Invasive roots from neighboring tree

[Durian Fiend]

If the owner doesn’t have the money to remove it  then it’s just a waste of time and money to pursue legal action, is it not?

For a couple of hundred bucks, a good attorney may tell you just that. But then again, he/she may tell you otherwise. The decision to pursue legal action is an entirely different situation versus a sit down consultation.

With 10 grand already gone and the prospect of spending twice that or more - I'd say the couple of hundred spent on the attorney now, might be the best bet. 

Oh, and paying to have this tree removed yourself, assuming you use a legitimate, insured licensed tree service, but they may have a big issue in going on to the neighbors property to cut the tree down without the owners permission. You know, because, well, attorneys.

Right. I was assuming they’d clear it with the owner prior to proceeding