Legal Question in Consumer Law in Virginia

Virginia small claims court

I am in Wisconsin, was befrauded on ebay for about $5700. I went to Virginia to sue the person in small claims court for max. $5000. When arrived in court a lawyer was present for the defendant and the judge would not hear the case nor explain what happened. We were told we had to make a new court date. The type of case was changed to ''Civil Contested Hearing''. What does this actually mean?

Too bad it was not in the jurisdiction of a court that does not allow attorneys in small claims.

Now trying to figure out if it wne t to general district court with maximum of $15,000 and if now can I raise the dollar amount to add travel costs, the full damages, etc... to the suit .


Asked on 4/14/07, 8:45 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Michael Hendrickson Law Office Michael E. Hendrickson

Re: Virginia small claims court

You ask: "What does this actually mean", i.e., Civil Contested Hearing?

Obviously, by your subsequent comment, you must understand very well what it means, i.e, the lawyer for the defendant has filed a motion to transfer the case to the general district court where attorneys are permitted to practice their profession (as opposed to small claims court where attorneys are not allowed to represent clients).

As to your latter inquiries, I would suggest that you consult with a Virginia attorney knowledgeable and experienced in such litigation matters who should be able to provide you with appropriate advice as to the issues at hand.

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Answered on 4/15/07, 12:00 am


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