How does small claims court handle appeals?

In Hawaii, small claims court is designed to settle disputes quickly and inexpensively for those without the resources to pursue a lawsuit in higher court. Small claims court decisions are final and binding, which means that the party who loses in small claims court cannot appeal the decision. However, if a claim is for $5,000 or less, a notice of appeal must be filed within 10 calendar days of the court’s decision. When a notice of appeal is filed, the case is forwarded to the circuit court for a new hearing and possible rehearing of the case. All parties must appear in the circuit court on the designated date and time in order for the case to be heard. If a party does not want to wait for the circuit court’s hearing, they can file a motion for a rehearing in the small claims court within the 10-day window. The motion for a rehearing must be made to the judge who initially heard the case. The motion has to explain why the party believes the original decision was wrong and why a new hearing should take place. This process is time-consuming and often difficult to prove. Overall, appeals in small claims court in Hawaii are difficult to win. If a party does choose to appeal a small claims court decision, they should be aware that they may have to go through the circuit court or file a motion for a rehearing in order to do so.

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How does small claims court handle appeals?

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