Question: I was fired for reporting a crime and do not have money for an attorney. What is the process in order to file a case myself.
Answer:
Keep in mind that not all cases are best served through the court system, however, if you choose to file a case, without an attorney, you would file it with the Small Claims Division of the Justice of the Peace Court if they hear those types of cases. The Arizona Small Claims Court only has jurisdiction for cases of $2,500 or less. It normally hears claims involving debts, personal injury, property damage, or the cancellation of a contract. You should contact the clerk of the small claims division to ask whether your claims will be heard by the court (and to determine which county to file the claim in). If you choose to file, there will also be filing fees and related costs. The small claim link to the Arizona Supreme Court website provides contact information to answer these questions.
October 14, 2008
Legal Services Corporation