You don't need a lawyer to succeed in small claims court if you know how to present your own case. Properly preparing for your day in court can make the difference between receiving a check and writing one.

Everybody's Guide to Small Claims Court provides the information, tips, and strategies you need to sue someone successfully or put up a winning defense in any state. Find out how to:

• file and serve papers
• mediate an out-of-court settlement
• prepare evidence to support your case
• decide how much to sue for
• line up persuasive witnesses
• present a winning case, and
• collect money when you win.

The 18th edition's updated settlement section explains negotiation techniques you can use to settle your small claims case--or any other disagreement you might have--without going to court. You'll also find the latest procedures for small claims courts in every state, sample letters, legal forms, a statute of limitations chart that will help you determine when you must file your case, and links to online resources.

USE THIS BOOK FOR:

• car repair disputes
• motor vehicle accident cases
• landlord-tenant issues
• small business disputes
• dog-related cases
• defamation issues
• and more.