Missouri Small Claims Court Schedule and Hours

One of the first practical questions after getting served is when you actually need to be in court — and how long it will take. Missouri small claims hearings happen during normal business hours, and the scheduling details vary by judicial circuit. Here's what to expect.

When Hearings Are Scheduled

Missouri courthouses generally operate 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Small claims hearings are set within that window, typically in the morning or early afternoon. Your specific time is printed on the summons.

In larger circuits like St. Louis County (21st Circuit) and Jackson County (16th Circuit), small claims cases are scheduled alongside other Associate Circuit Court matters throughout the week. In smaller and rural circuits — like Boone County (13th Circuit) or Greene County (31st Circuit) — small claims sessions are often consolidated onto dedicated non-jury docket days.

The exact scheduling varies by judge and circuit. Some courts batch multiple small claims cases on the same docket call, meaning you may wait through other cases before yours is called.

How Long Your Case Takes

The hearing length depends on the case. The docket call may add waiting time because the court handles multiple scheduled cases, continuance requests, and settlement announcements before reaching yours. Keep your schedule flexible and be prepared to remain until your case is called.

What Happens at Docket Call

When you arrive at the courtroom:

1. Sign in or answer the roll — the clerk or judge calls the roster of cases scheduled for that session. Answer "present" when your case is called.
2. Continuances and settlements — the judge handles cases where one party requests a postponement or both sides announce a settlement.
3. Trials proceed — remaining cases are heard one at a time.

If both parties appear and the court does not grant a continuance or otherwise reset the case, the trial can proceed that day. Cases may be continued or reset; if yours is not called, stay until the judge or clerk tells you otherwise.

Continuances

If you genuinely cannot attend on the scheduled date — a medical emergency, mandatory work commitment, military service — you can request a continuance. Under RSMo 482.355, continuances are not granted as a matter of right. You must:

1. Prepare a written Motion for Continuance stating the specific reason
2. File it with the Circuit Clerk as far in advance as possible
3. Serve a copy on the opposing party
4. Get confirmation from the court (a signed order or Case.net entry) that the continuance was granted

Until the judge officially grants the continuance, you are still required to appear. An unfiled or pending motion does not excuse absence.

ADA Accommodations and Language Interpreters

If you need disability accommodations or a language interpreter, contact the Court Access or ADA Coordinator at your courthouse at least 7 business days before the hearing. Missouri courts provide certified interpreters free of charge. Remote hearing options (Zoom or WebEx) vary by circuit and require advance judicial approval.

Plan Your Day

Knowing the schedule helps you plan around work, childcare, and transportation — all real barriers for people dealing with court for the first time. The Missouri Small Claims Response Guide includes a hearing-day checklist and preparation timeline so nothing catches you off guard on the return date.

See more Missouri guides →