If you're heading into small claims court for the first time, you need to do as much preparation as you can to ensure your case has the best chance of winning. But that preparation should really go beyond just listing the laws and how they apply to your case and the evidence you have. When you go to small claims in Canada, you're allowed to have some legal representation with you, such as a paralegal. Even though small claims cases usually seem simple and don't require representation, you may want to have a paralegal on your side to help you prepare and to help you get through any unexpected twists and turns.
Precedents and Preparation
To you, your case might look very simple. You and the other party had a disagreement, you think the law is on your side, and here's why. But unless you have extensive legal education and experience, you might not be aware of precedents that could affect your case or other laws that could apply in your very specific case, nullifying the other laws that you were using to support your claim. A paralegal can look over your case and help you prepare it, as well as help you look into potential precedents or little-known laws.
Knowing What to Expect
The paralegal will also likely be more aware of how the small claims court experience works. If this is your first time in Canadian small claims, having that support is helpful. Sometimes, if your case is very clear (e.g., you had a contract and you have proof of a deliberate breach), the process is relatively straightforward. But if you're not ready for counter-arguments and the like, having the help of a paralegal while in the court is advisable.
Outnumbered
If you get wind that your opponent will show up with a paralegal, you need to have one with you as well. Don't be outnumbered, even in small claims court.
Ready for Anything
You're not a telepath and likely don't know the exact details of your opponent's preparation for the case. That opens you up to the risk that the other person will come up with something bizarre or just plain confusing in an attempt to trip you up. The paralegal can help you identify when something the other person says is a legitimate worry for you or if it's just bluster.
Contact paralegals in your region to find one who has small claims experience and who can take a look at your case. When it comes to court cases, it's better to be over prepared and win than underprepared and lose. Contact a company like Sunsen County Paralegal Services for more info.
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