Indiana Small Claims Rules – 2026
The Indiana Small Claims Rules govern the small claims docket, covering the notice of claim and its service, appearance and defenses, counterclaims, discovery, trial and its informality, judgment and costs, proceedings supplemental, and appeal.
Browse all 17 rules of the 2026 edition below. Each rule includes the full text, a plain-English summary, committee notes, amendment history, and cross-references to related rules. Use the search box to find rules by keyword or number.
Rule 1
Scope; citation
Rule 2
Commencement of Action
Rule 3
Manner of service
Rule 4
Responsive pleadings
Rule 5
Counterclaims
Rule 6
Discovery
Rule 7
Pretrial settlement
Rule 8
Informality of Hearing
Rule 9
Continuances
Rule 10
Dismissal and default
Rule 11
Judgment
Rule 12
Venue
Rule 12.1
1. Time to file Change of Judge
Rule 13
Small claims litigant's manual
Rule 14
Appointment of referee by circuit judge; compensation
Rule 15
Method of Keeping Records
Rule 16
Order of Possession of Real Estate