Hints and Tips

INTRODUCTION

Here are a few simple Hints and Tips.

COMMON SENSE ATTITUDE

Try to adopt a no nonsense common sense approach and attitude to dealing with the case.

COLLATE THE EVIDENCE

Make sure you sort out all your evidence. Keep any receipts, records and papers and take copies.

WITNESSES

If you have witnesses then prepare written statements and get them to sign them. Keep in touch with your witnesses and keep them advised about the progress with the case.

READ EVERTHING CAREFULLY

Read everything that you get very carefully. If you don't understand anything then ask.

WRITE OUT A DETAILED STATEMENT

Try to write out a statement that provides all the details of your case. If you can then write it on a word processor or computer as it's easier to read and to alter if you make a mistake or miss something out. Try with a first draft and then keep altering and adding to it until you think it's complete.

GET YOUR FACTS RIGHT

Before you do anything sit down and think things through. Get the facts sorted out and stick to them.

STAY CALM

Be polite but firm. Don't get angry or upset. Don't let your emotions take over and cloud your judgement.

PREPARATION

Remember you don't have to be a wonderful Perry Mason type lawyer to win cases at court. Every lawyer knows that to win cases then PREPARATION is the key. If you prepare properly by sticking to the facts and putting your arguments and evidence together carefully then you have as good a chance as anybody to win your case.

COURT HEARING

Small Claims Court hearings are not like those you see on Television. Judges and lawyers do not wear wigs. The courtrooms usually resemble offices.

JUDGES ARE CLEVER PEOPLE

It sounds obvious but Judges are highly trained and hugely experienced lawyers. They are very clever people. They can often understand and get to grips with a case far faster than you sometimes imagine.

SHOW A BIT OF RESPECT

Try to treat the court and the judge with some respect. There's no need to be servile but do use common courtesies. Try to dress conservatively. If you have a suit or something smart and clean then wear it. Remember the judge will need to decide whom to believe. Sometimes appearances can make a difference.

AND FINALLY, DON’T WORRY

We know it's not easy to go to court. But sometimes we all have to stick up for ourselves and exercise our rights. If you believe you have a genuine case try to be strong. Stay calm, don't worry and look upon it as one of life's experiences that we all sometimes have to go through.