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Complete Filing Guide
Updated February 2026

How to File at 50th District CourtComplete Guide for Pontiac, MI Cases

Everything you need to know about filing your case at 50th District Court in Pontiac. From forms to fees, parking to procedures - we've got you covered.

Quick Reference:

Location
70 N. Saginaw St.
Hours
8 AM - 4:30 PM
Phone
(248) 758-3800
Filing Fees
$45-$95

Professional filing service • $29 + court fees • Same-day processing

Filing Process Timeline

Filing

Day 1

Submit complaint and pay fees

Service

Days 5-14

Defendant must be served

Response

Day 14

Defendant response deadline

Hearing

Days 30-45

Court date scheduled

Judgment

Day 45+

Decision rendered

Collection

Day 66+

Enforce judgment if won

7 Steps to File Your Case

Progress1 of 7
1

Gather Information

15 minutes

Collect essential details about your case

Get defendant's full legal name and current address
Calculate total damages (up to $6,500 for small claims)
Gather all receipts, contracts, and documentation
Identify any witnesses and get contact information
Note date and location of incident or breach
2

Complete Court Forms

30-45 minutes

Fill out required 50th District Court forms

3

File at Courthouse

1-2 hours

Submit your case at 50th District Court

4

Serve the Defendant

5-14 days

Legally notify defendant of lawsuit

5

Prepare Your Case

1-2 weeks

Organize evidence and practice presentation

6

Attend Your Hearing

Half day

Present your case to the judge

7

Post-Judgment Actions

Varies

Enforce judgment if you win

Common Filing Mistakes to Avoid

Wrong Defendant Name

Using nicknames or incorrect business names can void your case. Always use the full legal name.

Missing Deadlines

Michigan has strict statute of limitations. Most contracts: 6 years. Property damage: 3 years.

Insufficient Evidence

Verbal agreements need supporting evidence. Always bring documents, photos, and witness statements.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the whole process take?

From filing to judgment typically takes 30-45 days. If you need to collect after winning, add another 30-60 days for garnishment proceedings.

Can I file if the defendant lives out of state?

You can file if the incident occurred in Pontiac or the defendant does business in Pontiac. Out-of-state service costs more and takes longer.

What if I can't afford the filing fees?

Request Form MC 20 (Fee Waiver) at the courthouse. You'll need to show financial hardship through proof of public assistance or low income.

Can I change my court date?

Yes, but request it as early as possible. File a motion to adjourn and pay a $20 motion fee. Both parties must be notified of the new date.

Save Time and Avoid Mistakes

Why spend hours at the courthouse when we can handle everything online? Professional filing service ensures your case is done right.

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All forms completed correctly

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Related Michigan Resources