Maryland Small claims you can ask for $5,000.00. While you can hire a lawyer if you choose, the rules of evidence and procedure in small claims cases are simplified to make it easier to represent yourself. If you do hire an attorney to present your small claims case, you will have to pay your own attorney fees.

To be tried as a small claim in District Court, your case must meet the following conditions:

• Your claim is for $5,000 or less; and,
• Your claim is for money only, not the return of property or performance of a service; and,
• You are not planning to request any discovery such as interrogatories (written questions that the other side must answer under oath in writing, before trial).

When defendants are “served,” they are notified that a lawsuit has been filed against them and summoned to appear for trial by a Writ of Summons, which the court issues after you file your complaint. The Writ of Summons includes the case number and a trial date, time and location.

One copy of the document must be delivered to the defendant, along with a copy of the Complaint form and supporting documents. If the defendant files a Notice of Intention to Defend, the court will notify you.

The Notice of Intention to Defend includes space for the defendant to explain why he or she should not be required to pay you the money you claim you are owed. If the defendant chooses to list a reason, the notice you receive from the court will include that reason. Take note of the defendant’s claim. You need to be prepared to explain to the judge why the defendant’s argument is not valid. The court will set a trial date.

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