People often represent themselves in Small Claims Court rather than hire an attorney. Businesses sued for less than $5000, though, often do hire attorneys, in the hopes that plaintiff-individuals will settle for a pittance before going before the judge. Small claims court judges, unfortunately, are swamped with cases, and rarely have time to hear the nuances that may entitle one person or another to what is (to some) a substantial amount of money. Some small claims courts require [[mediation]] before seeing a judge; this is also generally the best option in a small claims court situation. | People often represent themselves in Small Claims Court rather than hire an attorney. Businesses sued for less than $5000, though, often do hire attorneys, in the hopes that plaintiff-individuals will settle for a pittance before going before the judge. Small claims court judges, unfortunately, are swamped with cases, and rarely have time to hear the nuances that may entitle one person or another to what is (to some) a substantial amount of money. Some small claims courts require [[mediation]] before seeing a judge; this is also generally the best option in a small claims court situation. |