Originally posted by: allisolm
I file a small claim here, spend $20 to serve her and then she has to hire a lawyer or fly here from California twice. First for pretrial mediation and second for an actual trial date.
Not a lawyer, but I thought you had to sue in small claims court where the defendant resides. Do I have that wrong?
well from
here
How-To: File and Prepare for Court
Determine where to file. Before you can bring suit in Small Claims Court, it must be determined that the court has jurisdiction over your type of legal problem, and that it has jurisdiction over the party you are suing.
A case must be filed where the defendant resides or the claim arose . District Courts have jurisdiction anywhere in the county. County justice courts have jurisdiction anywhere in the county that there is not a municipal justice court with jurisdiction. Municipal justice courts have jurisdiction within municipal boundaries.
After determining that the court has jurisdiction over your claims, the Clerk's office can provide you with the appropriate forms for filing a suit in Small Claims Court and further instructions on the procedure for doing so. When you complete these forms, you must have 4 copies for filing with the court.
( These forms should be used for reference only. Contact your local court for a copy of the forms used in that court.)
It is suggested that you observe a session in the Small Claims Court before your trial date. By doing so, you will be more at ease at your trial and will present a more relaxed and calm evaluation of your case. You will also become more familiar with the procedures of the Court.
Compile pertinent information that applies to your case. This information may include canceled checks, purchase orders, written contracts and other evidence. Organize them in chronological order and be sure to check the dates carefully. Accuracy will be a crucial factor in determining the outcome of the case. You should also be prepared to prove to the court how much money you will need to fix the problem. Your own estimate of the cost is usually not sufficient.
Have a disinterested party. If your claim deals with the adequacy of a service, or workmanship, or some other issue where the opinion of a disinterested party who is knowledgeable about the subject may be available, he/she should appear in person at the trial on your behalf.
Tell your story. When you get to court and it is your turn to speak, simply state what your claim is. The plaintiff (the person who filed the claim) will tell his/her side of the story to the judge and present any witnesses or documents to support the claim. The defendant (the person who the claim is filed against) will do the same.
so its where the defendent lives. that may complicate maters