I should not of ran my mouth so much to him that day,but his flippant attitude a blatant disregard for my predicament got the better of me.How can he use that against me in court as he claims?The crux of the problem is that he doesn't get to determine what my vehicle cost.He is not an estimator or accessor.I gave him documents and estimates to prove to him I'm doing research.He refused to care.His tenants are his family and they always have 6 cars oner there so everyone knows the tree has damaged my vehicle and has caused problems for years.At one point last year I tried helping the tenant pull one branch down with a rope.The tree is still there!He can't deny that it's not been a long outstanding issue....
If/when you sue the neighbor, have the documentation to show the tree was a danger, the neighbor was aware it was a danger, the tree damaged your car, the estimates to repair the damage.
He cannot sue you for defamation for saying bad things about him if you only said those things to him during an argument over the tree damage. His reputation is not demonstratrably harmed. Well, he CAN sue ... but he is not likely to be successful with a suit (based on what you have said).
Try to keep all other conversations with him civil. Do not post derogatory comments online about him.
Good luck in court.
