California Small Claims Court
Small Claims Court (Superior Court)
Court Information
Court Name
Small Claims Court (Superior Court)
Attorneys
Not allowed
Appeal Rights
Defendant can appeal within 30 days; plaintiff cannot appeal
Court Website
https://www.courts.ca.gov/smallclaims.htmStatute of Limitations
Unique Rules in California
How to File in California
Determine if your case qualifies for small claims court
Send a demand letter to the other party
File your claim at the correct courthouse
Serve the defendant with the lawsuit
Prepare your evidence and presentation
Attend the hearing and present your case
Amendment Filing Fees in California
Amendment Fee Range
Amendment fees in California typically range from $15-$50, depending on the court and type of amendment.
When Amendments Are Allowed
Common Amendment Types
State-Specific Resources
Additional guides and information for California small claims cases
Unpaid Invoice Guide
How to sue for unpaid invoices in California small claims court, including specific procedures and requirements.
Complete Small Claims Guide
Comprehensive guide to filing, preparing, and winning your small claims court case nationwide.
Demand Letter Templates
Free templates and examples for writing effective demand letters before filing your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
The maximum you can sue for in California small claims court is $12,500.
Filing fees in California range from $30 - $75, depending on the claim amount.
No, attorneys are generally not allowed to represent parties in California small claims court. You represent yourself.
From filing to hearing typically takes 30-70 days in California.
Defendant can appeal within 30 days; plaintiff cannot appeal
Counties We Serve in California
Find small claims court information for your county
Los Angeles County
San Diego County
Orange County
Riverside County
San Bernardino County
Santa Clara County
Alameda County
Sacramento County
Contra Costa County
Fresno County
All 58 Counties in California
State-Specific Resources
Additional guides and information for California small claims cases
Unpaid Invoice Guide
How to sue for unpaid invoices in California small claims court, including specific procedures and requirements.
Complete Small Claims Guide
Comprehensive guide to filing, preparing, and winning your small claims court case nationwide.
Demand Letter Templates
Free templates and examples for writing effective demand letters before filing your case.
Related Guides & Articles
Wells Fargo Unauthorized Charges: Sue in Small Claims Court
Wells Fargo hit you with unauthorized charges? Learn how 15+ consumers fought back through small claims court and won. Get your money back with our step-by-step guide.
CCS Financial Services Complaints: How to Sue for Illegal Debt
20+ complaints show CCS Financial Services collecting debts consumers don't owe. Learn how to fight back through small claims court and stop illegal collection.
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