Small Claims Division

Small Claims Courts were established to handle minor legal disputes quickly, inexpensive and fairly. California law prohibits attorneys from representing another person at the Small Claims court hearing. The court hearing on a Small Claims action is normally held within 30 to 70 days after the claims is filed with the court.

Hours of Operation: 8:00 am to 4:00 pm (Monday through Friday)

Jurisdictional Limit:
There is a jurisdictional limit of $7,500 in filing a claim in the Small Claims division.

Information and forms:
Any requests for information or forms must include a self-addressed stamped envelope. The postage is 66 cents; if you want the Small Claims booklet, the postage is $1.50. In addition, there is a charge of $2.00 for each form packet and/or handbook.

Interpreter information:
If you have difficulties in speaking or understanding the English language, bring a friend or someone else to help you. The court has a list of court interpreters available who will interpret for a fee. The list is available in the Small Claims office. You will have to make your own arrangements to obtain an interpreter. Court interpreters are not provided free of charge unless you are eligible for a fee waiver.

Legal Advisor Information:
Walk-in office hours for the legal advisor are:
8:30 a.m. -12:00 p.m. (Monday through Friday)
1:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. (Monday through Thursday)

Public Access to Small Claims Cases:
The public can now view case history over the internet by going to our electronic website http://www.sfgov.org/site/courts_page.asp?id=77500. Case information is available by party name or by case number. Please click on the following link for more information. Statewide links and useful resources: http://www.courtinfo.ca.gov/smallclaims/resource.htm

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