How to File a Lawsuit Against a Correspondence School
Correspondence schools are a great opportunity for individuals who are unable---perhaps due to family, work or other constraints---to earn a degree from the convenience of their homes. However, due to the lackluster quality of some of the correspondence schools that can be found on the Internet, problems can arise. As a result, an increasing number of dissatisfied correspondence school students are looking into filing lawsuits against correspondence schools.
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Instructions
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Avoid a lawsuit in the first place by thoroughly researching the school. The best correspondence schools are accredited by local or regional educational associations. Accreditation can offer peace of mind that the correspondence school meets the necessary educational requirements and standards. Because the school has met these objective standards, it is less likely that the school will offer sub-par instruction.
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Analyze your claim if a correspondence school fails to provide you with the quality education that you expect. To file a lawsuit against a correspondence school, you must be able to prove that you were legally wronged. Legal claims against correspondence schools have been based on allegations that the correspondence school failed to deliver on its promises of course or curriculum quality, or that they made other inaccurate or misleading claims related to your ability to get a job after graduation. It is best to consult with a civil attorney to help you assess your rights and represent your interests when filing a lawsuit against a correspondence school.
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Gather evidence. Before you file a lawsuit against a correspondence school, you should get copies of all papers and documents that will help support your claim. These documents may include copies of school policies and procedures, correspondence between you and the institution, and copies of tuition payments.
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File a complaint. Once you have established that you were wronged and have gathered evidence supporting your claim, you can file a complaint against the correspondence school in the state court that is located in the jurisdiction where the correspondence school is located. Most courts offer forms that you can use to file your complaint, or will provide you with a copy of a sample complaint for guidance. In the complaint, ask for money damages resulting from the violation. Also ask for any court or attorney fees you have incurred as a result of the lawsuit since some courts allow you to recover those fees if you win.
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Go to court. After filing your complaint, most courts will provide you with an informational booklet on how to prepare for you court date. Appear in court at the time and date provided to you by the court clerk when you filed your complaint. Bring documents and other evidence, as well as any witnesses that lend support to your case against the correspondence school. Present your case and argue your points concisely and succinctly before the judge. This is your opportunity to put on evidence to show that you were legally wronged and because of it, you suffered damages entitling you to compensation.
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