How do I add a defendant to a small claims court case?

In Michigan, a person wishing to add a defendant to a small claims court case must file a Motion to Add a Party to the court. The Motion to Add a Party must be in a written format and must include the following information: the name of the plaintiff (the person who filed the original lawsuit); the name of the defendant who is to be added; the relationship between the parties; a brief description of the claim against the added defendant; and any other information relevant to the case. Once the Motion to Add a Party is filed, it must be served to the defendant who is to be added. Service of this motion must be done in a manner allowed by law—i.e. either by personal service, certified mail, or registered mail. The defendant then has 14 days to respond to the Motion to Add a Party, either by filing a written answer or an objection. Additionally, a plaintiff must pay a $20 fee to the court, unless the plaintiff is exempt from paying fees. After the fee is paid and the Motion to Add a Party is served, the court will make a decision about whether to add the defendant to the small claims court case. If the court grants the motion, the case will continue as if the defendant had originally been named when the case was filed.

Related FAQs

How much time do I have to file an appeal in a small claims court case?
Can I request a jury trial in a small claims court case?
Can I take depositions in a small claims court case?
How do I obtain an interim order in a small claims court case?
What is the maximum claim amount in small claims court?
Is it necessary to have a lawyer to represent me in small claims court?
How do I add a defendant to a small claims court case?
What is the difference between mediation and arbitration in small claims court?
What types of disputes can I take to small claims court?
Are there any rules or limitations on witnesses testifying in a small claims court case?

How do I add a defendant to a small claims court case?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts