pats23•13d ago

I went to the courthouse in Springfield to file a small claim and the clerk gave me terrible advice

I was there last Thursday trying to get forms for a $450 contractor dispute. The clerk at the window told me I didn't need to serve the papers, I could just mail them myself. That is completely wrong for our county. I checked the official website right after and it clearly says you need a third party or sheriff to do it. This kind of bad info from someone who should know better can really mess up your case. It wasted an hour of my time and almost cost me my filing fee. Has anyone else gotten flat-out incorrect legal guidance from a court employee?

2 comments

2 Comments

grace_hunt8413d ago

Yeah, that's why you never trust just one person at the counter.

davis.ivan13d ago

What did they say when you went back to correct them? That's so frustrating, I've heard similar stories from people trying to file paperwork. It's scary how a simple mistake from them can totally derail your whole claim. You were smart to double check online right away.