Everybody's Guide to Small Claims Court

by Ralph E. Warner and Ralph Warner Attorney

Book Overview

Proper presentation of a small claims court case can make the difference between receiving a check and writing one. This bestselling guide shows readers how to: -- decide the legitimacy of a case--... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1413319599
• ISBN13: 9781413319590
• Release Date: March 2014
• Publisher: NOLO
• Length: 424 Pages
• Weight: 1.55 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.0" x 7.1" x 8.9"

Customer Reviews

Invaluable Resource for Small Claims Court

This review is for the 13th edition of Everybody's Guide to Small Claims Court, printed in 2010. The book is intended for use by those persons preparing to sue in Small Claims Court, and since in many jurisdictions, lawyers are not permitted to present the case for either side, the book is all the more necessary in providing an overview of the system. The book is written by attorney, Ralph Warner. Why buy the book? Is it really necessary? Well, I watched a friend lose a landlord dispute case in small claims court primarily because his presentation annoyed the judge. The fact is, everything matters, and being as prepared as possible is essential to achieve the desired outcome. Practical suggestions from two former small claims court judges are included, which is invaluable information to possess when preparing a case. The book is a good solid manual to help a person decide whether they have a case, if so, whether small claims court is the right place for the case, and whether it is worth initiating the process. Can you prove your case and what would be considered proof? Will you make a convincing presentation in court? Even if you win can you collect? Warner covers breach of contract, which includes unpaid debts and failure to perform, property damage, including negligence and intentional acts, personal injury, defective product, breach of warranty, professional malpractice and nuisance cases. There are chapters detailing motor vehicle cases for purchase, repair and accidents. Chapters on landlord tenant issues, disputes between small businesses and miscellaneous issues that cover everything from internet transactions, defamation, dog related cases, police brutality and more. In the back of the book are the small claims court rules for all 50 states, including the District of Columbia. Also discussed are statute of limitations, settling a dispute, suing different kinds of defendants, who can sue, where to sue, how much to sue for, filing fees, court papers and dates, serving papers, getting ready for court, your day in court, witnesses, judgment and appeal, collecting money and legal research. There is also a chapter covering the defendant's options, but the vast majority of information in this book is designed for the plaintiff -- the party who starts the lawsuit. The book provides a vast amount of information in an easily digestible format. The writing is clear and interesting. There is a reason this book has been THE resource for small claims court cases for the last thirty years.

NOLO Small Claims Court

Received the book in a very timely manner and it was in excellent condition. Very pleased.

An absolute "must-have" legal reference, particularly for home and business owners.

Written by Attorney Ralph Warner, Everybody's Guide to Small Claims Court is the updated eleventh edition of an absolutely indispensable guide for anyone involved as a plaintiff or defendant in a small claims court case. Chapters walk the reader through how to write a demand letter, file and serve papers, prepare evidence, secure appropriate witnesses, figure out damages, mediate a settlement, collect money after winning a case, and much more. Written expressly for lay readers, Everybody's Guide to Small Claims Court is as straightforward and easy-to-understand as a legal guide can be, and the eleventh edition now includes the most current procedures in the small claims courts in all states and Washington D.C., as well as practical advice from judges who have seen everything. An absolute "must-have" legal reference, particularly for home and business owners.

A Good Reference Book On Small Claims Court

This book has information on how to prepare your case, win in court and collect your money. You can learn how to determine the damages, mediate the settlement, write a demand letter, file and serve papers, prepare for court and collect your money when you win. A big plus, this book includes information for all 50 States. For 24-hour access to straightforward legal solutions check out www.nolo.com. The author, Ralph Warner, helped found Nolo in 1971, and is one of the recognized pioneers of the self-help law movement. Keep in mind that on some smaller cases you have no choice but to work the case without a lawyer since the amount of money involved may not be enough to cover the expense of an attorney. This book will be a lifesaver.

Great reference book for anyone.

We are owners of a small business and recently we lost our bookkeeper/receptionist after 10 years. I have had to take over collections. This book was of great help to someone who has never gone to court. The book covers both sides of a court claim. This gives you a feel of possible ways the defendant will react and how they might present evidence. I also have had to go to Debtor's Court and the book explained all the rights and thing I should ask for inorder to get the money that is owed to our busines. It covers general information for all state on laws on how long to have to refile etc. Great book for any small business owners who have to deal with the small claims court systems. Five Stars for great reference book to have in your office!!!!!!