Small claims suits may be brought for amounts in controversy not exceeding $10,000. Forms to initiate a small claims action are available in the Court Clerk’s office. Small claims cases are set for hearing approximately 4 to 6 weeks after filing. Evictions are set for hearing between 5 and 10 days after filing.
| Type of Claim | Filing Fee |
|---|---|
| Forcible Entry and Detainer (FED or eviction) less than $5,000. | $58 plus service |
| Forcible Entry and Detainer (FED or eviction) greater than $5,000. | $144.14 plus service |
| Indebtedness less than $5,000. | $58 plus service |
| Indebtedness greater than $5,000. | $209.14 plus service |
Filing fees must be paid at time of filing.
You should appear in court on your court date, whether or not the defendant has been served.
The docket will be called at 9 a.m. for small claims and 10 a.m. for evictions. When your name is called, please inform the judge that you are here and whether you are the plaintiff or the defendant.
Small Claims Department
Phone: 405-713-1737
Attorneys
Direct your argument to the bench not opposing counsel.
Litigants and the Public
Turn off or put your phone on vibrate before you enter the courtroom.
Requirements of a Motion to Compel and Motion for Sanctions
When discovery disputes arise, they usually are presented to the court in the form of a motion to compel. The motion may be summarily denied by the court if it does not contain a statement that the “movant has conferred or attempted to confer either in person or by telephone with the person or party failing to make the discovery in an effort to secure the information or material without court action.”. Email correspondence does not satisfy this requirement. Email usually heightens rather than pacifies discovery disputes. Also, sending a letter saying, “I will call tomorrow at 3:15 p.m. and will then file a motion to compel,” is not good faith.
A Motion for Discovery Sanctions cannot be the first step. Discovery sanctions may only be sought after a court has made a ruling on a Motion to Compel.