questions & answers

Question: I was arrested an charged with assault. It was all based on a lie that my ex-gf told the police. My lawyer proved the lie and the charges were dropped. I spent 4 days in jail, lost my job, and spent over $10000 in legal fees. PPD won't go back and charge her. She has little money, but I want some justice. I was thinking about small claims court since I can do that on my own. Does that court handle pain and suffering claims?

Answer: The police department doesn't charge people, that is at the discretion of the city or county or federal prosecutors, depending on the type of case and evidence presented by police. A person may still sue civilly even if the city or county does not sue a person criminally. The difference between suing civilly versus criminally is only criminal charges can place a person in prison. Money is awarded the winner of a civil case. Here is a link with all the information to file a civil lawsuit in Maricopa County. http://justicecourts.maricopa.gov/CaseTypes/civilsuits.aspx