But small claims should still be part of the collection strategies of many businesses. Before you start a lawsuit in small claims court, investigate alternatives. If your case involves a written contract, check to see if the contract requires mediation or arbitration of disputes. If so, this may limit or cut off your right to go to any court, including small claims court. If you're in a dispute with a customer, or perhaps another business, and you still have hopes of preserving some aspect of the relationship, mediationeven if not provided for in a contractis often a better alternative than small claims court.
Any litigation tends to harden peoples' feelings.
It will be especially valuable in helping you prepare evidence and present your case to the judge. Although FindLaw tries to provide accurate and current information, the ideas, information, and conclusions provided here may differ depending on local, state and federal laws and regulations and court cases. Given the different possible applications and interpretations of the law, you are urged to consult professional legal counsel regarding the applicability of legal issues discussed here to any specific legal problem you may have. You should not use this web site as a substitute for competent legal advice.