Small Claims Court Overview

In small claims court, individuals can file a claim against the person or entity they believe is responsible for their losses or damages. The claim typically includes a description of the issue, the amount of money being sought, and any supporting evidence or documentation. After filing the claim, the court will notify the defendant and provide them with an opportunity to respond.

In many small claims courts, there is an offer of a mediation session before the trial. During this stage, the parties may be encouraged to reach a settlement or negotiate a resolution with the help of a neutral mediator. If a settlement cannot be reached, the case proceeds to a trial.

Small claims court trials are less formal than traditional court proceedings. They are typically heard by a judge, and the parties are given an opportunity to present their evidence and arguments. The burden of proof is usually on the claimant, meaning they must provide sufficient evidence to convince the judge that their claim is valid. The judge then makes a decision based on the evidence presented.

Once a decision is reached, it is typically final and binding, although some jurisdictions allow for limited appeals. If the claimant is successful, the court may award them a monetary judgment that the defendant must pay. However, enforcing the judgment and collecting the awarded amount is the responsibility of the claimant, and the court does not typically assist in the collection process.

Small claims court cases provide an accessible and cost-effective means for individuals and small businesses to seek justice and resolve disputes in a relatively informal setting.