Suing Out of State Tenant

[Chad Blessing]

I'm a property manager in Austin, TX and taking over a home where the previous tenant caused over $5K in damages and also broke the lease, moved out early and moved to Arizona.  I'm trying to provide guidance to the owner but it appears she may have to file the claim in Arizona, which may require her to appear in Arizona to do so.....and the limit for small claims is $3500.  Anyone have some general guidance on how to sue an out of state tenant?  I do realize it will depend on the states involved.