Small Claims Court in Massachusetts: Limits and Procedures
Small claims court in Massachusetts, handled by the Massachusetts District Court, provides an accessible and cost-effective forum for resolving disputes involving claims up to a specified monetary limit.
Small Claims Court Limit in Massachusetts
The general limit for small claims court in Massachusetts is $7,000 (M.G.L. Ch. 218, § 21). However, there are exceptions to this limit:
Key Facts
- Small claims court is an informal and inexpensive forum for settling disputes of $7,000 or less.
- The Massachusetts District Court handles small claims matters in Massachusetts.
- To file a claim in small claims court, you need to file a claim with the Massachusetts District Court and serve a copy of the claim and court date on the defendant.
- At the trial, you will present evidence supporting your case, and the defendant may present a defense or counterclaim.
- The judge will issue a money judgment to the party who proves they are entitled to an award.
- The small claims court limit in Massachusetts is $7,000, with some exceptions.
- There is no limit for property damage caused by a motor vehicle, certain statutory damages and attorney fee awards, and awards of double or triple damages under the Consumer Protection Laws.
- If your claim exceeds the small claims court limit, you may need to file in a higher court.
- Property damage caused by a motor vehicle has no monetary limit.
- Statutory damages, attorney fee awards, and double or triple damages under the Consumer Protection Laws are also exempt from the limit.
If a claim exceeds the $7,000 limit, plaintiffs may consider filing in a higher court, such as the District or Superior Court.
Filing a Small Claims Case
To initiate a small claims case, plaintiffs must file a claim with the Massachusetts District Court and serve a copy of the claim and court date on the defendant (M.G.L. Ch. 223, § 6). The claim should include a clear statement of the plaintiff’s demand and the basis for the claim.
Trial Proceedings
At the trial, both the plaintiff and defendant have the opportunity to present evidence and arguments supporting their respective positions. Plaintiffs bear the burden of proving their claims, while defendants may present defenses or file counterclaims.
The judge presiding over the case will make a decision based on the evidence presented. The decision may include a monetary judgment in favor of the plaintiff or defendant, or the dismissal of the case.
Enforcement of Judgments
If a plaintiff obtains a money judgment in small claims court, they are responsible for collecting the judgment from the defendant. The court does not provide assistance with collection efforts.
Conclusion
Small claims court in Massachusetts offers a simplified and affordable means of resolving disputes involving claims up to $7,000, with exceptions for certain types of claims. By understanding the limits and procedures associated with small claims court, individuals can effectively navigate the process and seek legal remedies for their disputes.
Sources
- Massachusetts General Laws: https://malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartIII/TitleI/Chapter218
- Massachusetts Small Claims Court: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/small-claims-court
- Massachusetts District Court Small Claims Cases: An Overview: https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/massachusetts-district-court-small-claims-cases-an-overview.html
- What Is the Limit on Small Claims Court Cases?: https://www.rocketlawyer.com/family-and-personal/general-legal-matters/lawsuits-and-dispute-resolution/legal-guide/what-is-the-limit-on-small-claims-court-cases
FAQs
What is the general limit for small claims court in Massachusetts?
The general limit for small claims court in Massachusetts is $7,000.
Are there any exceptions to the small claims court limit in Massachusetts?
Yes, there are exceptions for property damage caused by a motor vehicle, statutory damages, attorney fee awards, and double or triple damages under the Consumer Protection Laws.
What should I do if my claim exceeds the small claims court limit in Massachusetts?
If your claim exceeds the $7,000 limit, you may consider filing in a higher court, such as the District or Superior Court.
How do I file a small claims case in Massachusetts?
To file a small claims case in Massachusetts, you must file a claim with the Massachusetts District Court and serve a copy of the claim and court date on the defendant.
What happens at a small claims court trial in Massachusetts?
At the trial, both the plaintiff and defendant have the opportunity to present evidence and arguments supporting their respective positions. The judge will make a decision based on the evidence presented.
Who is responsible for collecting a judgment in small claims court in Massachusetts?
The plaintiff is responsible for collecting the judgment from the defendant. The court does not provide assistance with collection efforts.
Can I appeal a small claims court decision in Massachusetts?
Only defendants who appeared at the trial can appeal a small claims court decision in Massachusetts. They must file a Claim of Appeal form within 10 days of receiving written notice of the decision.