Small claims court in Rockingham County, Virginia
In Rockingham County, small claims cases up to $5,000 are heard by the Harrisonburg/Rockingham General District Court. Here is where it is, how to reach it and how to file.
Where to file in Rockingham County
Harrisonburg/Rockingham General District Court
Address: 53 Court Square, Room 132, Harrisonburg, VA 22801 · Map
Phone: 540-564-3138
Rockingham County and the City of Harrisonburg share one General District Court in Harrisonburg.
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?
The General District Court in the city or county where the defendant lives or mainly works, where a business has its main office or registered agent, or where the events happened.
If the person or business you are suing is in another county, use that county's court instead. See all Virginia counties.
How to file in Rockingham County
Ask for payment in writing
Virginia doesn't require a demand letter before filing, but it's a good idea and can be used as evidence. Make a free demand letter.
Fill in the claim (DC-402)
Warrant in Debt, with the Small Claims box checked (DC-404 Warrant in Detinue to get property back) Get the form.
File it with the Harrisonburg/Rockingham General District Court and pay the fee
About $46 to $55 to file, depending on local add-ons, plus $12 per defendant for sheriff service. For example, Prince William charges $50 and Virginia Beach $52. The state's online fee calculator shows the exact amount for each court. Fee waiver: Petition for Proceeding in Civil Case Without Payment of Fees (form DC-409).
Have the papers served
The sheriff or a private process server serves the defendant, in person, through a family member 16 or older at home, or by posting on the door. Also mail the defendant a copy by first-class mail at least 10 days before court and file a Certificate of Mailing (DC-413).
Go to the hearing
You pick the court date with the clerk when you file, between 5 and 60 days after service; expect about 3 to 8 weeks. Bring receipts, photos, messages, the contract and your demand letter, with copies.
Want every detail? The full Virginia filing guide covers each stage with a checklist.
Open the filing guideCommon questions
Where is small claims court in Rockingham County?
Small claims in Rockingham County are filed with the Harrisonburg/Rockingham General District Court, 53 Court Square, Room 132, Harrisonburg, VA 22801. Phone: 540-564-3138.
How much can I sue for in Rockingham County small claims court?
Up to $5,000. Small claims court hears claims for money or the return of property worth up to $5,000, not counting interest. Bigger claims, up to $50,000, go on the regular General District Court docket, where lawyers and formal rules are allowed.
How much does it cost to file in Rockingham County?
About $46 to $55 to file, depending on local add-ons, plus $12 per defendant for sheriff service. For example, Prince William charges $50 and Virginia Beach $52. The state's online fee calculator shows the exact amount for each court. Fee waiver: Petition for Proceeding in Civil Case Without Payment of Fees (form DC-409).