Re: ex-enant trying to sue for last utility bill

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Why wouldn't he use his attorney in small claims if he is
already pre-paid? It is my understanding that prepaid plans
offer only a reduced hourly rate for in-court representation.
The tenant must still pay for representation- an hour of
representation, even at a 50% discount, would not be cost
efficient.

On 1/11/10, Bob wrote:
> Why wouldn't he use his attorney in small claims if he is
> already pre-paid? Also, the burden is quite low for small
> claims court. Unless you're going to commit perjury, from
> everything you've said, you're on the hook.
>
> On 1/09/10, JD wrote:
>> Is it ethical for a prepaid lawyer to harass you? It is
>> ethical for an attorney to represent his/her client. If you
>> retain an attorney, plaintiff's attorney will have to
>> communicate with your attorney and not you. But, before you
>> do so, read further. By the way, what is the attorney doing
>> that makes you believe you are being harassed?
>>
>> Now, the real reason for your question; it is doubtful that
>> your previous tenant will follow through with his/her
>> intentions, as it would not make financial sense to do so
>> over a mere $100. It would make more sense for the previous
>> tenant to file a complaint in small claims court and sue you
>> without using an attorney. He/she would have to prove that
>> your irrigation leak caused the excessive water bill.
>>
>>
>> On 12/17/09, John S wrote:
>>> I have an ex-tenant that claims I should pay his last
>>> water bill. After moving out he called and asked if I knew
>>> why his last water bill was higher than usual. Since he
>>> had moved out I did routine maintenance and noticed a leak
>>> in the irrigation system, which I told him was probably
>>> the reason. He claims to have prepaid legal and is going
>>> to try to sue for the bill. Does he have any case at all
>>> and is it even ethical for the prepaid lawyer to harass
>>> me? Thanks for any info.