Michigan Legal Help explains which money disputes can fit small claims and the choices involved.
Small Claims Edition · A♦
Do I have a case? Let's check before you spend a dollar.
Start with the basics: what you're owed, what proof you have, your deadlines, and whether filing costs less than you could recover.
Help you can use now · Michigan
Official information, forms, and real help.
This page cannot decide whether you have a viable claim. Time limits depend on the claim; check current requirements and get advice if you are unsure.
Find DC 84, Affidavit and Claim, Small Claims, and its instructions. Confirm the right court and whether the procedure fits your claim before filing.
Use Michigan Legal Help’s finder for legal aid, clinics, and lawyer options. Eligibility and availability are determined by each provider.
Links checked November 2, 2026. These organizations are independent; listing them does not imply partnership or endorsement. Unshaken does not prepare or file court forms.
What usually makes a small claims case
- Someone owes you a specific amount of money, and you can explain why in a sentence.
- You have proof: a lease, receipts, photos, texts, a contract or an invoice.
- In Michigan, the claim is $7,000 or less, and filing fees run about $30–70.
- You asked to be paid, ideally in writing, and they didn't pay.
- You know where to serve them, and ideally where they work or bank, so you can collect if you win.
What to do, in order
- 1
Write down what happened and the exact amount owed.
- 2
Gather your proof in one place.
- 3
Send a demand letter with the amount and a deadline. Many disputes end here.
- 4
No answer? File in small claims and serve the other side.
- 5
Practice your two-minute story and your evidence.
- 6
Plan how you'll collect if you win.
Don't
- Don't sue for more than you can show.
- Don't skip the demand letter.
- Don't wait too long; claims have time limits.
Planned practice · Join the waitlist
The judge wants your side in two minutes. Practice it first.
The planned small claims courtroom would use an AI judge to ask what happened and what proof you have, and the other side pushes back. You answer out loud against a clock, then get a ruling and a debrief.
This edition is not playable on this website yet. Features and access arrangements may change.
Practice your story before the courtroom becomes your audience.
FAQ
- Do I need a lawyer?
- In Michigan small claims, lawyers can't take part. You present your own case.
- Is it worth it for a small amount?
- Compare current filing and service fees, your time, and collection prospects with the amount at stake. There is no automated case check here.
- What if I'm the one being sued?
- Read your served papers, confirm deadlines, and consult the official small claims guide; a simulator is not available here yet.
Be ready when Unshaken launches.
General information and practice, not legal advice. Legal details reflect Michigan; other states differ.
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