California Small Claims Court Guide

Everything you need to know about filing a small claims case in California.

Maximum Claim

$12,500

$6,250 for businesses

Filing Fee

$30–$75

Fee waiver available

Court Name

Small Claims Court

Hearing Timeline

30–70 days from filing

Find your courthouse in California

Search by city, county, or ZIP code to get the courthouse address, phone number, hours, and filing options.

How Much Can You Sue For in California?

In California, individuals can file small claims cases for up to $12,500. Businesses, corporations, and LLCs are limited to $6,250.

Important: 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.

California Small Claims Court Filing Fees

Claim Amount	Filing Fee
Claims up to $1,500	$30
Claims $1,501–$5,000	$50
Claims $5,001–$12,500	$75

If you cannot afford the filing fee, you may qualify for a fee waiver. Ask the court clerk for a fee waiver application when you file.

Statutes of Limitations in California

You must file your claim within the time limits below, or the court will dismiss your case regardless of its merits.

years — written contract

years — oral contract

years — property damage

years — personal injury

Ready to take action in California?

A demand letter often resolves disputes before court. Our free guide shows you how to write one in minutes.

Read the demand letter guide

Where to File in California

Small claims cases in California are handled by the Small Claims Court. California has 58 county Superior Courts.

Where to file: File where the defendant lives or where the obligation occurred

Not sure which court you need? Our step-by-step filing guide walks you through finding the right court for your case.

Find your specific courthouse: Search for your county courthouse below ↓ — get the address, phone number, hours, and see if e-filing is available.

How to Serve the Defendant in California

After filing your claim, you must formally notify the defendant. This is called "service of process" and is required before your case can be heard.

Accepted methods: Personal service, substituted service, or certified mail via court clerk. Cannot serve yourself.

Deadline: Same county: at least 15 days before hearing. Different county: at least 20 days before hearing.

California Small Claims Court Procedures

Can I bring a lawyer?

No, attorneys are generally not allowed to represent parties in California small claims court. You must represent yourself, though you can consult with a lawyer before your hearing.

Can I appeal?

Only defendant may appeal at initial hearing. If defendant filed a counterclaim, plaintiff may also appeal.

Is e-filing available?

E-filing is available in some California courts but not all. Check with your specific court location.

Are remote hearings available?

Yes, virtual/remote hearings are available in California.

Official California Court Resources

California Court Website →Official Court Forms →Fee Waiver Information →

Find Your Courthouse in California

Select your county to get the courthouse address, phone number, hours, and filing options.

Search all courts by city, county, or ZIP

Alameda County

Oakland area

(510) 627-4700