Small Claims Court in Indiana

Small claims court is the part of Indiana's court system designed for everyday disputes over modest amounts of money. The rules are simpler, the process is faster, and you do not need a lawyer. If someone owes you money or a landlord kept your deposit, this is often where the dispute is resolved.

What small claims court handles

Indiana small claims courts hear money disputes up to $10,000. Common cases include unpaid debts and loans, security-deposit disputes, property damage, unpaid invoices, and disagreements over services or repairs. If your claim is for more than the limit, you can sometimes still use small claims by agreeing to waive the excess, or you can file in regular court instead.

You do not need a lawyer

Individuals can represent themselves, which is the whole point of small claims. Businesses and corporations have some specific rules about who can appear for them. Either way, the judge is used to self-represented people and will not expect legal jargon, just the facts and your evidence.

How to file

1. File in the right court. Generally where the defendant lives or where the dispute happened. Indiana small claims are handled by county courts and, in some areas, township small claims courts.
2. Complete the claim form, naming the person or business you are suing (get the legal name right) and stating what you are owed and why. Forms are at the Indiana Self-Service Legal Center.
3. Pay the filing fee. There is a modest fee, which you can ask the losing side to repay if you win, and a fee waiver may be available if you cannot afford it.
4. The defendant is served with notice of the claim and the hearing date.

Preparing for the hearing

Cases are won on evidence and organization. Bring everything that supports your side: contracts, texts and emails, receipts, photos, and any witnesses. Put it in order and prepare to explain, briefly and calmly, what happened and what you are owed. Practice telling the story in a few minutes. The other side will get to respond, and the judge may ask questions.

If you win: collecting the judgment

Winning is not the same as getting paid. A judgment gives you the legal right to the money, but you may still have to collect it, through tools like wage garnishment or a lien if the person does not pay voluntarily. Factor that reality in before you sue someone with no income or assets.

If you are being sued

Do not ignore it. Show up to the hearing, because failing to appear usually means an automatic judgment against you. Bring your own evidence and your side of the story. For how the local courts are organized, see our Lake County and Porter County guides, and if you need help, the legal-aid resources can point you in the right direction.