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 Rhode Island, lawsuits to collect debts are typically filed in the state court system. The specific court where a debt collection lawsuit is filed often depends on the amount of the debt. For smaller debts, the case may be filed in the small claims court, which is a division of the Rhode Island District Court. The jurisdictional limit for small claims court in Rhode Island is $2,500, meaning that any debt above this amount must be filed in a court with higher jurisdiction, such as the Superior Court. It's important for individuals involved in debt collection lawsuits to understand the process and their rights, and they may wish to consult with an attorney for legal advice specific to their situation.