Do you plan on filing a case against another individual or group? Or maybe you receive word that a lawsuit is filed against you or your company? Whether you are the plaintiff or defendant, your goal is to ensure that you can win the case.
Small-claims cases may be easy, but getting the justice you deserve can be complicated. How can you win in a small-claims court?
Such cases allow you to file a lawsuit while dodging hefty high court fees. But since you also get to avoid legal fees, you will have to work hard so that you can represent yourself effectively when trying to win the lawsuit. If you’re under the same dilemma, there are a couple of ways you can do to maximize your chances of winning the case.
Learn about the cases and dollar limits in a small-claims court
If you are the plaintiff, then you should note that there are only limited cases you can file in a small-claims court. Consequently, each state has a dollar limit, which indicates the maximum compensation you can get if you choose to file a case in a small-claims court. Knowing the cases you can file and how much the dollar limit is for your state will help you avoid wasting precious resources when filing a case. Learn about the process before you even file a case.
Keep a detailed record
It is not enough that you have done your research about the other party, their details, and other relevant information. You’d want to have excellent records that can support your case. These can be evidence such as photos, videos, witnesses, or any recorded detail that can support your case. Always take good care of these records, and you’ll get a bigger chance of winning the claim.
Ask for a subpoena
Do you have a witness that is reluctant to take a stand and appear in court? Then you can ask the court to issue a subpoena. Also known as summons, subpoenas are court orders ordering an individual or a group to show up in court so that they can give testaments that can shed more light on the case. There are many companies that offer quick subpoena server services. This way, you can be sure that your witness will receive the subpoena in no time.
Prepare to fight for your case
Of course, even with the evidence and records present, you need to show up yourself for the trial. Prepare to counter any argument that the other party may have in store. For instance, you file a case against a customer who refuses to pay for a service they have agreed upon. If you can deliver the service on time and follow your client’s request but they still refuse to pay, you have a strong chance of winning the case and get proper compensation.
Learn how you can collect payment after the judgment
If you are the plaintiff, make sure that you get to receive the amount agreed upon in the small-claims court. Take note that each state has different options when it comes to collecting the payment.
It is true that there is no easy way to ensure that you can collect payment of everything the defendant owes you. But it is your right to file a case so that you can receive the payment. By keeping this list in mind, you can increase your chances of winning the case.
