If someone owes you money, damages your property, or fails to honor an agreement, filing a small claims case in Goshen County, WY can help you seek justice in a straightforward, low‑cost way. Small claims court allows individuals and businesses to resolve disputes without a lawyer and reach a decision quickly in an informal setting.
This guide walks you through every step --- from filing your case to attending your hearing and collecting your judgment.
What Is Small Claims Court in Goshen County, Wyoming?
Small claims court in Goshen County is part of the Wyoming Circuit Courts, where you can sue for [*** money damages or debts up to $6,000***]. There’s no jury, a judge hears the case and makes a decision based on the evidence you present.
Small claims are designed to be simple and affordable, so you don’t need an attorney to represent you.
Small Claims Court Limits in Goshen County, Wyoming
Before filing, make sure your case qualifies.
Maximum Claim Amount
- Up to [$6,000] (not including court costs or interest)
If your claim exceeds this amount, you may need to file a regular civil case instead
Who Can File a Small Claims Case in Goshen County?
If you are:
- An individual (U.S. citizen or legal resident)
- A business owner or company representative
- Acting on behalf of a minor or legally incapacitated person (with a guardian)
You cannot file as someone without legal capacity or on behalf of someone unless authorized.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filing a Small Claims Case in Goshen County
Step 1: Confirm You Can File in Goshen County
You should file your small claims case in Goshen County if:
- The defendant lives, works, or does business in Goshen County, or
- The dispute occurred in Goshen County.
In Goshen County, the circuit court handles small claims cases at the courthouse in Torrington: 2125 East A Street, Torrington, WY 82240 Circuit and District Court location.
Step 2: Gather What You Need
Before you start, put together:
- The defendant’s full name and address
- A clear description of the dispute
- Receipts, contracts, invoices, photos, or other evidence
- Any witnesses with relevant information
Tip: Good preparation helps you present a stronger case in court.
Step 3: Download and Complete the Small Claims Forms
- Go to the Wyoming Judicial Branch Self‑Help Forms page
- download the correct paperwork.
The main form you will complete is the Small Claims Affidavit and Summons, which asks you to:
- List your name and address
- List the defendant’s name and address
- Describe the amount you are claiming and why you are suing
Fill out the form accurately and clearly to avoid delays.
Step 4: File Your Case With the Court Clerk
File your completed form and claim with the Goshen County Circuit Court
Where is the Court Located?
Goshen County Circuit Court
2125 East A Street, Torrington, WY 82240
You will need to pay a filing fee, [which typically ranges between $10 to $75], depending on the amount of your claim.
The clerk will:
- Assign a court date
- Issue a summons to the defendant
Keep copies of all documents for your records.
Step 7: Serve the Defendant
After filing, the defendant must be officially notified of your lawsuit.
Service options include:
- Sheriff’s Office
- Licensed process server
- Other court-approved methods
If the defendant cannot be served, you may request an Alias Summons and reset your court date but you may need to pay another fee.
Step 8: Prepare for Your Hearing
- Gather all evidence related to your case
- Make three copies of each document:
- One for the judge
- One for the defendant
- One for yourself
- Organize your information clearly
- Rehearse your explanation
- Be ready to answer questions in court
Step 9: Attend Your Small Claims Hearing
On your hearing date:
- Arrive early and be respectful
- Present your case clearly and stick to the facts
- Give the judge your evidence
Since there’s no jury, the judge alone decides the outcome based on what you and the defendant present.
If the defendant does not appear, you may win by default judgment.
Step 10: Collecting Your Judgment
Winning your case doesn’t automatically give you the money. You must still collect the judgment:
- Give the defendant an opportunity to pay
- If they don’t pay, use court enforcement options such as wage garnishment, bank levies, or other collection actions
- Keep records of all attempts to collect the debt