Some fake lawyer probably told her about res judicata or collateral estoppel or some shit like that. She probably thinks that she would bring a suit for such a little pittance that no one would show and, as you said, get a default judgement. she would then claim in a civil lawsuit that the matter had already been decided in her favor. I highly doubt that would work, but no need to take chances.

If she sees anyone show she will bolt. But I'd love to see you all explain this situation to some night court judge.