Re: [WTW] strategy for small claims court mediation

[FSGBR]

Dave,

I appeared in court last week for the first time.  This loan was closed in 2000.  I had already turned the case over to a collection agency and they were pursuing the money from the client.  I was present in court to represent our agency and verify information.  I was put on the stand and had to answer alot of questions, all of which could be answered by reading the record prior to attending court.  The client was allowed the "cross-examine" me and was upset that I had sold her car at auction to try and recover some of the monies which I deducted from her amount owed. 

However, client did sign a voluntary surrender document when I repossessed her vehicle which states that she agreed to surrender certain "rights" to the vehicle.  Also, the client signed a promissory note when I closed her loan that stated she would be responsible for all court fees and costs, etc. etc.  The client not only has to pay the balance of the loan now, but all court fees and any other costs associated with pursuing this balance.

Hope this helps,
Kandee Wickboldt
Baton Rouge, Louisiana