Small claims courts are included in each state’s court system and are designed for the resolution of disputes involving a limited dollar amount—and for the parties to the dispute to represent themselves (pro se). Small claims courts are often referred to as the People’s Court, and some states such as California prohibit attorneys from representing parties in small claims court. The limit on the amount of money in dispute (the jurisdictional limit) varies from state to state within a range of $2,500 to $25,000—but is usually between $5,000 and $15,000. The disputes filed in small claims courts are often seeking to recover a debt or involving residential landlord-tenant disputes. Judges in small claims courts in some states are called Justices of the Peace, and the courts are sometimes referred to as JP courts.

In Louisiana (LA), small claims courts are known as 'Justice of the Peace Courts.' These courts handle minor civil disputes with a jurisdictional limit of up to $5,000, excluding interest, costs, and attorney fees. Parties in Louisiana small claims courts are allowed to represent themselves (pro se), but they also have the option to be represented by an attorney if they choose. The types of cases typically heard in these courts include debt recovery, landlord-tenant disputes, and other small civil matters. The informal nature of small claims court is designed to provide a faster, less expensive alternative to the regular civil court process. It's important to note that the procedures and rules can vary by parish, so it's advisable to check the specific rules that apply in the local Justice of the Peace Court where the case will be filed.