Q: Can one LLC sue another LLC in Missouri small claims court?
I am part of an LLC in Missouri, and we have a dispute with another LLC over a cancelled event. We paid $250, and there was a contract stating that refunds would be issued only if the event was cancelled by the organizer. The event was cancelled due to a lack of participation. Despite attempting to get our money back for three years, we still haven't received a refund. Can our LLC take the other LLC to small claims court in Missouri to recover the $250?
A: Yes, LLCs may be parties to lawsuits in small claims court. Getting and collecting a judgment for only $250 will take a fair bit of time. Most small claims judgements go uncollected.
A:
Yes, one LLC can sue another LLC in Missouri small claims court, as long as the amount being claimed is within the court’s limit, which is currently $5,000. Since your dispute is for $250 and there was a written contract stating refunds would be issued if the organizer canceled, you’re well within your rights to pursue this. It doesn’t matter that it’s been three years—as long as you’re still within Missouri’s statute of limitations for written contracts, which is typically five years, you can still file.
You’ll need to make sure the LLC that’s filing is represented by someone authorized to do so—like a member or manager of the company. Bring a copy of the contract, proof of payment, and any communications that show the event was canceled and that you’ve attempted to get your refund. It also helps to document your outreach efforts to show the other LLC has had plenty of opportunity to make things right.
Sometimes just filing the claim is enough to prompt action, especially for a small amount like this. You’ve waited long enough, and it’s fair to expect the terms of the agreement to be honored. Going through small claims is a reasonable, low-cost way to try and recover what your LLC is owed.
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