Filing a Small Claims Suit
in 52-1 District Court

48150 Grand River Ave.
Novi, MI 48374 (248) 305-6080

What is Small Claims Court?

The Small Claims court is designed to quickly decide disputes involving amounts of $3,000.00 or less. In small claims you give up your right to a jury trial, to be represented by an attorney and your right to an appeal beyond this court.

Can I Collect if I Win?

The simple fact that the court decides in your favor does not automatically mean that the defendant will pay the judgment and costs. The court can only award judgment for money. You may have to take additional legal steps (ie. garnishment of wages) to obtain your money, and in the end, success in collecting may depend upon whether the other party has the money to pay you.

What Can I Sue for in Small Claims Court?

You can sue only for money damages in Small Claims court, up to $3,000.00. You may have a valid claim for more than $3,000.00, but a judgment in Small Claims court cannot exceed $3,000.00.

How to Begin Your Suit:

  1. Be sure you have brought your claim against the proper party.
  2. Prepare an "Affidavit and Claim" form which can be obtained at any district court.

Serving The Defendant:
It is your responsibility as the Plaintiff to make sure the defendant is served before the expiration date on Line 12 at the bottom of your Small Claims form. In the event the process server can not personally serve the defendant after three attempts, an Order for Alternate Service will need to be filed, and additional fees will be required (see service fees). If proper service has not been made by the expiration date then you must re-file.

What Does it Cost?

  • $25.00 filing fee for claims up to $600
  • $45.00 filing fee for claims $601.00 - $1,750.00
  • $65.00 filing fee for claims $1751.00 - $3,000.00
                               AND
  • $10.00 to serve each defendant by certified mail
    •                            OR
  • Utilize the court’s process server (Click here for Service Fees).
 

FILING FEE AND CERTIFIED MAIL FEE SHOULD BE MADE PAYABLE TO 52-1 DISTRICT COURT.

The Process Server Will Send You A Bill For The Service Fees.

The filing and certified mailing fees can be paid by check, money order, cash, Visa/MasterCard.
**Cash cannot be sent through the United States Postal Service**

How do I Prepare?

Bring with you all evidence needed to present your side of the case. Outline your case so that you know in advance the points to be covered. You will first meet with a mediator to discuss a possible settlement. If settlement is not possible, a Bench Trial will be held the same day upon the availability of the Magistrate.