Someone who files a case in small claims court has to pay court costs and a deposit upfront. They also have to pay for paperwork delivery in advance. The judge can decide who ends up paying the fees and costs. The money collected for court costs is handed out following the rules set in Missouri law.
482.345. — procedure for of , of fees and of fees. — 1. A person an in shall pay court costs and a in amounts determined sections 488.010 to 488.020*.
2. A person filing an action in small claims court shall pay the cost of in advance.
3. The court may award the fees and the costs provided in this section.
4. All court costs shall be in accordance with sections 488.010 to 488.020*.
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Source & history notes
(L. 1976 H.B. 1317 & 1098 § 4 subsec. 9, A.L. 1985 S.B. 5, et al., A.L. 1996 S.B. 869) Effective 7-01-97 *Words "section 514.015" appear in original rolls, which was changed to effectuate the court cost bill.
Related Missouri laws
Personal service not required
RSMo 482.350
Form of petition and summons
RSMo 482.340
Appearance for trial
RSMo 482.355
Duties of clerk of small claims courts
RSMo 482.335
Barring person from small claims court, grounds, length of bar
RSMo 482.360
Restrictions on filing of claims
RSMo 482.330
Legal information, not legal advice. Always confirm with the official source at revisor.mo.gov.