What is the maximum claim amount in small claims court?
In Virginia, the maximum claim amount in small claims court is $5,000. Small claims court is designed to resolve legal disputes quickly and inexpensively. It is an informal court where individuals can bring claims involving small amounts of money. It is also commonly referred to as "civil court". The filing fee to file a small claims lawsuit in Virginia is $50. If the filing fee is waived, a person is allowed to make a claim for up to $4,500. If the fee is paid, the person can make a claim for the full amount of $5,000. Small claims cases can be filed in the General District Court or the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court. In both of these courts, the defendant must be served with a summons and a copy of the claim before the case can be heard. The summons must be served at least five days before the court hearing. At the hearing, the plaintiff must prove that the defendant owes them the amount of money requested. If the plaintiff is successful, the court will issue a judgment in favor of the plaintiff. The defendant will then be required to pay the plaintiff the amount of money specified in the judgment. It is important to note that if the amount of the claim is more than the maximum of $5,000, it must be brought in the Circuit Court rather than Small Claims Court. This means that a different set of rules and procedures will apply.
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