Lehr Law Verdict
In Uchida v. Corona Del Vista, our clients initially filed a small claims case against their HOA for neglecting roadway maintenance. Water pooled near their driveway, causing it to sink, and the HOA then fined them, requiring them to fix it. After winning in small claims court, the HOA appealed. They came much more prepared and with additional testimony not used in the initial trial. Lehr Law represented the homeowners in the appeal and called an expert to appear. Afterwards, the court ruled in our clients’ favor yet again.
While the outcome was positive, this case highlights why we rarely recommend small claims court for HOA disputes. What do you lose by choosing small claims? Can you gather evidence effectively without discovery? What happens if the other side lies and you can’t access essential documents before the trial?
Most HOA disputes are more complex than they appear. Limited legal tools in small claims court make it harder to build a strong case. If you’re considering action against your HOA, contact Lehr Law today to schedule a consultation and explore your best legal options.