What happens if I lose in small claims court?
In most US states, the losing party pays the court judgment. Small claims courts rarely award attorney fees to the winner (unless the case involves a specific statute like FLSA or consumer protection). You face the judgment amount plus possible court costs.
How do I estimate my win probability?
Consider: strength of your documentation (contracts, emails, photos), whether the facts are disputed, credibility of witnesses, and whether the law is clearly on your side. Strong documentary evidence = higher probability. Disputed facts = lower.
What if the defendant can't pay even if I win?
A judgment against someone who is judgment-proof (no income, no assets) has limited practical value. Consider whether the defendant has collectible assets before deciding to litigate rather than settle for something certain.