Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Washington
Small Claims Court
I have been trying to collect for almost a year now a loan that was made to another person. The individual owes less than $500, and I am curious what the procedures are to file a claim in small claims court, and if I may add interest to the loan incurred during this period. I am not familiar with legal procedings or the steps to take, and also how long this process may take. Any advice is greatly appreciated. Thanks
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Small Claims Court
One of the rules for small claims court is that attorneys are not allowed ... as a result, I don't have much experience there either, but I understand the process is as simple as possible, and all of the information you will need is available at your local district court clerk's office. I would suggest looking in the "blue pages" of your phone book, or you may find the answers on-line. The appropriate district court will be a division of your county's Superior Court.
Re: Small Claims Court
A few years ago, an attorney from Seattle Donald D. Stuart, authored an excellent user-friendly book on small claims courts. It's called "Small Claims Court Guide for Washington" (C) 1989, Self Counsel Press. I always recommend this book to anyone who is thinking about suing in small claims court in Washington. I don�t think it�s in print any more, but you should be able to locate a copy in your local library or on line.