Can I send a letter, email or phone the city person handling my case?

Hey all, I have a quick question. I’m dealing with a small claims case and the city person handling it has been pretty unresponsive. Can I send them a letter, email, or even call them about the issue before court? I really need to bring it up and just want to know the best way to go about it.

Yeah, you can totally reach out to them! I’d recommend emailing them if you’re planning on bringing it up in court, so you have it in writing. Just keep it professional.

Caden said:
Yeah, you can totally reach out to them! I’d recommend emailing them if you’re planning on bringing it up in court, so you have it in writing. Just keep it professional.

Thanks for that! I wasn’t sure if that would be allowed. I’ll email them and see if I get a response.

If they’re refusing to provide public records, you might need to file a motion with the court. The judge can order them to hand over the documents. They could even face sanctions if they don’t comply.

Charlie said:
If they’re refusing to provide public records, you might need to file a motion with the court. The judge can order them to hand over the documents. They could even face sanctions if they don’t comply.

What do you mean by sanctions? Is that like a fine or something?

Charlie said:
If they’re refusing to provide public records, you might need to file a motion with the court. The judge can order them to hand over the documents. They could even face sanctions if they don’t comply.

Not exactly a fine, but if they don’t provide the info, the judge might allow you to use the missing documents against them in court.

Wait, so even in small claims you can subpoena someone for documents? I wasn’t sure about that.

Zara said:
Wait, so even in small claims you can subpoena someone for documents? I wasn’t sure about that.

Yeah, you can subpoena the city rep to get the property records. It’s a bit of a process, but it can work!

I’d suggest telling the judge directly if they don’t bring the proper documents. Just be straightforward and say they failed to provide what’s needed.

Toby said:
I’d suggest telling the judge directly if they don’t bring the proper documents. Just be straightforward and say they failed to provide what’s needed.

Got it, thanks! I wasn’t sure how blunt I could be in front of the judge.

I had the same issue with the city. You can definitely email, and filing a motion if they keep refusing is your next step. Make sure everything is documented!