FAQs • DeSoto County, MS • CivicEngage

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DeSoto County, MS

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How much is the filing fee?: Cost Sheet

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Justice Court

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1. What is the most I can sue for?: The jurisdictional limit in Justice Court is $3,500.

2. How do I know if I am filing in the right court?: The civil clerk can assist you to determine if your case is DeSoto County Jurisdiction; however, the final decision will be made by you.

3. What do I need to bring with me to file a small claims lawsuit?: All you need is the defendant's name and address and the filing fee.

4. How much is the filing fee?: Cost Sheet

5. What information is needed to sue a business?: You will need the full business name and the name of their agent of process.

6. How can I find the agent of process for a business?: You can ask the business or call the secretary of state at (800) 256-3494. Secretary of State

7. What happens if the defendant does not appear on court day?: If the defendant was properly served and fails to appear, the judge can give you a default judgment.

8. What happens if the defendant does not pay me?: Ten days after court, you can flag the defendant's credit or garnish wages. You can check with the civil clerk for details on these processes.

9. What happens if the court cannot serve the defendant at the address I provided?: The court will notify you of the problem, and allow you time to get a new address for service. This process may require an additional fee.

10. Is it possible to have my court date changed?: Yes. You can obtain one continuance by phone. All others must appear.

11. What payment methods does the court accept for ticket and/or criminal charges?: The court accepts cash, cashier's check, money order, Visa or MasterCard. If paying by mail, be sure to include your ticket number with all payments. You can also pay online. Pay Online

12. Can Justice Court recommend an attorney to me?: No. The court cannot recommend or refer you to an attorney

13. Do I have to hire an attorney?: No. However, if you choose not to hire an attorney, you will be required to sign a form waiving your right to council.

14. How can I find out if there is a warrant for my arrest?: You can call the DeSoto County Sheriff's Office at (662) 429-1470.

15. How long do I have to pay my ticket?: Payment is required in full by the date at the bottom of your ticket.

16. Can I file a criminal case on my own at Justice Court?: Yes. You can file a case only if the incident took place within the county limits. If the incident took place in city limits, you will file in that city court.

17. How can I keep a ticket off my driving record?: You can attend Driving School as long as you have no prior tickets in the last three years and the judge approves it.

18. What if I disagree with the judge's ruling on my case?: You may file an appeal within 30 days on the judge's ruling.

19. My matter is private and I would like to restrict others from the courtroom. Is this possible?: No, all court proceedings must take place in open court to the public.

20. May I call or speak to the judge on my case?: No, this is ex parte communication and is not allowed in the court system.

21. What happens if I do not pay my fine or appear for a hearing?: Your driver's license will be suspended and the judge may issue a warrant for your arrest.