Ohio must differ drastically from Connecticut. It has been a while since I litigated a small claims case. Unless something has changed since then an exception is made for corporations and LLC's in small claims cases. Small claims has a jurisdictional limit of $5,000.00, and is designed for litigants to proceed without attorneys. It is quite routine to see a corporate officer or LLC member pleading a small claims case. However, it is probably state specific rule, and would be explained in the instructional booklet I mentioned above. Some states have the information available on their court's web page.

Superior Court is a different story. Since the 1960's Connecticut LLC's and corporations must be represented by attorney's in civil litigation pending before the Superior Court because it would otherwise foster an unauthorized practice of law . In fact that is one of my favorite trial tactics. If I sue a foreign LLC or corporation in Connecticut alleging jurisdiction under the state's long arm statute... the defendant LLC or corporation is obligated to challenge jurisdiction through a motion to dismiss. It is a dispositive motion requiring legal research and a memorandum of law.  As a dispositive motion  it is my right to demand a hearing and argument. Since the LLC or corporation would have to hire a law firm to draft the motion, perform the research, draft the memorandum of law  and argue it ...it would be far cheaper to pay my bill.