$10,000Claim Limit
$55–$110Filing Fee
6 yrsSOL Period
30 daysAppeal Window
Oregon Small Claims Rules
| Court Name | Circuit Court — Small Claims Department |
| Claim Limit | $10,000 ($10,000 for businesses) |
| Filing Fee | ~$55–$110 (varies by claim amount and county) |
| Statute of Limitations | 6 years for most contract disputes |
| Attorneys | ✗ Attorneys NOT allowed Attorneys are NOT allowed to represent parties at Oregon small claims hearings |
| Service of Process | Certified mail (by court) or sheriff |
| Appeal Deadline | 30 days from judgment |
| Judgment Valid For | 10 years |
| Online Filing | ✗ In-person at courthouse |
| Official Court Website | https://www.courts.oregon.gov/help/Pages/smallclaims.aspx → |
Oregon Security Deposit & Wage Rules
| Deposit Return Deadline | 31 days |
| Penalty for Violation | Twice the deposit amount |
| Wage Claims SOL | 6 years |
💡 Before suing in Oregon, send a written demand letter first. Generate one free →
What You Need to Know About Oregon Small Claims
Oregon small claims are filed in Circuit Court. Attorneys are not allowed to appear at hearings. Oregon has a generous 6-year SOL for contract claims and strong tenant protections — landlords who wrongfully withhold deposits face double damages. The court handles certified mail service automatically.
Filing Tips for Oregon
1
Attorneys are prohibited from appearing at the hearing — self-representation is required
2
Oregon's 6-year SOL is among the most generous for contract claims
3
The court sends certified mail for service — you don't need to arrange it separately
4
Double damages for deposit violations give tenants strong leverage — document everything meticulously
Common Cases in Oregon
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