Get Online Small Claims Court Legal Advice

If you have been unsuccessful collecting a debt from a customer and decide that suing them in small claims court is the only option, you’ll need to understand the steps required to file a case under the laws in your state. Generally, you’ll need to consider the following in small claims court:

1. Make sure your case fits the monetary limits and parameters for the court and whether your company will require representation by a lawyer.
2. The case will need to be filed in the right court using the appropriate forms, procedures, and potentially pay a filing fee.
3. You and your lawyer must be prepared to present evidence and make arguments to plead your case to the judge.
4. How to collect on the judgment from the defendant if you win the case.

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Getting legal advice from a small claims lawyer is a critical first step. Sign up today and you can be on the phone with a provider lawyer.

Going to small claims court typically involves gathering at least some of the following:

• The documents already filed with the court;
• Signed agreements related to the claim;
• An affidavit with your claims;
• Receipts, bank statements, credit card statements, or other related financial documents;
• Written or digital communications between you and the defendant; or
• Witness statements and any other physical evidence.

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As a LegalShield member, you can consult with a provider lawyer for debt collection issues. As a plaintiff, your provider lawyer can represent you at a 25% discount from their standard rate.

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Representation by a business lawyer familiar with small claims court cases increases your chance of winning the case. Also, if you win, a collection lawyer can play a critical role in helping you with the often challenging task of collecting the amount of money owed.

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Additionally, should the other party prepare a counterclaim, you will take comfort knowing you have competent representation on your side to defend against that claim.

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LegalShield’s Small Business Legal Essentials plan allows you to hire your lawyer to represent you for 25% off their standard hourly fees. If you’re a defendant, our Small Business Legal Plus and Small Business Legal Pro plans include an optional trial defense services add-on for only $14.95/month. Either way, you save on lawyer representation in small claims court.