Connecticut Small Claims Forms - Small Claims Court

Connecticut Small Claims Court FAQ Small Claims Connecticut

Who hears the claims in small claims court?

In small claims court, the trial is an informal hearing before a judge. There is no jury and the plaintiff presents his or her evidence and witnesses. The defendant is also responsible for presenting his or her witnesses. After hearing both sides of the dispute, the judge will render a verdict based on the law and the facts presented.

Who may file a claim in small claims court?  An individual, partnership or corporation (or LLC) may file a claim against another individual(s), partnership or corporation (LLC) in small claims court, if jurisdiction exists to hear the claim, if the amount of the claim does not exceed the statutory limits.

What must I do before I file a claim?  Before you file a claim, get the facts straight so you can complete the forms correctly and answer any questions court personnel may need to know. Be sure to obtain the correct legal name of the defendant, correct address and place/address of employment. If the defendant is a corporation or LLC you would use the legal corporate or LLC name as the defendant. 

How do I file a claim?  The plaintiff or the plaintiff's attorney should go to the small claims division of the district court in the particular county where the person or business to be sued has an office or is domiciled and file a Statement of  Claim Form. The plaintiff is responsible for furnishing the court with the correct and complete address of the defendant. The clerk will assign the plaintiff a case number and this number must be used whenever contacting the court concerning the particular case. A filing fee is required at the time the claim is filed. If the plaintiff cannot afford to prepay the fee at the time of the filing, he or she can submit an Affidavit of Substantial Hardship and request that the judge delay the payment. 

Who serves the defendant with summons or process and how is the defendant served?  The clerk of the court will issue a summons ordering the defendant to appear in court. The summons and the complaint must be served on the defendant. The summons and the complaint may be served by certified or registered mail. If the court provides this service, there may be an additional fee. If the defendant cannot be served using these methods, the precinct constable or any registered private process server will serve the summons and complaint for a fee. 

How are hearings scheduled? The clerk of the court will provide you with the procedure to set the case for trial or hearing at the time you file your claim. 

May I subpoena witnesses? If witnesses are required, but unwilling to attend the hearing unless they are subpoenaed, you may obtain a subpoena issued by the court clerk for service on the witness. The subpoena is an order for the witness to appear at the hearing to testify. Some employer may require that an employee be subpoenaed in order to be excused from work. 

What are the trial procedures? The trial procedure is generally more informal than other courts. The case will usually be called in open court and you will respond that you are present and ready to proceed. You will then be advised when to present your claim. Be prepared to present your claim in your own words. Be prepared to question witnesses if witnesses are needed. 

What happens if the defendant does not appear at trial?  If the defendant does not appear at trial, a default judgment will be entered in the plaintiff's favor for the amount of the claim or other relief. After judgment is obtained and the appeal time has expired, the plaintiff may seek to collect the judgment by acceptable means of collection. 

What are the common forms used in small claims court?  Common forms used in small claims court are:

  • Claim Statement/Complaint
  • Summons
  • Return of Summons
  • Answer
  • Subpoena
  • Abstract of Judgment

Top Questions about Connecticut Court Forms

  • How long do you have to file a lawsuit in CT?

    You have different timelines to file a lawsuit in Connecticut, depending on the nature of your claim. Typically, for personal injury lawsuits, you must file within two years, while for breach of contract claims, the deadline is six years. It is essential to act quickly and use the appropriate Connecticut Small Claims Forms to navigate the legal process effectively.

  • How long after an accident can you sue in CT?

    In Connecticut, if you are involved in an accident, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to sue for personal injuries. This timeframe is vital to keep in mind as delays can affect your ability to receive compensation. It is advisable to gather evidence and consider using Connecticut Small Claims Forms to file your claim promptly.

  • How long is the statute of limitations in CT?

    The statute of limitations in Connecticut varies depending on the case type. For most personal injury claims, you have two years from the date of the incident to file your case. However, for contract disputes, you typically have six years. It's crucial to understand these timeframes and utilize Connecticut Small Claims Forms to ensure you are submitting your claims correctly and timely.

  • What is the longest you can wait to sue someone?

    In Connecticut, the timing to file a lawsuit varies based on the type of claim. Generally, for most civil cases, you can wait up to six years to file a lawsuit. However, it is wise to act sooner rather than later to ensure you gather all necessary evidence efficiently. Using the right Connecticut Small Claims Forms can help you initiate the process and protect your legal rights.

  • What is the best evidence for small claims court?

    The best evidence for small claims court in Connecticut includes documents like contracts, receipts, and photographs. Well-organized evidence bolsters your case and shows the judge your side clearly. Always prepare your Connecticut Small Claims Forms with supporting evidence to strengthen your arguments. Testimonies from reliable witnesses can also greatly enhance the credibility of your claim.

  • How long do you have to sue someone in CT?

    In Connecticut, you generally have six years to sue someone for a debt or breach of contract. However, for specific cases, such as personal injury, the time limit is two years. To ensure you have all necessary documents, including Connecticut Small Claims Forms, it’s wise to act promptly. Remember, deadlines differ based on the type of claim, so check your situation carefully.

  • Do you tell someone you are taking them to small claims court?

    Yes, it is typically advisable to inform someone that you plan to take them to small claims court. This allows for the possibility of resolving the issue before court proceedings. Clear communication can also help avoid misunderstandings and additional conflicts. When preparing your case, review Connecticut Small Claims Forms for proper procedures.

  • What is the small claims limit in North Carolina?

    The small claims limit in North Carolina is currently set at $10,000. This means you can seek damages up to this amount in small claims court. If your claim exceeds that limit, you may need to consider other legal options. For proper guidance, familiarize yourself with the applicable forms, including Connecticut Small Claims Forms, if relevant.

  • How do I file a small claims case against someone out of state?

    Filing a small claims case against someone out of state involves determining the appropriate jurisdiction. You usually must file in the court where the defendant resides or where the incident occurred. Exploring how Connecticut Small Claims Forms apply to out-of-state cases can help streamline the process.

  • What can you not sue for in small claims court?

    In small claims court, you typically cannot sue for claims above the monetary limit or for non-monetary damages such as injunctive relief. Additionally, issues like defamation or personal injury may not be appropriate for this court. Knowing what you can and cannot claim is crucial, so ensure you review Connecticut Small Claims Forms thoroughly.