Lawsuits to collect debts are usually filed in state courts—and may be filed in small claims courts, depending on the amount of the debt and the small claims court’s jurisdictional limits (the maximum amount of a claim that can be filed in the court).
In Maine, lawsuits to collect debts are typically filed in state courts, and small claims court is often used for the collection of smaller debts. The jurisdictional limit for small claims court in Maine is $6,000, meaning that any debt amounting to $6,000 or less can be pursued in this venue. If the debt exceeds this limit, the case must be filed in a higher court, such as the District Court or Superior Court, depending on the amount of the debt and the complexity of the case. It's important for creditors to file their lawsuit in the appropriate court to ensure that the case is heard and to avoid any jurisdictional challenges that could potentially dismiss the case. Debtors facing a lawsuit for debt collection should consult with an attorney to understand their rights and any potential defenses they may have.