Local small-claims court information and procedural assistance. Filing limits and appeal rules depend on the current applicable procedure.
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Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims Court — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
Small Claims Court is a special court where you can resolve disputes quickly and inexpensively. The rules are simple. You are not allowed to have an attorney represent you (except on appeal).
Local small-claims instructions. This quoted rule keeps the court’s stated subject, representation, location and procedure limits; it is not a promise of complete self-help or legal representation.
Find resources to help with your case, including Fee Waivers, Mediation, and Small Claims Advisors.
Superior Court for Contra Costa County. Court locations and divisions handle different case types; confirm the correct branch and service before visiting.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
Remote appearances require compliance with CCP Section 367.75 and completion of RA-010. Oppositions to requests for remote appearances require completion of RA-015. Only in cases where remote appearance is opposed, written court approval will be required.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
Small Claims Court is a special type of civil proceeding which is commonly referred to as the "People's Court" because attorneys are not allowed to represent either side. The rules are relatively simple and the hearings are less formal. Parties in small claims actions can resolve their disputes relatively quickly and inexpensively. The person who files the claim is called the plaintiff and the person being sued is called the defendant.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
Please visit the Clerk's Office or call 707-299-1130 with any questions.
Superior Court for San Francisco County. Court locations and divisions handle different case types; confirm the correct branch and service before visiting.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
Disputes are resolved quickly and inexpensively in Small Claims Court, where the rules are simple and informal. Litigants may not be represented by an attorney. Individuals, including "natural persons" and sole proprietors, may claim up to $12,500. Corporations, partnerships, governmental entities, and other legal entities cannot claim more than $6,250. Parties may not file more than two cases in small claims for more than $2,500 each during a calendar year. For more information on initiating a small claims case see the SC-100 information form.
Superior Court for San Mateo County. Court locations and divisions handle different case types; confirm the correct branch and service before visiting.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims Division — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
Small Claims Hearing Calendars require an in-person appearance. Remote Zoom appearances will be available for those who may have a hardship and are unable to appear in person.
Local Small Claims Division — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
Small Claims hearings will take place either at the Hall of Justice at the County Center Complex in Redwood City or at the Northern Branch in South San Francisco. Read about hearing schedules
Superior Court for Santa Clara County. Court locations and divisions handle different case types; confirm the correct branch and service before visiting.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims Division — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
The small claims court is a special court in which disputes are resolved inexpensively and quickly. The rules are simple. The hearing is informal. Attorneys are not allowed. (However, you may ask your lawyer for advice before you go to small claims court.)
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
Small claims court is a special court where disputes are resolved quickly and inexpensively. In small claims court, the rules are simplified and the hearing is informal. The person who files the claim is called the plaintiff. The person who the claim is filed against is called the defendant. While you may ask an attorney for advice before you go to small claims court, an attorney cannot represent you in court.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
The plaintiff has the right to appeal an unfavorable defendant’s claim but has no right to appeal the small claims judgment. The defendant has a right to appeal. If the defendant files an appeal, each party may be represented by an attorney at the hearing. More information on appeals is found under Post-judgment Proceedings.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
Small Claims Self Help Information Small Claims Legal Advisor The Civil Self-Help Center provides small claims services to the public. For info about possible assistance, click the link: Civil Self Help Center
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
Small Claims Court is a way to sue a person, business, or government agency that you believe owes you money. It is typically a faster, cheaper, and less formal process than filing a standard civil case, but there are certain rules that you must follow.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local small-claims instructions. This quoted rule keeps the court’s stated subject, representation, location and procedure limits; it is not a promise of complete self-help or legal representation.
Only the clerk of the court may serve the defendant by Certified Mail. Unless the clerk of the court served the defendant by Certified Mail, you need to make sure a completed and signed Proof of Service – Small Claims (SC-104) is filed with the Court before the date of trial. The Proof of Service form must be signed by the person who served the defendant and you must file the original with the Court.
Local small-claims instructions. This quoted rule keeps the court’s stated subject, representation, location and procedure limits; it is not a promise of complete self-help or legal representation.
If you need to have the hearing postponed to a later date, you can prepare and file a written Request to Postpone Small Claims Hearing (Form SC-110). You must file your request with the clerk of the small claims court, and send a copy of the request to the other party. You must have a sufficient reason to receive a postponement of a court hearing date.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Superior Court for Calaveras County. Court locations and divisions handle different case types; confirm the correct branch and service before visiting.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims Division — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
Examples of cases heard in small claims court, statute of limitations, proper venue for filing, and other information.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
Advisory services are provided free of charge through the self-help center located at 547 Market Street. To contact the self-help center, please call (530) 458-0598 or email self-help@colusa.courts.ca.gov. Further information can be found using the Self-Help Center tab on Colusa Superior Court’s website.
Local small-claims instructions. This quoted rule keeps the court’s stated subject, representation, location and procedure limits; it is not a promise of complete self-help or legal representation.
The plaintiff must file his or her claim in the proper Court and judicial district. This rule is called venue. You must be at least 18 years old to file a claim. If you are not at least 18 years old, you may ask the court to appoint a guardian. For more information on the proper venue and other requirements, see the California Courts’ form Information for the Small Claims Plaintiff [form SC-100-INFO]
Superior Court for Del Norte County. Court locations and divisions handle different case types; confirm the correct branch and service before visiting.
Official local court entrance for the specifically named information, filing channel or self-help referral. Consult the current instructions for your procedure.
Local Small-claims information through Civil Division; this statement does not establish a complete filing workflow
Small claims court allows you to sue a person, business, or government agency that you think owes you money. Generally, you can only sue for up to $12,500 in small claims court (or up to $6,250 if you’re a business). You can ask a lawyer for advice before you go to court, but you can't have one with you in court.
Small claims court allows you to sue a person, business, or government agency that you think owes you money. Generally, you can only sue for up to $12,500 in small claims court (or up to $6,250 if you’re a business). You can ask a lawyer for advice before you go to court, but you can't have one with you in court.
Superior Court for El Dorado County. Court locations and divisions handle different case types; confirm the correct branch and service before visiting.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims Division — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
El Dorado Superior Court: Self-represented individuals may seek free assistance with civil matters such as small claims, unlawful detainers, name changes, landlord-tenant and civil harassment restraining orders through the Court’s Office of the Family Law Facilitator/Self-Help Center located at the Main Street Branch, 495 Main Street Placerville, CA 95667.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
Small Claims is a special court where disputes are resolved quickly and inexpensively. The rules are simple and informal. You may ask a lawyer for advice before you go to court, but you cannot have a lawyer in court. United States citizenship is not required to file or defend a Small Claims case, but the parties must be at least 18 years old. Only cases for money for actual damages can be filed in Small Claims court. Your claim cannot be more than $6,250 if you are a business or public entity or $12,500 if you are a natural person (not a business or public entity). Examples of disputes that can be settled in Small Claims court are:
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
If you choose Small Claims court to resolve a dispute and you are the plaintiff, you give up the right to have another court review the Small Claims judge's decision. In other words, the plaintiff has no right of appeal. So if you should lose, that's probably the end of the case. However, the person or entity you sue (defendant) may appeal the judge's ruling. When such an appeal is filed, the entire case will be heard again.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
If you are the plaintiff and a Claim of Defendant is filed (the defendant sues you on the same case) and you have a judgment against you, you may file an appeal on that decision.
Official local court entrance for the specifically named information, filing channel or self-help referral. Consult the current instructions for your procedure.
Local Small-claims self-help referral; this statement does not establish a complete filing workflow
Civil including: Evictions, Name Changes, Small Claims, Civil Harassment and Decedent's Estate
Official local court entrance for the specifically named information, filing channel or self-help referral. Consult the current instructions for your procedure.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims & Unlawful Detainers — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
Walk-in hours Monday through Thursday: 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Local small-claims instructions. This quoted rule keeps the court’s stated subject, representation, location and procedure limits; it is not a promise of complete self-help or legal representation.
You must submit the original and at least 2 copies of your small claims filing. If filed by mail, you must provide a self-addressed stamped envelope for return of your documents. All documents must be assembled and stapled in the upper left hand corner.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local small-claims instructions. This quoted rule keeps the court’s stated subject, representation, location and procedure limits; it is not a promise of complete self-help or legal representation.
If you cannot afford the fees, obtain a Fee Waiver packet from the small claims court clerk or at Judicial Council Self-Help.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims Information — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
For the Small Claims Legal Advisor, call 707-994-4612.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
Amendments to CA law effective January 1, 2024, have amended the jurisdictional damage and controversy amounts for Civil cases. Small Claims Court jurisdiction over actions brought by a natural person has been amended to damages up to $12,500 (except as otherwise specified in law). Those changes are reflected on this page.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
In the state of California, the Small Claims court has a monetary limit, called a jurisdictional limit, or the amount of money/damages that a person can claim. The most you can ask for is $12,500 (businesses can only ask for up to $6,250); additionally, you are limited to filing no more than two claims anywhere in the State of California for over $2,500 in one calendar year. You may file an unlimited number of claims for $2,500 or less.
Superior Court for Los Angeles County. Court locations and divisions handle different case types; confirm the correct branch and service before visiting.
Official local court entrance for the specifically named information, filing channel or self-help referral. Consult the current instructions for your procedure.
Local Small-claims self-help; this statement does not establish a complete filing workflow
I Want to File a Small Claims Case Learn how to complete, file and serve a Small Claims case.
Official local court entrance for the specifically named information, filing channel or self-help referral. Consult the current instructions for your procedure.
Local Small-claims electronic filing information; this statement does not establish a complete filing workflow
eFiling is available for attorneys and for self-represented litigants in Civil, Family Law, Probate, and Small Claims case types. You can eFile documents 24 hours a day, 7 days a week through an approved Electronic Filing Service Provider (EFSP).
eFiling is available for attorneys and for self-represented litigants in Civil, Family Law, Probate, and Small Claims case types. You can eFile documents 24 hours a day, 7 days a week through an approved Electronic Filing Service Provider (EFSP).
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Superior Court for Mendocino County. Court locations and divisions handle different case types; confirm the correct branch and service before visiting.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
Small claims court is an easier way to take someone to court who you think owes you money.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
The person who starts the case is called the Plaintiff and the person who is being sued is called the Defendant. Neither side can have a lawyer represent them at the hearing, however, you can speak to a lawyer before or after Court.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
The Merced County Superior Court has a Small Claims Advisor who can help you with your small claims case by providing a free service for legal information and assistance to people representing themselves in a small claims matter.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Modoc County Small Claims Division — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
In Small Claims court, disputes are settled in a fair, quick and inexpensive manner. You may ask a lawyer for advice before you go to court; however, you may not have a lawyer represent you in court, but you may have an attorney to represent you in the appeal. The place to file a Small Claims case is at 205 S. East Street, Alturas, CA. The court clerks can answer many kinds of questions and provide the forms you need; however, they are prohibited by law from giving legal advice. Further information and publications are available at the Department of Consumer Affairs and the California Courts Self-Help Center located at www.courts.ca.gov.
Local Modoc County Small Claims Division — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
If you need additional assistance or have questions filing your claim, please contact our Self Help Facilitator, Stephen King, at (530) 233-4444 for further assistance.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
In your correspondence, please identify yourself as a resident of Mono County. Court Clerks are not allowed to answer legal questions. All correspondence to the small claims court must contain the case number and show that a copy was sent to all parties in the case.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
All Small Claims documents are filed at the Monterey Courthouse at 1200 Aguajito Rd Monterey CA 93940. All Hearings are heard at the Marina courthouse at 3180 Del Monte Blvd Marina Ca 93933. We encourage the use of the efile online filings system.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims Court — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
Do you need assistance with your small claims case? Under the code of Civil Procedure, Section 116.260, the Self-Help Center provides individual assistance and advice to small claims litigants and potential litigants at no charge. This service is conducted by the Nevada County Court's Self Help Center. Walk-in appointments are accepted.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
Small Claims court is a special court where disputes are resolved quickly and inexpensively. Please make your selection from the group of buttons below.
Local small-claims instructions. This quoted rule keeps the court’s stated subject, representation, location and procedure limits; it is not a promise of complete self-help or legal representation.
You have to pay a filing fee when you file your small claims case. The fee depends on the amount of your claim and the number of claims that you file in a year. If you cannot afford the filing fees, you can fill out a Request to Waive Court Fees and Order(FW-001 and FW-003). You can also get these forms online, in person, by mail. You can read more about fees waivers.
Official local court entrance for the specifically named information, filing channel or self-help referral. Consult the current instructions for your procedure.
Local Small-claims self-help; this statement does not establish a complete filing workflow
The Self-Help Center will attempt to steer you in the right direction in any type of case. The bulk of the matters we help with are family law, child support, evictions, small claims, guardianships and restraining orders. Below, our most frequently provided services are listed by type of law. We also provide instruction sheets and links if you would like to do the paperwork yourself. If you do not see what you need on this web page and you need assistance, just ask!
The Self-Help Center will attempt to steer you in the right direction in any type of case. The bulk of the matters we help with are family law, child support, evictions, small claims, guardianships and restraining orders. Below, our most frequently provided services are listed by type of law. We also provide instruction sheets and links if you would like to do the paperwork yourself. If you do not see what you need on this web page and you need assistance, just ask!
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
In Small Claims Court, disputes are settled in a fair, quick, and cost-effective manner. While you may consult an attorney for advice before going to court, you may not have a lawyer represent you during the court proceedings. However, an attorney can represent you in an appeal.
Local small-claims instructions. This quoted rule keeps the court’s stated subject, representation, location and procedure limits; it is not a promise of complete self-help or legal representation.
If you are filing a Small Claims Appeal outside of the county, you can obtain the necessary forms from the California Courts Self-Help Center. A checklist and forms, including the fee waiver application and the monetary limit order, are also available on the California Courts Self-Help Center—Small Claims Forms page.
Superior Court for Riverside County. Court locations and divisions handle different case types; confirm the correct branch and service before visiting.
Official local court entrance for the specifically named information, filing channel or self-help referral. Consult the current instructions for your procedure.
Local Small Claims division; this statement does not establish a complete filing workflow
Maximum amount that you can sue for depends on who you are and who you are suing.
Superior Court for Sacramento County. Court locations and divisions handle different case types; confirm the correct branch and service before visiting.
Official local court entrance for the specifically named information, filing channel or self-help referral. Consult the current instructions for your procedure.
Local Small Claims division; this statement does not establish a complete filing workflow
The Small Claims Court handles cases requesting damages up to $12,500 and must be filed at the Carol Miller Justice Center.
Local small-claims instructions. This quoted rule keeps the court’s stated subject, representation, location and procedure limits; it is not a promise of complete self-help or legal representation.
Electronic Filing is optional for all parties submitting Small Claims matters; however, the court encourages electronic filing to ensure documents are processed in a timely manner. There may be a delay in processing documents not submitted electronically. Self-represented litigants are not required to e-file documents.
Superior Court for San Benito County. Court locations and divisions handle different case types; confirm the correct branch and service before visiting.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims & Unlawful Detainers — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
The most frequently used Small Claims forms, and information on small claims procedures, are available at the California Courts Self-Help Guide:
Superior Court for San Bernardino County. Court locations and divisions handle different case types; confirm the correct branch and service before visiting.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
Small Claims court is a special court where disputes are resolved quickly and inexpensively. The rules are simple and informal. The person who initiates the claim is the plaintiff and the person who is being sued is the defendant. In Small Claims court, you may ask a lawyer for advice before you go to court, but you cannot have a lawyer with you in court.
Superior Court for San Diego County. Court locations and divisions handle different case types; confirm the correct branch and service before visiting.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Superior Court for San Joaquin County. Court locations and divisions handle different case types; confirm the correct branch and service before visiting.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
Small Claims Court handles civil cases asking for $12,500.00 or less. It is a special court where disputes are resolved quickly and inexpensively. Rules are simplified and the hearing is informal. There are no lawyers, no rules of evidence, and no juries. You do not need to be a United States citizen to file or defend a case in Small Claims Court.
Superior Court for San Luis Obispo County. Court locations and divisions handle different case types; confirm the correct branch and service before visiting.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
We have an online form preparation program available that will ask you to answer questions that are used to complete the forms needed to file a small claim. This program will also allow you to print out all the completed necessary forms.
Superior Court for Santa Barbara County. Court locations and divisions handle different case types; confirm the correct branch and service before visiting.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims Self-Help — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
You are not allowed to have a lawyer represent you, except in an appeal (but you can ask a lawyer for advice).
Superior Court for Santa Cruz County. Court locations and divisions handle different case types; confirm the correct branch and service before visiting.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims Division — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
You may appear in person or through Zoom. If you would like to appear by Zoom you must complete form RA-010 to give notice to the court and other parties of your Zoom appearance. Small Claims cases are heard on Thursdays at 1:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. On the day of your hearing, log in to the Online Virtual Courtroom for Department A. If you are assigned to a different courtroom, you will need to find the link to the department on the Remote Appearance page. Only parties may log in to the Online Virtual Courtroom. Public observation of Small Claims Court is in person only.
Local Small Claims Division — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
If you intend to appear remotely, you will need to submit your evidence to the court and serve your evidence on the other side before your court date. Make sure to read the Guidelines for Evidence Submission for Non-Criminal Trials and Evidentiary Hearings found on the Local Rules page on when and how to do so. If you have video evidence, make sure you review the separate document, on the same page, about presenting video evidence in the courtroom. If you need help with this, contact the Small Claims Advisor.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims Division — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
In Small Claims court, disputes are settled in a fair, quick and inexpensive manner. You may ask a lawyer for advice before you go to court; however, you may not have a lawyer represent you in court, but you may have an attorney to represent you in the appeal.
Local Small Claims Division — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
The place to file a Small Claims case is at the address in the location section above. The Small Claims court clerks can answer many kinds of questions and provide the forms you need; however, they are prohibited by law from giving legal advice.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
For viewing and filling out some of the most common small claims forms, visit the California Courts Small Claims Forms page.
Superior Court for Stanislaus County. Court locations and divisions handle different case types; confirm the correct branch and service before visiting.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims Division — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
Parties must bring all witnesses, books, copies of receipts, and other papers or items to support their claim or defense to the hearing. The Clerk’s Office cannot accept evidence/exhibits. Each party will have the chance to prove or dispute the claim and is allowed to question both its own witnesses and the opposing party’s witnesses.
Local small-claims instructions. This quoted rule keeps the court’s stated subject, representation, location and procedure limits; it is not a promise of complete self-help or legal representation.
The Stanislaus County Small Claims Advisor provides general assistance on small claims forms, procedures and common small claims issues. The advisor can explain your options, help you understand and fill out small claims forms and offer suggestions about how to prepare your case or defense. The advisor cannot represent you at your hearing. For further information, go to Advisory Service page.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
Small Claim matters are filed in the Civil Division.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
The rules are simple and informal. The person who sues is the plaintiff. The person who is sued is the defendant. In small claims court, you may ask a lawyer for advice before you go to court, but you cannot have a lawyer in court during the hearing. You must present your case yourself.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
An alternative for resolving disputes is mediation, where you and the other side meet with a neutral person—a mediator—who is specially trained to help people resolve their disputes without having to go to court. In mediation, everyone works together to find a solution, instead of having the judge make a decision.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
Small claims court is a special court where disputes are resolved quickly and inexpensively. The rules are simple and informal. The person who sues is the plaintiff. The person who is sued is the defendant. In small claims court, you may ask a lawyer for advice before you go to court, but you cannot have a lawyer in court.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
The rules are simple. The hearing is informal. Attorneys are not allowed. (However, you may ask an attorney for advice before you go to Small Claims Court.)
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims Division — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
Small claims court is a special court where disputes are resolved quickly and inexpensively. The rules are simple and informal. The person who sues is the plaintiff. The person who is sued is the defendant. In small claims court, you may ask a lawyer for advice before you go to court, but you cannot have a lawyer in court. Your claim cannot be for more than $6,250 - or $12,500 if you are a natural person (not a business or public entity)(*see below). If you have a claim for more than this amount, you may sue in the civil division of the trial court or you may sue in the small claims court and give up your right to the amount over $6,250 or $12,500 if you are a natural person.
Official local court information and resources for this specific subject. Confirm the applicable case type, filing channel and current instructions with the court.
Local Small Claims — source-specific information; other procedures and appeals may differ
The rules are simple and informal. The person who sues is the plaintiff. The person who is sued is the defendant. In small claims court, you may ask a lawyer for advice before you go to court, but you cannot have a lawyer in court during the hearing. You must present your case yourself.
Shared California Courts self-help guidance, available for all 58 California county court contexts; local procedures and individual circumstances vary.
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Small claims court allows you to sue a person, business, or government agency that you think owes you money. Generally, you can only sue for up to $12,500 in small claims court (or up to $6,250 if you’re a business). You can ask a lawyer for advice before you go to court, but you can't have one with you in court.