How much money is enough to sue?

Asked by: Jarrod Lindgren  |  Last update: January 11, 2026
Score: 4.3/5 (27 votes)

While most courts don't have a strict minimum amount you can sue for, the practical minimum is usually determined by the small claims court filing fee, which can range from around $25 to $50, meaning you would need to be suing for at least that amount to make it worthwhile to file a lawsuit; however, the maximum amount ...

How much money do you need for a lawsuit?

The Average Cost of a Lawsuit

On average, a lawsuit costs approximately $10,000 for a simple suit. However, numerous factors can influence the cost of your lawsuit.

Is it worth suing someone for $500?

Conclusion: Going to small claims court may be worth it for $500, but it will determine how you weigh your costs versus benefits. At a minimum, it is worth it to send a demand letter.

What is the most amount of money sued for?

The Largest Civil Lawsuit Settlement Amounts and Verdicts in U.S. History and Why They Matter
  • The Biggest Lawsuit Ever: The Tobacco Settlement — $206 Billion. ...
  • British Petroleum (BP) Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill — $20 Billion. ...
  • Volkswagen Emissions Scandal — $14.7 Billion. ...
  • General Motors Auto Defect Case — $4.9 Billion.

What happens if you sue someone and they don t have enough money?

The California statute of limitations for filing a judgment is ten years. If the debtor cannot pay or complete payment within this time, you must renew the judgment. The judgment must continue to be renewed to ensure the debtor pays the full amount.

How Much Does it Cost to Sue Someone? [Answered]

19 related questions found

Is it worth suing a poor person?

Suing someone with no money might seem daunting, but the law is on your side. With the right legal support and financial planning, you can pursue your personal injury claims or lawsuit and secure the compensation you deserve, regardless of the defendant's financial situation.

What is the lowest amount a person can sue for?

While most courts don't have a strict minimum amount you can sue for, the practical minimum is usually determined by the small claims court filing fee, which can range from around $25 to $50, meaning you would need to be suing for at least that amount to make it worthwhile to file a lawsuit; however, the maximum amount ...

Can someone sue you for $1000?

It's crucial to understand that the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act doesn't specify a minimum debt amount for lawsuits. This means even smaller debts, including those from balance transfer credit cards, could potentially lead to legal action.

Has anyone sued someone for $1 dollar?

Some lawsuits filed for $1 aim to establish or challenge legal precedents. These cases often involve matters of constitutional rights, civil liberties, or public policy.

Is it stressful to get sued?

Often the first clue you have that you're being sued is when you receive a summons. Many physicians describe their initial reaction as one of shock, disbelief or denial. Intense distress follows, including feelings of depression, anger and physical illness, and usually lasts about two weeks.

Will a collection agency sue for $5000?

Yes, debt collectors can sue for payment anytime before the statute of limitation expires. Typically, debt collectors will only pursue legal action for amounts over $5,000, but they can sue for less. If a judge rules in the debt collector's favor, you may be ordered to pay by court judgment.

Can you go to the police if someone owes you money?

It is a civil matter, not criminal, so the police are not going to get involved. You have to sue and go after her and get a judgment. If she does not pay, you can then enforce it and go after money or assets.

How to file a lawsuit with no money?

Contingency means that your lawyer will agree to take on your case and represent you without requiring any payment upfront, allowing you to file a case with no money. Your lawyer will only receive payment for their services if and when you reach a positive resolution and some form of compensation in your case.

Is filing a lawsuit worth it?

First, you must ask yourself if you have a good case. Second, you should ask whether you'd be satisfied with a settlement or going to dispute resolution if you file a lawsuit. Finally, assuming you win your lawsuit, you need to ask yourself whether you'll be able to collect any form of judgment.

Why is suing so expensive?

Understanding Why Lawsuits Are Expensive. Legal battles often come with a hefty price tag due to a multitude of factors. Attorney fees can make up a portion of these costs. Additionally, court fees and other legal expenses such as research and document preparation can quickly add up.

How much does a lawyer cost to sue?

Hourly basis: A lawyer who works with you on an hourly basis will charge you for each hour of the time they give you. Hourly rates will vary depending on the layer and your case but can range anywhere from $199 to $295 per hour.

How much does it cost to sue the police?

Filing Fees: Typically range from $400 to $600, depending on the court. Expert Witness Fees: Expert testimony is often necessary to prove police misconduct and can cost thousands of dollars. Other Expenses: Court costs, deposition fees, and document production expenses may also be incurred.

What happens when someone sues you for money?

If you're being sued for a debt, your first step is to decide if you want to respond and defend yourself by arguing that you either don't owe the money or that you don't owe as much as the debt collector claims. Or, you can choose to do nothing and the judge will make a decision about the case without your input.

Can you sue Family Dollar?

Slip and fall injuries are a common example of this. Negligent security also falls under premises liability law. To keep people safe, corporations like Family Dollar must have sufficient security in place. If they don't, they can be held liable for damages if someone is attacked, mugged, or otherwise harmed.

Is it worth suing someone with no money?

You should still sue someone who has no money for a couple of reasons. First and foremost, you deserve justice after suffering injuries due to someone else's negligence. You also have options for collecting compensation after a favorable verdict, even if the person you are suing does not have much money.

What is the 777 rule with debt collectors?

Specifically, the rule states that a debt collector cannot: Make more than seven calls within a seven-day period to a consumer regarding a specific debt. Call a consumer within seven days after having a telephone conversation about that debt.

Will a debt collector sue for $800?

Summary: Generally, debt collection agencies won't sue over debts less than $500, but it isn't unheard of. If a collection agency is chasing you for an old debt, you might wonder whether it will take its efforts a step further with a debt lawsuit.

Is it better to have an attorney?

Not hiring an attorney can actually cost you more.

Think about what's at stake in the situation. Hefty fines, loss of a job, jail time? There may be more at stake if you lose without the assistance of an attorney. Courts will treat you as if you have a knowledge of the law upon representing yourself.

Is there a minimum amount for a lawsuit?

You don't have to have a minimum amount of monetary damages in order to go to court. Small claims court by definition will have a maximum amount of potential damages, but if you, say, promise a kid 50 cents if he brings you your mail, and he takes off with your two quarters, you can theoretically sue to get it back.

How to prove you were not served properly?

Surveillance: You can provide surveillance footage showing you were not served at the alleged date or that the service was improper. Mail Records: If there's no mail delivered to you or if you haven't signed the receipt. It can indicate improper service.