50th District Court Small Claims DivisionQuick Resolution for Claims Under $6,500
File your small claims case at 50th District Court in Pontiac without an attorney. Get disputes resolved quickly and affordably with our professional filing assistance.
Small Claims Quick Facts:
Professional filing service • $29 + court fees • Same-day processing
What is Small Claims Court?
Small Claims Court at 50th District Court provides a simplified legal process for resolving disputes involving $6,500 or less. The process is designed to be quick, inexpensive, and accessible to everyone.
No attorneys are allowed in Michigan small claims court, which keeps costs down and ensures both parties present their own cases directly to the judge. Most cases are resolved within 30-45 days of filing.
What Can You Sue For?
✓ You CAN Sue For:
- Unpaid debts or loans up to $6,500
- Property damage (auto accidents, home damage)
- Breach of contract or broken agreements
- Security deposit disputes
- Defective products or poor service
- Unpaid wages (under $6,500)
✗ You CANNOT Sue For:
- Claims over $6,500
- Libel, slander, or defamation
- Cases against the State of Michigan
- Complex business disputes
- Divorce or family law matters
- Criminal matters
Small Claims Filing Process
Complete Form DC 84
Fill out the Affidavit and Claim form (DC 84) with defendant's information, claim amount, and brief description of your case.
File at Court
Submit your forms at 70 N. Saginaw Street, Pontiac. Pay filing fee ($45-$95 based on claim amount).
Serve the Defendant
Court will send notice by certified mail ($26) or you can arrange personal service ($50+). Defendant has 14 days to respond.
Attend Hearing
Present your case to the judge with evidence. No attorneys allowed. Hearing typically scheduled within 30-45 days.
Get Judgment
Judge issues decision immediately or within a few days. If you win, defendant has 21 days to pay or appeal.
Evidence You'll Need
Bring all relevant documentation to support your case. The judge will make a decision based on the evidence presented.
Documents to Bring:
- • Contracts or agreements
- • Receipts and invoices
- • Photos of damage
- • Text messages or emails
- • Bank statements
- • Repair estimates
Witness Information:
- • Bring witnesses if possible
- • Written statements allowed
- • Must be notarized if not present
- • Expert testimony permitted
- • Character witnesses helpful
- • Maximum 3 witnesses recommended
Quick Actions
Court Contact
50th District Court
70 N. Saginaw St.
Pontiac, MI 48342
Mon-Fri: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Important Deadlines
- 14 days: Defendant response time
- 30-45 days: Typical hearing date
- 21 days: Time to pay judgment
- 21 days: Appeal deadline
Cost Summary
Small Claims Court FAQs
Do I need a lawyer?
No, lawyers are not allowed in Michigan small claims court. This keeps the process simple and affordable for everyone.
What if I can't afford the fees?
You may qualify for a fee waiver. Ask for form MC 20 (Affidavit and Order, Suspension of Fees/Costs) at the courthouse.
Can I sue a business?
Yes, you can sue businesses in small claims court. You'll need their registered agent information, which we can help you find.
What if the defendant doesn't show up?
If properly served and they don't appear, you may win by default. You'll still need to prove your damages to the judge.
Ready to File Your Small Claims Case?
Let us handle the paperwork while you focus on your case. Professional service, guaranteed accuracy.
$29 service fee + court filing fees • Same-day processing
Frequently asked questions
What is the small claims limit at 50th District Court Pontiac MI?
The small claims limit at 50th District Court in Pontiac, Michigan is $6,500. This includes contract disputes, property damage, unpaid debts, and other civil matters.
How much does it cost to file small claims at 50th District Court?
Filing fees range from $45 for claims under $600 to $95 for claims between $3,500-$6,500, plus service fees of $26 for certified mail or $50+ for personal service.
Can I have a lawyer in small claims court at 50th District Court?
No, attorneys are not allowed to represent parties in small claims court at 50th District Court. This keeps the process simple and accessible for everyone.