Small Claims Court in Massachusetts
State-specific overview · Courtroom Procedure
Massachusetts small claims court handles cases up to $7,500, with no attorney representation allowed for plaintiffs.
How Massachusetts treats Small Claims Court
Massachusetts District Court Small Claims and Conciliation Session handles civil disputes up to $7,500. Plaintiffs cannot be represented by attorneys, though defendants may represent themselves or be represented. The court emphasizes informal procedures and quick resolution, typically within a few months. Filing fees are modest and scale with the claim amount.
The general definition of Small Claims Court
A court that handles minor civil disputes involving small amounts of money, usually without lawyers.
Small claims court is a simplified court system designed for people to resolve minor disputes without the expense and complexity of regular civil court. These courts typically handle cases involving amounts under $5,000 to $25,000, depending on the state. The process is informal, and people can represent themselves without hiring a lawyer. Small claims courts handle disputes like unpaid debts, security deposit disagreements, property damage claims, and contract breaches involving small amounts.
Read the full Small Claims Court entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.