Originally Posted by BlueMoon

even though small claims courts do not require a lawyer, most will allow it. if you bring a lawyer to court with you the other side has the right to do the same. sometimes threatening the use of a lawer in small claims court is enough to scare them off, however, if it does go to trial, don't take a lawer.

More importantly, if the kid is in high school, what age does he have to be to sue you without his parents?