How to File a Small Claims / Debt Claim in Texas JP Court (and Get It Served)
If court paperwork is making your brain freeze, you’re not alone. This guide breaks it down in plain English: what the terms mean, what steps usually come next, and how service of process works so your case can move forward. We are a process serving company, not a law firm — this is educational, not legal advice.
Jump to Your County’s JP Court Filing Block
Select your county and we’ll jump you to the exact section below with the most important basics: precinct notes, office hours, addresses, and official links. If you’re not sure which precinct applies, start with your county’s official JP directory and confirm before filing.
What “Small Claims” / “Debt Claim” Means (Texas JP Court)
People say “small claims,” but in Texas the case is typically filed in Justice Court (JP Court) as a civil money dispute. The paperwork may use different words, but the goal is the same: you are asking the court to make a decision and require the other party to respond.
The 3 words that confuse almost everyone
- Plaintiff = the person/business filing (usually you)
- Defendant = the person/business you are filing against
- Service of process = officially delivering the court papers to the defendant
Why Service of Process Matters (and why cases get stuck)
Filing is step one — most cases can’t move forward until the defendant is served properly. If the address is wrong, the person moved, or they avoid service, your timeline can stretch out.
If you’re not confident about the address or you’re filing against a company and don’t know who to serve, Locate / Skip Tracing can save time and help you avoid delays.
Constable vs Private Process Server
Many JP Court cases allow you to choose service by a constable or a certified private process server. This isn’t about “who is better” — it’s about what fits your timeline and your situation.
| Option | Why people choose it | What to understand upfront |
|---|---|---|
| Constable |
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| Private Process Server |
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Want service level options and attempt counts? See: Service of Process.
When the County/Constable Is Required
Some documents are required by law or by a specific court order to be served by the county/constable or law enforcement. If your paperwork requires constable service, we will tell you upfront so you don’t waste time or money.
- Court orders that explicitly require constable/sheriff service
- Certain writs or enforcement actions directed to law enforcement
- Other documents labeled by the court for law enforcement service
Service Levels (what “routine” and “rush” really mean)
When you choose a service level, you’re choosing the timeframe and attempt strategy. Routine is designed for standard deadlines. Rush/same-day are designed for urgent court timelines.
Exact options and attempt counts: Service of Process.
Step-by-Step Examples (to calm the fear of “messing it up”)
These examples are educational, not legal advice. They’re here to help you visualize the form language.
Example: Individual vs Individual
- Plaintiff: Your name (you are filing).
- Defendant: The person you’re filing against.
- Amount: The amount you believe is owed.
- Service address: The best address you have.
- Need it served: Start here: Order.
Example: Business vs Business (ABC LLC)
- Plaintiff: Your company name (example: ABC LLC).
- Defendant: The business you’re filing against.
- Amount: Commonly an unpaid invoice or contract balance.
- Who to serve: Often the registered agent or authorized recipient.
- Not sure who/where: Locate / Skip Tracing.
Ready to move your case forward?
Once your paperwork is filed, proper service of process is the next step. We handle attempts, documentation, and court-ready proof of service — so you don’t have to worry about delays or technical mistakes.
FAQ
How do I know if I’m the plaintiff or the defendant?
What if I put the wrong address?
What if they’re avoiding service?
How many attempts will you make?
Will I get proof for court?
How often will I get updates?
What if the property is rural or posted with “No Trespassing” signs?
Where do I start if I want this handled end-to-end?
Ready to move your case forward?
Once your paperwork is filed, proper service of process is the next step. We handle attempts, documentation, and court-ready proof of service — so you don’t have to worry about delays or technical mistakes.