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

Pursuing a small claims case in Mississippi can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. It is important to be aware that some delays are out of your control, and it is best to be prepared for the process to take longer than expected. The length of time it takes to pursue a claim in small claims court varies depending on the type of case, the circumstances of the case, and the county in which the case is filed. A paper lawsuit can take several weeks, while a more time-sensitive case such as an eviction or auto repossession may take only a few days. When your lawsuit is filed with the court, the court must provide a hearing date that is at least 20 days after the date the lawsuit was filed. The court then provides all involved parties with notice of the hearing date. If you have been served with a lawsuit and you decide to contest the case, you must file your answer in the court before the hearing date. This must be done at least 10 days before the hearing date. If your answer is not filed, then you may not be allowed to argue your case. Finally, after the hearing, the court has up to 30 days to decide the case. Once a decision has been rendered, either party has 30 days to appeal the decision if they are not satisfied with the allegations. In conclusion, the process of bringing a claim in small claims court in Mississippi can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the type of case and other circumstances.

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