Small claims court in Maine

$10,000maximum claim in District Court (small claims), as of 29 October 2026

The basics

Small claims limit: $10,000^1,214 M.R.S. 7482
You can sue for up to $10,000 in Maine small claims, not counting interest and costs. This limit applies from January 1, 2026.
Court: District Court (small claims)^2,3
Small claims cases are heard in the District Court.
Filing fee: $70^3,2
The statewide fee to file a small claims case is $70, which includes a $15 mediation fee. The court can waive it if you cannot afford it.
Lawyers: Yes, not required^2,4
Many people represent themselves, but you may hire a lawyer. A company can be represented by an employee or other principal who is not a lawyer.
Appeals: 30 days^2,4
Either side may appeal to Superior Court within 30 days. A plaintiff can appeal only on questions of law, while a defendant can appeal on law or facts and ask for a jury.

Deadlines to sue (statutes of limitations)

How long you usually have to file, counted from when the claim arose. Exceptions apply.

Written contract: 6 years⁵14 M.R.S. 752
You have 6 years under Maine's general rule for civil actions, unless another law sets a different period.
Oral contract: 6 years⁵14 M.R.S. 752
You have 6 years under Maine's general rule for civil actions, unless another law sets a different period.
Property damage: 6 years⁵14 M.R.S. 752
You have 6 years under Maine's general rule for civil actions, unless another law sets a different period.
Personal injury: 6 years⁵14 M.R.S. 752
You have 6 years under Maine's general rule for civil actions, unless another law sets a different period.

Small claims rules are set by state law and court rules, and fees are often set locally. Before you file, check the court's own page or call the clerk.

Sources

14 M.R.S. 7482, Definition, Maine Legislature, 2025official
Small Claims, State of Maine Judicial Branchofficial
Administrative Order JB-05-26 (A. 3-26), court fees, State of Maine Judicial Branch, 2026-03-09official
A Guide to Small Claims Cases (2026), State of Maine Judicial Branch, 2026official
14 M.R.S. 752, Six years, Maine Legislatureofficial

Checked 29 October 2026. "Secondary" sources reproduce the official text. We use them only where the official site could not be read and mark them here.