small claims court

[colleenmc]

i reside in hudson county nj and two youths vandalized my car. i know their names, but am having trouble with their addresses and phone numbers. the police did not want to investigate and recommended small claims court.the damage was significant to my car, over 1700. can i file in nj and do you have any advise as to how i may win this case??? the one perpetrator admitted to me on the phone that she was there.

 

[JETX]

You can certainly file your action in NJ, but that should be the least of your concerns.

1) How old are these 'youths'?? If too young (usually less than 10), they cannot be held accountable for their actions. Also, you need to consider parent's liability for minor actions.
2) Can you PROVE to the court that these 'two youths' are the ones who did the damage?? This does not mean "I believe they did it", it means HERE IS THE PROOF.
3) Why did the police 'not want to investigate'?? Press your case and try to get the police to properly handle this case. Their investigation could help you prove your case.
4) One person admitting to being there does not make her liable. But, she could certainly testify as to who did the damage, if you can get her to court.
5) Finally, did your insurance cover the damage?? If so, they could subrogate the loss.