The way I understand it, say the show decides a case is worth $5,000. The winner is awarded from that amount, and the balance is SPLIT between the winner and loser.
If the winner is awarded $3,000, the remaining $2,000 is split.
So, winner walks away with $4,000. Loser only gets $1,000. This may account for "sore losers." -- Though they didn't have to pay out of their pocket, they didn't get a windfall either. This may also account for WHY they try to win their case: More money.
These winnings are in addition to travel, hotel, appearance fee, and daily stipend. I'm not at all sure of those details.
Not all cases are valued at $5,000. There are cases where people are only suing for small amounts, on principle. On TPC, I've seen judgments for $150 and less.
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korevette
9 years ago
Gubbio, can I ask you how you know all about this information? The reason I am asking is cause I have a debt problem and all the necessary papers...ie...."IOU" and drivers license photo of an individual that owes me $1600 dollars, which would make it 5 years this coming Aug. If your saying is true, then all it seems I have to do is get the guy to appear with me in court...but, really wonder if its worth it, if one has to split it, as I am sure I would win?
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Gubbio
9 years ago
Gubbio, can I ask you how you know all about this information?
I picked some of it up from the Internet, and there was (don't know if there still is) a "disclaimer" at the end of the "The People's Court" which says (paraphrasing) the litigants are paid from "a fund" and how it is split.
all it seems I have to do is get the guy to appear with me in court...
That being said, I don't think it's as easy as "volunteering" to be on the show.
From what I understand, the staffs of these shows comb through small claims cases, then if something interests them, they contact the parties and ask if they want to appear.
You could always contact them for more information.
Good luck.
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