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PHONE SCAM ALERT

: in more than a dozen states, including California, reports have been filed regarding calls from people claiming to be court officials or law enforcement officers. Do not provide any information having to do with your bank or credit card to anyone claiming to be an officer of the court or of the law. If you receive communication from someone requesting your personal information, immediately contact the fraud unit of your local police department. Be advised that although court personnel may contact you by telephone, they will never ask for your personal or credit card information.

Small Claims

Guide to Small Claims Court

Small claims court is a special court where disputes are resolved quickly and inexpensively. The rules are simple and informal. The person who sues is the plaintiff. The person who is sued is the defendant. In small claims court, you may ask a lawyer for advice before you go to court, but you cannot have a lawyer in court. Your claim cannot be for more than $6,250 - or $12,500 if you are a natural person (not a business or public entity)(*see below). If you have a claim for more than this amount, you may sue in the civil division of the trial court or you may sue in the small claims court and give up your right to the amount over $6,250 or $12,500 if you are a natural person.

You cannot, however, file more than two cases in small claims court for more than $2,500 each during a calendar year.

For assistance with Small Claims cases only, you may contact the Small Claims advisor at 530-207-4233.