Lawsuits to collect debts are usually filed in state courts—and may be filed in small claims courts, depending on the amount of the debt and the small claims court’s jurisdictional limits (the maximum amount of a claim that can be filed in the court).
In Oregon, lawsuits to collect debts are typically filed in state courts, and the venue depends on the amount of the debt. Small claims courts in Oregon handle cases involving disputes of up to $10,000. This is the jurisdictional limit for small claims, and it is designed for individuals to resolve disputes without the need for an attorney. If the amount of the debt exceeds the small claims limit, the case may be filed in a circuit court. It's important for debtors and creditors to be aware of the statute of limitations for debt collection in Oregon, which generally ranges from 3 to 6 years, depending on the type of debt. Once a lawsuit is filed, the debtor is served with a summons and complaint, and they have the opportunity to respond and present their case in court.