The booklet begins with a definition of the small claims court, a list of the types of claims such courts handle, disadvantages of these courts, and factors to consider before filing a claim. The booklet then describes the steps to take in preparing a case, presenting it to the judge, and dealing with problems in collecting the money awarded. The booklet also contains information of what to do if one is sued and warns that failure to appear in court on the set may cause a default judgment to be entered automatically against the absentee party. A chart providing State-by State information on local small claims courts is provided.