How long does it take to pursue a claim in small claims court?

In Idaho, the length of time needed to pursue a claim in small claims court can vary depending on a few factors. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few months to a year or more for a case to reach conclusion. Timeframes will vary depending on the complexity of the case, how many witnesses are called, and if the defendant responds to the lawsuit or not. The process begins when a plaintiff files a complaint, which is then served, or “served upon,” the defendant. This will involve sending an official letter to their address in order to notify them that they are being sued. If the defendant has been served properly, they have a certain amount of time (usually no more than 30 days in Idaho) to respond to the complaint. If they do not respond within the given timeframe, a default judgment may be entered in favor of the plaintiff. If the defendant does respond, the court will then review the documentation, which can take several months depending on the court’s backlog. After the review, a trial date is set and the two parties will meet in court to present their arguments. Depending on the complexity of the case, the trial may last anywhere from one day to several days. Once both sides are finished presenting their cases, the judge will make a decision. If either party is unsatisfied with the result, they can appeal the decision for a further review of the case. This will add a few more months to the process before the final decision is made.

Related FAQs

Are small claims court decisions binding?
What happens if a judgment is not paid in small claims court?
Are there any statutes of limitations on small claims court cases?
What evidence do I need to present in small claims court?
What is the difference between a motion for judgment and a motion for new trial in small claims court?
How do I obtain a default judgment in a small claims court case?
How do I file a motion to have a case heard in small claims court?
Can I request attorney fees in a small claims court case?
How much does it cost to file a claim in small claims court?
Can I introduce new evidence in a small claims court hearing after it has started?

How long does it take to pursue a claim in small claims court?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts