In Lake of the Woods County, small claims cases up to $20,000 are heard by the Lake of the Woods County District Court (Conciliation Court). Here is where it is, how to reach it and how to file.
Address: 206 8th Avenue SE #250, Baudette, MN 56623 · Map
Phone: 218-634-1451
Court addresses, phones and hours change. Call the clerk before you go, and ask whether small claims are filed at this location.
Usually the county where the defendant lives, or for a business, where it has an office. Landlord cases can be filed where the rental property is.
If the person or business you are suing is in another county, use that county's court instead. See all Minnesota counties.
Minnesota doesn't require a demand, but the court suggests sending a dated letter saying what is owed and why before you file. Make a free demand letter.
Conciliation Court Statement of Claim and Summons Get the form.
$65 to file, plus a county law library fee in many counties. The defendant pays the same fee to file a counterclaim. Service by certified mail or a sheriff costs extra when you have to arrange it. Fee waiver: Affidavit of Inability to Pay Conciliation Court Filing Fee.
For claims up to $2,500 against someone in the same county, the court mails the summons. For larger claims you must serve by certified mail, and an out-of-state defendant usually must be served in person.
Hearings are usually set about 60 days after filing; mailed filings take about two weeks longer. Bring receipts, photos, messages, the contract and your demand letter, with copies.
Want every detail? The full Minnesota filing guide covers each stage with a checklist.
Open the filing guideSmall claims in Lake of the Woods County are filed with the Lake of the Woods County District Court (Conciliation Court), 206 8th Avenue SE #250, Baudette, MN 56623. Phone: 218-634-1451.
Up to $20,000. Since July 1, 2024 you can sue for up to $20,000 (it was $15,000). Claims by a seller or lender over a consumer credit purchase are limited to $4,000. Conciliation Court can't hear libel or slander, evictions, medical malpractice, or disputes over title to land.
$65 to file, plus a county law library fee in many counties. The defendant pays the same fee to file a counterclaim. Service by certified mail or a sheriff costs extra when you have to arrange it.