Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Washington

how do I file a response to a summons?

I filed claim in small clms court against my landlord, he kept my sec dep and last mo rent. he got atty and atty filed a summons next day in district court requring a response in 20 days. he also filed a reqst for joinder to put both cases in district court so he could represnt his client (and get atty fees I'm sure) I need to respond, not sure how to fill out court forms and ask that it remain in small claims court so atty doesn't appear. I need to ask the court to keep it in sm clms court, not allow the joinder and respond to his summons. any help appreciated, with the forms, and I dont' want to have to pay any fees. this is simple matter between me and landlord and belongs in sm clams court. thanks


Asked on 4/13/07, 11:16 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Elizabeth Powell ELizabeth Powell PS Inc

Re: how do I file a response to a summons?

There is no basis for the court to refuse him his request to place the matter in District Court so that he can have a lawyer, it is his right to do so.

Your best bet now is to lawyer up. If this is simply that he forgot to return your last month's rent and your security deposit, chances are you will prevail if you handle the matter appropriately.

Don't hesitate to call me if you want to consult about this.

The RLTA provides that the prevailing party's attorney fees and costs shall be paid by the losing party. If I really believe you have a rock-solid case, we can talk about my getting paid at the conclusion of the case.

Elizabeth Powell

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Answered on 4/13/07, 11:21 am


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