How to Find Small Claims Court Cases

Small claims courts usually deal with cases equal to no more than $5,000.

Small claims court cases provide a plaintiff an opportunity to initiate lawsuits seeking smaller sums (usually less than $5,000). Once filed, a small claims case becomes public record, accessible by anyone who requests the information. To find small claims court cases, you can speak with the clerk of the court or conduct your own research. Alternatively, many communities offer online databases to search cases.

Instructions

1. Conduct a basic online search. Performing an online search using a city, county or state database may yield basic results. For example, Connecticut offers an online small claims search tool that provides case summary, judgment and party information. Make sure the names of relevant parties (plaintiff or defendant) are correct and conduct your search. You can contact the county court in which the proceeding was held and ask for information about an online database of court files.

2. Collect the required information. Locate the legal names, dates of birth and ages of the parties involved. Alternatively, if you are searching for cases involving a business, locate the business name and address. You will need information about court jurisdiction. Contact your county or city government and ask which courts---magistrate or county, for example--manage small claims cases.

3. Visit the court in which the case was filed. Ask the clerk of the court to view public court records. Many courthouses have an in-house database system available to the public. Additionally, depending on the age of the case, you may need to search microfiche film to locate the information. You can also submit your request in person to the clerk of the court.

4. Contact a private investigator. The Private Investigators Association of America can place you in contact with a professional investigator. An investigator can use skills and resources that may speed the process (See Resources).

References

• University of California Los Angeles: Small Claims Court
• Connecticut Case Look-up

Resources

• The Private Investigators Association of America