MO HB403

Increases small claims court jurisdiction from $3,000 to $5,000 for civil cases involving tort or contract claims, exclusive of interest or costs.

Adds landlord ejectment actions to small claims court jurisdiction, allowing landlords to seek possession of premises through small claims procedures.

Allows plaintiffs to file in small claims court for amounts exceeding $5,000 but requires waiver of any claim amount over $5,000 in that action and any subsequent proceeding involving the same parties and issues.

Permits parties to prosecute small claims without attorney assistance for claims of $500 or less; allows corporations and unincorporated associations to be represented by president or vice-president without constituting unauthorized practice of law.

Establishes petition and summons forms for small claims actions and requires clerks to provide all forms and procedures to the public without charge.