How to File a Small Claims Case in Los Angeles (Step-by-Step)

Small claims court is designed to be simple and accessible — no lawyers needed. But knowing the exact process for Los Angeles County saves you time and prevents mistakes. Here’s your complete walkthrough.

Am I Eligible for Small Claims?

Before filing, confirm: – Your claim is $12,500 or less (individuals) or $6,250 or less (businesses) – The defendant lives, works, or does business in LA County (or the incident happened here) – You’ve demanded payment and been refused – You’re filing within the statute of limitations (typically 2–4 years depending on the claim type)

Step 1: Send a Demand Letter

Before filing, send a written demand to the other party. This isn’t legally required, but: – It may resolve the dispute without court – Judges look favorably on plaintiffs who attempted to resolve things first – It puts the defendant on notice

Keep a copy of the letter and proof of mailing.

Step 2: Complete the Forms

You’ll need: – SC-100 — Plaintiff’s Claim and ORDER to Go to Small Claims Court – SC-104 — Declaration and ORDER (if you need to file in a specific courthouse)

Tips for SC-100: – Describe your claim in plain language – Include the exact dollar amount you’re seeking – Name the correct defendant (individual name, not just “that company”) – For businesses, name the legal entity AND the individual owner if possible

Step 3: File at the Correct Courthouse

File at the LA County courthouse for the defendant’s location:

Defendant Location	Courthouse
Downtown LA, Central LA	Stanley Mosk, 111 N. Hill St.
Long Beach, South Bay	Gov. Deukmejian, 275 Magnolia Ave.
Pasadena, Northeast	Pasadena, 300 E. Walnut St.
Burbank, Glendale	Burbank, 300 E. Olive Ave.
Van Nuys, North Valley	Van Nuys, 6230 Sylmar Ave.
Pomona, West Covina	Pomona, 400 Civic Center Plaza
Santa Monica, Westside	Santa Monica, 1725 Main St.
Torrance, South Bay	Torrance, 825 Maple Ave.
Compton, South LA	Compton, 200 W. Compton Blvd.

Filing fees:

Claim Amount	Fee
$1–$1,500	$30
$1,501–$5,000	$50
$5,001–$12,500	$75

Step 4: Serve the Defendant

The defendant must receive copies of your filed claim at least 15 days before the hearing (25 days if served by mail).

Service methods: – Personal service — Someone 18+ (not you) hands the papers to the defendant – Substituted service + mail — Left with a competent adult at defendant’s home/work, plus mailed – Certified mail with return receipt — The court clerk can do this for you

Step 5: Prepare for the Hearing

Organize your evidence: – Contracts or agreements – Photos and videos – Text messages and emails – Receipts and invoices – Witness statements – Your demand letter and proof of mailing – Any other documentation

Practice your story. You’ll have about 5–10 minutes to present your case to the judge. Be clear, chronological, and factual.

Step 6: The Hearing

Arrive early, dress professionally
Both parties present their case — plaintiff first, then defendant
The judge may ask questions
No attorneys allowed (unless both sides agree and the court approves)
Decision is usually mailed within a few days

Step 7: Collecting Your Judgment

Winning is only half the battle. If the defendant doesn’t pay voluntarily, you can: – Wage garnishment — Take money from their paycheck – Bank levy — Freeze and collect from their bank account – Property lien — Attach a lien to their real property – Vehicle lien — Through the DMV

How Superior Court Docs Can Help

While small claims is designed for self-representation, getting your forms right matters. Superior Court Docs can prepare your small claims paperwork and help ensure everything is properly filed.

📞 (213) 973-7248 or get started.