Can I request attorney fees in a small claims court case?

In Indiana, it is possible to ask for attorney fees in a small claims court case. However, the court has wide discretion in deciding whether to allow such a request. Generally, attorney fees are awarded to a party who wins the case, but in some cases, the court may allocate a portion of the fee to the losing party. In order to request attorney fees in a small claims court case, the claimant will typically need to provide a detailed explanation for why the fees are necessary. For example, the request should discuss the complexity of the case, the unique skills of the attorney, and any special circumstances that may have made it necessary to use an attorney. If the court grants the request for attorney fees, the claimant must be prepared to pay the fee out of any money recovered in the case. If the claimant is awarded more money than they have requested in attorney fees, the difference will be returned to them. If the court denies the request for attorney fees, the claimant will still be responsible for their own attorney costs. Overall, claimants should not expect attorney fees to be awarded in a small claims court case. The request may be approved, but the court has significant discretion when it comes to granting fees. Therefore, it is important that claimants make a convincing case for why the services of an attorney are necessary.

Related FAQs

How long do I have to wait for a court date in a small claims court case?
Is it necessary to have a lawyer to represent me in small claims court?
What kind of assistance is available to help me prepare for small claims court?
How do I serve the other party with notice of my small claims court case?
How do I obtain a default judgment in a small claims court case?
Are there any special rules for parties under the age of 18 in small claims court?
How do I calculate the amount of interest owed on a small claims court judgment?
Can I withdraw my small claims court case after it has been filed?
Is there a limit on the amount of time I can spend in small claims court?
What is the difference between a motion for judgment and a motion for new trial in small claims court?

Related Blog Posts

What is Small Claims Court and How Does it Work? - July 31, 2023
Maximizing Your Chances of Success in Small Claims Court - August 7, 2023
7 Tips For Submitting a Winning Small Claims Court Case - August 14, 2023
The Pros and Cons of Taking Your Case to Small Claims Court - August 21, 2023
Preparing for Your Small Claims Court Hearing - August 28, 2023