Small claims court in St. Louis County, Minnesota
In St. Louis County, small claims cases up to $20,000 are heard by the St. Louis County District Court (Conciliation Court). Here is where it is, how to reach it and how to file.
Where to file in St. Louis County
St. Louis County District Court (Conciliation Court)
Address: 100 N. Fifth Avenue W., Duluth, MN 55802 · Map
Phone: 218-221-7560
St. Louis County has three courthouses: Duluth (above), Hibbing (1810 E. 12th Avenue, Hibbing, MN 55746, 218-274-6007) and Virginia (300 South Fifth Avenue, Virginia, MN 55792, 218-305-7021).
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?
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.
How to file in St. Louis County
Ask for payment in writing
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.
Fill in the claim (Statement of Claim)
Conciliation Court Statement of Claim and Summons Get the form.
File it with the St. Louis County District Court (Conciliation Court) and pay the fee
$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.
Have the papers served
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.
Go to the hearing
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 guideCommon questions
Where is small claims court in St. Louis County?
Small claims in St. Louis County are filed with the St. Louis County District Court (Conciliation Court), 100 N. Fifth Avenue W., Duluth, MN 55802. Phone: 218-221-7560.
How much can I sue for in St. Louis County small claims court?
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.
How much does it cost to file in St. Louis County?
$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.