Q: Do I need a public defender for a vet bill dispute in small claims?
A veterinarian's office ran a test on my pet without my knowledge or approval and did not inform me until I called to make an appointment months later. They claimed I owe $80 for the test, despite not discussing or approving it, and they cannot find any record of my approval. I refused to pay, and they are now taking me to small claims court for the $80. There was no prior written or verbal agreement concerning this test. I was not informed about the court action; I discovered it through a case search, and they sent a bill only after I attempted to make another appointment. Do I need a public defender in this situation?
A: The Public Defender's Office only represents person charged with a criminal offense who cannot fford a lawyer to defend the charges. You are being sued in civil court for an unpaid debt or for breach of contract. Persons appearing in civil court cases are not entitled to receive free legal representation paid for by the government. There are some "pro bono" legal services available for various types of cases, but most do not handle small claims actions for $80. Small Claims court is the one court most people are able to represent themselves in and do okay, because the formal Rules of Evidence do not apply, there is no "discovery" allowed, and you can just go up and tell your side of the story and present whatever paperwork you have that you believe will help prove your side of the story is true. Think, "Judge Judy."
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