Everything from the first letter to getting paid, in the order you'll do it. Tick each step as you go; your progress is saved in this browser.
1–3 weeks before filing
Arkansas doesn't require a demand letter, but the Attorney General suggests trying to settle with the other side first.
Use the free demand letter generator, give them 10–14 days, and keep a copy with proof of the date you sent it.
In Arkansas you can sue for up to $5,000 in the District Court, Small Claims Division.
Run the 60-second case check to see the last day you can file.
Use the company's exact legal name and serve its registered agent.
1–2 evenings
Small Claims Complaint: Small claims complaint and summons from your district court clerk. Ask the court clerk or check your court's website.
Sign the complaint; some courts ask for it to be sworn before the clerk or a notary.
Bring the original and one copy for each defendant, plus two sets of your proof (one for the court, one for the defendant).
Filing day
Choose how you'll file:
File in the county where a defendant lives, where the contract was made or to be performed, or where the injury or damage happened.
About $65 in most district courts, with small local add-ons in some (for example $67.50). Service is paid separately: the sheriff charges about $50, or you can use certified mail or a process server. Can't afford it? Ask for a fee waiver: Petition to proceed in forma pauperis (ask the clerk for the form).
The clerk gives you a case number and a summons for each defendant. You then arrange service by the sheriff, a process server, or certified mail.
Right after filing
Serve by the sheriff, a private process server, or certified mail with restricted delivery. You pay the server directly, not the court.
Serve within 120 days of filing. The defendant then has 30 days to file a written answer.
Proof of service (sheriff's return, server's affidavit, or signed certified mail receipt)
Make sure the proof is filed with the court; the sheriff usually files the return, but with mail service you file the receipt yourself.
Don't wait until the hearing. Ask the clerk right away for a new hearing date and try another method, such as personal delivery instead of mail, or a different address.
1–4 weeks before
The defendant must file a written answer within 30 days of service and mail you a copy. They can add a counterclaim or setoff.
If you settle, put it in writing and tell the clerk so the case can be dismissed.
Get any settlement in writing, signed by both sides, with the amount and payment date.
A witness who saw what happened is stronger than a written statement; some judges won't accept letters.
Ask the district court clerk for a subpoena for any witness who won't come voluntarily.
Hearing day
Speak to the judge, not the other side. Stay calm, answer the question asked, and don't interrupt.
If the defendant doesn't answer or come to trial, the judge may enter a default judgment after hearing about your damages. If you don't come, your case can be dismissed.
Weeks to months
Either side can appeal within 30 days after the judgment is entered on the docket. The case is heard again in the county's Circuit Court, with a new filing fee, and a bond may be needed if money was awarded.
The court doesn't collect for you. Ten days after judgment you can garnish wages (up to 25% of net pay) or a bank account, or ask for a writ of execution on property.
Keep proof of every payment. When you're paid in full, tell the court; some courts require a satisfaction-of-judgment form.