Failure to appear at small claims court?
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Failure to appear at small claims court?
I’m due in small claims court the day after tomorrow over a $2000 returned check but I do not have transportation. I attempted to set up a payment plan with the institution the I owe (a credit union), as was recommended by the sheriff that brought me my summons. However, they say that I have to wait until after the court date. What can I expect if I do not attend this hearing?
Asked on May 8, 2012 under Bankruptcy Law, Maine
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
If you do not attend the trial, you will lose by default, or automatically; it's like a sports team forfeiting by not showing up. You can and should first ask (and document that you asked--e.g. fax or email) the opposing party to consent (or agree) to an adjournment (or delay); if they do, then call the court and let the court know (and provide whatever documentation the court wants). If they won't agree, try calling the court and asking if you can get an adjournment without the other party's consent--if you are representing yourself and have a good reason, they may grant it.
If you can't get an adjourment, show up--even if you have to take a cab, rent a car, etc. Again, if you do not, you will lose automatically and the other side will have a judgment against you for the full amount. If you don't pay and they don't want to work something out, they could then try to garnish your wages, to levy on (or take money out of) a bank account, to execute on (or have seized and sold) personal property, like vehicles or a big-screen TV, or to put a lien on real estate.
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