1 Understand What Small Claims Court Is
Small Claims Court in California handles disputes involving:
- Individuals: Up to $12,500
- Businesses: Up to $6,250
The process is designed to be:
- Fast and informal
- Low cost
- Easy to navigate without an attorney
Important: Attorneys cannot 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 types of small claims cases in San Diego 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 Diego
You can file a small claims case in San Diego city courts if:
- The dispute occurred within San Diego city limits
- The person you are suing lives, works, or does business in San Diego
Filing in the correct venue is essential. Filing in the wrong location can delay your case or result in dismissal.
4 Fill Out the Required Forms
To start your case, complete:
- Plaintiff’s Claim and Order to Go to Small Claims Court (Form SC‑100)
The form requires:
- Your name and contact information
- Defendant’s name and address
- The amount you are claiming
- A brief explanation of why you are suing
Where to get forms:
- California Courts website
- San Diego Superior Court clerk’s office
5 File Your Claim With the Court
After completing Form SC‑100, you can file your claim:
- In person at the San Diego County Superior Court clerk’s office
- By mail (original plus copies)
- Online (e‑filing), if available for your courthouse
Filing Fees (Typical):
- Up to $1,500 → $30
- $1,500.01 to $5,000 → $50
- $5,000.01 to $12,500 → $75
If you have filed more than 12 small claims cases in the last 12 months, the filing fee may increase to $100. Fee waivers are available for those who qualify.
Court Location:
Hall of Justice Court
330 West Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101
6 Serve the Defendant With Court Papers
Once your case is filed, the defendant must be served:
- Personal service: Hand-delivered by someone over 18
- Certified mail: Through the court clerk
- Substituted service: Left with an adult at home/work plus mailing
After service, file a Proof of Service (Form SC‑104) with the court.
You cannot serve the papers yourself.
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 (judge, defendant, yourself)
San Diego offers access to Small Claims Advisors for free guidance on preparing your case.
8 Attend Your Small Claims Hearing
Hearings are usually scheduled 30–70 days after filing.
At the hearing:
- Explain your claim briefly
- Judge asks questions
- Defendant presents their side
- Decision may be issued immediately or mailed later
9 After the Court’s Decision
- If you win: The court issues a judgment stating how much the defendant owes. You may need to collect the money using:
- Wage garnishment
- Bank levies
- Property liens
- If you lose: Plaintiffs generally cannot appeal; defendants may have limited appeal rights.
Final Thoughts
Filing a small claims case in San Diego, California is manageable if you:
- Complete the right forms
- Serve the defendant properly
- Organize your evidence
With careful preparation, you can present your case confidently—without hiring an attorney. Services like SmallClaimsHero can also guide you through the process if you want extra support.