Everybody's guide to small claims court

Your small claims court companion

Basics of small claims court

Can you collect your money if you win?

Can you collect your money if you win?

How much can you sue for?

When should you sue?

Settling your dispute

Who can sue?

Suing different kinds of defendants

Where can you sue?

Filing fees, court papers, and court dates

Serving your papers

The defendant's options

Getting ready for court

Witnesses

Your day in court

Motor vehicle repair cases

Motor vehicle purchase cases

Bad debts : initiating and defending cases

Vehicle accident cases

Landlord-tenant case

Miscellaneous cases

Disputes between small businesses

Judgment and appeal

Collecting your money

Legal research

Appendixes. A, Small claims court rules for the 50 states (and the District of Columbia) ; B, Legal jargon for small claims court.