Are there any special rules for parties under the age of 18 in small claims court?

In Michigan, there are special rules for parties under the age of 18 in small claims court. For starters, someone under 18 can file a lawsuit in small claims court as long as they have a parent or guardian to represent them. In addition, if the petitioner (the person filing the lawsuit) is under 18, they must have the court permission of a parent or guardian to sue in small claims court. The respondent (the person being sued) who is under 18 also has to have permission from a parent or guardian to appear in small claims court, if that person is the defendant in a lawsuit. The parent or guardian can also be called as a witness to testify, if necessary. If the parties involved are both minors, either the parties themselves or their parents or guardians can appear in court on the minor’s behalf. However, if the respondent is over 18, then the minor must appear in court with a parent or guardian. At any hearing, minors under the age of 18 may be accompanied by an attorney, but the court will not provide an attorney for minors in small claims court. Overall, minors in small claims court in Michigan have special rules that they must abide by, and they must have a parent or guardian present to represent them.

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