Attorney Network: legal information and a practical guide to attorney network. You usually do not need to hire a lawyer for these matters. Small claims courts are built for self-representation, and several states do not allow attorneys in the small claims division at all. Before paying for a consultation, send a formal demand letter first — many disputes settle the moment the other side receives one. If your case is larger or more complex, a fully prepared case package can be handed to a vetted attorney so you are not paying hourly rates for routine paperwork. Do you need a lawyer for attorney network? In most cases, no — small claims court is designed for people representing themselves, and a demand letter can often resolve the matter before any filing. How much does it cost? A professional demand letter through PettyLawsuit is $29, and small claims filing fees (if you ever need them) typically run $30 to $200 and are often recoverable if you win. When you're ready, PettyLawsuit turns this into action: a professional demand letter sent by certified mail for $29, and — if it comes to that — the correct small claims forms for your state with step-by-step filing help. Most disputes settle once a formal demand letter arrives, so you may never see a courtroom.