Houston, TX asked in Insurance Bad Faith and Small Claims for Texas

Q: Can I press charges on a insurance agent for stealing my $5600 premium down payment

And financing $3000 on my premium policy

1 Lawyer Answer

A: I suspect police will tell you this is a civil matter. Because such a small amount of money is involved, a civil claim for this amount falls within the jurisdiction of Texas justice of the peace courts. Such courts handle “small claims” where the amount in controversy is less than $20,000.

These “small claim” courts operate in a manner similar to what is depicted on the TV shows “Judge Judy” and “The People’s Court.” Your best bet is to file a small claims case in the justice of the peace precinct where the agent lives.

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