503:7 Judgment. –
At the hearing, the technical rules of evidence shall not apply but the justice may admit any evidence he deems material and proper. Judgment shall be entered for the prevailing party and, if the plaintiff recovers, his costs and interest shall be awarded to him in addition to the judgment in his behalf. In awarding judgment, the justice may provide for payment thereof in installments. The court shall render judgment for the plaintiff when the defendant fails to appear pursuant to said notice.