$15,000Claim Limit
$60–$95Filing Fee
6 yrsSOL Period
20 daysAppeal Window
Minnesota Small Claims Rules
| Court Name | Conciliation Court — Conciliation Court (Small Claims) |
| Claim Limit | $15,000 ($15,000 for businesses) |
| Filing Fee | ~$60–$95 (varies by claim amount and county) |
| Statute of Limitations | 6 years for most contract disputes |
| Attorneys | ✗ Attorneys NOT allowed Attorneys are NOT allowed in Minnesota Conciliation Court |
| Service of Process | Sheriff or certified mail |
| Appeal Deadline | 20 days from judgment |
| Judgment Valid For | 10 years |
| Online Filing | ✗ In-person at courthouse |
| Official Court Website | https://www.mncourts.gov/Help-Topics/Conciliation-Court.aspx → |
Minnesota Security Deposit & Wage Rules
| Deposit Return Deadline | 21 days (3 weeks) |
| Penalty for Violation | Up to 2× the deposit |
| Wage Claims SOL | 3 years |
💡 Before suing in Minnesota, send a written demand letter first. Generate one free →
What You Need to Know About Minnesota Small Claims
Minnesota uses a unique 'Conciliation Court' for small claims — not attorney-friendly by design. Attorneys are not allowed to appear at the hearing. Minnesota's $15,000 limit is among the highest in the country, making it possible to resolve substantial disputes without going to civil court. The 6-year SOL is generous.
Filing Tips for Minnesota
1
Minnesota calls its small claims court 'Conciliation Court' — this is the correct court to file in
2
Attorneys are not allowed at the hearing — self-representation is required
3
The $15,000 limit is one of the highest in the US — most consumer disputes can be resolved here
4
You have 20 days to appeal — file a 'Notice of Appeal and Remove to District Court' if needed
Common Cases in Minnesota
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