Pink Legal

Small Claims Court Documents

Small claims court handles disputes over money or property below a set financial limit. In California, an individual can collect up to $10,000, corporations and LLCs are limited to $5,000. The statute of limitations for filing a small claims matter on a written contract is 4 years, and 3 years for property damage. The statute of limitations for oral contracts and personal injury is only 2 years.

Small Claims Process Overview

Schedule consultation to asses necessary documents—email, over the phone or in-person.
Contract and PINK Legal service fee due.
Client to provide statement/declaration, PINK Legal will prepare rest of necessary documents.
Documents reviewed, signed and filed with the Court—Court file fee due.
Hearing scheduled and client provided with copies of filed documents.
Client is to arrange to have Defendant served with filed copies of documents.
Client to attend hearing.
After hearing, Client is responsible for following up with collecting judgment. PINK Legal cannot assist with collection of payment or garnishing wages.

Small Claims Court Paperwork Fees

Consultation – $85
Small Claims – $349
Court File fee – varies by amount asked for in claim
A Process Server or Sheriff may need to be hired to serve Defendant – fees will vary