SuperFrustrated77
Member
Florida
I'm trying to figure out what the differences are between the various courts when filing small claims. Talking to most, I have been told to get a lawyer and go that route... however, based on us having to pay to fix so many things in our new house we simply cannot afford a lawyer at this point. There is well over $5000 and even $15,000 of things that need to be fixed. What are the main differences between Small Claims, County and Circuit Court? I can't imagine the difference is just a monetary amount...? Basically why wouldn't I file in County or Circuit as opposed to Small Claims?
Thanks!
COUNTY COURT:
Handles violations of county and city ordinances
Misdemeanors, or minor offenses that could lead to a maximum sentence of one year in the county jail
Civil cases involving amounts of $15,000 or less, such as landlord-tenant or small claims disputes
All traffic violations
CIRCUIT COURT:
Hears family cases, such as dissolution of marriage, guardianship and juvenile delinquency
Felony offenses
Probate matters: Examples of which are processing of wills and settling estates
Civil cases involving a dispute of more than $15,000
Appeals from County Court
I'm trying to figure out what the differences are between the various courts when filing small claims. Talking to most, I have been told to get a lawyer and go that route... however, based on us having to pay to fix so many things in our new house we simply cannot afford a lawyer at this point. There is well over $5000 and even $15,000 of things that need to be fixed. What are the main differences between Small Claims, County and Circuit Court? I can't imagine the difference is just a monetary amount...? Basically why wouldn't I file in County or Circuit as opposed to Small Claims?
Thanks!
COUNTY COURT:
Handles violations of county and city ordinances
Misdemeanors, or minor offenses that could lead to a maximum sentence of one year in the county jail
Civil cases involving amounts of $15,000 or less, such as landlord-tenant or small claims disputes
All traffic violations
CIRCUIT COURT:
Hears family cases, such as dissolution of marriage, guardianship and juvenile delinquency
Felony offenses
Probate matters: Examples of which are processing of wills and settling estates
Civil cases involving a dispute of more than $15,000
Appeals from County Court