It is advised that you arrive at the courthouse early so that you will be present in the courtroom when your case is called.

At the trial, both plaintiff and defendant will be given an opportunity to introduce evidence, ask questions of the witnesses, and explain to the judge why judgment should be entered in their favor.

The “plaintiff” is the person or entity who filed the complaint; therefore, the plaintiff will proceed first, providing testimony and evidence to support the claims made in the complaint. The “defendant” is the person or entity whom the claim is against. The defendant will have the right to ask the plaintiff and any witnesses who testified on plaintiff's behalf, questions at the conclusion of their testimony.

Once the plaintiff has concluded presenting his or her case, the defendant will be given an opportunity to present his or her case (defense). The defendant may testify and bring witnesses to testify on his or her behalf. The plaintiff will have the opportunity to question the defendant and any witnesses who testified on the defendant's behalf at the conclusion of their testimony.

If a counterclaim was filed, the defendant will be given an opportunity to testify as to the basis of the counterclaim.

The judge, in his or her discretion, may also question witnesses who appear on either party's behalf and the parties themselves.

Finally, the judge will allow both the plaintiff and defendant to make final statements or questions. The length of hearings varies depending on the complexity of the cases and the amount of evidence and testimony that is introduced.

After listening to all the testimony and reviewing the evidence, the judge will usually make a decision that day in Court. The judge may also choose to take more time to consider the case, and will notify the parties in writing of the Court's decision at a later time.

FAQ - Small Claims Division