Guide to St. Louis County Circuit Court Filing Fees

For those filing cases in the St. Louis County Circuit Court, being aware of the filing fees involved is crucial. This detailed guide provides an overview of the various filing fees for different cases and proceedings in the St. Louis County Circuit Court.

Basics of Filing Fees

1. General Information

  • Purpose of Filing Fees: Filing fees are charged to cover the administrative costs associated with processing and maintaining legal documents in court. These fees support the essential operations of the court system, ensuring that legal proceedings are conducted efficiently and effectively.

  • Payment Methods: Typically, filing fees can be paid by cash, check, money order, or credit card. It's important to confirm the accepted payment methods with the court clerk's office before submitting your documents.

Types of Filings and Their Fees

1. Civil Cases

  • Circuit Civil Case Filing: The fee for filing a circuit civil case in St. Louis County is $105.50.

  • Extraordinary Writs: The fee for filing extraordinary writs, such as mandamus or prohibition, is also $105.50.

  • Mechanic's Lien: The filing fee for a mechanic's lien is $5.00.

2. Small Claims

  • Claims Under $100: The filing fee for small claims under $100.00 is $20.50.

  • Claims Over $100: The same filing fee of $20.50 applies to small claims over $100.00.

  • Certified Mail Fee: An additional fee of $10.00 is required for certified mail service per defendant.

3. Domestic Relations

  • Dissolution of Marriage (Divorce): Filing for dissolution of marriage costs $148.50.

  • Legal Separation: The filing fee for legal separation is also $148.50.

  • Annulment: An annulment filing costs $148.50.

  • Paternity: The fee for filing a paternity case is $137.50.

  • Change of Name: The fee for a name change petition is $135.50.

4. Probate and Estate Matters

  • Probate Case Filing: Fees vary based on the type of probate case and the value of the estate. Most probate filings require a fee around $200.

  • Guardianship of Minor: Filing for guardianship costs $287.50.

  • Guardianship and Conservatorship: Fees for combined guardianship and conservatorship cases are similar or might be slightly higher.

Additional Fees and Considerations

1. Service Fees

  • Sheriff Service Fee (per defendant): The standard fee for sheriff service is $36.00 per defendant.

  • Landlord Summons: The service and posting fee at the same address is $56.00, while different addresses cost $62.00.

2. Copies and Certifications

  • Authenticated Copies: $3.50 per page, with an additional $6.00 for certified mail.

  • Certified Copies: The cost is $1.50 for the first page and seal, with each additional page costing $0.30.

3. Miscellaneous Fees

  • Filing of Garnishment: The fee is $10.00, with no deposit required.

  • Petition for Expungement: $355.50 for conviction records and $105.50 for arrest records.

  • Recording or Renewing Warehouse License: The fee is $3.00.

Conclusion

Understanding the filing fees associated with different types of cases in the St. Louis County Circuit Court is essential for anyone navigating the legal system. By being prepared and aware of these fees, you can ensure a smoother filing process and avoid unnecessary delays. Always check for the most current fee schedule and consult with the court clerk's office if you have any specific questions or need additional information.

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