Washington, DC -- HALT, a national non-profit legal reform organization, is pleased to announce the release of the new edition of its book, Small Claims Court-Making Your Way Through the System: A Step-by-Step Guide.

Originally published in 1981, the latest edition of Small Claims Court was released today. In 20 years, HALT has distributed over 25,000 copies of this book. Part of HALT's Citizens Legal Manual Series, Small Claims Court, is part of the Citizens Legal Manual Series.

"Small claims courts are the real 'people's court,' where ordinary Americans can use our civil justice system without having to hire a lawyer," stated HALT Executive Director James C. Turner. "With tried and true advice, Small Claims Court provides a roadmap, whether you are suing or are being sued."

Far less complicated and inexpensive, small claims courts settle disputes without involving attorneys. From preparing evidence to making a presentation in court, you'll learn how to decide if you have a good case, write your demand letter, mediate a settlement before it goes to court, file & serve papers, prepare & present a winning case. The appendices include a summary of small claims rules for all fifty states with web site addresses, out-of-court alternatives for resolving disputes, state consumer action agencies, a glossary of terms, and an annotated bibliography.

Small Claims Court is 156 pages and sells for $14.95, including shipping and handling. The book is available through HALT's toll-free line, 1-888-FOR-HALT (367-4258), web site: www.halt.org, and major bookstore chains including Barnes & Noble, and Amazon.com. For more information about publications from HALT, visit the self-help publication section of our web site. Review copies of the book are available to members of the press by calling HALT at the toll-free line, or by sending an e-mail to Ms. Gider at ggider@halt.org.

Founded in 1978, HALT-An Organization of Americans for Legal Reform is the largest consumer legal reform group in the United States with over 50,000 members. HALT's education and advocacy programs challenge the legal establishment to improve access and reduce costs in the civil justice system.