If someone owes you money, damaged your property, or failed to honor a simple agreement, filing a small claims case in San Bernardino, California can be a fast and affordable way to resolve the dispute---without hiring a lawyer. California Small Claims Court is designed to be simple, inexpensive, and accessible for people representing themselves.
This guide explains who can file, required forms, filing steps, service rules, and what to expect at your court hearing in San Bernardino Small Claims Court.
1. Understand What Small Claims Court Is
Small Claims Court in California handles disputes involving:
- Up to $12,500 for individuals
- Up to $6,250 for businesses
The process in San Bernardino is designed to be:
- Fast and informal
- Low cost
- Easy to navigate without an attorney
Note: Attorneys are not allowed to represent parties at the hearing, though you may consult one beforehand. Most cases are resolved in a single court appearance.
2. Decide If Small Claims Court Is Right for You
Common small claims cases in San Bernardino include:
- Unpaid loans or money owed
- Property damage
- Breach of a simple contract
- Security deposit disputes
- Auto repair or service disputes
- Contractor or handyman disputes
If your claim is complex or exceeds California’s small claims limits, you may need to file in a higher civil court instead.
3. Confirm You Can File in San Bernardino
You can file a small claims case in San Bernardino if:
- The dispute occurred in San Bernardino
- The person you are suing lives or works in San Bernardino
- The business you are suing operates or does business in San Bernardino
Filing in the correct venue is essential. Filing elsewhere can delay your case or result in dismissal.
4. Fill Out the Required Forms
To start your case, complete:
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**Plaintiff’s Claim and Order to Go to Small Claims Court (Form SC‑100 The form requires:
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Your name and contact information
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The defendant’s name and address
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The amount you are claiming
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A brief explanation of why you are suing
Forms are available online through the [California Courts website] or at the San Bernardino Superior Court clerk’s office.
5. File Your Claim With the Court
After completing Form SC‑100, file your claim:
- In person at the San Bernardino Superior Court clerk’s office
- **By mail (original plus copies
- Online (e‑filing), if available
Filing Fees (Typical):
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Up to $1,500 → $30
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$1,500.01 to $5,000 → $50
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$5,000.01 to $12,500 → $75
Fee waivers are available for those who qualify. If you’ve filed more than 12 small claims in the past 12 months, the fee may increase to $100.
San Bernardino Court Location (Main Courthouse):
- San Bernardino District 351 North Arrowhead Avenue San Bernardino, CA 92401
6. Serve the Defendant With Court Papers
Once your case is filed, the defendant must be officially served. You cannot serve papers yourself. Accepted methods include:
- **Personal service (hand-delivery by someone over 18
- Certified mail via the court clerk
- **Substituted service (left with an adult at home or work, plus mailing After service, file a Proof of Service (Form SC‑104) with the court.
7. Prepare for Your Hearing
Before your hearing:
- Gather contracts, receipts, photos, invoices, and communications
- Prepare a short timeline of events
- **Bring three copies of all evidence (for the judge, defendant, and yourself San Bernardino offers access to Small Claims Advisors who can review your case and evidence for free before your court date.
8. Attend Your Small Claims Hearing
Hearings are usually scheduled 30—70 days after filing. At the hearing:
- You explain your claim briefly
- The judge asks questions
- The defendant presents their side
A decision may be issued immediately or mailed later.
9. After the Court’s Decision
If you win:
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The court issues a judgment stating how much the defendant owes you.
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The court does not collect the money---you may need to pursue collection through:
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Wage garnishment
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Bank levies
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Property liens
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If you lose:
- Plaintiffs generally cannot appeal.
- Defendants may have limited appeal rights.
Final Thoughts
Filing a small claims case in San Bernardino, California doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right forms, proper service, and organized evidence, you can confidently present your case---without hiring an attorney.
Services like SmallClaimsHero can help you prepare and file your San Bernardino small claims case correctly from start to finish, saving time and avoiding mistakes.