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lawyer to help out some dirtbags??

Original Post
John Roark · · Unknown Hometown · Joined Jun 2008 · Points: 0

Hey all NV climbers my girlfriend and I had our van in Public Storage, of course along with several others it was broken into, surprise. I was wondering if there are any lawyers out there that could offer up some advice regarding small claims court so we're not completely out of luck. Thanks eitherway! John

MegaGaper2000 James · · Indianola, Wa · Joined Apr 2011 · Points: 20

I'm not a lawyer, but my advice is always free!

Small claims court is relatively simple. In fact, it's set up so that people in your situation have a way to access court abritration without the expense/complication hiring a lawyer and going to full civil court.

That said, mostly small claims is only good for getting redress for a clear wrong. Like if someone said they would pay you, but didn't, and you had proof, you could take them to Small Claims, and if the judge believed you he would issue a whatchamacallit that ordered them to pay you. If they didn't pay, you could take it to their bank or employer and have them forfeit part of their paycheck.

The thing is, it sounds like the wrong in your case is not so clear. Unless Public Storage clearly erred in their duty guarding your stuff - like left all the doors unlocked - and you have proof of that error, you might have a pretty hard time getting anywhere. That said, it doesn't sound like you have much to loose, sooooo..... Try it. They might just settle out with you rather than even going to court.

Also, most states have limits on small claims court judgments. You should google your state's small claims limit to see if your junk falls within it.

JoeP · · Littleton, CO · Joined Sep 2006 · Points: 0

Check your rental agreement. My hunch is that it expressly disclaims any liability for items stolen from vehicles stored on the property.

And, what David said.

Guideline #1: Don't be a jerk.

Nevada
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