San Joaquin County Small Claims Court
How to file a small claims case in San Joaquin County, CA. Courthouse locations, hours, fees, and filing options for the Stockton area.
Small claims in California — the numbers for San Joaquin County courts
$12,500
maximum claim
from $30
filing fee (published, varies by claim)
2–4 yrs
filing deadline by claim type
Yes
e-filing accepted
Published court information — verify before acting. See the full California small claims guide · The form that starts a case (SC-100): every field explained.
Main Courthouse
Stockton Courthouse
180 E. Weber Ave.
Stockton, CA 95202
Other Courthouse Locations
Lodi Courthouse
217 W. Elm Street, 2nd Floor
Lodi, CA 95240
Serves: All of San Joaquin County
How to File in San Joaquin County
E-filing available
This county accepts electronic filing for small claims cases.
File in person
Bring your completed forms to the courthouse clerk during business hours. Pay the filing fee by cash, check, or credit card.
File by mail
Most small claims courts accept filing by mail — check with this courthouse first. Typically you mail your completed forms with the filing fee (check or money order) plus a self-addressed stamped envelope for your returned copies.
Ready to get your money back?
A demand letter often settles disputes before a case is ever filed — and it only takes a few minutes.
Read the demand letter guideSmall claims rules in California
How much you can sue for
Individuals can sue for up to $12,500 · businesses up to $6,250.
Individuals limited to 2 claims over $2,500/year. Businesses limited to 2 claims over $2,500/year. Filing fee increases to $100 if you file more than 12 claims/year.
Deadline to file (statute of limitations)
4 yrs written contract · 2 yrs oral contract · 3 yrs property damage · 2 yrs personal injury
Common questions
How much does it cost to file a small claims case in San Joaquin County?
Filing fees in California are set by the state and run from $30 to $75, depending on how much you're claiming. If you can't afford the fee, California offers a fee waiver — ask the clerk how to apply. Fees change, so confirm the current amount with the court clerk before you file.
What's the most I can sue for in San Joaquin County?
Small claims cases in San Joaquin County are limited to $12,500. If your claim is worth more than that, you either have to bring it in a different court or give up the amount above the limit to stay in small claims. The clerk can confirm which court fits your claim.
Can I file online in San Joaquin County?
Yes — electronic filing is available for small claims in San Joaquin County. You can also file in person or by mail. The clerk's office can tell you which option is fastest for your case.
Do I have to have a lawyer to file in San Joaquin County?
Small claims court is built for people representing themselves, and most filers do exactly that. Whether an attorney may appear varies by state — the state guide linked on this page covers the rule where you are, and the clerk can confirm it.
Answers reflect published court data. Court rules and fees change — the clerk is always the authoritative source.