Barnes Beauty College v. McCoy

HARRIS, Justice.

In this case of first impression we must decide whether a motion for new trial, under Iowa R.Civ.P. 244, is appropriate after judgment in small claims court. If not, the appeal to district court in this case was untimely and the small claims judgment became final. We believe the legislative scheme for informal small claims procedure did not contemplate new trial motions. Accordingly, we reverse a district court modification of the small claims judgment and we remand the case for reinstatement of the judgment as entered in small claims court.

Barnes Beauty College (plaintiff)…