The process of Small Claims is mostly a streamlined version of an action that is normal civil. The most important difference is that the attorneys under this are not always allowed to represent the parties to a small claim. There is not much discovery, rights to appeal or right to request any punitive damages. It is considered to be a fast as well as low cost method to solve limited controversies.
Different limits are set for every state in the sense of what can and what cannot be settled under this type of claim. Most of the times the claim is for compensation or reimbursement for a particular loss. The amount of a small claim that a state caps is between 5000$ and 7000$, but this can greatly differ by state. Many states have restrictions on subject matter, which do not allow claims for most causes that are civil. The courts for such claims are best for collecting debts, unpaid rent, compensation for property damage and more.