For larger companies, they may offer to settle before the court case to avoid the cost of sending a lawyer.
Even if they don't show up and get a judgement they can then appeal or do many things to stop the enforcement process.
Also nothing to prevent an opponent for whatever reason finding a way to file a counterclaim to which you would then need to defend against and probably pay a lawyer to handle. (Meaning not in small claims court or above your knowledge level). Related note also that LLC's and Inc. must typically be represented by an attorney in court.