Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Virginia

Libel/Contract Law

I had a small claim with a company about defective material. The owner showed up at Small Claims court and moved it to General District Court. He has published (via letter and internet) statements that I am mentally unstable and Consumer Affairs found my claim to be a lie (they did not find in favor of either of us). I would like to add Libel to the case, since it's moved out of Small claims. Do I need a lawyer? Or will the evidence speak for itself? Will a judge give me more leeway since I wanted this resolved in small claims court?


Asked on 6/21/07, 10:50 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Ruth Emily Kochard Ruth Emily Kochard, Counselor at Law

Re: Libel/Contract Law

As to your query should you have an attorney represent you in your libel claim, I strongly advise that you do so if possible (alternatively you will have to represent yourself pro se). You cannot assume that the facts as stated will alone win your case. Also, you should not count on any favoritism of the judge since a judge will make an independant decision after hearing both sides and considering all facts/evidence.

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Answered on 6/22/07, 12:38 am


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