What is the name of your state? California
How do I prepare for court?
My neighbor is suing me in small claims court for a new garage door costing $750. During the January snowstorm my neighbor asked me to use HER bobcat to plow HER extremly steep driveway that was covered with about a foot of snow and ice underneath. While backing up the driveway, the bobcat hit the garage door and the panels fell down. I put it back together and it went up/down just fine. The garage door had several dents already and they complained about it previously. Several weeks later she asked how I wanted to pay for the new garage door. I told her I didn't think I was liable. She later said "if you don't pay half, I will sue you for the full amount".
I have never seen any documentation the indicent damaged the door so much that a new garage door was needed. Nor have I seen any evidence of what a repair would be versus a new door.
I think that since I was helping her, using her equipment at her house, that she is responsible. Am I wrong?
I have prepared a timeline and gathered weather reports for the time. What else do I need? How should I present my case?
How do I prepare for court?
My neighbor is suing me in small claims court for a new garage door costing $750. During the January snowstorm my neighbor asked me to use HER bobcat to plow HER extremly steep driveway that was covered with about a foot of snow and ice underneath. While backing up the driveway, the bobcat hit the garage door and the panels fell down. I put it back together and it went up/down just fine. The garage door had several dents already and they complained about it previously. Several weeks later she asked how I wanted to pay for the new garage door. I told her I didn't think I was liable. She later said "if you don't pay half, I will sue you for the full amount".
I have never seen any documentation the indicent damaged the door so much that a new garage door was needed. Nor have I seen any evidence of what a repair would be versus a new door.
I think that since I was helping her, using her equipment at her house, that she is responsible. Am I wrong?
I have prepared a timeline and gathered weather reports for the time. What else do I need? How should I present my case?