An insurance policy is a legal contract between the insurance company (the insurer) and the person(s), business, or entity being insured (the insured). Reading your policy helps you verify that the policy meets your needs and that you understand your and the insurance company's responsibilities if a loss occurs.
If you are: a person (this includes sole-proprietors) you may claim up to $12,500; if you are a Corporation, limited liability company or partnership, you may claim up to $6,250.
The Small Claims Hearing When submitting evidence, you must complete form LASC CIV 278 and use LASC CIV 279 mailing labels. You will have to provide proof that the other parties were sent copies of your evidence. You can get this from the Post Office at the time you mail these forms.
A losing party pays attorney fees only if the winner is specifically given the right to recover legal fees in a contract between the parties or through a state or federal law. Learn about preparing a defense in Disputing a Small Claims Court Case: Fight Back.
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.