All small claims matters can be filed Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. by plaintiff in person or an authorized agent of the plaintiff.

1. Filing fee:
   • $15.00 for claims less than $1,000.00
   • $20.00 for claims more than $1,000.00
   • NO PERSONAL CHECKS ACCEPTED
     
2. Maximum amount of claim $5,000.00


3. Defendant must reside, work or have a regular place of business in Oswego County


4. Corporations, partnerships or assignees cannot sue in small claims court
   

Information needed for filing:

1. All parties' name and address


2. Actual dollar amount for which you are suing


3. Reason for claim (please make as detailed as possible)


4. Not a PO Box

You should gather all the evidence necessary to prove your claim or your defense. Anything that you think will help prove the facts in dispute should be brought to court. This includes photographs, written agreements, an itemized bill or invoice that is receipted or marked “paid”, written estimates of the cost of the service or repairs, a receipt for the purchase of an item or the payment of a debt, canceled checks, and correspondence. Video tape can be submitted as proof (VHS tapes or DVD's.ONLY). If you rely on estimates, two different written itemized estimates of the cost of the service or repairs are required. If possible, merchandise that is in dispute should be brought to court.

Testimony, including your own, is evidence. Any witness whose testimony is important to your case may testify. This can be a person who witnessed your transaction or someone whose special knowledge and experience makes him or her an expert on the cost of the service or repairs that were provided or may be required.