To file a Small Claims case at the 42-2 District Court - New Baltimore:
- The cause of action must have occurred in or the defendant must live within Chesterfield Township, Lenox Township, New Baltimore, or New Haven.
- The claim may not exceed $7,000.
- An Affidavit and Claim must be filed with the court.
- The plaintiff is required to serve the Affidavit and Claim, with any supporting documentation, upon the defendant.
Small Claims Rights:
You give up or waive the following rights:
- The right to be represented by an attorney
- The right to have a jury trial
Ability To Collect
Collectability should be a prime consideration prior to starting a lawsuit. There are often situations where a judgment is not particularly difficult to obtain but the collection is difficult, if not impossible. Situations such as welfare, unemployment, social security and disability are not subject to garnishments.
Garnishments
If the court decides in your favor, it does not automatically mean that the defendant will pay the judgment and costs. You may have to take additional legal steps (i.e. garnishment, execution) to obtain your money. The court does not collect the money for you.
| Claims up to $600 | $30 plus cost of certified mailing or personal service |
|---|---|
| Claims over $600 up to $1,750 | $50 plus cost of certified mailing or personal service |
| Claims over $1,750 up to $7,000 | $70 plus cost of certified mailing or personal service |
*These filing fees do not include process server fees, motion fees, or post judgment costs.
For additional information, please visit Michigan Legal Help
42-2 District Court Civil Division email 42-2districtcourtcivil@macombgov.org
42-2 District Court Civil Division phone 586-725-9500, option 4.