Michigan (MI)
Small Claims Court in Michigan
Reviewed May 11, 2026
Suing for under $7,000 in Michigan? You do not need a lawyer. This page covers the rules, the filing fee, the forms, and what to bring on hearing day - written for people who have never been to court.
Michigan small claims at a glance
- Jurisdictional limit
- $7,000
- Filing fee
- $30-$70
- Court name
- Small Claims Division of District Court
- Controlling statute
- MCL § 600.8401
- Attorneys permitted
- No
- Appeal window
- 21 days
Note: Filing in small claims waives right to attorney representation and jury trial.
The 5-step process in Michigan
- Send a demand letter. Many Michigan courts expect proof of a pre-suit demand attempt. See our demand letter guide for a template.
- File the complaint. Pay the $30-$70 filing fee at the small claims division of district court. The clerk assigns a case number and a hearing date.
- Serve the defendant. Michigan typically requires sheriff service, process server, or certified mail with return receipt. Personal service by the plaintiff is usually not allowed.
- Prepare for the hearing. Bring three copies of every document, a one-page chronology, the demand letter with proof of service, and an itemized damages calculation. Note: attorneys cannot represent parties in michigan small claims.
- Collect after you win. A judgment is a piece of paper. Collection in Michigan happens via wage garnishment, bank levy, or property lien - a separate process that can take 3-12 months.
Attorneys in Michigan small claims
Attorneys cannot represent parties in Michigan small claims.
Most small-claims plaintiffs represent themselves. The whole point of the system is that ordinary people can use it. If your claim is more complex than the small claims division of district courtcan handle, you can file in Michigan’s regular civil court instead - but you give up the speed and low cost.
Common questions about Michigan small claims
How much can I sue for in Michigan small claims court?
Michigan small claims court handles claims up to $7,000. If your claim is worth more, you can still use small claims by agreeing to drop the amount above the limit, or you can file in regular civil court instead.
How much does it cost to file a small claims case in Michigan?
The filing fee in Michigan is typically $30-$70, paid at the small claims division of district court. If paying the fee would be a hardship, most courts let you ask for a fee waiver.
Can a lawyer represent me in Michigan small claims court?
Attorneys cannot represent parties in Michigan small claims. Either way, most people handle small claims on their own — the process is designed to be used without a lawyer.
How long do I have to appeal a small claims decision in Michigan?
You generally have 21 days after the judgment is entered to file an appeal in Michigan. Check the paperwork the court gives you for the exact deadline and where to file.
Do I need a lawyer to file a small claims case in Michigan?
No. Small claims court in Michigan is built for people representing themselves. You bring your documents, explain what happened in plain terms, and the judge decides. Organizing your evidence ahead of time is the most useful step you can take.