California (CA)
Small Claims Court in California
Reviewed May 11, 2026
Suing for under $12,500 in California? You do not need a lawyer. This page covers the rules, the filing fee, the forms, and what to bring on hearing day - written for people who have never been to court.
California small claims at a glance
- Jurisdictional limit
- $12,500
- Filing fee
- $30-$75
- Court name
- Small Claims Court (Superior Court)
- Controlling statute
- Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 116.110
- Attorneys permitted
- No
- Appeal window
- 30 days
Note: Higher $6,500 cap if the plaintiff is a business; $12,500 for individuals. Only the defendant may appeal.
The 5-step process in California
- Send a demand letter. Many California courts expect proof of a pre-suit demand attempt. See our demand letter guide for a template.
- File the complaint. Pay the $30-$75 filing fee at the small claims court (superior court). The clerk assigns a case number and a hearing date.
- Serve the defendant. California typically requires sheriff service, process server, or certified mail with return receipt. Personal service by the plaintiff is usually not allowed.
- Prepare for the hearing. Bring three copies of every document, a one-page chronology, the demand letter with proof of service, and an itemized damages calculation. Note: attorneys may not represent parties at trial in small claims; may consult before and after.
- Collect after you win. A judgment is a piece of paper. Collection in California happens via wage garnishment, bank levy, or property lien - a separate process that can take 3-12 months.
Attorneys in California small claims
Attorneys may not represent parties at trial in small claims; may consult before and after.
Most small-claims plaintiffs represent themselves. The whole point of the system is that ordinary people can use it. If your claim is more complex than the small claims court (superior court)can handle, you can file in California’s regular civil court instead - but you give up the speed and low cost.
Common questions about California small claims
How much can I sue for in California small claims court?
California small claims court handles claims up to $12,500. If your claim is worth more, you can still use small claims by agreeing to drop the amount above the limit, or you can file in regular civil court instead.
How much does it cost to file a small claims case in California?
The filing fee in California is typically $30-$75, paid at the small claims court (superior court). If paying the fee would be a hardship, most courts let you ask for a fee waiver.
Can a lawyer represent me in California small claims court?
Attorneys may not represent parties at trial in small claims; may consult before and after. Either way, most people handle small claims on their own — the process is designed to be used without a lawyer.
How long do I have to appeal a small claims decision in California?
You generally have 30 days after the judgment is entered to file an appeal in California. Check the paperwork the court gives you for the exact deadline and where to file.
Do I need a lawyer to file a small claims case in California?
No. Small claims court in California is built for people representing themselves. You bring your documents, explain what happened in plain terms, and the judge decides. Organizing your evidence ahead of time is the most useful step you can take.