The basic principle that each side pays their own legal fees is literally called the "American Rule". There are quite a few situations where that can be flipped, for attorneys fees, court costs, and other expenses.
Conclusion: Going to small claims court may be worth it for $500, but it will determine how you weigh your costs versus benefits. At a minimum, it is worth it to send a demand letter.
A petition is a formal written request to a court or other official body, seeking some form of legal action or relief. It may be filed by a person, group, or organization. Last updated in January of 2024 by the Wex Definitions Team
You do not need a lawyer to sue in Small Claims Court. But you may hire one, if you want. The other side may also hire a lawyer. The Court will not give you a lawyer.
Petitions MUST be signed in the presence of a Notary Public or a Family Court Clerk. Once your petition is completed and your signature notarized, you can either mail it to Family Court or submit it in person during our stated business hours. Paternity Petitions must be submitted with a copy of the Birth Certificate.
Abbreviation for do-it-yourself: the activity of decorating or repairing your home, or making things for your home yourself, rather than paying someone else to do it for you: a DIY enthusiast. a DIY project.
If you have a legal problem, you may be able to do some or all of the legal work yourself. Solving your own legal problems, also known as DIY, can be: cheap. convenient.
A form that a party files in a New York state court action that has not yet been assigned to a judge. The RJI is a request for the court to become involved in the matter and will result in the assignment of a judge, who will then preside over the action until its end.
How to Fill Out an Order to Show Cause Write the county name. Write the Article for your case type. Write the name(s) of the petitioner(s). Write the name(s) of the respondent(s). Write the docket number, if it exists. Write your name. Write the date you signed the affidavit. Write the month you signed the affidavit.