Jurisdictional Limits
Magistrate and metropolitan courts have limited jurisdiction to hear tort cases. See Section 35-3-3. The statutory limits, such as the maximum $10,000 amount in controversy and the territorial limits of the court, that apply to all civil cases apply to tort claims too.
In addition, magistrate and metropolitan courts are precluded from hearing claims for libel, slander and defamation of character; disputes over real property; disputes over child custody, visitation or other domestic relations matters; and claims of wrongful conduct by public officials.