and present your own case. We are not your lawyer, there is no attorney-client relationship, and we don't want the details of your case.

This information is for educational purposes only. It is not legal advice.