How do I file a claim in small claims court?
Filing a claim in small claims court in Washington is straightforward and can be done online or in person. First, you need to fill out the forms to file your claim in Washington state’s small claims court. You can find the forms online, or you can get them from the county courthouse. On the forms, you must put in your name and address as the plaintiff, and the defendant’s name and address. You will also need to include a detailed description of what happened, why you are filing a claim, and how much money you are asking for. After you have filled out the forms, you will need to pay a filing fee. The fees vary depending on how much money you are looking to get. Then, mail or bring your forms and the fee to the courthouse. At this point, a clerk will review your forms and they will be added to the docket. You should receive notice of the date of your court hearing and what time it begins. At your court hearing, make sure to bring any evidence and witnesses you have to the court. The court will listen to the testimony of both sides. The judge will then make a decision and you will get an outcome. After the court hearing is over, you will receive a letter in the mail that explains the outcome of your case. Depending on the outcome, you may have to take further action like collecting the money from the defendant or asking the court to enforce its decision.
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