How to Win a Case in Small Claims Court in Arizona
If you have filed a small claims court case in Arizona and are representing yourself, you will need to be prepared when your trial date arrives in order to win your case. Representing yourself in small claims court is common and winning is certainly possible. Preparation, a thorough understanding of the issues and documentary proof of your case are the keys to winning your case in an Arizona small claims court.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Read the complaint or claim thoroughly well in advance of the court date. Make sure that you understand what the issues are in the case. If you are the Plaintiff (the person that initiated the lawsuit or claim) you should have a clear understanding of what you want from the Defendant, such as money, return of property or eviction. If you are the Defendant, you should have a clear understanding of what the Plaintiff is accusing you of doing or not doing, such as failing to repay loan, failure to pay rent or writing a bad check.
-
2
Research the law as it applies to your case. Start with the Arizona Civil Code, which can be found online, at the local library or at a law school library. If you are the Plaintiff, you have the burden of proving your case, so make sure you understand what you must prove. If you are the Defendant, you need to understand what defenses are available to you.
-
-
3
Prepare any documentary evidence you intend to introduce in court. Make enough copies for the opposing party and the judge and organize your documents according to when you plan to introduce them in court.
-
4
Speak clearly and succinctly on the day of your trial. Outline the facts of your case without adding any unnecessary information. Make sure you cover all the necessary elements to prove your case if you are the Plaintiff. Explain your defense in clear and simple terms if you are the Defendant.
-
5
Introduce your documentary evidence at the appropriate time by offering a copy to the judge as well as to the opposing party. Small claims court rules are less formal than other courts, however, you are still required to ask permission to introduce the document from the judge.
-
6
Conclude your case by restating what you want the judge to do if you are the Plaintiff and by reiterating why the Plaintiff hasn't proven her case if you are the Defendant.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Although you may nor need to hire an attorney to represent you, it is always a good idea to consult with one before you take on self-representation.
Respect for the judge and the courtroom are a requirement, and any disrespect for either could cost you to lose your case.
References
- Photo Credit judge 5 image by Mykola Velychko from Fotolia.com
