What is the process of obtaining a judgment in a small claims court case?

When seeking a judgment from a small claims court in Washington, there are several steps that need to be taken by the plaintiff, or the person filing the lawsuit. First, the plaintiff must determine the jurisdiction and amount of money they are seeking from the defendant, or the person they are suing. This is done by going to the County Court Administration to get a packet of papers containing the process and costs associated with the case. Next, the plaintiff must prepare their case and fill out the appropriate paperwork. This includes drafting a complaint, which is a document accusing the defendant of a specific wrongdoing. In addition, the plaintiff will need to gather evidence to support their case and possibly witnesses to testify in court if the defendant challenges the plaintiff’s claims. Once the paperwork is complete, the plaintiff must file the claim and serve the defendant with a copy of the complaint. This can be done either through the mail or in person. The court may also require the plaintiff to pay a filing fee. Once the defendant has been served, they must appear in court to defend themselves if they choose to do so. After both parties present their cases, the judge rules on the matter and enters a judgment, which legally requires the defendant to pay the plaintiff a certain sum of money. This process must be completed before the plaintiff can obtain a judgment in a small claims court case in Washington.

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What is the process of obtaining a judgment in a small claims court case?

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