This is my first post and I'm grateful for any counsel you can give me. My neighbor complained to our HOA about a lacrosse net we put in the Community playground (we both live next to the playground). The HOA unanimously voted to keep the lacrosse net. Then Neighbor went to a mediator. We discussed the entire situation with the mediator. The mediator said that my family is a good neighbor and the mediator would go back to the Neighbor. We did not get confirmation of what ultimately came from the mediator and Neighbor, but I suppose she did not get the outcome she wanted because she went to the HOA again. Again, they HOA said the lacrosse net could remain in the playground, but we would be responsible for removing and storing the net when not in use. During the winter we stored the net. This spring we but the net back in the playground. She is now taking us to court for $500 because the net impairs her view (what view? ). THe HOA is giving us a letter saying we are complying with their instructions.
1. What other backup/documentation should we have?
2. Can we make her pay our expenses? The court day is the 2nd day of our vacation. We will miss one day at the house we rented, plus traveling 300 miles to the court and 300 miles back to vacation, plus tolls.

We've never been in any legal situation like this and don't know where to turn. Any help you can give would be appreciated!

You take any paperwork you have, including the HOA rules/guidelines and correspondence.

As far as your expenses in defending, they are not reimbursable to you.

Ask for an adjournment if this is a hardship.