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

No, you cannot have a jury trial in a small claims court case in Massachusetts. The small claims court is designed for quick resolution of disputes without the need for an attorney and without formal court procedures. Instead, this court decided cases based on the facts presented by both parties. By removing the need for a jury, the court keeps the proceedings informal and efficient. In Massachusetts, small claims court can hear civil cases involving money damages up to $2,000 or disputes involving the return of personal property up to $7,000. Generally, the court is made up of an impartial judge who considers evidence presented by both parties and renders a decision. There is no right to appeal the decision unless the amount exceeds $2,000. In some cases, small claims court might provide more equitable results than one with a jury, since a jury may be swayed by emotion rather than facts. But without the right to a jury trial, a party may choose to settle the dispute outside of court directly with the other side or may choose to pursue the case through civil court, which will involve a jury trial.

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

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