In both Indiana and Idaho (where I'm somewhat familiar with small claims court), the amount involved must be under a certain dollar figure -- in Idaho it's $1,200 unless the law has changed recently. In fact, if the amount is under the figure noted you must go to small claims court -- you cannot get into a "regular" court.

I missed that bit when I first read this thread. Makes it even stupider than I thought. JiK's right; she should have talked to the parents.

She sound like someone who creates tempests in teapots.