Rule 147.01 Aid to Litigants

If you have a small claims case in Missouri, the court clerk is there to help you. The clerk must explain how the small claims process works and walk you through what happens at each step.

The clerk will also help you fill out any forms or paperwork you need. This includes the forms you need to file your claim, as well as any forms needed if you want to file a counterclaim against someone who has sued you. This means you do not need a lawyer to get help with the basic paperwork.

This rule exists because small claims court is designed for regular people to represent themselves. You do not need legal training to file a claim or defend yourself in one. The clerk's job is to make sure you understand the process and have the right paperwork filled out correctly, so your case can move forward.