HI SB2101

Establishes exclusive jurisdiction of the small claims division for cases claiming $1,000 or less, separate from the existing $1,000-$5,000 jurisdiction tier.

Allows plaintiffs to request removal of small claims cases to ordinary district court procedures when a counterclaim exceeds small claims limits, and allows attorney-represented plaintiffs to choose between small claims or ordinary procedures for cases of $1,000 or less.

Grants district courts concurrent jurisdiction with small claims division over security deposit disputes in residential landlord-tenant cases and over cases of $1,000 or less when plaintiff is represented by an attorney.

Prohibits award of attorney's fees in small claims cases of $1,000 or less when the plaintiff is represented by an attorney and the district court has concurrent jurisdiction.

Effective January 1, 2017.