Q: I am interested in a policy for small claims court proceedings. What are some key points? Is there such a beast?
A: In developing a policy for small claims court proceedings, there are a few homework and research items you will need to complete before proceeding, which should become part of your policy.
- Find out what court in your area hears small claims cases, which are generally defined as civil cases between two private litigants. The filing will typically cost between $15 and $150, depending on state and the amount of the claim.
- Verify the maximum dollar limit for a judgment. The amount differs by state but has generally increased over recent years. The most common limit is $15,000.
- Establish who in your organization has approval to authorize the filing of a small claim court proceeding.
- Develop a tracking log and a resource to manage the logistics of the case, including the award and means of collection.
Two Forum experts answered this question together: Dawn Boyd, director, managed care contracting, The Godbey Group, Irving, Texas, and Dan McAffee, senior managing director, payor contracting and reimbursement strategy, The Godbey Group.
