A suction filter for an automatic transmission utilizes two different types of filter media: a coarse filter media and a fine filter media. The two types of media are arranged in series within a housing such that fluid flows through only one of the two filter media. A hinge valve is arranged in series with the coarse media. The hinge valve passively opens in response to a pressure differential. The hinge valve defines a non-zero flow area when in the closed position and an increasing flow area as it opens. The flow restriction associated with the hinge valve permits a larger ratio of coarse media area to fine media, thereby decreasing the flow restriction when the oil is cold without decreasing the clean-up rate in normal operating conditions.