This guide offers a complete overview of how small claims courts work in most United States courthouses. It is written by a licensed attorney with years of experience counseling and advising small claims participants (lawyers are generally not allowed to represent people in small claims court). It is laid out in an easy to understand format for anyone who needs to navigate the small claims process, but is unable to afford the high cost of an attorney consultation. It includes step by step chapters that cover every major stage of a small claims case, including: -Filing a small claim or an answer to a small claim.-Issuing subpoenas and procuring evidence.-Presenting evidence and examining witnesses at the small claims hearing.-How to collect on a judgment and garnish wages or bank accounts. Whether you are a plaintiff or a defendant, this guide will be indispensable and will ensure you have the knowledge you need to plead your case. This guide can be used in any state, but keep in mind that it provides a general overview of how litigation works in small claims court. Specific rules and procedures in your particular jurisdiction may vary. Yes, you really can represent yourself in small claims court and win!