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Maryland Small Claims Court Limits
Maryland small claims court limit is $5,000 for all plaintiffs. Cases are heard in District Court.
Court Name: Small Claims Court (District Court)
Official Website: https://www.mdcourts.gov/legalhelp/smallclaims
Filing Fees in Maryland
Filing fees vary based on the amount you're claiming:
| Claim Amount | Filing Fee |
|---|---|
| Typical Range | $34-46 |
Filing fees are relatively low. Additional fees for service of process.
Serving the Defendant
Service must be completed at least 15 days before the trial date.
Allowed Service Methods:
- Personal service by sheriff
- Certified mail
- Private process server
Important: You must serve the defendant at least 15 days before the hearing date.
What to Expect at Your Hearing
After filing, you'll typically wait 30-60 days for your hearing date.
Attorneys Allowed: Attorneys are permitted in Maryland small claims court but most parties represent themselves.
Appeals
Either party may appeal to Circuit Court within 30 days.
Maryland Statute of Limitations
You must file your lawsuit within these time limits from when the dispute occurred:
| Type of Claim | Time Limit |
|---|---|
| Written Contract | years |
| Oral Contract | years |
| Property Damage | years |
| Personal Injury | years |
Do I Need a Demand Letter Before Filing?
Sending a demand letter is recommended to demonstrate good faith before filing suit.
Create Your Free Demand Letter
Before going to court, try sending a demand letter. It's free, takes 5 minutes, and often resolves disputes without filing.
Create Free Demand LetterFrequently Asked Questions
What is the small claims court limit in Maryland?
The Maryland small claims court limit is $5,000 for all plaintiffs, handled by the District Court.
How long do I have to sue for breach of contract in Maryland?
In Maryland, you have 3 years to file a lawsuit for breach of written or oral contract from the date of breach.
How much does it cost to file small claims in Maryland?
Filing fees range from $34 to $46. Service fees by sheriff are additional.
Can I appeal a small claims judgment in Maryland?
Yes. Either party may appeal to Circuit Court within 30 days of the judgment.
More Resources: All State Guides | Demand Letter Templates | Statute of Limitations Lookup