Angelina "Angel" Colonneso Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller
Manatee County
About the Clerk

Small Claims Fequently Asked Questions

Small Claims Frequently Asked Questions
1) How do I file a Small Claims Case?

The Clerk’s office has Small Claims Paperwork available to file as pro-se litigants. You may download the forms from the Small Claims Section of the Forms Page

2) What is the fee to file for Small Claims?

The filing fee varies from the amount of the lawsuit. Please see our fee schedule

3) What is the jurisdictional amount for a Small Claims case?

You may file a small claims case if the money damages do not exceed $8000.00

4) How do I file a Small Claims Case due to a vehicle accident?

The Clerk’s office has Small Claims Paperwork available to file as pro-se litigants. Please make sure to download the appropriate form for Auto Negligence. You may download the forms from the Small Claims section of the Forms Page.

5) I live in Manatee County and the other Party lives in another County, Where do I file?

When filing Small Claims, the correct venue is necessary to avoid a dismissal. We strongly suggest that you consult with an attorney or research this issue in the law library before filing, as fees are not refundable if the case is dismissed and the Clerk is prohibited from giving legal advice.

6) What happens after I receive a Final Judgment on my Small Claims Case?

For information on how you may collect your money after a Judgment is rendered visit our How to Get Your Money Page. Please note: The Clerk is unable to assist you with any post judgment proceedings.

Contact Small Claims
Phone: 941-741-4025
Supervisor: Shanice Mays
Supervisor Title: Supervisor
Mailing Address
Attn: Small Claims
P.O. 25400
Bradenton, FL 34206
Physical Address
1115 Manatee Avenue West
Bradenton, FL 34205