Group Legal Plans Provide Access to Small Claims Assistance

Small claims is the part of our legal system that allows you to take action against a person or business to collect a relatively small amount of money that you believe is owed to you. If you find yourself in this situation, a group legal plan attorney can advise you on whether small claims action is an option and how to proceed if your plan covers small claims assistance.

Some of the most common reasons a person would go to small claims court are:

• Return of security deposit from a landlord
• Faulty minor repair work of a car, home or lawn
• Dispute over a mail order purchase
• Damage from a neighbor's pet

There may be several steps you can take before enlisting the assistance of an attorney:

1. Contact the person or the store you bought the faulty item from to see if you can get your money reimbursed or get a replacement product.
2. Examine the warranty details to see if the product is still under warranty. 
3. Have a conversation with the person or business you believe owes you money. See if you can come to an agreement and develop a payment schedule.

Your Legal Plan Can Help

If none of these options result in the outcome you desire, your next option may be to file a case in small claims court. When you are in a group legal plan, your plan may provide access to a large, national network of highly qualified attorneys who can provide advice to help you prepare your claim, file your lawsuit and get ready to appear before a judge.

• If your employer offers a Hyatt legal plan, click here to learn more about coverage available when you enroll. (Your employer can provide the password needed to access this site.) If you are unsure whether your employer offers a Hyatt legal plan, please contact your benefits or HR department to find out.

• If you are a legal plan member, access your plan to review coverage.

• You may also call the Client Service Center at 800-821-6400 for more information on covered services.

Please note: Some matters, including employment-related matters, are excluded. View terms of service.

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This article is intended to provide you with general information. This article is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, legal advice. If you require legal advice, please consult with your own attorney.