Updated May 2026 Middlesex County, NJ Special Civil Part
Middlesex County, NJ Small Claims Court (2026)
Sue for up to $5,000 in New Jersey's Special Civil Part — Middlesex County. Court address in New Brunswick, fees, filing steps, and what to expect.
$5,000
Claim limit
$35–$75
Filing fee
30–60 days
Hearing wait
6 yrs
Written contract SOL
Middlesex County Superior Court — Special Civil Part
Address
56 Paterson St.
New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Contact & Hours
Phone: (732) 981-3000
Mon–Fri: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Closed state holidays
Filing Fee Schedule
Up to $1,500: $35
$1,501–$3,000: $50
$3,001–$5,000: $75
Service of Process
Constable: $40–$75
Certified mail (allowed): $10–$15
E-filing option available
NJ Special Civil Part is more formal than most small claims courts
New Jersey calls its court the "Special Civil Part" — not "small claims court." The process involves more paperwork and stricter procedural rules than states like Virginia or California. Read the court's instructions carefully before filing. E-filing at njcourts.gov is available and recommended to avoid errors.
How to File Small Claims in Middlesex County, NJ
1
Confirm your claim amount ($5,000 or under)
NJ Special Civil Part handles money disputes up to $5,000. You cannot split a larger claim to qualify. Claims of $5,001–$20,000 go to the Law Division Special Civil Part (different track).
2
Complete the Complaint form
Download the Special Civil Part Complaint form from njcourts.gov, or file online through eCourts. Enter the defendant's full name and address, the amount owed, and the reason. For business defendants, you'll need the registered agent's name and address.
3
File in person or online
In person: bring your completed form to 56 Paterson St., New Brunswick. Online: file through njcourts.gov eCourts (add $5 e-filing fee). Pay the filing fee by cash, check, or credit card.
4
Arrange service on the defendant
NJ allows certified mail service for small claims — if accepted, this is the cheapest option ($10–$15). If refused or undeliverable, use a licensed constable ($40–$75). Service must be completed before the hearing date.
5
Prepare your evidence
Gather contracts, receipts, texts, emails, invoices, and photos. Make three copies of all documents. NJ courts appreciate organized presentations — consider a one-page summary with key dates and amounts.
6
Attend your hearing in New Brunswick
Arrive at 56 Paterson St. at least 15 minutes early. Check in with the clerk. Present your evidence calmly. NJ judges typically rule the same day for straightforward money disputes.
Before you file
A demand letter often resolves disputes without going to court
Send a written demand citing the specific amount and legal basis. Many defendants pay within a week to avoid a court record.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the small claims limit in Middlesex County, NJ?
The small claims limit in Middlesex County, NJ is $5,000. This is the statewide limit for the Special Civil Part. Claims above $5,000 but under $20,000 go to the Law Division — Special Civil Part (regular track). Claims over $20,000 go to the Law Division — General Equity.
Where do I file small claims in Middlesex County?
File at the Middlesex County Superior Court — Special Civil Part, located at 56 Paterson St., New Brunswick, NJ 08901. Phone: (732) 981-3000. Hours are Mon–Fri, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. The Special Civil Part handles small claims, landlord-tenant, and other civil disputes.
How much does it cost to file small claims in Middlesex County, NJ?
NJ Special Civil Part filing fees are $35 for claims up to $1,500, $50 for $1,501–$3,000, and $75 for $3,001–$5,000. Service fees depend on method: constable service is approximately $40–$75 per defendant. Total upfront cost is typically $75–$150.
What is New Jersey's Special Civil Part?
New Jersey's Special Civil Part is what other states call "small claims court." It handles money disputes up to $5,000, as well as landlord-tenant evictions and security deposit returns. The process is more formal than small claims courts in most states — there is more paperwork and stricter procedural rules. Attorneys are allowed but not required.
How long does a small claims case take in Middlesex County?
Middlesex County Small Claims cases are typically scheduled 30–60 days after filing. New Brunswick courts handle a high volume — schedule 45–60 days. Both parties receive a hearing notice by mail. If the defendant is not served in time, the hearing may be adjourned.
Can I file small claims online in Middlesex County, NJ?
New Jersey offers e-filing for Special Civil Part cases in many counties including Middlesex. You can file online at njcourts.gov using the eCourts system. E-filing adds a small convenience fee ($5–$10) but avoids a trip to the courthouse. Court fees are the same regardless of filing method.
More New Jersey Small Claims Resources
New Jersey — All Courts
Statewide limits, fees, and NJ-specific rules
Essex County Court
Newark Special Civil Part guide
How to File in New Jersey
Step-by-step NJ Special Civil Part guide
NJ Fee Waiver
Waive fees if you qualify
Suing a Landlord
Security deposits and NJ tenant rights
Collecting Your Judgment
What to do when they still won't pay