Small claims court took 14 months for a $300 dispute

I filed against my old landlord for keeping my deposit with no real reason. It took 14 months of hearings and rescheduled dates just to get a default judgment. Has anyone else had a simple case drag out like this?

2 comments

2 Comments

margaret_flores171mo ago

The wait times for small claims really show how the system is tilted against regular people who don't have deep pockets. Landlords and companies know you'll probably give up when it drags on for over a year, especially for such a small amount. It's just another way the little guy gets worn down by delays and endless paperwork.

paul2331mo ago

@margaret_flores17 you nailed it completely. The whole system feels designed to make you quit before you even get a chance. My own small claims case was for $250 against a contractor who did shoddy work in my garage. Took 13 months of constant rescheduling and the judge never even looked at the photos I brought. Its like they know most people won't stick with it for a year over such a small amount. The landlord probably counted on you giving up and honestly I get why most people do. Its not a fair fight for anyone without a lawyer or a huge bank account.