What is my next step? Should I file a lawsuit (small claims court)?

You can call until your blue in the face they wont respond to you. Find a local lawyer, pay him or her a small fee and have them write a...

Can we file a Motion to Dismiss instead of an Appearance, acknowledging & paying for only the bills we're certain are valid?

The first step in every lawsuit is for the Defendant, in this case you, to file his or her appearance. You can file a Motion to Dismiss after you...

Do I have a reasonable legal argument that they should pay for repairs?

Depends. What are you alleging was the defect on their property that caused your oil pan damage?

Under ILCS 2-615, what would cause a case to be dismissed "with prejudice?"

Horrible idea. If there is a pending motion to dismiss and you do not show up to brief it or argue it then it will be dismissed with prejudice 9...

Is this a police matter, or can I seek relief from the courts.

You need to file a motion to compel the answers to your discovery requests. This is of course assuming they did not answer fully. If you just think...

Is there any benefit to serve motions by Fed-Ex with signature when both parties have agreed to email notifications w/ the clerk

Don't waste your money. Email and regular mail for motions is fine. Typically when lawyers are going up against pro se opponents, we like to have...

It will most likely be dismissed. Just show up and ask for time to hire an attorney.

How do I appeal my u visa denial based on apa?

Hire an attorney. You do not want to be messing around with your appeal on a visa that could determine your status here. Not worth it.

What do you do when parts of your claim are subject to federal law and part to state law? Where do you file?

What kind of case is it? Is the statute a state statute or federal code? Are you an Illinois resident? Is the defendant an Illinois resident or...

What can be done about a denial of sealing a record due to disposition of "terminated unsatisfied"?

Check out this link for more information. https://www.illinois.gov/osad/Expungement/Documents/Juvenile%20Exp%20Guide/JuvenileExpungementGuide.pdf