[Mickie]

I was accused of embezzlement by a former employer 3 years ago. It took 1 1/2 yrs to go to court. He had changed all the computer records and I had no defense. I pleaded no contest and was convicted. The court settled his claim at a value and I was ordered on probation and to repay this court settlement. Since then, this employer continues to file claims against me in small claims court. I was served 10 months ago for over $1,000 and recently served again 2 times at $3000 each. How can the district court settle this case but the accuser continue to harrass and sue me in small claims for the same money? Is there a statue of limitations that applies here? What are my options to stop this from continuing for the next ten years? He makes up claims every few months to charge me with. He has cost me 5 jobs and I have no money.

[Mr. Knowitall]

Normally, I would expect that any court would give you credit for the restitution you paid against any judgment later issued. Also, once the same facts are litigated to judgment between the same parties, those parties are ordinarily barred from commencing a new lawsuit in relation to any issues which were raised or which should have been raised in the prior litigation.

I have no idea what these suits are about, but if they are all over the same thing - a claim dating back to the incident of alleged embezzlement - you should present the court with proof of the prior litigation and judgment and request dismissal.