Need advice on my rights

[bubbasmom]

I live in Oregon and was served recently with papers on a small claims case. The person is suing me for more than 3 times what i owe him. I don't have any receipts left (I moved 6 months ago) showing that I have paid everything except $80. I am unsure about what to do and the sherriffs were so rude (one stood in front and the other in back of my car when I pulled up to my house) they wouldn't give me any help on what I should do next. Do I have any rights or do I just have to pay what this man is asking for?

 

[JenniferH]

You could show up on the court date and defend yourself, although, if you have no proof of payments it would be kind of hard. How did you pay? Check? Money Order? What?

 

[bubbasmom]

I used to pay him by check but then I started paying him cash. I had been buying dog food from him for over 2 years and had had problems with him but never thought he would pull this. What happens with mediation? I don't know quite what that is.

 

[JenniferH]

Mediation? I didn't read anything in your post about this. What I am referring to is if you were served to go to small claims court on this, then go. Most of the time there is no mediation, the case is plead in court, both sides get their time and shows proof. Then judge makes ruling.

You could also, try and talk to the guy and work it out, if he is ok with that, then pay him what he wants and get it in writing that he will drop the matter in court, then follow up with what is neccessary to dismiss the case in court on a legal standpoint.

If he is not willing, then I would think that your only option is to go to court. You were served so you know that it is a legal hearing and if you don't go, there would be consequences.

And last, but not least, please don't do anymore business with this man, he doesn't sound honest and look what it is doing with you, plus you said he "had had problems" with him before! Just a bit of friendly advice

Good Luck,