What types of disputes can I take to small claims court?

Small Claims Court in Maryland is a court designed to provide a simpler, faster, and lower cost way to resolve disputes between two people or a person and a business. It is a form of civil law, which means it does not involve criminal charges. In Maryland, Small Claims Court can be used to resolve a variety of disputes, including unpaid debts, damages to property, broken contracts, defective goods or services, and more. When someone is sued in Small Claims Court, they are required to respond to the complaint within 30 days or they will be found in default. In Small Claims Court, you can sue for up to $5,000, but there are certain items that cannot be claimed, such as breaches of an oral contract, negligent behavior that results in injury or death, and a claim of title to real property. In most cases, lawsuits must be initiated by an individual, not a business. Businesses can only initiate a lawsuit if they do not have an individual representative. If you are suing a business, they must respond to the complaint within 30 days. Small Claims Court in Maryland is an informal court composed of a judge or magistrate who listens to both sides of the dispute before making a decision. The court does not require the services of a lawyer, and both parties can present their arguments in a simple and straightforward manner. After hearing all arguments, the judge will render a decision and award damages if applicable.

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What types of disputes can I take to small claims court?

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