Small claims court in Washington County, Rhode Island
In Washington County, small claims cases up to $5,000 are heard by the Rhode Island District Court, 4th Division (McGrath Judicial Complex). Here is where it is, how to reach it and how to file.
Where to file in Washington County
Rhode Island District Court, 4th Division (McGrath Judicial Complex)
Address: 4800 Tower Hill Road, Wakefield, RI 02879 · Map
Phone: 401-782-4131
North Kingstown is served by the 3rd Division in Warwick (222 Quaker Lane, Warwick, RI 02886, 401-822-6750); the other Washington County towns use the 4th Division in Wakefield.
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 in the District Court division that handles the area where the parties live, as in other civil cases. If you are a corporation, you must file where the defendant lives.
If the person or business you are suing is in another county, use that county's court instead. See all Rhode Island counties.
How to file in Washington County
Ask for payment in writing
Rhode Island doesn't require a demand before filing, but asking for payment in writing first is a good idea. Make a free demand letter.
Fill in the claim (Small Claims Notice of Suit)
Small Claims Notice of Suit – Complaint Get the form.
File it with the Rhode Island District Court, 4th Division (McGrath Judicial Complex) and pay the fee
$75.75 to file. Starting January 1, 2027, the fee becomes $75 total. You also pay the sheriff or constable to serve the papers. Fee waiver: Ask the clerk for an application to proceed in forma pauperis (without paying fees)..
Have the papers served
The clerk issues a summons, and a sheriff or authorized constable serves it with the Notice of Suit and the Language Assistance Notice. You pay their fee and file the served summons with the clerk.
Go to the hearing
The clerk schedules a trial after the defendant files an answer; timing depends on the court division. Bring receipts, photos, messages, the contract and your demand letter, with copies.
Want every detail? The full Rhode Island filing guide covers each stage with a checklist.
Open the filing guideCommon questions
Where is small claims court in Washington County?
Small claims in Washington County are filed with the Rhode Island District Court, 4th Division (McGrath Judicial Complex), 4800 Tower Hill Road, Wakefield, RI 02879. Phone: 401-782-4131.
How much can I sue for in Washington County small claims court?
Up to $5,000. You can sue for up to $5,000, not counting interest and costs, for claims based on a contract, a retail sale, or services. Personal injury, car accidents and property damage can't be brought as small claims. You can't split a bigger claim into several suits.
How much does it cost to file in Washington County?
$75.75 to file. Starting January 1, 2027, the fee becomes $75 total. You also pay the sheriff or constable to serve the papers. Fee waiver: Ask the clerk for an application to proceed in forma pauperis (without paying fees)..