SC-500 – Summons and Complaint (Small Claims)

Jurisdiction: United States | Wisconsin

What is a SC-500 – Summons and Complaint (Small Claims)?

The SC-500 is the document that starts a small claims case in Wisconsin Circuit Court. It combines two parts. The Summons tells the defendant they are being sued and when to appear. The Complaint explains what you are asking the court to order and why.

You use this form to ask for specific relief that the small claims court can grant. In Wisconsin, small claims covers limited types of cases. You can seek a money judgment up to the small claims limit. You can ask for eviction and a writ of restitution to remove a tenant. You can ask for the return of personal property (replevin) with a stated value. You can also ask for the return of earnest money from a failed real estate deal.

Who typically uses this form?

Individuals and small businesses. Common users include landlords, tenants, contractors, homeowners, roommates, mechanics, retailers, and service providers. Collection managers and property managers also use it. If you hire a lawyer, your lawyer will complete and file it for you.

Why would you use this form?

Because you want a court order that has force. Phone calls, letters, and demands often fail. The SC-500 opens a court case. It compels the other side to respond or appear. If they do not, you can ask for a default judgment. If you win, you get a court judgment you can enforce.

Typical usage scenarios

• You are a landlord seeking to evict a tenant for nonpayment. You also want past-due rent and holdover damages.
• You are a tenant seeking the return of a wrongfully withheld security deposit.
• You are a small business owed for goods or services. Your customer will not pay and has ignored invoices.
• You lent money to a friend who did not repay by the agreed date.
• You sold an item, but the buyer’s check bounced.
• You want the return of personal property you own. For example, a vehicle or equipment held by someone else.
• You want the return of earnest money after a real estate offer failed for reasons set in the offer.

The form sets the case in motion. The court uses the Summons to assign a first court date. The Complaint tells the court and the defendant what the dispute is about. It also tells the court the relief you want. When you file, the clerk will issue the Summons and give you a hearing date. You must then serve the defendant with the papers.

When Would You Use a SC-500 – Summons and Complaint (Small Claims)?

You use the SC-500 when your claim fits within the small claims jurisdiction in Wisconsin. That includes money claims up to the current small claims monetary limit. It also includes eviction cases, return of property (replevin) within value limits, and disputes over earnest money.

If you are a landlord, you use it to evict for nonpayment, breach, or holdover. You can also ask for unpaid rent, late fees allowed by the lease, and damages. You attach the lease and the notices you served. Eviction cases move on a short timeline. The court sets an initial return date, then a trial if needed.

If you are a tenant, you use it to recover a security deposit that was not returned or was wrongfully withheld. You set out the move-out date, forwarding address, and the itemized deductions you dispute. You attach photos, move-out reports, and your demand letter if you sent one.

If you are a business owner, you use it to recover unpaid invoices for goods or services. You attach the contract, purchase orders, delivery confirmations, and account statements. If the buyer is a company, you list the correct corporate name and its registered agent for service.

If you are a consumer, you use it to recover what you paid for work not performed or poorly performed under a contract. You attach the contract, communications, and proof of payment. You explain how the work failed to meet the agreement.

If you are seeking replevin, you use it to recover specific personal property. You describe the item in detail and state its value. You explain why you have the right to immediate possession. This is common for vehicles, tools, or secured collateral.

If you are seeking the return of earnest money, you use it when a real estate transaction fails, and the offer allows the return of the funds. You attach the offer to purchase and any amendments. You explain the condition that triggered the return.

Do not use the SC-500 for divorce, custody, name changes, restraining orders, or probate issues. Those belong in other case types. The small claims form also does not fit complex cases over the monetary limit. If your damages exceed the limit, you must decide whether to accept the limit or file a larger civil case.

Timing matters. You should file before any applicable deadline expires. You also need to serve the defendant by the service deadline the court gives you. Service rules can differ by case type. Evictions and replevin typically require personal service. Some money claims may allow service by mail if arranged through the clerk. Ask the clerk which methods apply to your case.

Legal Characteristics of the SC-500 – Summons and Complaint (Small Claims)

The SC-500 is a court-approved pleading. It is legally significant because filing it invokes the court’s jurisdiction over your claim. Once the clerk issues the Summons, the court sets a required appearance date for the defendant. The Summons compels the defendant to respond or appear. The Complaint informs the court and the defendant of the facts and relief requested.

The form is legally binding in two ways. First, your signature certifies that your statements are true to the best of your knowledge and supported by law. False statements can have legal consequences. Second, once the court enters a judgment, that judgment is enforceable. It can be collected through lawful enforcement tools. Those include garnishment of wages, bank levies, liens on property, writs of replevin for property return, and writs of restitution for eviction.

Enforceability depends on proper procedure. You must file in the proper county. For money claims, venue is usually the county where the defendant resides or where the claim arose. For eviction, the venue is the county where the rental property is located. For replevin, venue may be where the property is located or where the defendant resides. If you sue a business, you must use its exact legal name and serve a proper agent.

You must also serve the Summons and Complaint correctly. The court will only enter a judgment if service was proper. The method and timing of service vary by claim type. Courts often require personal service for eviction and replevin. Some money claims allow service by mail or admission of service. The Summons states the first hearing date. Service must be completed before that date. If service fails, you may need to ask for a new date and re-serve.

The Complaint must state enough facts to put the defendant on notice. It must identify the parties and the claim type. It must state the amount you want and include a short statement of why. Attach key documents that support your claim. The court will not try your entire case at the first hearing. But your Complaint should be clear and specific.

If the defendant fails to appear or respond, you can ask for a default judgment. If both sides appear and do not settle, the court will set a trial. You must prove your case with testimony and documents. The judge will apply the law to the facts you present. If you win, the court enters judgment in your favor. If you lose, your claim is dismissed.

Small claims are designed to be faster and simpler than large civil cases. But it is still formal litigation. Deadlines apply. The court rules control how you present evidence and how you serve papers. Attorneys must e-file. Self-represented litigants may file on paper or electronically. If you cannot afford fees, you can ask the court to waive them based on your income and assets. The court will review a separate fee waiver request if you submit one.

How to Fill Out a SC-500 – Summons and Complaint (Small Claims)

Follow these steps to prepare, file, and serve your SC-500.

1) Confirm your claim fits small claims.

• Decide your claim type: money judgment, eviction, replevin, or return of earnest money.
• Estimate the dollar amount. Keep it within small claims limits. If your actual damages exceed the limit, decide whether to cap your demand or file a larger civil case.
• Identify the proper county. For eviction, file where the rental property is located. For money claims, file where the defendant resides or where the events occurred. For replevin, file where the property or defendant is located.

2) Gather key information and documents.

• Parties: full legal names, complete addresses, and phone numbers. For businesses, use the exact legal name and the registered agent’s address for service if needed.
• Facts: dates, amounts, invoices, lease terms, notices given, photos, and messages.
• For eviction: the lease, the notice(s) you served, and proof of serving those notices.
• For replevin: a detailed description of the property (make, model, serial number, VIN), its value, and proof of ownership or right to possession.
• For money claims: a running balance with credits and charges. Include contracts and delivery records.
• For earnest money: the offer to purchase, amendments, and the clause that controls who gets the funds.

3) Get the SC-500 form.

• You can obtain the form from any Wisconsin Circuit Court clerk. You can also use the statewide template if you have access. Make sure you have the latest version.

4) Complete the caption at the top.

• Court: write “State of Wisconsin, Circuit Court,” and the county name.
• Parties: list yourself as Plaintiff. List each defendant. Use separate lines for each. Include full names, not initials or nicknames.
• Addresses: provide mailing addresses for all parties. These appear on the Summons.
• Case number: leave blank until the clerk assigns one. The clerk will also add the branch or judge if needed.

5) Fill out the Summons section.

• The Summons tells the defendant when and where to appear. The clerk sets the date and time. Leave that part blank for the clerk to complete.
• Include your contact information. This lets the clerk and the defendant communicate with you.
• Some counties include instructions for written answers. Read those once the clerk issues the form.

6) Complete the Complaint section: choose the claim type.

• Check the box for your claim: Eviction, Replevin, Return of Earnest Money, or Money Judgment.
• For Money Judgment: write the exact amount you seek today. Add “plus costs” and interest if you are seeking them. If interest applies, state the rate and start date.
• For Eviction: specify the rental address and unit. Indicate the basis (nonpayment, breach, or holdover). State the rent due through a date certain. You can also ask for a money judgment for unpaid rent and damages.
• For Replevin: identify the property, its value, and your right to immediate possession. State why the defendant has it and refuses to return it.
• For Return of Earnest Money: state the amount held, who holds it, and the contract clause that gives you the right to return.

7) Write a short, clear statement of facts.

• Keep it factual and chronological. Use dates, amounts, and names.
• Example for money claim: “On March 1, you contracted with me for website design for $2,500. I completed the work on March 20. You received the files. You have not paid the $2,500 invoice due April 1.”
• Example for eviction: “You rent 123 Main Street, Apt 2. Monthly rent is $1,000, due on the 1st. You did not pay the March or April rent. I served a proper notice on April 5. You did not cure. I seek eviction and judgment for $2,000 plus late fees authorized by the lease.”
• Example for replevin: “I hold title to a 2016 Honda Civic, VIN [xxx]. You are in possession after I terminated consent. I demand immediate return. The vehicle’s value is $8,000.”
• Example for earnest money: “You offered to purchase my property. Financing failed within the contingency period. The offer requires the return of $3,000 earnest money to me.”

8) State the relief you want.

• Be specific. Ask for judgment for a dollar amount, eviction with a writ of restitution, or return of identified property. Ask for costs and allowable interest. If your lease or contract provides attorney fees and you are represented, note that request.

9) Attach supporting documents as exhibits.

• Label them “Exhibit A,” “Exhibit B,” etc. Reference them in your statement. For example, “See Exhibit A (lease).”
• Include an itemized account for money claims. Include the lease and notices for eviction. Include ownership proof for replevin. Include the offer to purchase for earnest money.
• Bring extra copies to court. One set for the court, one set for each defendant, and one set for you.

10) Sign and date the Complaint.

• Sign your name and print it clearly. Include your mailing address, phone, and email if you have one.
• If you have a lawyer, your lawyer signs and includes their bar number.
• Notarization is not required for the SC-500. Your signature certifies the truth of your statements.

11) File the form with the clerk.

• File in the correct county courthouse. Attorneys must e-file. Self-represented filers can file in person or electronically.
• Pay the filing fee. Fees vary by case type. If you cannot afford the fee, ask the clerk for a fee waiver form and instructions. Submit the waiver request with your filing if needed.
• Ask the clerk to issue the Summons and set the initial court date. The clerk will fill in the date, time, and location on the Summons.

12) Get copies for service.

• Ask the clerk for authenticated copies for each defendant and for your records.
• You must serve each defendant with a copy of the Summons and Complaint.

13) Arrange service on the defendant.

• Choose the correct method. Evictions and replevin usually require personal or substituted service by a sheriff or private process server. Some money claims may allow service by mail through the clerk.
• Track the service deadline printed on the Summons or given by the clerk. Service must be completed before the first hearing. If service fails, request a new date and re-serve promptly.
• Keep proof of service. File it with the court before the hearing if possible. Proof may be an affidavit from the server or a clerk’s certificate if mailed.

14) Calendar the first hearing and prepare.

• Read the Summons instructions carefully. Some counties require you to appear in person. Others allow a written answer before the hearing. Follow what your Summons says.
• Bring your exhibits, organized and labeled. Bring at least three sets of copies.
• Be ready to explain your claim in five minutes. Stick to dates, amounts, and documents.

15) What happens next?

• If the defendant does not appear or answer, ask the court for a default judgment. Bring proof of service and a proposed total for judgment.
• If both sides appear, the court may hold a pretrial or schedule a trial. Some courts refer cases to mediation. If you settle, put the agreement in writing and file it with the court.
• For eviction, if you win, ask the court for a writ of restitution after the time set by the court. For replevin, ask for a writ of replevin. For money judgments, prepare to enforce if you are not paid.

Practical drafting tips

• Use the exact legal names of parties. For businesses, check the corporate or LLC name. List the registered agent for service if you plan to serve that way.
• Use a clear total for your demand as of the filing date. Then state that you also seek costs and interest if allowed.
• Attach only the documents that matter. More is not better. Relevance and clarity help the judge.
• Keep your statement short and focused. The judge can ask for more details at the hearing if needed.
• Do not guess. If you do not know a date, say “on or about” with a supporting document if possible.
• Update your address with the court if you move. You must receive court notices.

By completing the SC-500 carefully, you set a strong foundation for your case. You tell the defendant and the judge exactly what you want and why. You also give yourself a clear checklist for filing, serving, and proving your claim.

Legal Terms You Might Encounter

• Plaintiff means the person or business filing the case. On SC-500, you list yourself as the plaintiff. Make sure your legal name is correct.
• Defendant means the person or business you sue. On SC-500, you must name each defendant exactly. Use full legal names to match records.
• Summons is the notice that tells the defendant about the case. SC-500 includes the summons. It tells the defendant when and where to appear.
• Complaint is your statement of the claim. On SC-500, the complaint section explains why you want money or property.
• Service of process is how the defendant gets the summons and complaint. SC-500 starts the case, but service makes it official. You must follow service rules.
• Proof of service is the document showing the defendant was served. It links to SC-500 by proving the defendant received your papers. Without it, your case can stall.
• Venue means the correct county to file your case. SC-500 asks for the court location. Choose the county that fits your claim facts.
• Default judgment happens if the defendant does not respond or appear. SC-500 is the starting point. Proper service allows you to ask for a default.
• Counterclaim is a claim the defendant files back against you. SC-500 triggers it. The defendant may file a separate small claims form to counterclaim.
• Damages and costs are the money you ask for. On SC-500, you list the amount. It may include your claim, court costs, and allowed interest.

FAQs

Do you need to know the exact amount you are claiming?

Yes. Put a clear dollar amount on SC-500. If some items are estimates, label them and explain why. Avoid ranges. Round to the nearest cent if needed.

Do you sue a business or the owner?

Sue the right legal party. If the business is a corporation or LLC, list that entity. If it is a sole proprietorship, you may list the owner’s legal name and the trade name. Check invoices or contracts to confirm.

Do you need the defendant’s full address?

Yes. You need a reliable service address. Use a physical street address when possible. A post office box alone is not enough for personal service. Include apartment or suite numbers.

Do you have to attach evidence to SC-500?

No. You generally do not need attachments to a file. Still, you should gather key documents now. Bring them to court. You may attach short summaries if space is tight, but keep the form clear.

Do you need to notarize SC-500?

No. You sign and date the form to certify it. Use your legal name and current contact information. Make sure your signature is legible.

Do you file one SC-500 for multiple defendants?

You can include multiple defendants in one case. List each defendant with a complete address. Explain each defendant’s role in your claim. Be precise about joint or separate liability.

Do you need to serve the defendant yourself?

No. Do not serve papers yourself. Use an approved method. Arrange proper service quickly after filing. Keep the proof of service for the court.

Do you need to appear on the first court date?

Yes, unless the court tells you otherwise. Bring your evidence and proof of service. If you miss the date, your case may be dismissed.

Checklist: Before, During, and After the SC-500 – Summons and Complaint (Small Claims)

Before signing

• Confirm the defendant’s exact legal name.
• Confirm a good physical address for service.
• Check the correct county for your case facts.
• Total your claim with a clear dollar amount.
• Identify the reason for the claim in simple terms.
• Gather key documents: contracts, invoices, photos, and messages.
• Note important dates: purchase, service, breach, demand.
• Confirm any payments already made or credits due.
• Decide whether to ask for interest or costs.
• Verify any property return request and its value.

During signing

• Verify your full legal name and mailing address.
• Verify your phone and email for court contact.
• Check the defendant’s name and address again.
• Confirm the claim amount matches your records.
• Write a short, factual statement of what happened.
• Use dates, amounts, and actions; avoid opinions.
• Make sure the venue (county) is correct on the form.
• Sign and date the form in the proper space.
• Review for blanks that must be completed by you.
• Leave any court-only fields untouched, if labeled.

After signing

• Make at least three copies of SC-500.
• File the original with the court.
• Pay the filing fee or submit a fee waiver request.
• Get a filed copy stamped by the court.
• Arrange service for each defendant.
• Track service attempts and dates.
• Obtain proof of service once complete.
• File proof of service with the court if needed.
• Calendar the court date and any deadlines.
• Organize your evidence by topic and date.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Naming the wrong defendant

• Consequence: Service fails, or judgment becomes unenforceable.
• Tip: Use the exact legal name, not a nickname or brand.

Using a P.O. Box for service

• Consequence: Service may be invalid. Your case can be delayed.
• Tip: Get a physical address. Add unit numbers if needed.

Overstating or mixing claim amounts

• Consequence: Credibility issues or partial denial.
• Tip: Show your math. Separate principal, interest, and costs.

Filing in the wrong county

• Consequence: Dismissal or transfer delays.
• Tip: Choose the county connected to the claim or defendant.

Leaving fields blank or unsigned

• Consequence: Rejection at filing or delays in service.
• Tip: Review every section. Sign and date clearly.

Don’t forget your proof of service

• Consequence: No hearing on the merits or no default.
• Tip: File proof promptly and keep a copy.

What to Do After Filling Out the Form

File the case

• Submit the signed SC-500 to the court.
• Pay the fee or apply for a fee waiver.
• Obtain a conformed copy for your records.

Serve the defendant

• Arrange proper service for each defendant.
• Use an approved server or method.
• Track attempts and successful service dates.
• Keep all receipts and return documents.

File proof of service

• File the proof as soon as it is available.
• Make copies for your file and the hearing.

Prepare for the first court date

• Outline your story in a few short points.
• Put documents in order by date.
• Highlight key numbers and dates.
• Prepare a simple list of your exhibits.
• Bring two extra copies of the evidence.

Consider settlement

• You can settle at any time.
• Put any agreement in writing.
• Notify the court if you resolve the case.
• Ask about dismissal steps if paid.

Request a default if the defendant does not appear

• Bring proof of service and your claim details.
• Be ready to explain your amount and evidence.
• Ask the court how to proceed on default.

Handle a counterclaim

• Read it carefully if you receive one.
• Note any new court dates or deadlines.
• Gather documents that respond to it.

Amend or correct your complaint

• If you made a material error, correct it.
• File a corrected complaint if allowed.
• Serve the corrected version to all parties if required.

Keep records

• Store your filed SC-500 and all proofs of service.
• Keep hearing notices and court orders.
• Save payment records if you get paid.
• Keep your file for the full case lifecycle.

Enforce a judgment

• If you win and do not get paid, learn your options.
• Follow court procedures to collect lawfully.
• Keep track of amounts paid and any interest.

Protect sensitive information

• Redact personal identifiers if required.
• Do not share your private data unnecessarily.