Small Claims Court

Why small claims court?

Your boss or a client owes you money. Maybe your landlord refused to return your security deposit, or someone damaged your property. If you have business, maybe a customer owes you money, or a supplier delivered substandard products but won’t return your deposit. If you are owed $7,500 or less, you may have a case for small claims court.

How Small Claims Court works

More informal than a higher court – and less expensive than using a bill collection service – small claims court asks that you appear without an attorney unless the lawyer is an officer in your firm. Before going to court, you’ll want to gather the facts of the case, fill out a complaint form, give it to the county clerk and make sure the defendant is notified of the lawsuit.

Succeeding at small claims court

Small claims court can provide much-needed justice, but it may not be worth your time and trouble unless you’re confident of winning. Bradford’s helpful book, Winning Big in Colorado Small Claims Court: How to Sue and Collect gives you an insider’s guide to assessing your case, gauging damages, completing and serving forms, compiling evidence and collecting money. For a small investment, increase the odds of winning and collecting.