Appealing a Small Claims Decision

• A plaintiff can't appeal a loss on their own claim.
• A defendant can, unless they skipped the hearing. They would first ask to cancel the judgment.
• The notice is due within 30 days after the clerk delivers or mails notice of the judgment, on form SC-140. The fee is $75, and a waiver is available.

• Either side can appeal to district court.
• A bond is required. A losing defendant bonds the judgment plus interest, $100 in costs and $15 in attorney fees. A plaintiff bonds $115.
• The appeal filing fee is listed as $97.

Move fast. The rule, Justice Court Rule 98(b), amended in October 2024, says 7 calendar days from service of the judgment. Las Vegas and Reno court pages still say 5 judicial days. Sources don't agree, so ask the clerk the same day you get the decision and file as early as you can.

You get a brand new hearing before a different judge. It's informal, and lawyers may take part. That decision is final, and a bad-faith appeal can cost you.

The self-help center says the district judge reviews the record for legal error, with no new evidence. Reno requires a transcript. There is no further appeal.