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3. Bringing a Small Claims Case
I believe that every citizen should have the experience of personally prosecuting a small claims case to settle a dispute. It can be a powerful learning experience. While it involves an enormous amount of time, this lower level decision making process offers an instructive microcosm of the judicial system. Evidence about the complained of wrongs and the damages incurred by you are presented by both parties to the dispute and an independent person, often a real judge, decides if a wrong has been committed and how much, if anything, should be paid to you in compensation. You should also have the experience of defending a small claims dispute.
A small claims case opens up a window to bigger cases. In "small claims" there are just fewer rules and technicalities to follow. Contact the clerk of your local court to locate the small claims division. The clerks in the small claims part will be very helpful in telling you what you have to do. Ask for the booklet they publish about the procedures in small claims court. Be sure to ask what the maximum financial recovery is. Be sure this ceiling is adequate for your claim. In New York City the maximum recovery is $3,000.00.
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