Small claims court in District of Columbia District, District of Columbia
In District of Columbia District, small claims cases up to $10,000 are heard by the D.C. Superior Court, Small Claims and Conciliation Branch. Here is where it is, how to reach it and how to file.
Where to file in District of Columbia District
D.C. Superior Court, Small Claims and Conciliation Branch
Address: 510 4th Street NW, Building B, Room 120, Washington, DC 20001 · Map
Phone: 202-879-1120
Online filing: available, per the court
Court addresses, phones and hours change. Call the clerk before you go, and ask whether small claims are filed at this location.
Is this the right district?
There is one small claims court for all of D.C., at 510 4th Street NW, Building B. The defendant must live or do business in D.C., or the problem must have happened there.
If the person or business you are suing is in another district, use that district's court instead. See all District of Columbia districts.
How to file in District of Columbia District
Ask for payment in writing
D.C. doesn't require a demand before you file, but a written request for payment is good evidence and may settle the case. Make a free demand letter.
Fill out the claim form
Small Claims Statement of Claim (with verification and notice).
File it with the D.C. Superior Court, Small Claims and Conciliation Branch and pay the fee
$5 for claims of $500 or less, $10 up to $2,500, and $45 above that. Certified mail service through the clerk costs extra, and a jury demand costs $75. Fee waiver: Fee waiver application; a judge can waive prepayment of costs if you can't afford them.
Have the papers served
Any adult who isn't part of the case can deliver the papers, or the clerk can send them by certified mail. You can't serve them yourself. To sue the D.C. government, serve both the Mayor and the Attorney General.
Go to the hearing
The first hearing is usually 3 to 4 weeks after you file, and it is held online. If you don't settle in mediation that day, a trial date is set. Bring receipts, photos, messages, the contract and your demand letter, with copies.
Want every detail? The full District of Columbia filing guide covers each stage with a checklist.
Open the filing guideCommon questions
Where is small claims court in District of Columbia District?
Small claims in District of Columbia District are filed with the D.C. Superior Court, Small Claims and Conciliation Branch, 510 4th Street NW, Building B, Room 120, Washington, DC 20001. Phone: 202-879-1120.
How much can I sue for in District of Columbia District small claims court?
Up to $10,000. You can sue for up to $10,000, not counting interest, attorney fees and court costs. The limit has been $10,000 since 2017. A counterclaim for more than $10,000 still stays in small claims.
How much does it cost to file in District of Columbia District?
$5 for claims of $500 or less, $10 up to $2,500, and $45 above that. Certified mail service through the clerk costs extra, and a jury demand costs $75. Fee waiver: Fee waiver application; a judge can waive prepayment of costs if you can't afford them.
Can I file a small claim online in District of Columbia District?
Yes. The court says online filing is available for small claims. Check the court website for the e-filing system and any fees.