[LWJ]

I think you have this on the right track. I have been to small claims a number of times. The key is documentation. Make it reasonable and ask to be made "whole."

Before that, I would resubmit to the grocery store with your evidence. Let them know that you will escalate this to court. Send them your evidence. Also, I always CC an attorney when I am sending demand letters. You don't need to actually mail the legal folks, just let the person guess whether or not you are serious.

I will say that CC'ing an attorney is the fastest, easiest, and cheapest way to get some A-hole to come around. I have done it at least a couple of times.

Small claims is a PITA. Sort of gratifying but a waste of your time.

Good luck. I would fight it too.

Larry