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Small Claims

The resources listed below assist individuals who are are looking for information on how to file or defend against a small claim.  For civil claims that do not exceed $3,500, small claims court can be used by any association, individual, partnership, or corporation.  If an agreement cannot be reached outside of court, a complaint may be filed. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Courthouse Locations

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Serving a Defendant in a Small Claims Case

The summons and complaint must be served on each named defendant. This is called "service of process."

The summons and complaint may be served by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested. Service is deemed complete when the defendant signs for it. The return receipt must then be filed with the court. If the postal service does not enter a date of delivery or the date is not legible, service is deemed complete on the date the return receipt is filed with the court. The plaintiff may file the return receipt (the green card) with the court in person or by first class mail. Remember, each named defendant must be served a copy of the complaint/summons. You should use restricted delivery to ensure the named party signs the return receipt. If the claim is against a corporation, the statutory agent or an officer of the corporation must be served on behalf of the corporation named in the complaint. You may obtain the name and address of a statutory agent or corporate officer by calling the Arizona Corporation Commission at (602) 542-3026.

Resources:

Frequently asked questions on serving others

Court location information

Law Library information

State Small Claims Information

 

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Statutes of Limitation

Time limits in civil actions begin from the date the events that created the legal action occurred.  These apply to small claims and civil suits.  This list is a general guide of the statutes of limitation in Arizona.

  • 1 year - Malicious prosecution; false imprisonment; libel or slander; breach of employment contract; wrongful termination; liability created by statute (ARS 12-541)
  • 2 years - Personal injury; injury when death ensues; damage to property; conversion of property; product liability; forcible entry and eviction action (ARS 12-542)
  • 3 years - Debt from oral contract; stated or open account; relief on ground of fraud or mistake (ARS 12-542)
  • 4 years - Bond to convey realty; partnership account; account between merchants; judgment or instrument given or made without the state; bond of personal representative or guardian; specific performance of contract to convey realty; actions for which no limitation is otherwise prescribed  (ARS 12-544, ARS 12-545, ARS 12-546, ARS 12-550)
  • 6 years - Written contracts for debt (ARS 12-548)

Forms and Information For:

Small Claims

Civil Cases seeking less than $10,000

Civil Cases seeking more than $10,000

 

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