Can I be awarded punitive damages in Illinois small claims court?

Have almost $5,000.00 in damages to foundation and yard caused by neighbors storm water run-off they aimed at our property.

Have been to 2 attorneys.One cost me over $400.00 to force neighbor to redirect water.But damage still needs repair.Can't afford to pay lawyer to go into court to sue.Must do so myself.But when I asked for advice on how to procede on my own they both told me to give them $1,000.00 and they'd deal with it.

I have pictures of damages.I have estimates to repair and I have my boyfriend who lives with me who will testify that this was done with malicious intent as these people were dumb enough to tell him they did'nt care if they destroyed our home when they first directed the water on us.But since he lives here can he testify?I'm the legal property owner.Not him.

Only other witnesses are the chief of police who I really don't want to subpeona as he's needed far more on the job than in court.Would a written statement from him to the judge do?

Can I be awarded punitive damages in Illinois small claims court?ds browser

In reviewing small claim courts for Illinois at http://www.19thcircuitcourt.state.il.us/... I would suggest using it. You can make claims upto $10,000 in your state.

Can I be awarded punitive damages in Illinois small claims court?microsoft templates internet explorer

If you proceed, have your witnesses appear in person, all of them. Otherwise it will be a tough row to hoe.