How to Sue in Denver Small Claims Court
Small claims court is Colorado's people's court: faster, cheaper, and more informal than regular civil court. If someone owes you money or damaged your property, small claims can resolve disputes up to a state-set dollar limit — currently $7,500, though limits can change, so confirm the current amount before you file.
Is small claims right for you?
Small claims court handles money disputes: unpaid debts, property damage, broken contracts, security deposit disputes, and many personal injury claims within the dollar limit. It cannot order someone to take an action or return property — only award money. If your claim exceeds the limit, you can waive the excess or file in regular county court.
Where to file
File in the county court where the defendant lives or works, or where the dispute arose. For a Denver dispute, that is Denver County Court. Filing fees are modest and based on the amount claimed — check the court's current fee schedule before you go.
Send a demand letter first
Before filing, send a written demand describing what is owed, summarizing the evidence, and setting a deadline to pay. Many disputes settle once the other side sees you are serious — a demand letter is cheap, fast, and often works.
File and serve the defendant
Complete the small claims forms, pay the filing fee, and arrange for service of process on the defendant. Proper service is required — the court cannot proceed without proof that the defendant was notified. Keep copies of everything you file.
Prepare your evidence
Gather contracts, receipts, texts, emails, photos, and witnesses before the hearing. Small claims judges decide based on the evidence you present, so organization matters more than legal jargon. Bring three copies of every document: one for the judge, one for the other side, and one for you.
The hearing
Arrive early, dress reasonably, and present your case concisely. The judge may encourage settlement or mediation before deciding. If you win, the court issues a judgment — but collecting it is a separate step: Colorado offers tools like wage garnishment and property liens that may require additional filings.
Do you need a lawyer?
Colorado small claims court generally does not allow attorneys — you represent yourself, though the court may permit one in limited situations. If your dispute is complex, involves significant money, or the other side hires counsel, a Denver civil attorney can advise you before you file or handle the matter in regular county court instead.
General information, not legal advice
This guide is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws, fees, deadlines, and dollar limits change — and every situation is different. Consult a licensed Colorado attorney for advice about your specific case.