Small claims court in Kalawao County, Hawaii
In Kalawao County, small claims cases up to $5,000 are heard by the District Court of the Second Circuit (Maui County). Here is where it is, how to reach it and how to file.
Where to file in Kalawao County
District Court of the Second Circuit (Maui County)
Phone: 808-244-2998
Kalawao County (Kalaupapa, Molokai) has no court of its own; it is part of the Second Circuit. Call the Second Circuit help line for the right location.
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 district court division where the defendant lives. If they live on another island, you can file where the claim arose or where the defendant can be found. Deposit cases can be filed where the rental is if the landlord lives out of state.
If the person or business you are suing is in another county, use that county's court instead. See all Hawaii counties.
How to file in Kalawao County
Ask for payment in writing
Hawaii doesn't require a demand before filing, but asking in writing first is good evidence and may settle the matter. Make a free demand letter.
Fill out the claim form
Statement of Claim (General Form); use 1DC05 for security deposits (1DC06).
File it with the District Court of the Second Circuit (Maui County) and pay the fee
$35 to file. A counterclaim costs $10. Service by certified mail costs postage; a process server charges a fee plus mileage. Fee waiver: Ask the judge to waive the filing fee for financial hardship; the clerk has the form..
Have the papers served
Use certified or registered mail (restricted delivery, return receipt), a civil process server, or an adult who isn't part of the case. You can deliver the papers yourself only if the defendant signs an acknowledgment or an unrelated witness comes with you.
Go to the hearing
The trial date is set 5 to 30 days after you file. Contested cases are often sent to mediation first, and to trial the same day if it fails. Bring receipts, photos, messages, the contract and your demand letter, with copies.
Want every detail? The full Hawaii filing guide covers each stage with a checklist.
Open the filing guideCommon questions
Where is small claims court in Kalawao County?
Small claims in Kalawao County are filed with the District Court of the Second Circuit (Maui County). Phone: 808-244-2998.
How much can I sue for in Kalawao County small claims court?
Up to $5,000. You can sue for up to $5,000, not counting interest and costs. Residential security deposit cases have no dollar limit. A defendant's counterclaim can be up to $40,000.
How much does it cost to file in Kalawao County?
$35 to file. A counterclaim costs $10. Service by certified mail costs postage; a process server charges a fee plus mileage. Fee waiver: Ask the judge to waive the filing fee for financial hardship; the clerk has the form..