Small claims court against me on damage deposit +

Small claims court against me on damage deposit + by JOHN MATHIES (WA) on August 22, 2015 @00:12

I have been served papers from a past renter . He is taking me to small claims court . Suing me for $700.00 . Do I have to go ? Can he actually collect and or garnish my wages? Thanks - John

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Re: Small claims court against me on damage deposit + by Anonymous on August 22, 2015 @02:57	[ Reply ]

Do you know what the guy wants 700.00 from you for? Call your court, and request a copy of the complaint. You don't have to go. However, it is in your best interest to appear. Small claims asks you to pay the amount owed if you lose the case. Garnishment can occur if the claim determined to be owed goes unpaid. You need to get a look at the complaint, and take all paperwork you have pertaining to the complaint, as well as your receipt book showing rent was paid or not paid. The judge I stand in front of is so landlord friendly, he would look right through the stories, and probably rule against a renter the first chance he gets.

Re: Small claims court against me on damage deposit + by Garry (Iowa) on August 22, 2015 @08:23	[ Reply ]

Yes, you need to show up in court. If you don't, you could automatically lose the case, just for not showing up. Remember, in today's world, anyone can sue anybody for anything. It does not mean they will win. It just means they will get their "day in court" The anon is right. Gather up everything having to do with the former T , organize it, go to court, and present your side to the judge. The J. will decide who "wins" in this case, and by what amount. You have a 50/50 chance of winning/losing. It just depends on the evidence/testimony presented, and the J. Treat this as a learning experience, just as you would take a class, or buy a book about a subject.

Re: Small claims court against me on damage deposit + by Anonymous on August 23, 2015 @15:17	[ Reply ]

Do you have documentation to prove why you did not give him back the deposit? like repairs, cleaning, etc...... Did you keep all his deposit or only a portion? Did you give him a security deposit settlement form?

Small claims court against me on damage deposit + - Landlord Forum thread 338261