Does anybody know where I can find a cheap lawyer for small claims?

Question

Hi! I need to take a girl to small claims who totaled my vehicle in an accident, she had no insurance, so I am out a vehicle as well as charges for an emergency room visit, tow service, and missed work. I did not have uninsured motorist coverage on my insurance, only liability and I was advised that I should get a lawyer even though it is just small claims. I have never needed a lawyer. All I have heard is that they are very expensive, does anybody have any advise? Anything would help. THANKS SO SO much!!

Answer 1

In most places you are NOT allowed lawyers in small claims court.  But you can see a lawyer to get advice on what is important and what you should mention (or not mention).

Also CHEAP lawyer = crappy lawyer.

Good Luck...

Answer 2

You didn't indicate the level of your claim, but in typical "small claims court", you file your request to be heard by a judge or mediator.    There is a filing fee, but you do not need a lawyer.  There may be a cap on how large a claim you can file in this manner.   The amount will determine, if you can sue in "small claims court" or if you need to engage a lawyer to sue for a greater amount.   Typically, there are "accident lawyers" who specialize in such claims as yours.   Since the other person, had no insurance, then most likely, she has no way to respond to your suit.   That means, if you do win, you probably won't get any settlement, and you will have to pay the lawyers.   If you win, the other person, can refuse to pay, a "judgement/lien" can be filed on her, and if she ever does come into money/property then maybe, if your suit/judgement is still on file, you might get something.   Typically, a lien is only satisfied, when the other person, attempt to sell property, and a title search is run on the property, and if a lien such as yours is found, then any proceeds from the sale can be attached to satisfy your claim.   That could take years, and by then, most likely, your suit will have expired.    So, your best course, is to engage a lawyer.    If the lawyer can take the case on a "contigency" (meaning he gets paid, if he can collect for you), you may not have to pay him up front.

Answer 3

Small claims courts need no lawyers.  Go to your local court, ask the clerk for filing papers, and away you go.

Answer 4

Find a lawyer that will give you a consultation for a flat fee.

Spend an hour having him /her help with the paper work.

if you have a police report that all you should need.