--— Unless otherwise provided by rule or statute, a judgment, order, or decree is final if it disposes of the entire matter before the court, including all claim(s) and all cause(s) of action against all parties, gives all the relief contemplated, and leaves nothing to be done by the court except the ministerial ...
The first court date is also known as the first return date, or the first mention date. As this is the first time that your matter will be listed before the court, it is a very important event.
To seek a permanent injunction, the plaintiff must pass the four-step test: (1) that the plaintiff has suffered an irreparable injury; (2) that remedies available at law, such as monetary damages, are inadequate to compensate for the injury; (3) that the remedy in equity is warranted upon consideration of the balance ...
— A court may issue a preliminary injunction only if it first determines that the movant will more likely than not suffer irreparable harm without the preliminary injunction.
While it's not mandatory to hire a lawyer for small claims court, consulting one can provide valuable insights and increase your chances of success, especially in more complex cases. Weigh the complexity of your case, your comfort with legal procedures, and the potential costs to make an informed decision.
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.
Maryland Code § 4–405. Virginia: You can file a case in Small Claims Court in Virginia if your claim is for less than $5,000 (including the recovery of personal property worth less than $5,000). Virginia Code § 16.1- 122.2.