GUIDES

We are NOT attorneys. Therefore, we cannot provide any legal advice. The following information only advises what is needed when filing certain documents in our office. If you are in need of legal assistance, you may contact one of the following:

Mission First Legal Aid Office 601.608.0056
Mississippi Volunteers Lawyers Project 601.960.9577
Mississippi Center for Legal Services 1.800.498.1804

CIVIL COMPLAINT

The civil department processes cases involving monetary disputes starting at $3,500. Any complaints for monetary disputes less than $3,500 must be filed in small claims court. To file a new civil complaint (county or circuit) you must provide the following:

Filing fee: $161.00 per complaint.
Completed civil cover sheet - click here for form.
Complaint - If the complaint is being filed pro se (by an individual who is representing oneself), all documents must be written or typed by the plaintiff(s).
Summons - Upon filing of the complaint, the clerk shall issue a summons. The summons and complaint shall be served together to the defendant by process server, by sheriff, by mail, by publication, or service by certified mail on person outside state. (Rule 4 of The Mississippi Rules of Civil Procedure)

EXPUNGEMENT

Expungements are filed as a civil case, however, the filing process isn't the same as the process for civil complaints. Before filing an expungement, confirm that you have paid your court costs, fees, fines, etc. in full. Once everything is paid, you may file an expungement. You must provide the following:

Filing fee: If filed pursuant to 99-15-26 (standard non-adjudication statute for non-drug crimes, or for cases in which an arrest was made but no disposition, or the defendant found not guilty, or charges dismissed; Completion of Pretrial Diversion Program) - $161.00

If filed pursuant to 41-29-150 (non-adjudication statute for drug crimes) - $161.00

If filed pursuant to 99-19-71 (CONVICTIONS) - $311.00

Completed civil cover sheet - click here for form.
Petition for Expungement - If filing pro se (by an individual who is representing oneself), all documents must be written or typed by the petitioner.
Order Granting Expungement - Must provide the order for the Judge to sign.
Affidavit of Good Behavior - Sworn statement affirming that the petitioner has conducted themselves in a manner of good behavior.

Occasionally, different organizations will host expungement clinics locally. If you are filing pro se, you may want to attend one of these to get assistance with your expungement.