In Kootenai County, small claims cases up to $15,000 are heard by the Magistrate Division, Kootenai County District Court. Here is where it is, how to reach it and how to file.
Address: 324 W Garden Ave, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814 · Map
Phone: 208-446-1160
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.
The county where the defendant lives or where the problem happened. To sue the State of Idaho, file in the county where you live and also mail the papers to the Attorney General.
If the person or business you are suing is in another county, use that county's court instead. See all Idaho counties.
Idaho doesn't require a demand before you file, but a written request for payment is good evidence and may settle the matter. Make a free demand letter.
Small Claims Form (with Summons CAO SC 1-1) Get the form.
$69 to file. Sheriff service costs extra and varies by county (for example, $55 in Owyhee County). An appeal costs $81. Fee waiver: Ask the clerk or Court Assistance Office for the fee waiver forms.
You can't serve the papers yourself. Use the sheriff, a process server, an adult who isn't part of the case, or certified mail through the clerk. The server files a sworn Affidavit of Service.
The clerk mails a hearing notice after the defendant answers or the 21 days pass. The court may send the case to mediation before trial. Timing varies by county. Bring receipts, photos, messages, the contract and your demand letter, with copies.
Want every detail? The full Idaho filing guide covers each stage with a checklist.
Open the filing guideSmall claims in Kootenai County are filed with the Magistrate Division, Kootenai County District Court, 324 W Garden Ave, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814. Phone: 208-446-1160.
Up to $15,000. Since July 1, 2026, you can sue for up to $15,000 (it was $5,000 before). Small claims can't award punitive damages or money for pain and suffering.
$69 to file. Sheriff service costs extra and varies by county (for example, $55 in Owyhee County). An appeal costs $81.
Yes. The court says online filing is available for small claims. Check the court website for the e-filing system and any fees.