Out-Of-State Suit

[ripleys1]

Michigan/California

I own some land in Michigan but live in California. A guy that lives by my property is claiming that something that happened on my property caused him damage. His own insurance company has denied his claim, my insurance company says he has no claim, he can't find a lawyer take his case so...he sent me a letter saying he was going to take me to small claims and "oh by the way" you'll have to appear if I do that. Clearly he's thinking that I'll cave rather than incur the expense of travelling to Michigan.

I'm not sure I like the idea of ignoring a certified letter serving me so assuming I accept the clerk's notice...
1. Do I really have to appear in court or can I name someone to appear in my stead (e.g. my property manager)?
2. Can I dispute the suit via mail? I'm pretty sure that anyone that looks at this case will immediately dismiss it, in fact, I doubt the plaintif will even bother to show up. I just don't want to have to travel to Michigan to do it.
3. Assuming I do have to show up, can I countersue for travel expenses that I would incur going to the out-of-state court?

 

[presutin]

"I own some land in Michigan but live in California. A guy that lives by my property is claiming that something that happened on my property caused him damage. His own insurance company has denied his claim, my insurance company says he has no claim, he can't find a lawyer take his case so...he sent me a letter saying he was going to take me to small claims and "oh by the way" you'll have to appear if I do that. Clearly he's thinking that I'll cave rather than incur the expense of travelling to Michigan.

I'm not sure I like the idea of ignoring a certified letter serving me so assuming I accept the clerk's notice..."
1. Do I really have to appear in court or can I name someone to appear in my stead (e.g. my property manager)? No, you can name someone to appear in court on your behalf.
2. Can I dispute the suit via mail? I'm pretty sure that anyone that looks at this case will immediately dismiss it, in fact, I doubt the plaintif will even bother to show up. I just don't want to have to travel to Michigan to do it. You can do it remotely. Consult with the court where the suit is being disputed what are the options for your remote defense.
3. Assuming I do have to show up, can I countersue for travel expenses that I would incur going to the out-of-state court? No

Good Luck!

 

[lwpat]

Your insurance company is obligated to defend. Send the notice on to them.