Small Claims Court in Missouri
State-specific overview · Courtroom Procedure
Missouri small claims court caps at $5,000, and attorneys cannot represent parties unless both sides consent.
How Missouri treats Small Claims Court
Missouri Circuit Court Small Claims Division handles civil disputes up to $5,000. Attorneys are generally prohibited from representing parties unless both the plaintiff and defendant agree in writing. The court provides simplified procedures and forms to help self-represented litigants. Cases are resolved relatively quickly, typically within a few 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 Missouri.