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Fillable PDF guide
Small Claims in California
A 12-page guide and case workbook for California small claims, with the limits, filing fees and deadlines from the Code of Civil Procedure and worksheets for your claim, evidence and hearing.
General information, not legal advice. Every county offers free small claims advisors.
What's inside
- Is it right for you?The $12,500 limit for individuals, the business limit and claim counts.
- FilingA demand, Form SC-100, venue and filing fees.
- ServiceWho can serve, methods and service deadlines.
- If you're suedDefending and filing a defendant's claim.
- The hearingEvidence, witnesses, interpreters and small claims advisors.
- After judgmentThe defendant's appeal, collecting and Form SC-133.
Details
- One fillable PDF, 12 pages, letter size
- Type on screen in Adobe Acrobat Reader (free), Preview on Mac, or most browsers, or print it
- California edition; state law cited as of November 2026
- Instant download after checkout
Other states
State editions
Small claims, deeds, probate and landlord-tenant guides for Texas, Florida and California, with Oklahoma editions of small claims, deeds and probate.
See all state editions →