How long does it take to pursue a claim in small claims court?

The amount of time it takes to pursue a claim in Small Claims Court in Michigan depends on a few factors. Generally, it is a relatively quick process. The entire process, from filing the paperwork to resolving the issue, typically ranges from one to three months. First, the plaintiff must file a complaint and summons with the court. This document must describe the parties involved, the facts surrounding the dispute, and the remedies sought. Once the papers are filed, the court will provide the defendant with a summons that will include the date and time of the hearing. The defendant is required to respond to the summons with an answer to the complaint. If the parties are unable to come to an agreement, a hearing will be scheduled. During the hearing, both parties will have the opportunity to present their arguments to the court. The judge will then decide the case and issue a judgment. If the defendant fails to appear at the hearing, the judge is likely to grant the plaintiff the requested relief. The court typically requires plaintiffs and defendants to appear in person. This means bringing any witnesses or evidence related to the claim with you to the hearing. Following the judgment, it may take the court several additional weeks to issue the official written order. In summary, the timeframe for pursuing a claim in Small Claims Court in Michigan is generally around 1-3 months, depending on the complexity of the case.

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