What is the best way to prepare and present evidence in small claims court?

[boynton35]

I realize that smalls claims court is, for the most part, informal but I would still like to have everything together, so I don't look like a complete idiot. We are suing a tenant in smalls claims court, and have several photos, correspondence...ect and I would like to know the best way to prepare and organize what we have as to not overwhelm the Judge when presenting it, and make the process go as smoothly as possible. Any suggestions?

[bronsin]

Have all your papers in order and speak as little as necessary.

Start with the lease, and tab the pertinent section.
Then go with the correspondence (which I assume is you saying hey where's the rent, and the tenant saying what rent?)
End with photos of damage (if they are authenticated. Well try them even if they aren't - tenant may agree they are accurate representations)

Be polite and again, speak only when spoken to, and if you tend to stammer when nervous, write out what you want to say before hand.

Remember - small claims isn't really like judge judy. It is still court and proper attire and respectfulness goes a long way.