How do I know if I should appear in person in a small claims court case?

When appearing in a small claims court case in Massachusetts, it is important to consider carefully if you should appear in person or not. The Massachusetts court system recommends that both parties should appear in person, as this is the best way to ensure that your case is presented fully. If you choose to send an attorney instead, they will have to present your case as if they are you, and often may not be familiar with your full circumstances. If both parties agree to settle the case out of court, this is often the best option. You can still choose to appear in person if both parties agree. Going to court can be time consuming, and you may decide it is not worth the hassle. If you cannot be in court, you can file a written demand with the court. This is an alternative way of presenting your case if you cannot make it to court. You must ensure that your statement is clear and concise, as it is the only way the court will receive your case. If the other party is also attempting to have a case settled in small claims court, it is likely that they will also need to appear in person. The court will need to hear both sides of the story in order to decide how to rule. Therefore, if you are in a situation where you need to make a decision on appearing in court, it is recommended to discuss the option with the other party and see if they too plan to appear in person.

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How do I know if I should appear in person in a small claims court case?

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