Civil Division

This division handles cases in which one party (a person, group, business, corporation, or organization) brings an action against another for money owed as a result of a variety of causes. Such reasons include; overdue accounts, rental security deposits, delinquent rent, repair bills, physical damages or breach of contract.

The Civil Division of the Court receives and processes all filings for general civil claims up to $25,000.00, small claims up to $6,500.00, landlord/tenant evictions, land contract forfeiture, claim and delivery actions, and weddings. The clerks are not allowed to give legal advice. They accept your filings and the associated fee along with scheduling court dates. The procedures to be followed are contained in the Michigan Court Rules. Any questions should be referred to your attorney. Corporations must be represented by an attorney, except in the small claims division, where a corporation may be represented by an officer or full time employee who has direct and personal knowledge of the facts in dispute. Partnerships may be represented by a general partner or full time employee who has direct and personal knowledge of the facts in dispute.

• • General Civil Cases up to $25,000 – In these cases, either party has the right to an attorney, the right to a jury trial, and the right to appeal the decision of the court.

 

• • Landlord/Tenant Cases – Disputes between landlords/tenants regarding residential or commercials properties within the communities of Allen Park and Melvindale.

 

• Small Claims Cases – An individual, partnership, corporation or sole proprietor brings an action against another individual, partnership, corporation or sole proprietor for money damages up to $6,000. Initial Small Claims hearings are before a magistrate, whose ruling can be appealed to a Judge.

Contact: 313.928.0535 ext. 241