A Small Claims Comprehensive Guide
Learn about going to small claims court, using instructions and guides to help you with your case. Also learn about trying to resolve your dispute out of court, and get answers to frequently asked questions.
Be Prepared for Your Trial
Plan what you are going to say, prepare the proof to take to court, take copies of all your court papers and your Proof of Service, and take people to support your story (witnesses).
If You Are Suing: Small Claims or a Limited Civil?
If you are an individual and want to file a lawsuit for $1, or less, you have the option of filing a small claims case or a limited civil case. If you are a business, you can file in small claims court for $5, or less.
How to Complain
This guide offers suggestions to help you get results when you have a problem with the purchase of goods or services. It explains the proper way to make a complaint, and also discusses using government agencies, consumer groups, lawyers and small claims court. A sample complaint letter and a list of compliant-handling agencies are included.
A Small Claims Comprehensive Guide
Learn about going to small claims court, using instructions and guides to help you with your case. Also learn about trying to resolve your dispute out of court, and get answers to frequently asked questions.
Ask for Payment
Small claims cases require that you ask the other side for payment before you go to court (unless there is a good reason why you cannot). You can ask in person, by phone, or in writing. You will have to tell the court you did this and how on your court form.
Be Prepared for Your Trial
Plan what you are going to say, prepare the proof to take to court, take copies of all your court papers and your Proof of Service, and take people to support your story (witnesses).
How to Complain
This guide offers suggestions to help you get results when you have a problem with the purchase of goods or services. It explains the proper way to make a complaint, and also discusses using government agencies, consumer groups, lawyers and small claims court. A sample complaint letter and a list of compliant-handling agencies are included.
If You Are Suing: Small Claims or a Limited Civil?
If you are an individual and want to file a lawsuit for $1, or less, you have the option of filing a small claims case or a limited civil case. If you are a business, you can file in small claims court for $5, or less.