Civil Division
The Civil Division is designed to allow collection agencies, a collection agent, a firm, an association, a corporation, or an individual being represented by an attorney to file a claim to settle certain disputes that are not in excess of $25,000. These may include recovery for damages to personal property, money owed, or for delivery of personal property. Suits involving contracts, security deposits, and warranties are also common.
Civil Lawsuits
A civil lawsuit usually deals with private rights of individuals, groups, or businesses. Any claim in excess of $25,000 must be filed in Circuit Court.
Small Claims Division
The Small Claims Division is designed to allow individuals to settle certain disputes in court with relaxed rules of procedure and without attorneys. Individuals who are represented by an attorney must file their claim in the civil division. All claims are limited by a set dollar amount, which is set by the state law. The current amount of a claim cannot exceed $5000.
Attorney Restrictions
The entities listed above or persons with an attorney appearing on their behalf must file in the civil division. Attorneys are not allowed to practice in the small claims division. If an attorney appears in a small claims case, the case must be transferred to the civil division. All actions filed in the civil division are subject to the Inferior Court Rules, the Rules of Civil Procedure, and the Uniform Rules of Evidence.
Personal Injury
District Court has no jurisdiction over matters involving personal injury.