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Missouri Small Claims Court Limits
Missouri small claims court limit is $5,000 for all plaintiffs.
Court Name: Small Claims Court (Associate Circuit Court)
Official Website: https://www.courts.mo.gov/
Filing Fees in Missouri
Filing fees vary based on the amount you're claiming:
| Claim Amount | Filing Fee |
|---|---|
| Typical Range | $20-50 |
Filing fees vary by county and claim amount. Service fees additional.
Serving the Defendant
Service must be completed at least 10 days before the hearing date.
Allowed Service Methods:
- Personal service by sheriff
- Certified mail with return receipt
- Process server
Important: You must serve the defendant at least 10 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 Missouri small claims court but most parties represent themselves.
Appeals
Either party may appeal to Circuit Court within 10 days.
Missouri 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 effort at resolution.
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 Missouri?
The Missouri small claims court limit is $5,000 for all plaintiffs.
How long do I have to sue for breach of contract in Missouri?
In Missouri, you have 10 years for written contracts and 5 years for oral contracts from the date of breach.
How much does it cost to file small claims in Missouri?
Filing fees typically range from $20 to $50 depending on the county. Service fees are additional.
How do I appeal a Missouri small claims judgment?
Either party may appeal to Circuit Court within 10 days of the judgment.
More Resources: All State Guides | Demand Letter Templates | Statute of Limitations Lookup