Small Claims Guides

Getting a California small claims case right: asking for payment first, naming the right defendant, filing, the hearing, and collecting after you win. These 5 guides are checked against official California and federal sources.

Small claims courthouse filing window next to a public notice board

Small Claims

Demand Letter Before Small Claims in California: What the Court Expects

California asks you to request payment before you file. How to do it, what to demand, and how the letter is used at the hearing.

Updated October 18, 2026 · 8 min read

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Key facts card: Wait period; Debtor's asset form; Writ of execution; Wage garnishment cap

Small Claims

How to Collect a Small Claims Judgment in California After You Win

From the 30-day wait to wage garnishment, bank levies, liens, interest and renewal: collecting what the judge awarded you.

Updated October 18, 2026 · 7 min read

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Key facts card: Limit; Main form; Filing fee; Service deadline

Small Claims

How to File Small Claims in California: Forms, Fees, Service and the Hearing

Limits, form SC-100, the $30 to $100 fee, where to file, how to serve the defendant and what to bring to the hearing.

Updated October 18, 2026 · 6 min read

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Key facts card: Corporations, LLCs, LPs; DBAs; Contractors; Other licensed trades

Small Claims

How to Find the Legal Name of a Business in California Before You Sue

Find who legally owns a business through state, county and licensing records, then name it correctly in a letter or on SC-100.

Updated October 18, 2026 · 8 min read

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Small claims court counter with form slots and a route marked to the defendant's address

Small Claims

Small Claims Demand Letter Template: Sample Wording for Every Part

Fill-in sample wording for each part of a small claims demand letter, plus how to adapt it to deposits, invoices, loans and repairs.

Updated October 18, 2026 · 7 min read

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