Small Claims Court in California

What Is Small Claims Court?

Small claims court is a simplified court for resolving disputes involving smaller amounts of money. The process is faster and less formal than regular civil court.

Jurisdictional Limits

• Individuals: up to $12,500
• Businesses, corporations, government entities: up to $6,250
• You cannot split a larger claim into multiple small claims cases

No Attorneys

Attorneys cannot represent parties in small claims court (except in limited circumstances). You must present your own case. However, you can consult an attorney before the hearing.

How to File

1. File a claim with the small claims clerk at the courthouse where the defendant lives or where the dispute occurred
2. Pay the filing fee (typically $30-$100 depending on amount)
3. Serve the defendant with the claim
4. Appear at the hearing and present your evidence

For Orange County, file at Orange County Superior Court. For Fresno, file at Fresno County Superior Court.