Small Claims Court in Michigan
State-specific overview · Courtroom Procedure
Michigan small claims court jurisdiction caps at $6,000, and parties generally cannot have attorneys represent them.
How Michigan treats Small Claims Court
Michigan District Court Small Claims Division handles claims up to $6,000 (or $5,000 if both parties agree). Attorneys cannot represent parties in small claims proceedings, though parties may represent themselves. The process is designed to be accessible without legal counsel, with simplified pleading and evidence rules. Cases typically resolve within several months of filing.
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 Michigan.