This form is a generic complaint and adopts the "notice pleadings" format of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, which have been adopted by most states in one form or another. This form is for illustrative purposes only. Local laws should be consulted to determine any specific requirements for such a form in a particular jurisdiction.
Title: New Hampshire Complaint in Small Claims Court for Failure or Refusal to Return Money Deposited for Apartment Introduction: A New Hampshire Complaint in Small Claims Court for Failure or Refusal to Return Money Deposited for an Apartment is a legal remedy available to tenants who have faced unjustified withholding or non-return of their security deposit. This type of complaint enables tenants to seek redress through a small claims court for the return of their deposit. Keywords: New Hampshire, complaint, small claims court, failure to return money, deposited, apartment. 1. Understanding the New Hampshire Security Deposit Laws: New Hampshire has specific laws in place to protect tenants' security deposits. Landlords are required to return the security deposit within a specific timeframe and provide a detailed written explanation for any deduction made from the deposit. 2. Filing a Complaint in Small Claims Court: When a landlord fails or refuses to return a security deposit without sufficient cause, the tenant can file a complaint in a small claims court. Small claims courts in New Hampshire are designed to handle disputes involving limited monetary amounts, making them ideal for resolving security deposit disputes. 3. Steps to File a Complaint: a. Gathering Evidence: Collect all necessary documentation, including lease agreements, receipts, communication records, and any evidence proving the initial deposit and subsequent failure to return the money. b. Filling out the Complaint Form: Provide accurate details about the landlord, tenant, the amount of the deposit, dates of occupancy, any relevant lease terms, and the reasons for seeking the deposit's return. c. Submission and Filing: Submit the completed complaint form to the appropriate small claims court, paying any required filing fees. d. Serving the Complaint: Serve the landlord a copy of the complaint according to the court's guidelines. e. Attending the Hearing: Prepare to present your case at the scheduled court hearing, ensuring you have all necessary evidence to support your claim. 4. Different Types of Complaints in Small Claims Court: a. Complaint for Failure to Return Security Deposit: This type of complaint is for cases where the landlord fails to return the tenant's security deposit within the specified timeframe, without sufficient reasoning. b. Complaint for Refusal to Return Security Deposit: This complaint is applicable when the landlord explicitly refuses to return the security deposit, despite being legally obligated to do so. Conclusion: Filing a New Hampshire Complaint in Small Claims Court for Failure or Refusal to Return Money Deposited for an Apartment empowers tenants to seek legal recourse against landlords who wrongfully withhold or refuse to return their security deposits. By filing a complaint, tenants can participate in a formal legal process aimed at resolving such disputes and potentially recovering their deposited funds. Keywords: New Hampshire, complaint, small claims court, failure to return money, deposited, apartment, security deposit, tenant, landlord, filing, legal remedy.
