Georgia Small Claims Court

How it works in Georgia

1. Try to settle first. If you can't, write a sworn Statement of Claim with your details, the defendant's address and what you're owed.
2. File in the Magistrate Court of the county where the defendant lives. A corporation is usually sued where its registered agent is. Many courts take e-filing through eFileGA, and the clerk can help with forms but can't give legal advice.
3. Pay the filing and service fees. A sheriff, marshal, constable or court-approved person serves the defendant.
4. The defendant has 30 days after service to answer. If no answer comes in, ask the court about a default judgment.
5. If there's an answer, the court notifies both sides and sets a hearing. Some counties send cases to mediation first.
6. Bring your evidence and witnesses. A judge decides the case.

What it costs

Varies by county. Fulton and Gwinnett list $60 and Cobb lists $60.50, plus $50 per defendant for service in all three.

How long you have to sue

These are general limits. The clock can start late, pause or be much shorter, as it is for claims against a government agency.

If you lose

Either side can appeal by filing a Petition for Review in State or Superior Court within 30 days of the judgment, and the case is heard anew, but a default judgment can't be appealed.

Official links

• Georgia small claims self-help
• Find your court