What is the difference between small claims court and civil court?

Small claims court and civil court are two different types of courts. Small claims court is a court where individuals represent themselves and can resolve disputes that involve small amounts of money. Civil court is a court where individuals may choose to hire a lawyer to represent them in legal disputes. In small claims court, the amount of money that can be requested is typically limited to $7,500 or less. Individuals can file a claim in small claims court if they have a disagreement with another person about money or services owed. Small claims court operates differently than civil court with less formal procedures, no deposition, no jury, and a relaxed dress code. All parties involved in the case are allowed to present evidence and testify. Small claims cases are also decided more quickly than civil court cases. Civil court is a more formal setting and involves more complex cases. Plaintiffs and defendants usually have to be represented by lawyers. A civil court trial involves filing motions, depositions, and the presentation of evidence. Civil court can also award more money than small claims court. In summary, small claims court is designed to resolve smaller, simpler legal disputes, while civil court is generally used to resolve more complex cases and disputes involving large sums of money. Small claims court may provide a more efficient and cost-effective way to resolve a dispute.

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