Small Claims Penalties, Arbitration Clauses, and Autopsy Photos

Do you ever wonder what happens when a small claims lawsuit is baseless? Unlike in Supreme Court, judges cannot award costs to the successful party in Small Claims Court. Costs are intended to both cover some of the legal and other expenses related to a court case. They can also encourage the settlement of meritorious claims and discourage needless litigation. There is, however, a Small Claims Court rule that permits a judge to award a penalty of up to 10% of the amount claimed if...