How to File a Small Claims Case in Los Angeles County (Step-by-Step)
If someone owes you money or damaged your property, and the amount is relatively small, filing a small claims case in Los Angeles County can be a fast, affordable way to pursue justice without a lawyer. In California, Small Claims Court is designed to be simple, inexpensive, and informal — perfect for people representing themselves.
1. Understand What Small Claims Court Is
Small Claims Court handles disputes where the amount at issue is $12,500 or less. Los Angeles County Superior Court
There are no lawyers allowed at the hearing (though you can consult one beforehand), evidence rules are relaxed, and cases are generally resolved quickly.
2. Decide If Small Claims Is Right for You
You might file a small claims case for things like:
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Unpaid money owed to you
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Property damage
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Breach of a simple contract
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Security deposit disputes
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Auto repair or service problems
If your claim is too complicated or involves more than $12,500, you may need to go to a higher civil court.
3. Confirm You Can File in Los Angeles County
You can file in Los Angeles County if the event or dispute happened here, the person you’re suing lives here, or the business you’re suing is located here. Always check whether your particular situation meets the venue rules — because filing in the wrong county can delay or dismiss your case.
4. Fill Out the Required Forms
The core form is the Plaintiff’s Claim and Order to Go to Small Claims Court (Form SC-100). You will list:
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Your name (plaintiff)
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Who you are suing (defendant)
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The amount you’re asking for
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Why you’re suing (your “claim”)
Copies of SC-100 and other small claims forms are available online and at the courthouse clerk’s office.
5. File Your Claim with the Court
Once your forms are ready, you can submit them either:
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In person at the courthouse clerk
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By mail with the original and two copies
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Online (e-file) if available through the court’s e-filing system
Filing Fees (Typical)
Small claims fees depend on the amount you’re suing for:
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Up to $1,500 – $30
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$1,500.01–$5,000 – $50
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$5,000.01–$12,500 – $75
If you’ve filed more than 12 cases in 12 months, the fee is $100.
If you can’t afford the fee, you can ask the court for a fee waiver using special forms. Self-Help Guide to the California Courts
6. Serve the Defendant With Court Papers
After you file, you must serve the person or business you’re suing with a copy of the paperwork. Common service methods include:
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Personal service (someone hands it directly)
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Certified mail
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Substituted service (leaving it with an adult at their home/work plus mailing)
Once served, you’ll file a Proof of Service (SC-104) with the court to show the defendant was notified.
7. Prepare for Your Hearing
Small claims hearings are informal but still require preparation:
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Organize your documents (contracts, receipts, photos, messages)
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Write a short, clear explanation of your case
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Bring three copies of all evidence (for the judge, the other party, and you)
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Consider talking with the Small Claims Advisor for free help on preparing.
8. Attend Your Hearing
Your court date is typically scheduled 30–75 days after filing. At the hearing:
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Present your side briefly and clearly
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Answer the judge’s questions
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The other side will present their side
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The judge may decide immediately or mail you a decision later.
9. After the Decision
If you win, the court will enter a judgment stating what the other party owes you. But winning doesn’t guarantee payment — you may need to take additional steps to collect the money (like wage garnishment or bank levies). You can also ask the court to help you with post-judgment forms.
If you lose, you generally cannot appeal as a plaintiff, though a defendant may be able to appeal under certain circumstances.
Free Resources (Highly Recommended)
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Small Claims Advisors: Free help preparing your case. Los Angeles County Superior Court
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California Courts Self-Help Center: Offers form instructions and guidance. Self-Help Guide to the California Courts
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Video tutorials and walkthroughs from LA Department of Consumer and Business Affairs. LACDBA
Final Thoughts
Filing a small claims case in Los Angeles County doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right forms, a clear explanation of your dispute, and proper service of the defendant, you can present your case confidently and affordably — even without a lawyer. Let us help you get started!