What is the court's decision-making process for small claims cases?

In Maryland, small claims cases are heard in the Small Claims Court. This court is designed to provide an efficient and economical way to resolve minor disputes without the need for lengthy and expensive proceedings in the Circuit Court. When a small claims case is brought before the court, the case is heard by the court and both parties present their sides of the dispute. The court may accept written arguments if both parties agree. The court then makes a decision based on the evidence and arguments presented. Once the court has heard the case, the judge or court commissioner will decide how to resolve the dispute. The court can order the defendant to pay money, order the defendant to take specific actions, order the plaintiff to pay money, or order the parties to try to reach a settlement. The court also has the authority to order parties to reimburse the costs for the dispute. Either party may appeal the decision of the court. The appeals court can affirm or reverse the decision of the Small Claims Court, or they may send the case back down for a retrial. The appeals court can also modify the decision of the Small Claims Court. The decision of the court is final unless it is reversed or modified by an appeals court.

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What is the court's decision-making process for small claims cases?

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