In Orleans County, small claims cases up to $10,000 are heard by the Vermont Superior Court, Orleans Unit, Civil Division. Here is where it is, how to reach it and how to file.
Address: 217 Main Street, Newport, VT 05855 · Map
Phone: 802-334-3305
Online filing: available, per the court
The Orleans County Courthouse at 247 Main Street, Newport is temporarily closed to the public (vtcourts.gov notice, still posted on 2026-10-22). Court help, forms and in-person hearings are at the Orleans Criminal Courthouse next door, 217 Main Street, unless you are told otherwise. Check vtcourts.gov before going.
Court addresses, phones and hours change. Call the clerk before you go, and ask whether small claims are filed at this location.
The Civil Division of the Superior Court in the county where you or the defendant lives.
If the person or business you are suing is in another county, use that county's court instead. See all Vermont counties.
Vermont's small claims rules don't require a demand letter before filing. Make a free demand letter.
Small Claims Complaint Get the form.
$65 for claims of $1,000 or less and $90 for claims over $1,000. A sheriff or constable charges extra if mail service doesn't work. Fee waiver: Application to Waive Filing Fees and Service Costs.
Within 7 days of getting the court packet, mail the papers to the defendant by first-class mail and file a Certificate of Service. If they don't answer within 30 days, have a sheriff or constable serve them.
After the defendant answers, the court mails a trial notice, usually a few weeks before the trial date. Bring receipts, photos, messages, the contract and your demand letter, with copies.
Want every detail? The full Vermont filing guide covers each stage with a checklist.
Open the filing guideSmall claims in Orleans County are filed with the Vermont Superior Court, Orleans Unit, Civil Division, 217 Main Street, Newport, VT 05855. Phone: 802-334-3305.
Up to $10,000. You can sue for up to $10,000 (raised from $5,000 in 2023). Collection of consumer credit debt or medical debt is capped at $5,000. You can't split a bigger claim, and small claims can't hear libel or slander.
$65 for claims of $1,000 or less and $90 for claims over $1,000. A sheriff or constable charges extra if mail service doesn't work.
Yes. The court says online filing is available for small claims. Check the court website for the e-filing system and any fees.