The Small Claims section of the Salt Lake City Justice Court is designated to settle monetary legal issues and problems arising from contractual, service disputes and other claims. Small Claims cases are governed by Utah Code title 78A, Chapter 8. The rules for Small Claims can be found in the Utah Court Rules annotated, Utah Rules of Small Claims Procedure.
How to File and Prepare for Court
- Jurisdiction: A case must be filed where the defendant resides or the claim arose (where the events happened). Click here for a jurisdiction map.
- Filing your case: Once you have determined that Salt Lake City Justice Court has jurisdiction over your case, it is suggested that you use our court specific forms for all filings. However, the Utah State Court also has a program called, On line Court Assistance Program (OCAP) for assistance in preparing court documents that may be used and filed in our court.
- Forms: forms
- For help with the Small Claims process, including Fees and Frequently Asked Questions, you may browse the Utah Courts’ self-help page.
Mediation
- Mediation: Utah Dispute Resolution offers mediation services at this court. They are available at the beginning of each court session to help mediate small claims cases.
Interpreter Request
If English is not your primary language and you are unable to understand or communicate in English, the court will appoint an interpreter for you for all court hearings. You must request a court interpreter at least 3 days before the hearing, or the hearing may have to be postponed. To request a court interpreter, you may call the court at 801-535-6300, you may also email the court at smallclaims@slcgov.com, so that an interpreter may be scheduled to appear at your court hearing.
Class
Utah Association for Justice (UAJ) offers a free Small Claims class, held monthly, at the Salt Lake City Justice Court. For questions, please call UAJ at 801-531-7514.
Legal Resources
Utah State list of Legal Clinics
Utah State Bar list of Legal Clinics
Modest Means Lawyer Referral Program
Other Courts
Click here for a jurisdictional map.
ADA Accommodation
ADA Notice: If you are a party to a case, a witness or prospective juror and you need special accommodations (including communication aids and services) during an upcoming proceeding, please call the Salt Lake City Justice Court at 801-535-6300, or fax the court at 801-535-6302 at least three business days before the proceeding.