Trial:The trial itself will typically last a few hours, depending on the complexity of the case. After the trial, the judge will issue a decision, which can take a few weeks. If your case is for $5,000 or less, it can be handled in small claims court.
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.
There are 12 district courts in Middlesex County, with the District Attorney having an office in each of the courts.
Property that can be administratively forfeited includes merchandise prohibited from importation; a conveyance used to import, transport, or store a controlled substance; a monetary instrument; or other property that does not exceed $500,000 in value.
The forfeiture rule, that no one who unlawfully kills another can share in the victim's estate or receive any other financial gain from the death, appears appropriate and immutable.
In any civil forfeiture proceeding under a civil forfeiture statute in which the Government prevails, if the court finds that the claimant's assertion of an interest in the property was frivolous, the court may impose a civil fine on the claimant of an amount equal to 10 percent of the value of the forfeited property, ...
To Seek the Property's Return (1) Petition DEA for the return of the property and/or; (2) File a valid claim with DEA, which means the person intends to challenge the forfeiture in federal court.