Q: Do I have a worthwhile small claims case for refund and damages due to mechanic not repairing my vehicle?
California, Los Angeles County.
Mechanic failed to complete repairs on my vehicle in a reasonable time and I was forced to reclaim my vehicle. Due to the condition it was in after reclaiming, other mechanics were not interested in taking on the work and I was forced to sell the vehicle for salvage. I want to sue in small claims for return of my initial deposit plus the cost of my rental car during the time the mechanic had my vehicle in his possession. Are the damages I'm asking for reasonable and likely to prevail? Total cost a little over 6000.
A:
You will need a little more to convince a judge to award you $6,000. I don't know what's the deposit or what's the rental ($.) I don't know what agreement you had. I don't know what you consider reasonable time.
Allowing an attorney, like me, to evaluate, organize and draft your conciliation or small claims complaint (up to $10,000) would be a wise investment. A well polished complaint will not only provide the judge a solid foundation to rule in your favor, but a detailed outline on which to base your oral argument. It would provide you a distinct advantage over the opposing party. The fees can be reasonable depending on the attorney.
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