Methodology and Sources

How the lookup works

The lookup links to the U.S. Department of Justice directory of court resources by state and provides a checklist of questions to verify with the relevant court. The former state-limit calculator is suspended: the page does not take a claim amount, calculate fees, or determine eligibility.

Limits are not the only consideration. Claimant type, dispute type, location, deadlines, and other rules can matter. The guides are general starting points, not a substitute for current local court instructions or legal advice.

Official sources used

• U.S. Department of Justice: state and federal court resources — entry point for finding state court sites.
• Arizona courts: small claims information sheet — limit, exceptions, service, and appeal rules for Arizona.
• California courts: serving a small claim — who arranges service and how it is documented.
• California courts: appealing a decision — who may appeal a small claims decision.

These examples do not describe every jurisdiction. Follow the official instructions for your court and case, as rules and links can change.