Small Claims Courts Small claims courts are designed to allow you to resolve small claims in court with a minimum of time and expense. You can typically handle matters without the assistance of a lawyer. Indeed, some small claims courts do not permit lawyers to represent you in court, although you may consult an lawyer before or after you go to court. Small claims court costs are lower than regular courts, and the court procedures are simplified and relatively informal.
Some jurisdictions also limit the number of small claims actions a person can file in a given year.