Short answer: Pennsylvania’s version of small claims court is the Magisterial District Court. You can sue for $12,000 or less, not counting court costs and interest, without a lawyer. Cases for more than $12,000 must be filed in the county Court of Common Pleas. If you lose, you can appeal to the Court of Common Pleas within 30 days of the decision.
This guide explains how small claims cases work in Pennsylvania, with notes for Washington County.
What cases can go to small claims court in PA?
Magisterial District Courts handle civil cases to recover money or property worth up to $12,000, such as:
- Unpaid invoices and personal loans
- Security deposit disputes. See Pennsylvania security deposit law
- Landlord-tenant claims, including many eviction cases
- Property damage and minor vehicle damage
- Contractor and consumer disputes
Some claims cannot be brought there, such as cases involving title to real estate. Philadelphia uses its Municipal Court instead of Magisterial District Courts.
How to file a small claims case in Pennsylvania
- Find the right court. File in the Magisterial District Court for the area where the defendant lives or does business, or where the transaction or incident happened. Washington County has multiple magisterial districts, so check which one covers the location.
- Complete a civil complaint. State who you are suing, how much you are asking for and why.
- Pay the filing and service costs. Costs vary by court and by the amount claimed. If you win, you can ask the court to include costs in the judgment.
- Serve the defendant. The court usually arranges service by mail or constable.
- Prepare for the hearing. Bring contracts, invoices, photos, texts, receipts and witnesses. Organize them so you can explain your case in a few minutes.
- Attend the hearing. The magisterial district judge hears both sides and usually decides the case at the hearing or shortly after.
Do I need a lawyer for small claims court in PA?
No. You can represent yourself, and many people do. A lawyer can still help with larger claims, cases against businesses with counsel, counterclaims, or when the other side may appeal. Businesses organized as corporations or LLCs may have special rules about who can appear for them.
What happens after the hearing?
- If you win: the court enters a judgment. If the defendant does not pay, you may need to take collection steps, such as a writ of execution.
- If you lose: you can appeal within 30 days to the Court of Common Pleas, where the case is heard again from the beginning.
- If the defendant does not show up: the court may enter a default judgment.
Deadlines still apply
Small claims cases must still be filed within the statute of limitations, which is generally 2 years for property damage and 4 years for contract claims. See our Pennsylvania statute of limitations guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the small claims limit in Pennsylvania?
$12,000, not counting court costs and interest. Larger claims go to the Court of Common Pleas.
How long do I have to appeal a magisterial district judge’s decision?
30 days from the date of the decision. The appeal is filed with the Court of Common Pleas.
Can I sue for more than $12,000 and waive the extra?
Generally, yes. You can choose to limit your claim to $12,000 to stay in Magisterial District Court, but you give up the rest of the claim.
Can a business sue in small claims court?
Yes. Businesses often use Magisterial District Court to collect unpaid invoices. Make sure the right person appears for the business.
Have a dispute that may be worth more than a small claims case, or facing an appeal? Kostrub Law Firm handles civil litigation in Washington County and the Pittsburgh area. Call (304) 982-1586.