Small Claims Court is a special court where you can resolve disputes quickly and inexpensively. The rules are simple. You are not allowed to have an attorney represent you (except on appeal).
Monetary Limits for Small Claims Court: The amount in dispute may not exceed $10,000 for a natural person. If you are filing on behalf of a business the limit of your claim may not exceed $5,000. You may file as many claims as you wish for up to $2,500 in small claims court but are limited to 2 claims for up to $5,000 each calendar year. If you are suing a guarantor, you may sue for a maximum of $4,000 (or $2,500 if the guarantor does not charge for the service). A guarantor is one who promises to be responsible for the debt or default of another. Small Claims and Civil Restraining Orders ZoomGov Instructions (English and Spanish)
Starting November 1, 2021, you can sue or be sued for COVID-19 rental debt in small claims. If you are suing a tenant for COVID-19 rental debt, you can sue for more than $10,000. For more information. Learn More.
Small claims pleadings and documents may be filed at the following locations: Hayward Hall of Justice
24405 Amador Street
Hayward, CA 94544
Phone: 510-690-2700 Oakland
1225 Fallon Street
Oakland, California 94612
Phone: 510-891-6000 Online