Small Claims Paperwork in California

The court says small claims limits are generally $12,500 for an individual and $6,250 for a business. The claim form is SC-100, Plaintiff's Claim and ORDER to Go to Small Claims Court, effective January 1, 2026.

No, the court says in small claims the filer cannot serve the papers personally. The server must be 18 or older and not part of the case, and service must be complete at least 15 days before the court date, or 20 days if the defendant is in a different county.

The court says no lawyer may represent a party in small claims court. A plaintiff who loses cannot appeal, but a defendant who loses can. Because Write Legal is not an attorney, we prepare forms only and do not attend court.

The court says a small claims judgment cannot be collected until the 30-day appeal and vacate period has passed, and a judgment expires after 10 years unless renewed. Full payment must be reported by filing an Acknowledgment and Satisfaction of Judgment within 14 days.

Check the court date on the papers right away. We can prepare forms and a written statement from the facts you provide, and you present your side to the judge yourself. We cannot advise you on defenses.