The Chelsea Brewing Company's public stance was that they were going to take care of everything, but privately they had not intention of lifting a finger. Note that all of the coat robberies that night were due entirely to the negligence of the Chelsea Brewing Company staff, who were completely drunk and unable to control themselves and the guests by 3am. But there were some good points made especially about documentation. Finally, as a disclaimer, I AM NOT an attoney, but I did file a small claims case against an ex-landlord and won. The judge said too bad the case will be heard on August 30th and no more postponements.
More people have to assert themselves against idots and the courts.
But each time, they didn't show, I'd refile to get back my lost wages. And contact the local TV station to let them know what happened. Please note that lawyers are not usually permitted in most states, which means it gets down to how well YOU present your case. Also, many libraries will have a video you can borrow that shows how small claims works in your state. It really is not that different from Judge Judy et al, except of course without the histrionics.