Received court summons from former landlord for damages to property. Even though we think this is an unfair amount. Also, the former landlord claims to have sent a bill a few months back which we never redcvd maybe due to the change of address. So we would like to make a full lump-sum payment. Reason being, we cannot afford the extra costs - legal fees, court fees, travel fees since we moved to another state. How do I go about negotiating a discount and dismiss the case so I won't have to go to court? Please help!

It may be too late, since he has already paid the court all of the court fees, ( he does not get those back)

You can call up the attorney or landlord and ask them if they will accept >>>> dollar amount for payment in full, if it is a reasonable amount they may accept it, but get it in writing from the landlord he has to send you a paper stating he will accept... as payment in full before... date. Once paid you submit that to the court, since you want the court to know it is paid with a request to have the case dismissed. But most likely at this point don't expect much of a discount.

How do I go about negotiating a discount and dismiss the case so I won't have to go to court? please help!

How? That's simple, you contact the plaintiff or their attorney and make an offer. They may make a counter offer or just says 'see you in court'. Its totally up to them.

But I would recommend if they refuse to negotiate that you pay it. There is a small likelihood you can win. The landlord apparently has receipts from contractors to prove the costs. Whether you think it unfair or not, a judge is not likely to question the receipts, especially if you have nothing to show them out of line.