Small Claims Court in Arkansas: Filing Limits and Procedures

By / April 9, 2026

Small Claims Court in Arkansas: Filing Limits and Procedures

Key Takeaways:

  • The limit for filing a small claims case in Arkansas is $5,000.
  • You can represent yourself in small claims court, but it’s recommended to hire an attorney for complex cases.
  • Filing fees vary depending on the court and the type of case.
  • You have 30 days to file a small claims case after the dispute arises.
  • The court’s decision is final and cannot be appealed.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Determine if you can file a small claims case:
* Check the Arkansas Code (Arkansas Code Annotated, Title 16, Chapter 63) to see if your case meets the requirements for small claims court.
* Make sure the amount in dispute is $5,000 or less.
2. Gather evidence and documents:
* Collect any relevant evidence, such as receipts, contracts, or witness statements.
* Make copies of all documents and keep the originals.
3. Choose the right court:
* Determine which small claims court has jurisdiction over your case.
* You can find a list of small claims courts in Arkansas on the Arkansas Judiciary website.
4. Fill out the complaint form:
* Obtain the complaint form from the court clerk or download it from the Arkansas Judiciary website.
* Fill out the form completely and accurately.
* Make sure to include the following:
+ Your name and address
+ The defendant’s name and address
+ A brief description of the dispute
+ The amount in dispute
5. Pay the filing fee:
* The filing fee for a small claims case in Arkansas varies depending on the court and the type of case.
* The fee can range from $20 to $50.
* You can pay the fee in cash, by check, or by credit card.
6. File the complaint:
* Take the completed complaint form and filing fee to the court clerk.
* Give the clerk the original complaint form and a copy for the defendant.
7. Serve the defendant:
* You can serve the defendant yourself or hire a process server.
* Make sure to keep a record of service, including the date, time, and method of service.
8. Wait for the court’s decision:
* The court will review your case and make a decision.
* You will be notified of the court’s decision by mail.

Filing Fees:

  • Filing fee for a small claims case: $20-$50
  • Service fee for serving the defendant: $20-$50
  • Any additional fees for costs or expenses: $20-$100

Deadlines:

  • Time to file a small claims case: 30 days after the dispute arises
  • Time to serve the defendant: 10 days after filing the complaint
  • Time to respond to the complaint: 10 days after service

FAQs:

1. Q: Do I need an attorney to file a small claims case?
A: No, you can represent yourself in small claims court. However, it’s recommended to hire an attorney if you have a complex case or are unsure about the process.
2. Q: How do I serve the defendant?
A: You can serve the defendant yourself or hire a process server. Make sure to keep a record of service, including the date, time, and method of service.
3. Q: What happens if the defendant doesn’t show up to court?
A: If the defendant fails to appear, the court may enter a default judgment in your favor.
4. Q: Can I appeal the court’s decision?
A: No, the court’s decision in small claims court is final and cannot be appealed.
5. Q: How long does a small claims case take to resolve?
A: A small claims case can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to resolve, depending on the court’s schedule and the complexity of the case.

How to Find an Arkansas Attorney:

If you need help with a small claims case, you can find an Arkansas attorney through the following resources:

  • Arkansas State Bar: The Arkansas State Bar website (https://www.arkbar.com/) has a lawyer referral service that can connect you with an attorney.
  • Arkansas Judiciary: The Arkansas Judiciary website (https://courts.arkansas.gov/) has a list of attorneys who are certified to practice in Arkansas.
  • American Bar Association: The American Bar Association website (https://www.americanbar.org/) has a lawyer referral service that can connect you with an attorney.
  • Local Bar Associations: Many local bar associations, such as the Arkansas Bar Association, have lawyer referral services that can connect you with an attorney.

Legal Disclaimer:

This guide is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal advice. If you need help with a small claims case, you should consult with an attorney. The information provided in this guide is based on the laws and regulations of the state of Arkansas and may not be applicable in other states.

Official Resources

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