Consumer Protection Division - Legal Remedies

Small Claims Court:

Small Claims Court is a special court to provide citizens with a quick and inexpensive way to collect claims up to $5,000. You must be 18 years old to file a claim. Minors must have the court appoint a guardian to sue for them.

• How to file a claim:

  Look in the white pages for the municipal court nearest your residence. Go to the court and ask for the small claims clerk.

  You need the defendant’s exact legal name and address. You must fill out a court form saying who you are suing and for how much. You must pay a small filing fee or get the fee waived. The defendant must be served with a copy of the claim. This can be done for a fee by the Sheriff's Department, or the Small Claims Court Clerk may serve the claim by Certified Mail.  It can also be done by a process server, a friend, or a relative; you can’t do it yourself.

  Bring to court all witnesses, books, papers and receipts you may need to prove your case. Lawyers are not allowed in Small Claims Court, but before going to court, you may consult an attorney or ask the court to provide assistance. The trial is informal. The judge is experienced in settling disputes and will come to a decision based on the facts, law, and common sense.

  If you obtain a judgment against a defendant, the court clerk will tell you ways to collect your money if the defendant fails to pay the judgment.

Need help?

The Los Angeles County Department of Consumer Affairs operates a Small Claims Court Advisor Program to assist you. Call (213) 974-9759.

Additional help may be found on the Los Angeles County Municipal Court's Website.