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What forms do I need for California Small Claims Court?"
While California has tried to simplify the forms used in Small Claims Court, it can still be confusing to choose the right form to use and when it should be used. We have compiled a list of some frequently used forms in California Small Claims Court.
Starting the Lawsuit
I am the one suing:
Plaintiff’s Claim and Order to Go to Small Claims Court (SC-100)
This form starts the California Small Claims Court lawsuit process.
It is also known as the "complaint" or "claim."
This is the first document you need to file if you are suing someone. Download here.
Once you complete this form, you are ready to file your small claims lawsuit.
Proof of Service (Small Claims) (SC-104)
Once the defendant has been served with the Plaintiff’s Claim and Order to Go to Small Claims Court (SC-100), then you need to file proof that the Defendant has been served. This form is called "Proof of Service." Download here.
I have been sued:
Defendant's Claim and Order to Go to Small Claims Court (SC-120)
Someone sued you, now what?
You can sue someone who has sued you in the same case. This is called a countersuit.
Proof of Service (Small Claims) (SC-104)
Once you have served the person who sued you with Defendant’s Claim and Order to Go to Small Claims Court (SC-120), then you need to file proof that you served the person who sued you. This form is called "Proof of Service." Download here.
The lawsuit has been filed. What's the next step?
Change Trial Date.
Use this form if you need to change your small claims court trial date.
Once you file this form with the Small Claims Court, you need to serve the other party.
You can serve the Request to Postpone Trial (SC-150) in person or by mail (by mail is easier and cheaper).
Then file Proof of Service” (SC-104) if served in person or Proof of Service by Mail (SC-112A) if served by mail. Download
Go to court on behalf of a business or individual.
If the lawsuit is filed on behalf of a business, this form needs to be filed.
Get witnesses subpoenaed for trial.
Use this form when you need the court's help in ordering someone to go to court for your small claims hearing. Download here.
Get documents subpoenaed for trial.
Use this form when you need the court's help in ordering someone to provide documents.
End the lawsuit.
No longer want to sue? Ask the Court to Dismiss Your Case. Download "Dismissal (CIV-110)" here.
For a full list of the forms, check out the California Courts website here. There also may be a court specific form for your local court. Check your local small claims court website to learn more.
Camila Lopez
Chief Legal Architect & Co-Founder @ People Clerk. Camila holds a law degree and is a certified mediator. Her passion is breaking down complicated legal processes so that people without an attorney can get justice.