Small claims court in Hopkins County, Kentucky
In Hopkins County, small claims cases up to $2,500 are heard by the Hopkins District Court, Small Claims Division (Circuit Court Clerk's office, Hopkins County Justice Center). Here is where it is, how to reach it and how to file.
Where to file in Hopkins County
Hopkins District Court, Small Claims Division (Circuit Court Clerk's office, Hopkins County Justice Center)
Address: 120 E. Center St., Madisonville, KY 42431 · Map
Phone: 270-824-7509
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.
Is this the right county?
File with the circuit court clerk in the county where the defendant lives or does business. A company can also be sued where an officer or its process agent lives, or, on a contract, where the contract was made or was to be carried out.
If the person or business you are suing is in another county, use that county's court instead. See all Kentucky counties.
How to file in Hopkins County
Ask for payment in writing
Kentucky doesn't require a demand letter before you file small claims, but asking for payment in writing first is a good idea. Make a free demand letter.
Fill in the claim (AOC-175)
Small Claims Complaint Get the form.
File it with the Hopkins District Court, Small Claims Division (Circuit Court Clerk's office, Hopkins County Justice Center) and pay the fee
From July 1, 2026, the small claims filing fee is $38 plus a $20 court technology fee and a few small required add-on fees, so expect to pay roughly $60. Service by certified mail (paid to the clerk) or by the sheriff (paid to the sheriff) costs extra. Fee waiver: Ask the circuit court clerk for a motion to proceed without paying costs and fees (in forma pauperis).
Have the papers served
The clerk issues a summons. You choose certified mail through the clerk or personal service by the sheriff. The case can't be heard until the defendant is served, and the clerk won't tell you whether service worked, so check.
Go to the hearing
The hearing date is printed on the Small Claims Summons; it depends on the county. Bring receipts, photos, messages, the contract and your demand letter, with copies.
Want every detail? The full Kentucky filing guide covers each stage with a checklist.
Open the filing guideCommon questions
Where is small claims court in Hopkins County?
Small claims in Hopkins County are filed with the Hopkins District Court, Small Claims Division (Circuit Court Clerk's office, Hopkins County Justice Center), 120 E. Center St., Madisonville, KY 42431. Phone: 270-824-7509.
How much can I sue for in Hopkins County small claims court?
Up to $2,500. You can sue for up to $2,500, not counting interest and court costs. It's for money or personal property only. Each person can file at most 25 small claims a year. Collection agencies, lenders who charge interest, and people suing on a debt someone else assigned to them can't use small claims. Libel and slander cases aren't allowed.
How much does it cost to file in Hopkins County?
From July 1, 2026, the small claims filing fee is $38 plus a $20 court technology fee and a few small required add-on fees, so expect to pay roughly $60. Service by certified mail (paid to the clerk) or by the sheriff (paid to the sheriff) costs extra. Fee waiver: Ask the circuit court clerk for a motion to proceed without paying costs and fees (in forma pauperis).
Can I file a small claim online in Hopkins County?
Yes. The court says online filing is available for small claims. Check the court website for the e-filing system and any fees.