Small claims court in Kidder County, North Dakota
In Kidder County, small claims cases up to $15,000 are heard by the Kidder County District Court, Small Claims (Clerk of District Court). Here is where it is, how to reach it and how to file.
Where to file in Kidder County
Kidder County District Court, Small Claims (Clerk of District Court)
Address: 120 Broadway E, Steele, ND 58482 · Map
Phone: 701-475-4548
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?
Usually the county where the defendant lives. For a company, file where it has a place of business or where the claim arose. Lease and deposit disputes go where the property is.
If the person or business you are suing is in another county, use that county's court instead. See all North Dakota counties.
How to file in Kidder County
Ask for payment in writing
North Dakota doesn't require a demand before filing, but asking for payment first can settle things faster. Make a free demand letter.
Fill in the claim (Form 2)
Claim Affidavit (Small Claims Court) Get the form.
File it with the Kidder County District Court, Small Claims (Clerk of District Court) and pay the fee
$20 to file the Claim Affidavit (raised from $10 on July 1, 2025). Service by the sheriff or certified mail costs extra. If the defendant moves the case to district court, they pay a $160 fee. Fee waiver: Ask the clerk of district court about a fee waiver if you can't afford the costs..
Have the papers served
Serve the Claim Affidavit by certified mail with restricted delivery and return receipt, by the sheriff, or by an adult who isn't part of the case. You can't serve it yourself.
Go to the hearing
If the defendant asks for a hearing, it's held 10 to 30 days after the court gets the request. Bring receipts, photos, messages, the contract and your demand letter, with copies.
Want every detail? The full North Dakota filing guide covers each stage with a checklist.
Open the filing guideCommon questions
Where is small claims court in Kidder County?
Small claims in Kidder County are filed with the Kidder County District Court, Small Claims (Clerk of District Court), 120 Broadway E, Steele, ND 58482. Phone: 701-475-4548.
How much can I sue for in Kidder County small claims court?
Up to $15,000. You can sue for up to $15,000. Businesses have the same limit. Someone who bought or was assigned a claim (like a collection agency) can't file it in small claims.
How much does it cost to file in Kidder County?
$20 to file the Claim Affidavit (raised from $10 on July 1, 2025). Service by the sheriff or certified mail costs extra. If the defendant moves the case to district court, they pay a $160 fee. Fee waiver: Ask the clerk of district court about a fee waiver if you can't afford the costs..
Can I file a small claim online in Kidder County?
Yes. The court says online filing is available for small claims. Check the court website for the e-filing system and any fees.