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.
Whether you represent yourself or hire an attorney, there are things you can do to ensure a good result in your case. Find the Right Court. Litigate for the Right Reasons. Mediate Instead of Litigate. Communicate With Your Attorney. Be Willing to Negotiate. Follow Court Procedures. You'll Need a Good Lawyer.
Be clear and concise when presenting your case; don't go off on tangents, don't insult the other party, don't bring up information or events that aren't directly related to the matter at hand. Rehearse presenting your case before you get into court. Listen to everything the judge says and answer clearly.
To begin an action in Small Claims Court, a person, or someone acting on his or her behalf, must come to the Small Claims Court Clerk's office in the proper county and fill out a statement of claim. To find out where the clerk's office is located in your county, click on Locations.
Here's an overview of how to prepare to defend your case. Find the Rules and Forms Website for Your Local Small Claims Court. See if a Pretrial Settlement Makes Sense. Answer the Plaintiff's Complaint. Remember You Don't Have the Burden of Proof. Consider a Counterclaim, if Appropriate. Use Discovery Well.
This study answers two fundamental questions about small claims courts: (1) Who usually wins? (2) Do victors collect their judgments? The rate of victory for plaintiffs who file claims and appear in court is eighty-five percent. Of winning plaintiffs, fifty-five percent never collect any part of their judgments.
Small Claims Court helps individuals or corporations resolve disputes when the amount of the claim is $10,000 or less. All defendants must have an address in New York City. Get Small Claims Court information, including locations and hours of operation. Learn about case types handled by Small Claims Court.
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.
The Small Claims Court has monetary jurisdiction up to $10,000.00. Claims for more than $10,000.00 may not be brought in Small Claims Court. They must be started in the Civil Part of the court or in a different court.