Guide to Small Claims
Colorado · Colorado Judicial Branch · Effective May 1, 2024
This guide explains the process for handling small claims cases, which are used to recover money or property up to $7,500. It walks users through the steps from starting the lawsuit to preparing for a trial.
Where this fits in a case
General & infoInformation / general use — not tied to one step of a case
This guide is used by people who need to file a small claims case in Colorado to recover money or property up to $7,500.
Either party may file.
Common questions
- What is the limit for a small claims case?
- Small Claims cases can be used for cases up to $7,500 in value to recover money or property.
- Who must file the initial paperwork?
- The guide instructs the Plaintiff on how to complete and file the starting paperwork, which is JDF 250.
Revision history
No changes recorded since we started tracking this form on October 10, 2026. The current version took effect May 1, 2024.
Related forms
- JDF75
Stipulation
This form is used to write down an agreement between the people in a case. It has sections for listing facts that both sides agree on and for everyone to sign.
Fillable PDF1 translationGeneral & info
Eff. May 1, 2025
- JDF 250 SC
Small Claims Notice and Summons
This form is a Notice, Claim, and Summons used to start a small claims case. It asks the plaintiff to state what they are claiming and when the defendant must appear in court for a trial.
Fillable PDF11 translationsStart a case
Eff. May 1, 2024
- JDF254
Small Claims Subpoena
This form is a Small Claims Subpoena that officially orders someone to appear in court and give testimony, or to bring specific items to court. It also includes sections for the court to fill out details about the case and the people involved.
Fillable PDFDiscovery
Eff. May 1, 2025
- No number
89 Notice of Garnishee, Application of Funds to Judgment, and Release of Funds to Judgment
This form is used to ask the court to tell a third party (the Garnishee) to pay money owed to the person who won the judgment. It also asks the court to officially release the funds after they are paid.
WordAfter judgment
Eff. Sep 1, 2024