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Hancock County, Maine · Small claims court · Updated Oct 2026

Small claims court in Hancock County, Maine

In Hancock County, small claims cases up to $10,000 are heard by the Ellsworth District Court. Here is where it is, how to reach it and how to file.

$10,000Most you can sue for
$70Filing fee (state figure; confirm with the clerk)
OptionalLawyers allowed, not required
VariesTypical wait to the hearing

Where to file in Hancock County

Ellsworth District Court

Address: 50 State Street, Suite 2, Ellsworth, ME 04605 · Map

Phone: 207-667-7141

Online filing: available, per the court

Court addresses, phones and hours change. Call the clerk before you go, and ask whether small claims are filed at this location.

Is this the right county?

The District Court where the events happened, where the defendant lives or has its main place of business, or where a company's registered agent is located.

If the person or business you are suing is in another county, use that county's court instead. See all Maine counties.

How to file in Hancock County

  1. Ask for payment in writing

    Maine doesn't require a demand letter, but the court encourages you to try to settle first. Make a free demand letter.

  2. Fill in the claim (SC-001)

    Statement of Claim Get the form.

  3. File it with the Ellsworth District Court and pay the fee

    $70 to file (this includes a mediation fee). Service costs extra: about $15 per defendant if the clerk mails it, or the sheriff's own fee. Fee waiver: Application to Proceed without Payment of Fees (form CV-067).

  4. Have the papers served

    You can use the sheriff, certified mail (restricted delivery, return receipt), first-class mail with an acknowledgment form (SC-005), or, if you file fewer than three cases a month, have the clerk mail it (SC-006).

  5. Go to the hearing

    The clerk mails both sides the hearing date; small claims are usually heard faster than regular civil cases. Bring receipts, photos, messages, the contract and your demand letter, with copies.

Want every detail? The full Maine filing guide covers each stage with a checklist.

Open the filing guide

Common questions

Where is small claims court in Hancock County?

Small claims in Hancock County are filed with the Ellsworth District Court, 50 State Street, Suite 2, Ellsworth, ME 04605. Phone: 207-667-7141.

How much can I sue for in Hancock County small claims court?

Up to $10,000. Since January 1, 2026 you can sue for up to $10,000, not counting interest and costs (it was $6,000 before). Disputes over title to land, personal injury claims against a city or town, and some consumer debt collection cases can't be brought. Winning bars you from suing again for the same facts.

How much does it cost to file in Hancock County?

$70 to file (this includes a mediation fee). Service costs extra: about $15 per defendant if the clerk mails it, or the sheriff's own fee.

Can I file a small claim online in Hancock County?

Yes. The court says online filing is available for small claims. Check the court website for the e-filing system and any fees.

Other Maine counties