Meaning of the word "sue a beggar and catch a louse" in English

What does "sue a beggar and catch a louse" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

sue a beggar and catch a louse

US /suː ə ˈbeɡ.ər ænd kætʃ ə laʊs/
UK /sjuː ə ˈbeɡ.ər ænd kætʃ ə laʊs/
"sue a beggar and catch a louse" picture

Idiom

to attempt to get money or damages from someone who has nothing to give; to engage in a futile or unprofitable pursuit

Example:
Trying to get a refund from that bankrupt company is like trying to sue a beggar and catch a louse.
You can't win a lawsuit against him because he has no assets; you'd just be suing a beggar and catching a louse.