How to File a Small Claims Lawsuit in Cleveland County, Oklahoma

Throughout the United States, small claims courts settle civil law issues in which there is a dispute over money that is less than a designated amount. In the state of Oklahoma, only lawsuits seeking to recover $6,000 or less may be brought in these courts. Those who wish to file a lawsuit in small claims court in Cleveland County, Oklahoma should go to the courthouse to obtain the necessary forms from the clerk of the court and/or consult with an attorney.

Instructions

1. Go to the Cleveland County Courthouse. The courthouse is located in Norman, Oklahoma at 200 South Peters Street. Go to the office of the small claims clerk; it is located in the basement of the courthouse.

2. Tell the clerk that you would like to file a lawsuit in small claims court and you need the necessary forms. Let the clerk know what kind of lawsuit you are filing so that she knows what forms to give you. Different types of lawsuits require different forms.

3. Complete the small claims form that the clerk gives you. If you need assistance completing the form, ask an attorney to assist you. Do not ask the clerk to help you fill out the form because clerks are not lawyers representing you and cannot give legal advice. On the form, provide your name (as the plaintiff), your address and phone number and the defendant's name (the person you are suing). You will also need to provide the defendant's mailing address. Based on the type of lawsuit that you are filling, you will need to briefly describe why you are suing the defendant. If there is a monetary amount involved, you need to list that amount. Do not sign the form until the clerk directs you to do so.

4. Present the form to the clerk. You will have to take an oath and swear that what is on the form is the truth. Sign the form when the clerk directs you to do so. The clerk will verify that you have completed every section of the appropriate form, sign her name on the form, notarize it and set a date and time for the small claims hearing. The form will be served on the defendant so that he knows why you are suing him and the date of the hearing.

5. Ask the clerk how much the filing fees are and pay them. Your lawsuit cannot be filed and scheduled for a hearing until you pay the necessary fees in cash. Filing fees start at $45 and can go up to $105 as of 2011.

References

• Oklahoma Legislature: Oklahoma Statutes
• Cleveland County Court Clerk: Directions
• Oklahoma County Clerk: Small Claims Department -- Frequently Asked Questions (PDF)
• Oklahoma Bar Association: Brochures -- Should You Go to Small Claims Court?
• Oklahoma County Clerk: Forms
• Kay County Courthouse: Civil Filing Fees

Resources

• Cleveland County Court Clerk