Should You Take Your Solar Panel Case to Small Claims Court?

At Prevost Law Firm, we’ve seen thousands of solar panel loan cases, and we understand that not every claim is large enough to justify full-scale arbitration or litigation. A question we’ve been getting more frequently is:

“What should I do if my case is relatively small, under $20,000 and not one that your firm can take?”

Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering small claims court as an option.

Small Claims Court in Texas: An Overview

While every state is a little different, I can speak specifically to how small claims court works here in Texas.

• In Texas, cases under $20,000 fall under the jurisdiction of Justice of the Peace (JP) courts, also known as small claims courts.
• You do not need an attorney to file.
• The process is simple and designed for individuals to represent themselves.
  

How to File a Small Claims Case in Texas

Filing a small claims case is a relatively straightforward process:

#1: Visit your local JP court to get the necessary forms.

#2: Complete a short form stating:

• What the solar company or lender did wrong
• What you’re asking the court to do (for example, cancel your loan)

#3: Pay the filing and service fees:

• Filing fee: around $57
• Service fee: around $75
• Total: roughly $130

What Happens Next?

Once your case is filed and the defendant is served, you’ll receive a court date.

The good news?

The formal rules of evidence and civil procedure don’t apply in small claims court.

That means you simply show up and tell your story. You don’t need to be a legal professional. Just bring your documents, explain what happened, and answer the judge’s questions honestly.

Can the Other Side Appeal?

Yes. If you win your case, the losing party can appeal to a higher court. At that point, things may become more formal, and you might choose to consult an attorney. But for the initial trial, you can represent yourself confidently.

Is It Worth It?

For many people, especially in smaller cases, small claims court is the best path forward. Even if you don’t win, you’ve done something important:

• You’ve held the company accountable.
• You’ve had your day in court.
• You’ve been heard by an impartial judge.
  

And for many of our clients, that alone is a major step toward justice.

Final Thoughts

If your claim is under $20,000 and doesn’t qualify for arbitration through our firm, we still encourage you to take action. You can file on your own, or hire a local attorney if you choose. Either way, small claims court gives you a chance to fight back without needing a large budget or a legal degree.

If you have a larger case, or aren’t sure where your claim falls, reach out to us.

Start your no-cost claim review at PrevostLawFirm.com. We’re here to help.