Simplified Court Process

Maine Small ClaimsNo Lawyers. Simple Process.

Resolve disputes up to $6,000 in Maine's District Courts without attorney representation

Maine's Unique Rule: Attorneys are NOT allowed to represent parties in small claims cases, ensuring equal footing for all participants.
$6,000
Maximum Claim
16
Court Locations
$55-85
Filing Fees
6 Years
Statute of Limitations
30-60
Days to Hearing

Simplified Small Claims Process

Maine makes small claims accessible to everyone

No Lawyers Allowed

Maine's small claims courts operate without attorneys, creating a level playing field:

  • Both parties represent themselves
  • Judges help explain procedures
  • Informal rules of evidence apply
  • Focus on facts, not legal technicalities
Simple Forms & Filing

Maine uses straightforward forms for small claims:

  • Form CV-002: Statement of Claim
  • Form CV-007: Small Claims Summons
  • Clear instructions provided
  • Court clerks can answer questions
5 Steps to File Maine Small Claims
1

Verify Your Claim is Under $6,000

Calculate damages excluding interest and court costs. Cannot split larger claims.

2

Choose the Correct District Court

File where defendant lives, works, or where the incident occurred. Maine has 16 locations.

3

Complete Form CV-002

Fill out the Statement of Claim with clear facts and damages. Pay $55-$85 filing fee.

4

Serve the Defendant

Defendant must be served at least 10 days before hearing by sheriff or certified mail.

5

Attend Your Hearing

Present your case clearly with evidence. No lawyers allowed - judge will guide you.

All 16 Maine District Court Locations

Find your nearest court for filing small claims

Portland District Court

205 Newbury Street, Portland, ME 04101

Serves Cumberland County

Augusta District Court

145 State Street, Augusta, ME 04330

Serves Kennebec County

Bangor District Court

73 Hammond Street, Bangor, ME 04401

Serves Penobscot County

Lewiston District Court

71 Lisbon Street, Lewiston, ME 04240

Serves Androscoggin County

Biddeford District Court

25 Adams Street, Biddeford, ME 04005

Serves York County

Caribou District Court

144 Sweden Street, Caribou, ME 04736

Serves Aroostook County

Ellsworth District Court

50 State Street, Ellsworth, ME 04605

Serves Hancock County

Farmington District Court

129 Main Street, Farmington, ME 04938

Serves Franklin County

Houlton District Court

25 School Street, Houlton, ME 04730

Serves Aroostook County

Machias District Court

121 Court Street, Machias, ME 04654

Serves Washington County

Presque Isle District Court

27 Riverside Drive, Presque Isle, ME 04769

Serves Aroostook County

Rockland District Court

62 Union Street, Rockland, ME 04841

Serves Knox County

Skowhegan District Court

47 Court Street, Skowhegan, ME 04976

Serves Somerset County

Springvale District Court

447 Main Street, Springvale, ME 04083

Serves York County

Waterville District Court

18 Colby Street, Waterville, ME 04901

Serves Kennebec County

West Bath District Court

147 New Meadows Road, West Bath, ME 04530

Serves Sagadahoc County

Venue Rules: File in the district where the defendant lives or works, where the incident occurred, or where property in dispute is located.

Ready to File Your Maine Small Claim?

Get professional assistance preparing your case. We'll help you complete forms, calculate damages, and prepare for your hearing.