Lots of people represent themselves in court, and with the right tools it's possible to successfully file a lawsuit, conduct a useful investigation of the facts, and complete your case through settlement or trial, all without turning your case over to an attorney. Learn how to do important tasks yourself, and also when you might need a lawyer's help for some part of your case.
Tips for Success in the Courtroom
When you're trying a case without an attorney, you can make a good impression on the judge by organizing your evidence, preparing your presentation, and following a few simple courtroom rules.
Formal Discovery: Gathering Evidence for Your Lawsuit
Once a lawsuit gets underway, parties to the lawsuit or their lawyers start gathering information related to the lawsuit.
Even if your case is eligible for a jury trial, it's often better to tell it to the judge.
Can You Collect Your Judgment?
When it comes to collecting the amount owed in a money judgment, you're on your own.
Tips for Collecting Your Judgment
You won your lawsuit, but how do you collect what you're owed?
Collect Your Court Judgment With a Wage Garnishment
If the debtor has a job, you may be able to garnish up to 25% of his or her paycheck.
Collect Your Court Judgment With a Real Estate Lien
Learn what a real estate lien is, and how it might help you get your money.
Collect Your Court Judgment From Deposit Accounts
If you can find the debtor's bank accounts, you greatly increase the chance of collecting what you're owed.
I won a lawsuit: Do I have to pay tax on my damage award?
I've won a lawsuit and will soon receive a large award of money damages. Do I have to pay taxes on this money?