Everybody's Guide to Small Claims Court - 21st Edition by Cara O'Neill (Paperback)

About the Book

Individuals and small businesses can avoid hefty litigation expenses by learning to use small claims court and resolve disputes without lawyers. The easy-to-understand instructions in Everybody's Guide to Small Claims Court simplify preparing and defending small claims cases.

Book Synopsis

You don't need a lawyer when you know how to present a winning small claims case.

Preparing for your day in court can make the difference between receiving a check and writing one. Everybody's Guide to Small Claims Court explains the steps necessary to successfully sue someone or defend a case in small claims court, including how to:

• determine the case's value


• draft a demand letter


• negotiate a settlement


• file and serve papers


• present supporting evidence


• question witnesses, and


• collect money when you win.

This edition includes powerful negotiation strategies and bargaining tips that are not only used by lawyers and businesspeople to settle disagreements before trial, but that apply in other situations, such as when buying a car or negotiating employment and other contracts. You'll also find sample letters, legal forms, and links to other resources, including an online statute of limitations chart to help you determine when you must file a case.

Review Quotes

"Useful advice... for anyone trying to get money back." Money Magazine

"Walks you through the halls of small justice and explains how to file a claim, figure damages and argue your case effectively." Kiplinger's Personal Finance Magazine

"Step-by-step advice on how to prepare your case, how to file it, and perhaps most importantly, how to collect if you win..." Associated Press