Lacare v. Dearing

Edwin T. Hofstetter, Judge.

This matter commenced when appellee, Louis E. Lacare, filed a small claims complaint seeking $375 from his former landlord, appellant, Norrel Dearing, for the return of his security deposit. After the first appearance, appellee hired an attorney who amended the complaint, seeking $375 for the return of the security deposit, plus $375 in damages and $250 for attorney fees pursuant to R.C. 5321.16. The $1,000 total was still within the jurisdiction of the small claims division.

Subsequently, appellant filed his answer and a counterclaim for $11,197.10. In this…