Legal Question in Civil Litigation in California

Auto repair shop being taken to small claims question

I am a repair shop owner. I had a customer bring in a car that needed repairs worth possibly the value of the car. She decided that she did not want to repair it, and signed the title over to me. A couple months later, I repaired the car and sold it. She is now taking me to small claims, saying that I gave her bad advice in order to get the car from her so I could sell it for a profit. I in NO way did that. The repairs cost me my time & money, and I sold the car for what I had into it for the repairs. Now she thinks I should pay her full blue book value of the car. Should I be worried that she will win? In conversations with her on the phone, it's obvious to me that she is going to lie. Can I counter sue her for my lost time going to court?


Asked on 7/18/07, 12:45 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Lyle Johnson Bedi and Johnson Attorneys at Law

Re: Auto repair shop being taken to small claims question

In small claims court you cannot be represented by an attorney. Many counties have a small court clinic that can assist you in defending yourself. You should bring to court records of the time, cost of parts, fair market value of the vehicle, the amount that you were paid for the car. The date of the transfer of the vehicle to you and date of the sale. Discussing the matter with the small claims court clinic or an attorney.

Read more
Answered on 7/29/07, 10:16 pm
Johm Smith tom's

Re: Auto repair shop being taken to small claims question

Either get an attorney or handle this yourself but don't expect to get compensated for your time. Our CA attorney can assist you if you wish; you have several options.

Read more
Answered on 7/18/07, 1:27 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More General Civil Litigation questions and answers in California