Small Claims Court in Bell County

In Bell County, Texas small claims cases are typically filed in a Justice court and heard by the Justice of the Peace. Each township in Bell County has its own Justice Court and Justice of the Peace that handles small claims cases. There is one Justice Court that manages small claims for all cities within Bell County.

Squabble is here to assist you in navigating the small claims court system and filing a claim with ease. We recognize that not everyone is a legal expert, and our goal is to simplify the process for you. This guide will answer your questions about filing claims in the Bell Court System.

Small Claims Court

Small Claims Court is designed to make it easier for everyday people to settle minor money-related disputes without the stress or expense of hiring a lawyer. The process is simple, informal, and meant to be user-friendly—even if you’ve never set foot in a courtroom before.

What Kinds of Cases Are Handled?

This court deals only with civil cases where someone is asking for money—up to a maximum of $20,000. It doesn't handle cases where you're asking someone to do something, return property, or stop doing something.

Some Important Limits to Know:

  • Small Claims Court cannot order someone to:
    • Return personal items
    • Finish a repair or service
    • Start or stop an action

For Example:

  • If a mechanic charged you for a repair they didn’t actually do, you can ask for your money back. But you can’t force them to finish the repair—that would need to go through a different type of court.

Who Can File a Claim?

  • Adults (18+): Can file on their own.
  • Minors (under 18): Can file too, but they’ll need help from:
    • A parent
    • A relative
    • A “next friend” (an adult who supports and appears with them in court)
  • Other Groups That Can File a Claim:
    • Associations
    • Partnerships
    • Corporations

Who Can’t File a Claim?

  • Businesses that lend money and charge interest
  • Collection agencies

Key People in a Case:

  • Plaintiff: The person or business starting the lawsuit
  • Defendant: The person or business being sued

What Can I File a Small Claims

Small Claims Court is meant to help people resolve financial disputes quickly and without a lot of legal hassle. Here are some of the most common types of cases that fit within its scope:

  1. Breach of Contract
    • What it means:
      • Someone agreed to do something—either in writing or verbally—but didn’t follow through, and you lost money because of it.
    • Example:
      • You hired a contractor to remodel your kitchen, but they never finished the job. You can sue to get back the money you paid or the extra cost you spent hiring someone else to complete it.
  2. Unpaid Debt
    • What it means:
      • You loaned someone money, and they haven’t paid you back—even after reminders.
    • Example:
      • You lent cash to a friend or a client, but they’re dodging repayment. You can file a claim to recover what you’re owed.
  3. Property Damage or Personal Injury
    • What it means:
      • Someone damaged your property or caused you physical harm and won’t take responsibility by paying for the damages.
    • Example:
      • Someone crashed into your parked car and refuses to pay for repairs. You can take the matter to a small claims court to recover your costs.
  4. Wrongful Possession of Property
    • What it means:
      • Someone has your personal property and won’t return it—despite your efforts to get it back.
    • Example:
      • You lent a tool or another valuable item to a neighbor or friend, and now they’re refusing to return it. You can ask the court to award you the value of the item.

What Can’t I File a Small Claims

While the Small Claims Court is great for handling many straightforward, money-related disputes, there are some types of cases that are outside its authority. Here are the main situations where Small Claims Court won’t be the right fit:

  1. Claims Over $20,000
    • What it means:
      • If you’re asking for more than $20,000 (not including court fees or interest), you’ll need to file in a different court. This rule applies whether it’s one big claim or a few smaller ones added together that go over the limit.
  2. Personal Property Worth More Than $20,000
    • What it means:
      • If you're trying to get back an item—like a car, electronics, or equipment—that’s worth more than $20,000, Small Claims Court can’t help. Even if you're not asking for cash, the judge still has to consider the value, and if it's too high, your case will have to go elsewhere.
  3. Real Estate or Land Disputes
    • What it means:
      • Disagreements over who owns, lives on, or has rights to a piece of land or a building can’t be handled here. These cases are more complex and need to go through a higher court, like a civil or district court.
  4. Defamation, Libel, or Slander
    • What it means:
      • If someone made false or harmful statements about you—either spoken (slander) or written (libel)—Small Claims Court isn’t the right place. These cases involve more detailed legal arguments and often larger damages, so they have to be handled in a different court.
  5. Cases Asking for Actions, Not Money
    • What it means:
      • The Small Claims Court can only award money. It cannot:
        • Force someone to finish a job
        • Make someone return your property
        • Order someone to stop doing something (like harassing you)
        • Require someone to take action (like cutting down a tree)

If you need the court to make someone do—or stop doing—something, you'll need to file your case in a court with what's called equitable powers, like district court.

File a Small Claims Case

When filing a small claims case, it’s very important to file against the correct person or legal entity responsible for your financial loss. Suing the wrong party can delay your case or even cause it to be dismissed. Here's how to make sure you're on the right track:

If You’re Suing a Business

  1. Sole Proprietorships or Partnerships (Non-Corporate Businesses)
    • These types of businesses are owned by individuals or small groups and are not registered as corporations.
    • What to do:
      • Step 1: Contact the County Clerk’s Office in the county where the business is located to get the names of the business owner(s) or partners.
      • Step 2: When you file your claim, list the individual(s) personally responsible for the business, not just the business name.
    • Correct example: John Smith doing business as Smith Auto Repair
    • Incorrect example: Smith Auto Repair (without listing the owner's name)
    • For partnerships, it may be necessary to name each individual partner involved.
  2. Corporations
    • These are registered business entities that operate under a corporate or LLC structure.
    • What to do:
      • Step 1: Look up the name of the corporation’s registered agent, president, or vice president.
      • Step 2: List one of these individuals in your lawsuit, along with the full legal name of the corporation.

How to Find a Business’s Legal Information

  • If you’re unsure about the legal structure of the business or who owns it, the following resources can help:

Assumed Name Records

  • You can visit the County Clerk’s Office in the business’s home county to search for information on business names, owners, and assumed name (DBA) filings.

Texas Secretary of State – Corporation Division

  • Phone: 512-463-5555
  • Website: www.sos.state.tx.us/help.shtml
  • This is the best source for checking if a business is registered as a corporation or LLC and to find the registered agent or officers.

Office of the Texas State Comptroller

  • Phone: 1-800-252-1386
  • This office can help confirm whether the business is registered for tax purposes and provide basic ownership or contact details.

Small Claims Case Fees:

  • Small Claims: $54.00 for filing the case, with a total of $139.00 when including additional costs.
  • Jury: $22.00 (if you request a jury trial).
  • Abstract of Judgment: $5.00.
  • Writ of Execution: $5.00 for the filing, with a total of $255.00 including additional costs.
  • Subpoena: $10.00 for issuing a subpoena, with a total of $95.00 including service costs.
  • Writ of Garnishment: $59.00 for the filing, with a total of $234.00 including additional costs.
  • Turnover Order: $59.00 for the filing, with a total of $234.00 including additional costs.

Important Notes:

  • Out-of-county service costs must be verified by the Plaintiff and paid when filing the lawsuit.
  • All fees are subject to change without notice. It is important to check with the court for the most up-to-date information.

Statute of Limitations

In legal terms, this deadline is called the statute of limitations—and it’s the time limit you have to file a case after something goes wrong, like a broken contract, injury, or property damage.

Why it matters:

If you miss the deadline, your case can be dismissed—even if you're completely in the right. That’s why it’s critical to file on time.

Common Filing Deadlines in Texas

  1. Breach of Contract
    • Deadline: 4 years from the date the contract was broken
    • Heads up: Some written contracts may include a shorter time limit, so be sure to check the contract terms.
  2. Property Damage or Personal Injury
    • Deadline: 2 years from the date of the incident
    • Applies to: Car accidents, injuries, damaged property, and similar situations

Important:

  • Once the statute of limitations runs out, you lose the right to file the case—and you won’t get another chance.

Where Do I File

Small claims cases are filed in Justice Court, and your case will be heard by a Justice of the Peace.

Can You File in Any Justice Court in Texas?

Technically, yes—but it’s not recommended. If you file in the wrong court, the person you're suing (the defendant) can file a motion to transfer venue, which asks the court to move the case to the correct location.

If that happens:

  • You might have to pay the filing fee again
  • Your case could be delayed
  • Best advice: File in the correct court from the beginning to save yourself time and money.

How to Choose the Right Court (Venue)

  • You should file your case in one of the following places:
    1. Where the defendant lives
      • File in the precinct and county where the person or business you’re suing is located.
    2. Where the contract was supposed to be carried out
      • If the case involves a broken agreement (like an unpaid service or job), you can file where the work or service was supposed to happen.
    3. Where the damage or injury occurred
      • This applies to cases involving car accidents, personal injury, or property damage.
    4. Where the personal property is located
    • If you’re suing to recover an item, file in the location where the item currently is.

How Do I File

  1. Fill Out a Petition
    • This is the official form that starts your case. It needs to include:
      • The full name of the defendant (the person or business you're suing)
      • A brief explanation of why you're suing
      • The exact amount of money you're asking for
      • Your contact information
    • Tip: Most Justice Courts have blank petition forms available at the courthouse or online through their website.
    • Important:
      • If you're suing a doctor for medical malpractice, speak with an attorney first. These cases have special legal requirements and strict deadlines.
  2. Pay the Filing Fee
    • The fee is usually around $54, but it can vary depending on the county.
    • Call or check your local Justice Court’s website to confirm the exact amount.
  3. Serve the Defendant
    • After you file your petition, the court will prepare a citation—a legal notice that tells the defendant they've been sued. This must be delivered with a copy of your petition.
    • You are not allowed to deliver these papers yourself. They must be served by one of the following:
      • A constable or sheriff
      • A court clerk
      • A private process server
      • By certified or registered mail (must include a return receipt and be marked for restricted delivery)
  4. Pay the Service Fee
    • This is the cost of having the documents delivered to the defendant. The amount depends on:
      • Who delivers the documents
      • Where the defendant is located
    • Example: If the defendant lives in a different county, you may need to pay more for service.
    • Tip: Your local Justice Court can give you current service fee information based on your situation.
  5. Get Reimbursed If You Win
    • If you win your case, the court may award you:
      • The amount you sued for
      • The filing fee
      • The service fee

Can’t Afford to File

If paying court fees is a financial burden, you still have the right to file your small claims case. Texas courts offer a way to request a fee waiver based on your financial situation.

  1. Fill Out a Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs
    • This form tells the court you can’t afford to pay the standard filing or service fees.
      • You can ask the court clerk for the form—they are required to provide it if you request it.
      • Some courts may also have it available online.
  2. Swear That the Information is True
    • When you sign the form, you’re doing so under oath, which means you are legally stating that everything you’ve written is accurate.
      • Be honest. Giving false information can result in serious legal consequences.
  3. Complete the Form Thoroughly
    • Make sure to fill out every section of the form unless something clearly doesn’t apply to you.
      • The more clear and complete your answers are, the better the court can understand your situation and make a decision.
      • Include details about your income, expenses, dependents, and any public benefits you receive.

Why This Matters

  • If the court approves your request, they may waive or reduce your court costs—meaning you can move forward with your case without having to pay upfront fees.

Do I Need a Lawyer?

In Small Claims Court, you don’t have to have a lawyer. The process is designed to be simple and easy for individuals to handle on their own. However, if you’d prefer legal help, you can always hire a lawyer to represent you.

If You Don’t Have a Lawyer

  • You can ask a family member or friend for help with things like:
    • Preparing paperwork
    • Explaining the process
    • Offering emotional support
  • But keep in mind, they can’t speak for you in court. Only you can present your case and talk to the judge.

What the Court Can’t Do

  • Court staff are there to assist with administrative matters, but they can’t give you legal advice. This includes:
    • Telling you whether your case will likely succeed
    • Advising you on exactly who to sue
    • Helping you strengthen your case or collect money after you win

Rules of Civil Procedure

  • While the court staff can’t give legal advice, they must provide access to the rules that apply to your case, free of charge.
  • For Small Claims Court cases, Rules 500 through 507 cover:
    • The procedures to follow
    • What’s expected from both sides
    • How the whole process works

After File a Small Claims

Keep Your Address Updated

It’s important to always keep your mailing address current with both the court and the defendant. This ensures that you receive all important updates, notices, and court dates. If your contact information changes at any point, let the court know right away to avoid missing anything important.

  • The Court Issues a Citation
    • Once you file your petition, the court will issue a citation—a legal notice that informs the defendant they are being sued and must respond within a set time.
  • Serving the Citation
    • The citation must be officially delivered (served) to the defendant. You have a few options for how to do this:
      • Constable or Sheriff: You can pay a service fee for law enforcement to serve the citation.
      • Private Process Server: Hire a certified process server to deliver the citation on your behalf.
      • Fee Waiver Option: If you can’t afford the service fee, you can submit a Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs to request that the fee be waived.
  • Defendant’s Response
    • After the defendant is served, they have 14 days to file a formal answer with the court. They must also send you a copy of their response.
  • What Happens After the Defendant Responds?
    • If the defendant files an answer, the court will schedule either:
      • A trial, or
      • A pre-trial hearing
  • Pretrial Hearing (If Scheduled)
    • If a pretrial hearing is scheduled, here’s what you can do:
      • Request an interpreter if needed.
      • Request a subpoena to have a witness appear and testify at your trial.

What to Do If the Defendant Doesn’t Respond

  • If the Defendant Doesn’t Respond: What to Do Next
  • If the defendant fails to file an answer within 14 days of being served, you can move forward with the following steps:

Request a Default Judgment Hearing

You can ask the court to schedule a default judgment hearing. During this hearing, you will:

  • Present your case to explain why you are entitled to the money or property you’re requesting.
  • If the judge agrees with you, they’ll issue a judgment in your favor, even though the defendant did not participate.

Provide the Defendant’s Last Known Address

  • When you request a default judgment, you must provide the court with the defendant’s last known address in writing. This helps ensure that all legal procedures are followed correctly and allows the court to validate your request.

Submit an Affidavit About Military Status

  • You must also file an affidavit (a sworn statement) with the court stating:
    • Whether the defendant is on active duty in the U.S. military,
    • Whether you know if the defendant is on active duty, or
    • If you can’t determine the defendant’s military status.
  • The affidavit should also include:
    • How you know the defendant’s military status, or
    • Why you cannot confirm their status.

Verify Military Status Online

  • If you’re unsure whether the defendant is on active duty, you can verify their status online using the Defense Manpower Data Center (DMDC) tool at: https://scra.dmdc.osd.mil

Discovery

Discovery is an important process in small claims court that allows both sides to exchange relevant information before the trial. This ensures that each party has what they need to prepare properly for the hearing. Here's how it works:

Discovery Must Be Approved by the Judge

  • Discovery doesn’t happen automatically in small claims cases. To begin the process, you need to ask the court for permission. This ensures the discovery process is fair and that neither side is overwhelmed with excessive or unnecessary requests.

How to Request Discovery

  • To start discovery, you’ll need to file a motion for discovery with the court. In this motion, explain:
    • What specific information you need
    • Why it’s essential to your case
  • The judge will review your request to see if it’s reasonable and appropriate to allow discovery to proceed.

Reasonable and Necessary Discovery Only

  • The judge will only approve requests for information that are:
    • Specific
    • Relevant
    • Essential to your case
  • Example of a Reasonable Request: Asking for specific emails related to a business agreement with the defendant.
  • Example of an Unreasonable Request: Asking for all emails the defendant has sent over the last three years without a clear reason for why they are needed.

If You Receive a Discovery Request

  • If the court approves the other party’s request for discovery, you must respond.
    • If you think the request is unfair or irrelevant, you can file an objection with the court.
    • A hearing may be scheduled where the judge will decide whether or not you must provide the requested information.

Important Reminder

  • Don’t ignore a discovery request! Failing to respond can lead to serious consequences, including:
    • Fines
    • Losing the right to present certain evidence
    • Having your case dismissed

How to Deliver Paperwork to the Defendant

When you file paperwork in your small claims case, it's crucial to make sure both the court and the defendant receive copies. Here are the acceptable ways to deliver the documents:

  1. In Person
    • You can hand the paperwork directly to the defendant yourself.
  2. Certified or Registered Mail
    • Use certified or registered mail, which provides proof of delivery. This ensures the defendant has received the documents and you have a record of it.
  3. Delivery Service (FedEx, UPS, etc.)
    • You can use a reputable delivery service like FedEx or UPS, which offers tracking to confirm that the defendant received the paperwork.
  4. Fax
    • If the defendant has a fax number, you can send the documents by fax.
  5. Email
    • You can email the documents if:
      • The defendant has provided their email address, and
      • They have agreed in writing to receive legal documents by email.

Important Reminder:

  • Whenever you submit paperwork to the court, you must provide proof of delivery. This proof should clearly show:
    • How the paperwork was delivered
    • When it was delivered
    • To whom it was delivered

Reach an Agreement

Settling a case before going to trial can save time, money, and stress. Here’s how it works if you and the defendant decide to settle:

Court Judgment Based on Settlement

  • If both sides agree on a settlement, the court can enter a judgment that reflects the terms of the settlement, including how much money one party owes the other.

What the Court Cannot Do

  • While the court can issue a judgment based on your settlement, there are some things it can’t enforce, like:
    • Payment plans
    • Deadlines for when payments must be made

Creating a Written Contract

  • If your settlement involves things like a payment plan or a timeline for payments, you’ll need to:
    • Create a written contract that outlines the terms.
    • Get both parties to sign it.
  • This contract is separate from the court's judgment and can provide extra protection if issues arise later.

If the Defendant Breaks the Agreement

  • If the defendant doesn’t stick to the terms of the settlement agreement, you have the option to:
    • File a new lawsuit for breach of contract. This would be based on the defendant failing to follow the terms of the signed settlement.

Requesting a Jury Trial

In a small claims case, either the plaintiff or the defendant can choose to have a jury decide the case instead of a judge. Here's how it works:

How to Request a Jury Trial

  1. Submit a Written Request: You must submit a written request to the court, stating that you want a jury trial.
  2. Deadline: The request must be filed at least 14 days before the trial date.
  3. Pay the Jury Fee: There’s a $22 jury fee that must be paid when you submit the request.

If No One Requests a Jury

  • If neither party asks for a jury trial by the deadline, the case will be decided by a judge alone. This is called a bench trial.

Trial Notice and Requesting a Postponement

Trial Notice

  • The court will send you a trial notice at least 45 days before your trial. This gives you plenty of time to gather your evidence, prepare your witnesses, and get everything ready for the hearing.

Requesting a Postponement (Continuance)

  • If you need more time or if something conflicts with the trial date, you can ask for a continuance. To do so, you’ll need to:
    • Submit a written request.
    • Explain why you need a postponement.
    • Include any supporting documents if necessary.

Important Reminder

  • Don't miss your trial. If you fail to show up without an approved continuance, your case is likely to be dismissed, and you’ll lose the chance to pursue your claim.

Trial

Jury Selection (If It's a Jury Trial)

  • If you or the defendant requested a jury, the trial will begin with jury selection, also known as voir dire. During this process:
  • Both sides can ask potential jurors questions to make sure they’ll be fair and unbiased.

Opening Statements

  • Once the jury is selected (or if it’s a bench trial, just a judge), each side will have the chance to give an opening statement. This is your opportunity to briefly explain your case and outline the evidence and witnesses you’ll be presenting.

Presenting Your Case

  • Now it’s your turn to present your case.
    • Call your witnesses to testify and ask them questions that back up your version of events.
    • After each witness, the defendant will have the chance to cross-examine them (ask them questions).

Your Testimony and Evidence

  • You can also testify for yourself. Be sure to bring any evidence that supports your case, like:
    • Contracts
    • Invoices
    • Receipts
    • Photos/videos
    • Emails, texts, or other documents
  • Tip: Keep your evidence organized and easy to follow.

The Defendant’s Turn

  • After you present your case, the defendant will present theirs.
    • They’ll call their witnesses and introduce their evidence.
    • You’ll get the chance to cross-examine their witnesses by asking them questions.
  • Tip: Stay calm and respectful, even if you disagree with what they’re saying.

Closing Arguments

  • Once all the evidence and testimony have been presented, both sides will give closing arguments.
    • This is your final chance to summarize your case and explain why the court should rule in your favor.

Decision

  • In a jury trial, the jury will discuss the case and decide on a verdict.
  • In a bench trial, the judge will make the decision.
  • The decision will be announced in court, and you’ll also receive a written judgment.

Important Trial Day Tips

  • Bring all your witnesses and evidence with you.
  • Stay organized, respectful, and clear when presenting your case.
  • Speak honestly and confidently — being well-prepared will help you stand out.

What to Do If the Judgment Is Not in Your Favor

  1. Motion for a New Trial
    • What it is: This is a formal request asking the same court to hold a new trial. It’s typically filed when you believe there was a legal error or procedural mistake during the original trial that affected the outcome.
    • Deadline to file: You must file within 14 days of the judgment.
    • How to file:
      • Write and submit a motion that explains the mistake or issue that impacted the trial’s outcome.
      • You must send a copy of the motion to the defendant within one day of filing it.
    • Filing fee: $54 (unless you’re eligible for a fee waiver).
      • If you cannot afford the fee, you can submit a Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs to request a waiver.
  2. Filing an Appeal
    • What it is: This is a request for the county court to hear your case again in a de novo trial (a brand new trial).
    • Deadline to file: You must file within 21 days of the judgment.
      • If you first filed a motion for a new trial and it was denied, the 21-day period starts from the date the motion was denied.
    • Effect: The original judgment is set aside, and the county court will conduct a brand new trial.

Requirements for Filing an Appeal

To file an appeal, you’ll need to meet the following requirements:

  1. Appeal Bond:
    • You must provide a $500 bond, backed by a third party (called a surety), to guarantee payment if you don’t follow through with the appeal.
  2. Cash Deposit:
    • A $500 cash deposit held by the court (if you abandon the appeal, this may be awarded to the defendant).
  3. Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs:
    • If you can’t afford the bond or deposit, you can submit this form to request a waiver.
  4. Filing Fee:
    • You must pay a $54 filing fee to the county court, unless you’ve already submitted the Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs.
  5. Notify the Defendant:
    • After filing the appeal, you must notify the defendant within 7 days.

Quick Summary of Your Options

  • For a new trial in the same court:
    • File a Motion for a New Trial within 14 days of the judgment.
    • Include the $54 filing fee (or request a fee waiver).
    • Notify the defendant within one day of filing.
  • For a fresh trial in a higher court:
    • File an Appeal within 21 days of the judgment (or denial of a motion for a new trial).
    • You’ll need to pay a $500 bond or cash deposit, or submit a statement of inability to pay.
    • Pay the $54 filing fee to the county court (unless you qualify for a fee waiver).
    • Notify the defendant within 7 days.

Win a Small Claim Case

Winning your small claims case doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll receive the money immediately. If the defendant does not file a motion for a new trial or an appeal, it’s your responsibility to enforce the judgment. Here are the main methods you can use to collect the judgment:

  1. Post-Judgment Discovery
    • What It Is: This allows you to ask the defendant questions about their finances and assets (such as income, property, or bank accounts) that could be used to pay the judgment.
    • Response Time: The defendant must respond within at least 30 days.
    • Approval Needed: You don’t need the judge’s permission to start post-judgment discovery.
  2. Abstract of Judgment
    • What It Is: This is a legal document you can file with the county clerk where the defendant owns real estate.
    • Effect: Filing it places a lien on the defendant’s real property. If the defendant tries to sell that property, they may need to pay the lien before completing the sale. You could recover some or all of what you're owed from the proceeds of the sale.
  3. Writ of Execution
    • What It Is: A court order that allows a constable or sheriff to seize and sell the defendant’s personal property (such as non-exempt valuables) to satisfy the judgment.
    • Limitations: Not all property can be taken. Some items are legally protected and exempt from seizure.
    • How to Request: You must file an application with the court at least 30 days after the judgment was entered.
  4. Writ of Garnishment
    • What It Is: A court order that allows you to seize money or property held by a third party (like a bank) on behalf of the defendant. This is often used to take money directly from the defendant’s bank account.
    • How to Request: You must file:
      • An application with the court that issued the judgment.
      • An affidavit (a sworn statement) explaining why you are entitled to garnishment.
    • Important Consideration: If the third party (like a bank) doesn’t have any of the defendant’s assets, you may be responsible for their legal fees. Only pursue garnishment if you are confident the defendant has assets that can be garnished.

Final Thoughts: Important Reminders

  • Post-Judgment Discovery: Helps uncover where the defendant keeps their assets.
  • Abstract of Judgment: Creates a lien on the defendant’s real estate, potentially helping you collect when they try to sell property.
  • Writ of Execution and Writ of Garnishment: Useful for collecting what you’re owed, but involve additional legal steps and potential costs.
  • Be Strategic: The process may take time and effort, but using these tools gives you a clear path to enforce the judgment and recover the money you're owed.

Enforcing a judgment can be a detailed and sometimes lengthy process, but these options provide mechanisms to help you collect the money or property owed to you. Consider each option carefully and be prepared to take additional steps to ensure you receive the compensation you’ve been awarded.

Courthouse Location:

Bell County Historic Courthouse

101 E. Central Avenue
P.O. Box 768
Belton, Texas 76513
(254) 939-3521
https://www.bellcountytx.com/county_government/justice_of_the_peace/precinct_4_place_2/small_claims.php

BUILDING HOURS

  • Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., except court holidays

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