$7,000Claim Limit
$30–$70Filing Fee
3 yrsSOL Period
21 daysAppeal Window
Michigan Small Claims Rules
| Court Name | District Court — Small Claims Division |
| Claim Limit | $7,000 ($7,000 for businesses) |
| Filing Fee | ~$30–$70 (varies by claim amount and county) |
| Statute of Limitations | 3 years for most contract disputes |
| Attorneys | ✗ Attorneys NOT allowed Attorneys are NOT allowed to represent parties at Michigan small claims hearings |
| Service of Process | Certified mail or personal service |
| Appeal Deadline | 21 days from judgment |
| Judgment Valid For | 10 years |
| Online Filing | ✓ Available — File Online → |
| Official Court Website | https://courts.michigan.gov/self-help/center/small-claims → |
Michigan Security Deposit & Wage Rules
| Deposit Return Deadline | 30 days |
| Penalty for Violation | 2× the deposit amount |
| Wage Claims SOL | 3 years |
💡 Before suing in Michigan, send a written demand letter first. Generate one free →
What You Need to Know About Michigan Small Claims
Michigan small claims are filed in District Court. Attorneys are NOT allowed to appear at the hearing on behalf of a party. Michigan offers online filing through the state court system. The $7,000 limit handles most consumer disputes. Michigan's 21-day appeal window gives slightly more time than some states.
Filing Tips for Michigan
1
Attorneys are prohibited from appearing at hearings — both sides represent themselves
2
Michigan offers online filing — check courts.michigan.gov to start your case
3
File in the district court in the county where the defendant lives or works
4
Bring 3 organized copies of all evidence — one for yourself, one for the judge, one for the defendant
Common Cases in Michigan
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