Rule 7.010 — Title and Scope

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(a) Title. These rules shall be cited as Florida Small Claims Rules and may be abbreviated “Fla. Sm. Cl. R.” These rules shall be construed to implement the simple, speedy, and inexpensive trial of actions at law in county courts.

(b) Scope. These rules are applicable to all actions of a civil nature in the county courts which contain a demand for money or property, the value of which does not exceed $8,000 exclusive of costs, interest, and attorneys’ fees. If there is a difference between the time period prescribed by these rules and by section 51.011, Florida Statutes, the statutory provision shall govern.

(a) Title and Purpose: This rule establishes the official name for this set of rules as the "Florida Small Claims Rules." More importantly, it states their goal: to ensure that lawsuits in small claims court are handled in a way that is simple, fast, and affordable.

(b) Scope: These rules apply specifically to civil lawsuits filed in Florida's county courts where the amount of money or value of property in dispute is $8,000 or less. This monetary limit does not include any court costs, interest, or attorneys' fees that may be added to the final judgment.

TOC Rule 7.020
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