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.