If the counterclaim does not arise from the original dispute, it must be filed within ten days after the defendant received the summons for your complaint. The other side may think you'll drop you case rather than hire an attorney for this higher, more formal court. This means the case will be heard again in a formal civil court. Both parties have ten days to file an appeal after judgment has been made. Appeals should be given careful consideration as civil court rules are much more complex than small claims court and require the assistance of an attorney.
Expenses are also greater.
If you win in small claims court, the burden to collect is on you, not the court. Sometimes the defendant pays immediately, sometimes not. You must provide the sheriff with the information necessary to locate the debtor's personal property or funds. For the seizure of motor vehicles and home appliances, you will probably be asked to describe the property, identify its location and provide a registration or license number. To seize bank accounts or income, you will need to tell the sheriff where the debtor banks or works.