Maine Small Claims Court Guide
Everything you need to know about filing a small claims case in Maine.
Maximum Claim
$10,000
Filing Fee
$50
Fee waiver available
Court Name
Small Claims Court (District Court)
Hearing Timeline
30–60 days from filing
Find your courthouse in Maine
Search by city, county, or ZIP code to get the courthouse address, phone number, hours, and filing options.
How Much Can You Sue For in Maine?
In Maine, individuals can file small claims cases for up to $10,000. This limit applies to both individuals and businesses.
Maine Small Claims Court Filing Fees
| Claim Amount | Filing Fee |
|---|---|
| Standard filing fee | $50 |
If you cannot afford the filing fee, you may qualify for a fee waiver. Ask the court clerk for a fee waiver application when you file.
Statutes of Limitations in Maine
You must file your claim within the time limits below, or the court will dismiss your case regardless of its merits.
6
years — written contract
6
years — oral contract
6
years — property damage
6
years — personal injury
Ready to take action in Maine?
A demand letter often resolves disputes before court. Our free guide shows you how to write one in minutes.
Read the demand letter guideWhere to File in Maine
Small claims cases in Maine are handled by the Small Claims Court (District Court). Maine has 16 county District Courts.
Where to file: File in the district where the defendant lives or where the transaction occurred
Not sure which court you need? Our step-by-step filing guide walks you through finding the right court for your case.
Find your specific courthouse: Search for your county courthouse below ↓ — get the address, phone number, hours, and see if e-filing is available.
How to Serve the Defendant in Maine
After filing your claim, you must formally notify the defendant. This is called "service of process" and is required before your case can be heard.
Accepted methods: Court clerk sends notice by first-class mail
Deadline: Service must be completed at least 14 days before the hearing.
Maine Small Claims Court Procedures
Can I bring a lawyer?
Yes, attorneys are allowed to represent parties in Maine small claims court.
Can I appeal?
Defendant may request transfer to regular civil docket within 20 days
Is e-filing available?
E-filing is available in some Maine courts but not all. Check with your specific court location.
Are remote hearings available?
Remote hearings are available in some Maine courts. Check with your specific court location for current policies.
Official Maine Court Resources
Find Your Courthouse in Maine
Select your county to get the courthouse address, phone number, hours, and filing options.
Androscoggin County
Auburn area
(207) 795-4800
Aroostook County
Houlton area
(207) 493-3144
Cumberland County
Portland area
(207) 822-4200
Franklin County
Farmington area
(207) 778-2119
Hancock County
Ellsworth area
(207) 667-7141
Kennebec County
Augusta area
(207) 213-2800
Knox County
Rockland area
(207) 596-2240
Lincoln County
Wiscasset area
(207) 882-6363
Oxford County
South Paris area
(207) 743-8942
Penobscot County
Bangor area
(207) 561-2300
Piscataquis County
Dover-Foxcroft area
(207) 564-2240
Sagadahoc County
Bath area
(207) 442-0200
Somerset County
Skowhegan area
(207) 474-9518
Waldo County
Belfast area
(207) 338-3107
Washington County
Machias area
(207) 255-3044
York County
Alfred area
(207) 283-6000
Don't see your county? Let us know here!
Ready to take action in Maine?
A demand letter often resolves disputes before court — our free guide shows you how to write one.
Read the demand letter guide