Orange County Small Claims Court
Small Claims Court (Superior Court) • Population: 3,186,989
Courthouse Information
Courthouse
Central Justice Center
Address
700 Civic Center Dr W, Santa Ana, CA 92701
Phone
(657) 622-6878Court Website
https://www.courts.ca.gov/smallclaims.htmLocal Tips
- Some small claims hearings temporarily at Costa Mesa Justice Complex during renovations
- Self-help hours: Mon-Thu 8 AM - 3 PM, Fri 8 AM - 12 PM
- Parking is available in the adjacent structure — bring quarters or use the pay app
How to File in Orange County
Determine if your case qualifies for California small claims court (up to $12,500)
Send a written demand letter to the other party
File your claim at the Orange County courthouse or online through the Small Claims Court (Superior Court)
Serve the defendant with official notice of the lawsuit
Prepare your evidence, documents, and witnesses
Attend the in-person hearing and present your case
Statute of Limitations in California
Important Rules in California
Frequently Asked Questions
To file a small claims case in Orange County, California, visit your local courthouse at 700 Civic Center Dr W, Santa Ana, CA 92701 or the Small Claims Court (Superior Court) website. You'll need to fill out the claim form, pay the filing fee ($30 - $75), and serve the defendant. The maximum claim amount is $12,500.
The maximum you can sue for in California small claims court is $12,500. This limit applies to all counties including Orange County.
In California, attorneys are generally not allowed to represent parties in small claims court. You will represent yourself in Orange County small claims hearings.
From filing to hearing, a small claims case in California typically takes 30-70 days. Timelines in Orange County may vary depending on court schedules.
Other Counties in California
Los Angeles County
San Diego County
Riverside County
San Bernardino County
Santa Clara County
Alameda County
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