Suing a former tenant for damages

[Ahmed Majeed]

Hello,

I understand that your answers and experiences shared here are not legal advice. I am suing a former tenant in the local small claims court. I will be submitting my evidence to the court. My question is if I need to submit a detailed breakdown of the cost I am seeking? or is the amount determined by the court independently?

[Steve Morris]

Better a case you can build, better chance you'll prevail.  So that means all pertinent paperwork.

Realize you go to court, though, that judges tend to side with tenants.  Also a lot of tenants are judgment proof (ie no money), so collections is another thing.