Small claims court sounds straightforward—someone wrongs you, you take them to court, and justice is served. But for many everyday consumers, the reality is a little more complicated. Whether you're trying to recover a down payment from a flaky contractor or collect money you've already won in court, the process can feel overwhelming.

Two viewers recently asked about small claims court: one wondering how to file when the contractor lives in another county, the other frustrated after winning but not getting paid. Their questions reflect a larger concern many people have: How does small claims court actually work—and is it worth it?

Let’s break it down.

Small Claims Court: What It Is (and What It Isn’t)
 Known officially in Georgia as Magistrate Court, small claims court handles civil disputes under $15,000. Think damaged property, unpaid loans, or services not rendered. These are not criminal cases, so the police won’t get involved—this is up to you.

The idea behind small claims court is to give individuals a low-cost, accessible way to resolve disputes. But while the process is designed to be simple, it can still be frustrating and time-consuming.

Here are a few basics to keep in mind:

  • You don’t need a lawyer, and in many cases, it wouldn't be cost-effective to hire one.
  • Each county has its own magistrate court, so jurisdiction matters. If the person you're suing lives in a different county, that’s where the case must be filed.
  • Clerks can help with paperwork—but they cannot offer legal advice.

Before you file, it’s worth trying to resolve things on your own. Court should be a last resort after all reasonable attempts at compromise have failed.

Winning Is Just the Beginning: The Struggle to Collect
 Let’s say you file correctly, present your case, and the judge sides with you. You won—congratulations! But… what if the other party still doesn’t pay?

This is where many people feel let down. As one viewer asked, “Isn’t the judge supposed to help me collect my money?” Unfortunately, no. While a court ruling gives you the legal right to collect, it doesn’t come with a guarantee that you’ll actually see the cash.

Here’s what that often looks like:

  • You may need to file post-judgment forms to uncover information about the other party’s assets (like bank accounts or employment details).
  • In some cases, you can garnish wages or place a lien on property—but that usually requires more paperwork and time.
  • You might also consider hiring a collection agency, though that comes with added costs and fees, often cutting into what you're owed.

Some county websites provide brochures or guides on enforcing judgments, but make no mistake—it can be a long road. Persistence is key.

Should You Even Bother? The Answer Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All
 The truth is, small claims court can work. People do win cases and recover money every day. But it’s also important to weigh your time, energy, and expectations.

For Janice, a 75-year-old woman trying to recover $3,000 from a contractor, navigating different court systems and enforcement procedures may feel overwhelming. For Gary, who already won his case but hasn’t been paid, knowing the next steps is critical.

So, who is small claims court really for?

  • It’s for individuals who are willing to stay organized, fill out forms properly, and follow through on enforcement.
  • It’s ideal for people who are self-motivated and comfortable managing paperwork—or who have a trusted advocate to help.
  • And it’s for anyone who believes the principle of fairness is worth fighting for, even when the system isn’t perfect.

Practical Takeaways: What to Do If You're Considering Small Claims Court
 Thinking about filing? Here’s a quick checklist to help guide your next steps:

  • Try to resolve the issue informally first. Keep a written record of all communications.
  • Determine jurisdiction. You’ll need to file in the county where the defendant lives or does business.
  • Visit your county’s magistrate court website. Most have step-by-step filing guides and downloadable forms.
  • Keep your expectations realistic. Winning your case doesn’t guarantee immediate payment.
  • Stay persistent. Collection may take time—but with the right steps, it’s possible.

And remember: while this article provides general insights, it’s not a substitute for legal advice. If your case involves large sums or complex issues, consult an attorney to explore your options.

Empower Yourself with Trusted Help
 Navigating small claims court on your own can be intimidating—but it doesn’t have to be. At TrustDALE.com, we connect consumers with vetted professionals who do business the right way, so you can avoid court in the first place.

Need a contractor you can count on? Or legal advice from a trustworthy source? Start your search with TrustDALE today.