What types of cases can I bring in small claims court?

What the Law Says

California law strictly defines which cases belong in small claims court — based on claim amount, subject matter, and who may file. The rules prioritize speed, simplicity, and fairness for everyday disputes.

Small claims court in California handles only civil cases for monetary damages — not criminal matters, family law, or requests for non-money remedies like restraining orders or evictions (which go to other courts).

Individuals may sue for up to $12,500 per calendar year. However, if you file more than two claims over $7,500 in one year, only the first two count toward that higher limit — all others are capped at $7,500. Businesses and government entities are limited to $6,250 per claim, regardless of how many they file.

You cannot use small claims court to sue for libel, slander, malicious prosecution, or false imprisonment — those must go to civil court. You also cannot file for divorce, child custody, name changes, or bankruptcy here.

Statutory Text

A natural person may not file more than two actions in a calendar year in which the demand for money exceeds seven thousand five hundred dollars ($7,500).

— Code of Civil Procedure, § 116.221 — Limitation on number of actions

Statutory Text

The jurisdictional limit for a small claims court action is twelve thousand five hundred dollars ($12,500) for a natural person and six thousand two hundred fifty dollars ($6,250) for any other party.

— Code of Civil Procedure, § 116.220 — Jurisdictional limits

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