Small Claims Court in Webb County

In Webb County, Texas small claims cases are typically filed in a Justice court and heard by the Justice of the Peace. Each township in Webb 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 Webb 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 Webb Court System.

Small Claims Court

Small Claims Court is meant to be a simple, affordable way for people to settle smaller money-related disputes without needing a lawyer. The process is straightforward and designed so that anyone—regardless of legal experience—can navigate it easily.

What Kinds of Cases Are Handled?

This court focuses on civil cases where someone is trying to recover money—up to $20,000. It doesn’t deal with situations where you're asking for something other than money, like getting an item returned, having work completed, or stopping someone from doing something.

Important Limits:

  • Small Claims Court cannot:
    • Make someone return personal belongings
    • Force someone to finish a job or repair
    • Order someone to start or stop doing something
  • Example:
    • Let’s say a mechanic charged you for a repair but never did the work. You can use Small Claims Court to try to get your money back. But if you want the mechanic to actually finish the repair, that would need to go through a different legal process.

Who Can File a Claim?

  • Adults (18 and older) can file on their own.
  • Minors (under 18) can file too, but they’ll need help from a parent, guardian, relative, or another responsible adult (called a “next friend”).
  • Businesses like associations, partnerships, and corporations can also file claims.

Who Can’t File?

  • Businesses that lend money and charge interest (like payday loan companies) generally aren’t allowed to use Small Claims Court.

Who’s Who in a Case?

  • The plaintiff is the person or business bringing the claim.
  • The defendant is the person or business being sued.

What Can I File a Small Claims

Small Claims Court is a great resource for everyday people who need to settle money-related issues without hiring a lawyer. It’s designed to be simple, affordable, and accessible—perfect for situations where you’re owed money or something went wrong and you want to make it right. Here are some common types of cases you can bring to Small Claims Court:

Breach of Contract

  • What it means: Someone made a promise—either in writing or verbally—but didn’t follow through, and it cost you money.
  • Example: You hired a contractor to renovate your kitchen, but they left halfway through the job. You can sue to get back the money you already paid or cover the cost of hiring someone else to finish the work.

Unpaid Debts

  • What it means: You lent someone money, but they haven’t paid you back—even after reminders.
  • Example: Maybe you loaned money to a friend, a client, or a former roommate. Now they’re avoiding your messages and ignoring your requests. Small Claims Court can help you try to recover what you’re owed.

Property Damage or Personal Injury

  • What it means: Someone damaged your property or caused you harm and won’t take responsibility.
  • Example: Let’s say someone hit your parked car and refuses to pay for repairs. If they won’t cooperate, you can take the matter to court to seek compensation.

Wrongful Possession of Property

  • What it means: Someone has something that belongs to you and refuses to give it back, even after you’ve asked nicely.
  • Example: You lent your neighbor a power tool, but now they won’t return it. If talking things out hasn’t worked, you can go to court to ask for the item’s value or for it to be returned.

What Can’t I File a Small Claims

While Small Claims Court is a great way to settle simple, money-related issues, there are certain kinds of cases it can’t handle. If your situation fits into one of the categories below, you’ll probably need to take it to a higher court instead:

Claims Over $20,000

  • What it means:
    • If you're asking for more than $20,000—not including court fees or interest—Small Claims Court isn’t the right place. That includes one large claim or several smaller ones that add up past the limit.

Personal Property Worth Over $20,000

  • What it means:
    • Trying to get back something valuable, like a car or expensive equipment worth more than $20,000? Even if you’re not asking for money, the court still considers the value. If it’s over the limit, it’s not eligible for Small Claims.

Real Estate or Land Disputes

  • What it means:
    • Any issues involving ownership, rental disagreements, or rights to property or land are too complex for Small Claims Court. These cases need to be handled in civil or district court.

Defamation, Libel, or Slander

  • What it means:
    • If someone damaged your reputation by saying or writing false things about you, that’s considered defamation. These types of cases usually involve more money and legal complexity and must be handled in a higher court.

Cases That Are About Actions, Not Money

  • What it means:
    • Small Claims Court is only allowed to award money—it can’t make someone do something or stop doing something. That means it won’t handle cases where you're asking the court to:
      • Force someone to finish a job
      • Make someone return your belongings
      • Stop a neighbor from harassing you
      • Order someone to trim a tree or fix something

Small Claims Case Fees:

  • Here’s what you can expect to pay when filing a claim:
    • Filing Fee: $126.00
    • Service Fee (if needed): $154.00
    • Additional Defendant Service Fee: $80.00 per extra person or business being served

These fees are paid to Webb County and can be paid in the following ways:

  • Cash
  • Money Order
  • Credit Card (with a 3% processing fee)

Statute of Limitations

Common Filing Deadlines in Texas

  • Breach of Contract
    • Deadline: 4 years from the date the contract was broken
    • Heads-up: Some written contracts may set a shorter time limit, so double-check the agreement for any specific terms.
  • Property Damage or Personal Injury
    • Deadline: 2 years from the date of the incident
    • Covers: Things like car accidents, injuries, or damage to your property

Not Sure If You’re Still Within the Time Limit?

  • If you’re unsure whether your case is still eligible, it’s smart to reach out to a lawyer or contact a local legal aid organization. They can help you figure out if you still have time to file.

Why This Matters

Once the deadline passes, you permanently lose the right to file your claim. There’s no second chance—so don’t wait too long. Always check the timeline before moving forward with your case.

Where Do I File

When you’re filing a small claims case in Texas, one of the most important steps is picking the right Justice Court. Filing in the wrong one can cost you extra time, money, and frustration—so it’s worth getting it right from the start.

Can You File in Any Justice Court in Texas?

Technically, yes—but you shouldn’t. If you file in the wrong court, the person you’re suing (the defendant) can ask to have the case moved to the correct one. That can lead to:

  • Extra costs – You might have to pay the filing fee again
  • Delays – Your case could get pushed back, slowing everything down

How to Pick the Right Court (a.k.a. the Proper Venue)

Here’s how to figure out which Justice Court is the right one for your case:

  • Where the Defendant Lives
    • File in the precinct and county where the person or business you’re using is located.
  • Where the Contract Was Supposed to Be Completed
    • If your case involves a broken agreement (like someone not paying for work or services), file where the work was supposed to happen.
  • Where the Damage or Injury Happened
    • For accidents, injuries, or property damage, file in the location where the incident occurred.
  • Where the Property Is Located
    • If you're trying to recover a specific item, file in the place where that item is.

Bottom Line

  • Filing in the correct court from the beginning helps your case move forward smoothly and avoids unnecessary complications. If you're unsure where to file, reach out to your localJustice of the Peace Court or talk to a legal expert for guidance.

How Do I File

Filing a small claims case might sound intimidating, but it’s actually pretty straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

  1. Fill Out a Petition
    • This is the form that officially starts your case. You’ll need to include:
      • The full name of the person or business you’re suing (the defendant)
      • A brief summary of why you’re suing
      • The exact dollar amount you’re asking for
      • Your contact information
    • Tip: Most Justice Courts have blank petition forms available at the courthouse or on their website.
    • Important: If you're suing a doctor for medical malpractice, stop here and speak to a lawyer first—those cases have special rules and tight deadlines.
  2. Pay the Filing Fee
    • The filing fee is usually around $54, but it can vary depending on your county. Check your local Justice Court’s website or call the clerk to get the exact amount.
  3. Serve the Defendant
    • Once your petition is filed, the court prepares a citation—a formal notice telling the other party that they’re being sued. You can’t deliver this yourself. It must be served by:
      • A constable or sheriff
      • A court clerk
      • A private process server
      • Or by certified/registered mail (with return receipt and restricted delivery)
  4. Pay the Service Fee
    • This is the cost of getting the papers delivered. It varies based on:
      • Who delivers the documents
      • Where the defendant is located
    • Example: If the person you’re suing lives in another county, the fee might be higher.
    • Tip: Ask your local Justice Court how much the service fee will be for your specific case.
  5. Get Reimbursed If You Win
    • If you win your case, the court may order the defendant to pay:
      • The amount you sued for
      • Your filing fee
      • Your service fee
    • So you could end up getting back more than just the money you originally lost.

Can’t Afford to File

If paying court fees is a financial strain, Texas courts allow you to ask for a fee waiver—meaning you could move forward with your case without paying the filing or service fees upfront. Here’s how the process works:

  1. Fill Out a “Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs”
    • This form lets the court know that you can’t afford the required fees.
      • You can ask the court clerk for the form—they are required to give it to you if you ask.
      • Many courts also post it on their website so you can download and print it at home.
  2. Swear That Everything Is True
    • When you sign the form, you’re doing so under oath. That means you’re legally confirming that all the information you’ve provided is honest and accurate.
    • Important: Falsifying this form is illegal and could lead to serious consequences. Always be truthful and complete.
  3. Fill Out the Form Completely and Carefully
    • The more detailed you are, the better your chances of the court approving your request. Be sure to include:
      • Your income (monthly or yearly)
      • Your monthly expenses (like rent, groceries, utilities, transportation)
      • Anyone you support financially (such as children or elderly relatives)
      • Any public benefits you receive (like SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or housing assistance)
    • Tip: Only skip sections if they truly don’t apply to you.

By filling out this form thoroughly and honestly, you give the court the information it needs to decide whether you qualify for a waiver.

Do I Need a Lawyer?

Small Claims Court is designed to be simple and user-friendly, so many people choose to handle their cases on their own—no lawyer required. That said, if you'd feel more comfortable having legal support, you’re absolutely allowed to hire an attorney.

If You Choose to Represent Yourself

Plenty of people successfully manage their own small claims cases. And while you’ll be the one speaking in court, you can still get help along the way:

  • Filling out forms: Ask a trusted friend, family member, or legal aid group to help you complete paperwork.
  • Understanding the process: It’s okay to ask questions and get guidance so you know what to expect at each step.
  • Emotional support: Having someone with you for moral support can make the process feel less overwhelming.

One Important Rule

Only you can represent yourself in court. That means:

  • Friends and family cannot speak for you
  • They can’t present your case
  • They can’t interact with the judge on your behalf

They’re welcome to be there for support—but the case is yours to present.

After File a Small Claims

Once your case is filed, there are a few important steps that follow. Some are your responsibility, and others involve the court or the person you’re suing (the defendant). Here’s what to expect next:

Keep Your Address Up to Date

  • Make sure the court and the defendant have your current mailing address. This is how you’ll get updates about court dates or important documents. If you move or your contact info changes, notify the court right away.

The Court Issues a Citation

  • After you file your case, the court will create a citation—an official notice that tells the defendant they’re being sued and gives them a deadline to respond.

Serving the Citation

  • You must make sure the citation and a copy of your petition are properly delivered to the defendant. You can do this through:
    • Constable or Sheriff – For a fee, local law enforcement will serve the papers.
    • Private Process Server – You can hire someone certified to deliver legal documents.
    • By Mail – In some cases, you can use certified mail with restricted delivery and return receipt.
    • Can’t afford the fee? You can ask the court for a fee waiver by filling out a Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs.

Defendant’s Response

  • Once served, the defendant has 14 days to respond to the court—and they also need to send a copy of that response to you.

What Happens Next?

  • If the defendant responds:
    • The court will either set a trial date or schedule a pretrial hearing.
  • If there’s a Pretrial Hearing:
    • This is a short, informal meeting before the trial. The judge might use it to clarify the issues or even encourage both sides to settle.
    • Here’s what you can do before that hearing:
      • Request an interpreter if you need help with a language barrier.
      • Request subpoenas if you want to make sure witnesses show up to testify.

What to Do If the Defendant Doesn’t Respond

If the person or business you’re suing doesn’t respond to the lawsuit within 14 days of being served, you might be able to win your case without them showing up. Here’s what you need to do.

Step 1: Request a Default Judgment Hearing

  • You’ll need to ask the court to schedule a hearing where you can present your case. At this hearing, you’ll explain:
    • Why you’re owed money or property
    • Any proof you have to back up your claim (like receipts, contracts, or photos)

If the judge agrees with your case and sees that the defendant hasn’t responded, they may issue a judgment in your favor—even if the defendant never shows up.

Step 2: Provide the Defendant’s Last Known Address

  • When you ask for a default judgment, you’ll need to provide the court with the defendant’s last known address in writing. This step is important because it ensures that the court confirms all legal procedures were followed before they make a judgment.

Step 3: Submit an Affidavit About Military Status

The law requires the court to check if the defendant is currently on active duty in the U.S. military, as military personnel have special protections. You’ll need to submit a sworn statement (called an affidavit) that confirms one of the following:

  • The defendant is on active duty
  • The defendant is not on active duty
  • You don’t know and can’t find out their military status

In your affidavit, make sure to explain how you know the defendant’s military status (if you do), or why you’re unable to confirm it.

Need Help Verifying Military Status?

You can easily check the defendant’s military status online for free using the Defense Manpower Data Center (DMDC): https://scra.dmdc.osd.mil You’ll need the defendant’s full name, and possibly their date of birth or Social Security number, to search.

Discovery

Discovery is the process where both sides of a case share important information and documents before going to trial. It helps ensure that everyone knows what to expect and that the case is handled fairly. However, in small claims court, discovery doesn’t happen automatically—you need to ask the judge for permission first.

How to Start the Discovery Process

If you want to request discovery (information or documents from the other party), here’s what you need to do:

  1. File a Motion for Discovery with the court.
    • In your motion, explain:
      • What specific documents or information you want.
      • Why do you need that information for your case?
  2. The judge will review your request and decide whether it’s fair, reasonable, and necessary for your case.

What the Judge Will Allow

Judges will only approve discovery requests that are:

  • Clear and specific: Your request must be focused and not vague.
  • Directly related to your case: The information you’re asking for should have a clear connection to the issue at hand.
  • Reasonably necessary: The request should be helpful for preparing your argument.

Examples:

  • Reasonable request: Asking for emails related to a contract dispute.
  • Unreasonable request: Asking for every email the other party has sent in the past three years without a clear link to your case.

What Happens If You’re the One Receiving a Request

If the court grants the other party’s request for discovery and asks you to provide information:

  • You must respond.
  • If you think the request is too broad, irrelevant, or unfair, you can file an objection and ask the judge to review it. The judge might schedule a hearing to decide if you must provide the information.

Why Discovery Is Important

It’s crucial to take discovery seriously—whether you're requesting it or responding to it. If you don’t comply with a valid discovery request, it can lead to serious consequences, including:

  • Court fines
  • Losing the right to use certain evidence
  • Even having your case dismissed

How to Deliver Paperwork to the Defendant

Whenever you file any paperwork for your case—like motions, evidence, or other legal documents—it’s important to make sure both the court and the defendant get copies. There are different ways you can deliver the documents, as long as you can prove that the defendant received them. Here are the approved methods:

Approved Delivery Methods

  1. In Person
    • You can hand the documents directly to the defendant yourself.
  2. Certified or Registered Mail
    • Mail the documents using certified or registered mail. This gives you proof of delivery, along with a record of when the documents were received.
  3. Delivery Services (FedEx, UPS, etc.)
    • You can use a tracked delivery service like FedEx or UPS. These services will provide delivery confirmation, which works as proof that the documents were received.
  4. Fax
    • If the defendant has a fax number, you can send the documents by fax. Just make sure to keep the fax confirmation as proof of delivery.
  5. Email
    • You can email the documents if:
      • The defendant provided their email address.
      • The defendant has agreed in writing to receive legal documents by email.

Important: Always Provide Proof of Delivery

No matter which method you use, you must also provide proof of delivery to the court. Your proof should include:

  • How the documents were delivered (e.g., in person, by mail, fax, etc.).
  • When the documents were delivered (e.g., the exact date).
  • Who received the documents (e.g., the defendant’s name or confirmation).

Without this proof, the court may not accept your documents, which could delay your case.

Reach an Agreement

Sometimes both parties may agree that settling the case is a better option than going through a full trial. Settling can save time, money, and stress—and the court can still make the settlement official.

Court Judgment Based on Your Settlement

If you and the defendant agree to a settlement, the court can enter a judgment based on your terms. This means the court officially acknowledges your agreement—like how much one party will pay the other—and it gives your settlement legal weight, making it enforceable in court. However, there are limits to what the court can do:

  • What the court cannot enforce:
    • Payment plans
    • Specific deadlines for payments
    • Installment schedules

These details are things the court won’t enforce. If your settlement includes any of them, you’ll need to take one extra step to protect yourself.

Put the Settlement in Writing

To ensure both parties are clear on their responsibilities, it's crucial to put the settlement in writing, especially if it includes:

  • A payment schedule
  • Deadlines
  • Any conditions that both sides must meet

What to Do:

  • Create a written contract that clearly outlines these terms.
  • Both parties should sign it, and each should keep a copy.

This written agreement is separate from the court’s judgment, but it offers extra legal protection if there’s any confusion or noncompliance down the road.

What If the Defendant Doesn’t Follow Through?

If the defendant doesn’t keep up with the terms of the settlement, such as missing a payment, you have the right to:

  1. File a new lawsuit for breach of contract.
  2. Use the signed settlement agreement as evidence to show they didn’t follow through with their part.

Having the settlement terms in writing is key. It helps ensure that both parties know what they’re responsible for and gives you legal recourse if the defendant doesn’t honor the agreement.

Requesting a Jury Trial

If you prefer a jury to decide your case, follow these steps:

  1. Submit a Written Request
    • Notify the court in writing that you’d like a jury to decide the case.
  2. File the Request at Least 14 Days Before the Trial Date
    • Your request must be submitted at least 14 days before the trial date. If you miss this deadline, the case will automatically be decided by a judge, not a jury.
  3. Pay the $22 Jury Fee
    • You must also pay a $22 jury fee at the time of submitting your request. Without this payment, your request won’t be processed.

If No One Requests a Jury Trial

If neither the plaintiff nor the defendant requests a jury trial, the case will proceed as a bench trial, meaning the judge alone will hear the evidence and make the decision.

Trial Notice and Requesting a Postponement

Once your trial date is scheduled, you’ll receive a trial notice from the court at least 45 days in advance. This notice gives you enough time to prepare for the hearing.

What to Do Before Your Trial:

  1. Organize Your Evidence: Gather any documents, receipts, contracts, or other proof that supports your case. Be sure everything is clearly labeled and easy to present.
  2. Prepare Your Witnesses: If you have any witnesses who will testify on your behalf, confirm their availability and ensure they know the date and time of the trial.
  3. Get Ready for the Hearing: Review your arguments, notes, and any statements you want to make. Being prepared helps you present a strong case.

What If You Need More Time?

If an unexpected situation arises and you can't make it to the trial, you can request a postponement (also called a continuance). Here's how to do it:

  1. Submit a Written Request to the Court: Write to the court explaining why you need to reschedule. Be clear and concise.
  2. Provide Supporting Documents: If your reason for needing a postponement is something like illness or travel plans, include proof (e.g., a doctor's note or travel confirmation) to support your request.

Important Reminder:

Never miss your trial without getting approval for a continuance. If you skip the trial and don’t have an approved postponement, the court might dismiss your case, and you could lose the opportunity to pursue your claim.

Always inform the court as soon as possible if you need to reschedule, and give them plenty of time to review and approve your request.

Trial

  1. Jury Selection (If Applicable)
    • What happens: If you or the defendant requested a jury trial, the trial will begin with jury selection (voir dire).
    • Purpose: Both sides will ask potential jurors questions to ensure they are fair and unbiased.
    • Goal: To select a jury that can evaluate the case impartially.
  2. Opening Statements
    • What happens: Both parties, or just the plaintiff in a bench trial, give opening statements.
    • Purpose: This is your chance to introduce your case, preview the evidence you’ll present, and explain why you should win.
    • Tip: Keep it brief, clear, and focused—more details will come later in the trial.
  3. Presenting Your Case
    • What happens: This is when you present your side of the story.
      • Call your witnesses and ask them questions to support your case.
      • Present evidence (documents, photos, receipts, etc.).
      • Cross-examination: The defendant will have the opportunity to challenge your witnesses by asking them questions after they testify.
  4. Your Testimony and Evidence
    • What happens: You have the right to testify on your own behalf.
      • Bring all relevant evidence: contracts, receipts, photos, emails, or any physical evidence.
      • Tip: Stay organized and ready to present evidence quickly when needed.
  5. The Defendant Presents Their Case
    • What happens: After you present your case, the defendant will get the chance to present theirs.
      • They’ll call their own witnesses and introduce evidence.
      • You can cross-examine their witnesses.
      • Tip: Stay calm and respectful, even if their case seems unfair or frustrating.
  6. Closing Arguments
    • What happens: After all the evidence has been presented, each side gives a closing argument.
      • Summarize your key points.
      • Emphasize your strongest evidence.
      • Explain why the court should rule in your favor.
  7. The Decision
    • Jury trial: The jury will deliberate privately and return with a verdict.
    • Bench trial: The judge will make the decision.
      • The decision is usually announced in court.
      • You will receive a written judgment.

Trial Day Tips:

  • Bring everything: Make sure you have all your evidence and witnesses with you.
  • Speak clearly and stick to the facts: Avoid emotional arguments or going off-topic.
  • Stay honest and well-prepared: It will make a huge difference in how the court views your case.

What to Do If the Judgment Is Not in Your Favor

If you feel that something went wrong during your small claims case or that the outcome was unfair, you have two main options to seek a different result:

Option 1: Ask for a New Trial (Motion for a New Trial)

  • A Motion for a New Trial asks the same court to hold another trial if you believe a legal error or procedural mistake affected the outcome of your case.
  • Important Details:
    • Deadline: You must file the motion within 14 days after the judgment.
    • How to File:
      • Write a motion explaining what went wrong during the trial.
      • Submit the motion to the court and send a copy to the defendant within one day of filing.
  • Fee: The filing fee for the motion is $54.
  • Fee Waiver: If you can’t afford the fee, you can submit a Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs to request a fee waiver.

Option 2: Appeal to a Higher Court

  • If you want your case to be heard again from the beginning, you can file an appeal. An appeal sends your case to a county court for a new trial (called a de novo trial).
  • Important Details:
    • Deadline: You must file the appeal within 21 days of the judgment.
      • If you filed a motion for a new trial and it was denied, the 21-day period starts from the date of that denial.
    • Effect: The judgment from the small claims court is set aside, and your case will start fresh in the county court.
  • How to File an Appeal:
    • You will need to:
      1. Post a $500 appeal bond (backed by a third party, called a surety), or
      2. Make a $500 cash deposit with the court, or
      3. Submit a Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs if you can’t afford the bond or deposit.
    • You also need to pay a $54 filing fee to the county court unless you’ve already submitted the fee waiver form.
  • Notification Requirement:
    • After filing the appeal, you must notify the defendant within 7 days that you are appealing the decision.

Summary:

  • Motion for a New Trial: File within 14 days to request another trial in the same court if there was a mistake or error in the original trial.
  • Appeal: File within 21 days to move your case to county court for a new trial. Be aware of the additional fees and requirements.

Win a Small Claim Case

Once you've won your small claims case, collecting the judgment can sometimes be a challenge. If the defendant does not file for a new trial or an appeal, you still have several legal methods to enforce the judgment and collect your money. Here are the main tools you can use:

1. Post-Judgment Discovery

  • What It Is: This method allows you to ask the defendant about their financial situation, including details about their income, bank accounts, and property. The goal is to determine whether they have assets that could be used to pay the judgment.
  • Response Time: The defendant must respond within 30 days of your request.
  • Approval Needed: You don’t need the judge’s approval to begin post-judgment discovery. You can directly request this information from the defendant.

2. Abstract of Judgment

  • What It Is: An Abstract of Judgment is a legal document you can file with the county clerk in the county where the defendant owns real property. This creates a lien on their real estate.
  • Effect: If the defendant tries to sell their property, the lien ensures that they must pay off the debt before completing the sale. You may get paid from the proceeds if the defendant sells their property.
  • How to File: Submit the abstract to the county clerk in the county where the defendant owns property.

3. Writ of Execution

  • What It Is: A Writ of Execution is a court order that allows a constable or sheriff to seize and sell the defendant’s personal property (e.g., valuable items) to satisfy the judgment.
  • Limitations: Some property, such as basic household items or tools necessary for work, is exempt from seizure.
  • How to Request: You must file an application for a writ of execution with the court at least 30 days after the judgment has been entered.

4. Writ of Garnishment

  • What It Is: A Writ of Garnishment 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, along with an affidavit explaining why you're entitled to garnishment.
  • Important Consideration: If the third party (such as a bank) doesn’t have the defendant’s assets, you might be responsible for their legal fees. Only pursue garnishment if you are confident the defendant has assets that can be seized.

Final Thoughts:

  • Post-Judgment Discovery: This method helps you locate the defendant’s assets, which enables more strategic collection efforts.
  • Abstract of Judgment: Filing this places a lien on the defendant's real estate, which could help you recover your money if they sell the property.
  • Writ of Execution and Garnishment: These methods are effective but involve extra legal steps and costs, so be sure to plan accordingly.

Be Strategic:

Enforcing a judgment can take time, persistence, and careful planning. However, with these legal tools, you have clear options for pursuing collection. Stay organized and persistent in following these steps to help ensure you get paid what you're owed.

Courthouse Locations:

Webb County Courthouse

1000 Houston Street
Laredo, Texas 78040
(956) 523-4000
https://webbcountytx.gov/JP4_NEW/ClaimsEvictions/

BUILDING HOURS

  • Monday – Friday 8:00 AM-5:00 PM, except court holidays

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  • Colorado Acres
  • Los Veteranos II

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Don't allow the intricacies of the legal system to discourage you from pursuing justice and compensation for your claim. With Squabble, you have a dedicated partner to streamline the process and guide you toward resolution. Whether you're contemplating filing a claim at Webb County small claims court, Squabble is here to support you at every stage. Reach out to us today to commence your journey toward justice and compensation. Get started today and become one of the 95% of our customers who won or settled their case.

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