Small Claims
A simplified court process for civil disputes involving smaller amounts of money, handled in conciliation court.
Small claims cases in Minnesota are handled in conciliation court, which is a division of the district court designed to resolve smaller civil disputes quickly and informally. It is sometimes called “the people’s court” because it is designed for ordinary people to use without needing a lawyer.
Key facts about conciliation court in Minnesota:
- Dollar limit: You can sue for up to $20,000.
- No lawyers required: The process is designed so that people can represent themselves. Lawyers are allowed but not required.
- Simplified rules: The formal rules of evidence are relaxed, and hearings are less formal than in regular court.
- Common types of cases: Unpaid debts, security deposit disputes, property damage, breach of contract, and consumer complaints.
- Filing fees: Filing fees are relatively low compared to regular civil court.
- Fast resolution: Cases are typically heard within 30 to 90 days of filing.
You cannot use conciliation court for every type of dispute. Cases involving title to real estate, defamation, or requests for injunctions must be filed in regular district court.
Example: A landlord refuses to return a $1,200 security deposit after a tenant moves out. The tenant files a claim in conciliation court, pays a small filing fee, and both sides appear before a judge a few weeks later to present their case.
When someone wants to sue for a relatively small amount of money without hiring a lawyer or going through a complex legal process.