Minnesota Small Claims Court Guide
Everything you need to know about filing a small claims case in Minnesota — dollar limits, filing fees, court locations, and step-by-step guidance.
Minnesota Quick Facts
Maximum Claim
$15,000
Filing Fee
$77
Court fees added to your case — not due today
Court
Conciliation Court (District Court)
Overview
Small Claims in Minnesota
Minnesota's small claims court, known as Conciliation Court, is a division of the District Court and handles civil disputes where the amount claimed does not exceed $15,000. Minnesota's generous jurisdictional limit is among the highest in the nation, making it a powerful tool for resolving significant monetary disputes. The court is designed for easy self-representation without the need for expensive legal counsel.
The filing fee in Minnesota is a flat $77, which is recoverable as a court cost if you prevail in your case. The informal proceedings are designed for self-represented litigants, and attorneys are not permitted to appear on behalf of parties in Conciliation Court. The simplified rules of evidence make it practical for people without legal training.
Minnesota Conciliation Court is commonly used for collecting unpaid debts, recovering security deposits, seeking compensation for property damage, and resolving breach of contract matters. The court can award monetary judgments, including filing fees and court costs, which are recoverable from the losing party.
To file, you must submit a conciliation claim form to the District Court serving the county where the defendant lives or where the dispute occurred. After filing, the court issues a summons for service on the defendant, typically by certified mail or a private process server. The hearing is usually scheduled within 30 to 60 days. Minnesota's Conciliation Court is known for its accessibility and efficiency.
Where to File
File in the District Court (Conciliation Court) of the county where the defendant lives, works, or where the incident occurred. For business defendants, file where the business is located or where the contract was to be performed.
Service of Process
Service may be completed by certified mail, sheriff, or a private process server. Certified mail is commonly used for conciliation court cases in Minnesota. The defendant must be served at least 14 days before the hearing.
Statute of Limitations
Written contracts: 6 years. Oral contracts: 6 years. Property damage: 6 years. Personal injury: 2 years. Fraud: 6 years from discovery.
Appeal Rules
Either party may appeal to the District Court within 20 days. The case is retried de novo.
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