How much does it cost to file in small claims court in Georgia?

The filing fee in Georgia is $45. The maximum claim amount is $15,000.

What is the small claims court limit in Georgia?

In Georgia, you can sue for up to $15,000 in Magistrate Court.

No. Magistrate Court in Georgia is designed for people to represent themselves without an attorney.

Everything you need to know about filing a small claims case in Georgia. No lawyer needed.

Filing Fee

$45

Max Claim

$15,000

Court

Magistrate Court

Statute

OCGA §15-10-2

File a Statement of Claim at the Magistrate Court Clerk's office

File in the county where the defendant resides

Pay filing fee

Defendant has 30 days to respond

Served by marshal, sheriff, or court-appointed process server.

✓Bring ALL documentation — contracts, invoices, texts, emails, photos

✓Arrive early and dress professionally

✓Be concise — judges hear dozens of cases per day

✓Stick to facts, not emotions

✓Bring copies of everything (one for you, one for the judge, one for the defendant)

✓Know the limit — Georgia caps small claims at $15,000

✓Send a demand letter first — 40% of cases settle without going to court

No. Small claims court is specifically designed for people to represent themselves. In some states, lawyers are not even allowed.

From filing to hearing, typically 30-60 days in Georgia. Many cases settle before the hearing after receiving the demand letter.

You can use enforcement tools like wage garnishment, bank levies, and property liens to collect. CollectNow provides all these documents.

Generally, you must file in the state where the defendant lives or where the transaction/incident occurred.

We generate your demand letter and pre-fill all Georgia court forms automatically.