Can I request a jury trial in a small claims court case?

You cannot request a jury trial in a small claims court case in Massachusetts. Small claims court is set up to try civil cases in which the damages or compensation sought is limited to a small amount of money. Small claims court is designed to be a simpler and more expedient way to settle disputes than going through the traditional court trial process. In Massachusetts, small claims court is also known as the District Court. Some types of cases which are heard in the District Court include auto accidents, consumer complaints, landlord-tenant disputes, and other civil matters. There are limits to the amount of money which can be recovered, with a maximum of $7,000 per claim. The District Court does not offer juries or the right to appeal decisions. The District Court is a “no-jury” court system. You and the other party will present your case, and then a judge will make a decision based on the evidence brought forward. The decision of a District Court judge is usually final, unless it can be overturned based on certain legal grounds. In conclusion, requesting a jury trial is not possible in a small claims court case in Massachusetts. The District Court is a no-jury court, where disputes are decided by a judge.

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Can I request a jury trial in a small claims court case?

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