Dedham District Court Filing Fees
Complete 2026 fee schedule for all case types at Dedham District Court. Know exactly what you'll pay before filing.
Quick Fee Reference - Dedham District Court
$55
Up to $7,000
$90-$240
Up to $50,000
$7-$35
Per defendant
Detailed Fee Schedule - Dedham District Court
| Fee Type | Amount | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Fee | $40 | Base filing fee for small claims |
| Surcharge | $15 | Required court surcharge |
| Total Filing | $55 | Total to file small claims |
| Claim Amount | Entry Fee | Surcharge | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under $25,000 | $90 | $15+ | $105+ |
| $25,000 - $50,000 | $240 | $15+ | $255+ |
| Over $50,000 | Must file in Superior Court |
| Service Method | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Mail | $7 | Most economical, requires signature |
| Sheriff Service | $35 | Most reliable, personal service |
| Constable/Process Server | $50-100 | Private service, varies by provider |
| Collection Action | Fee | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Execution | $30 | Enforce judgment against property |
| Trustee Process | $35 | Wage garnishment |
| Supplementary Process | $50 | Discover defendant's assets |
| Payment Review | $25 | Court hearing on payment plan |
| Capias | $35 | Arrest warrant for non-compliance |
| Motion/Action | Fee | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Motion (non-jury) | $60 | Request for court order |
| Motion (jury session) | $100 | Motion in jury session cases |
| Appeal | $300 | Appeal to higher court |
| Jury Demand | $115 | Request jury trial (civil) |
| Certificate/Copy | $2.50/page | Certified copies of documents |
Can't Afford Filing Fees?
Automatic Qualification
You automatically qualify if you receive:
- SNAP (Food Stamps)
- SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
- TAFDC (Transitional Aid to Families)
- EAEDC (Emergency Aid to Elderly, Disabled & Children)
- MassHealth (Medicaid)
- Public Housing Subsidy
Income-Based Qualification
You may qualify if your income is below 125% of federal poverty guidelines:
- Single person: Under $18,075/year
- Family of 2: Under $24,325/year
- Family of 3: Under $30,575/year
- Family of 4: Under $36,825/year
Total Cost Examples - Dedham District Court
Potential recovery: $2,000 + court costs
Potential recovery: $5,000 + court costs
Potential recovery: $15,000 + court costs
Save Money with Professional Filing Help
For just $29 (plus court fees), PettyLawsuit ensures your case is filed correctly at Dedham District Court. Avoid costly mistakes and rejections that could delay your case or require refiling.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to file small claims at Dedham District Court?
Small claims filing fees at Dedham District Court are $40 entry fee plus a $15 surcharge, for a total of $55. Additional costs include service fees ($35 for sheriff service or $7 for certified mail). PettyLawsuit charges just $29 to prepare all paperwork (court fees are additional).
What are civil action filing fees at Dedham District Court?
Civil action filing fees at Dedham District Court are: $90 plus surcharges for claims under $25,000, $240 plus surcharges for claims $25,000-$50,000. District Court handles cases up to $50,000. For cases over $50,000, you must file in Superior Court with higher fees.
How much does it cost to serve papers in Massachusetts?
Service fees at Dedham District Court include: $35 for sheriff service (most reliable), $7 for certified mail service (most economical), or you may hire a constable or process server (typically $50-100). The court requires proof of service before your hearing.
Are there additional fees after winning my case at Dedham District Court?
Yes, post-judgment fees may include: $30 for execution (enforcement of judgment), $50 for supplementary process, $25 for payment review hearing, $35 for trustee process (wage garnishment), and various recording fees if you need to place liens on property. These fees are typically added to what the defendant owes you.
Can I get filing fees waived at Dedham District Court if I can't afford them?
Yes, you may qualify for an Affidavit of Indigency to waive fees if you receive public assistance (SNAP, SSI, TAFDC, etc.) or your income is below 125% of federal poverty guidelines. You must complete the affidavit form and provide proof of income. The judge will review and decide on your application.