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HOW-TO GUIDES: Filing a Small Claims

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How to file a Small Claim

Has your former landlord refused to return your security deposit? Did a mechanic fail to fix your car and will not return your money? Did you lend money to a friend and they now refuse to pay you back? Did you pay a contractor to work on your home and they didn't do the work or did a bad job?

If you are in a dispute with another individual over an issue that is $12,500 or less (or a business over an issue that is $6,250 or less), then you can file a small claim against them to recover your losses in the San Mateo County Superior Court.

See the California Court's website for more information on Small Claims procedures.

Small Claims Advisor Program
The San Mateo County Superior Court also offers a Small Claims Advisor to assist with Small Claims through a10-minute telephone appointment. Each customer is limited to one 10-minute slot. Please do not sign-up for multiple slots on the same day, only one request per session will be honored. Please sign up at calendly.com/allencapeloto. Appointments will become available each Tuesday morning. Please visit when in-person appointments resume, if you wish to have the assistance of a translator.

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