October 25, 2018
Do you need to file a small claim? Good news- you may be able to save a trip to the courthouse! The Massachusetts Trial Court recently introduced an online interview process, known as “Guide & File,” to allow anyone with a small claim to complete the process from a computer and electronically submit documentation to the court.
Guide & File simplifies the filing process for this straightforward legal matter and prompts applicants through a step-by-step series of guided questions. The responses produce a completed legal document that can be electronically submitted to the court for a small fee.
A small claims case is a special process to resolve civil cases in which the damages usually do not exceed $7000. Claims are initially heard by a clerk-magistrate and may be appealed to a judge. The guided interview process can be especially helpful for self-represented litigants, and is designed to be accessible for all users by providing questions you can answer in plain language. For more information, please visit www.mass.gov/small-claims. This website has resources and guides, including multilingual videos about the small claims process.
If you were looking for legal advice or representation, please call the Boston Bar Association’s Lawyer Referral Service at 617- 742- 0625 or connect with an area attorney online.
