Small Claims Court in Sonoma County

In Sonoma County, CA small claims cases are filed in the Small Claim Court. Sonoma County has one Courthouse that handles small claims, serving different jurisdictions.

Squabble can help you easily navigate the small claims court system to file a claim. We understand that not everyone is a legal expert, and we're here to make the process as simple as possible. In this guide, we'll address your questions about filing claims in the Ventura Court System.

Small Claims Court

Small Claims Court is designed to make resolving disputes easier and more accessible for people who want a quick and affordable way to handle legal issues. Here’s a breakdown of the main features:

Key Characteristics of Small Claims Court:

  • Quick and Inexpensive: The court is designed for cases that are typically straightforward and for smaller amounts of money. It’s meant to resolve disputes quickly, saving time and money for all parties involved.
  • No Attorneys Allowed (except on appeal): The rules are simple, and you represent yourself in court. This helps keep costs down. You can consult a lawyer for advice beforehand, but lawyers are not allowed to represent you during the hearing, except if there’s an appeal.
  • Claims Limit:
    • For individuals, the maximum amount you can sue for is $12,500.
    • For businesses, the limit is $6,250.
  • Informal and Simple: The court's process is straightforward and less formal than other courts, making it easier for people who aren’t familiar with the legal system to present their case and understand what’s going on.

Types of Cases Handled

Small Claims Court is typically used for:

  • Disputes over property damage or repair costs
  • Unpaid loans or bills
  • Landlord/tenant issues, like disputes over security deposits
  • Car accidents
  • Breach of contract

Benefits:

  • Cost-Effective: With lower filing fees and no attorney fees, it’s a budget-friendly option for people seeking to resolve smaller disputes.
  • Speed: Small Claims hearings are generally held sooner than regular court cases, and the decision is usually made either right at the hearing or shortly thereafter.

If you're considering Small Claims Court for a dispute, it’s definitely a good choice if you’re dealing with a relatively simple case and the amount you're seeking is within the court's limits. Just make sure you're prepared with all necessary documents, evidence, and witnesses to support your case.

Before you file a Claim

Those are great points to keep in mind when filing a claim in Small Claims Court! Here's a quick summary of the key requirements:

  1. Age Requirement
    • 18 years or older: You must be at least 18 years old to file a claim in Small Claims Court.
    • Under 18: If you are under 18, you can ask the court to appoint a guardian ad litem (usually a parent, relative, or adult friend) to represent you.
  2. Demand Requirement
    • Make a Demand: Before filing **a claim, you are typically required to make a demand for payment or resolution from the defendant. If the defendant refuses or doesn’t respond, only then can you file the claim.
  3. Ownership of the Claim
    • Original Owner: You must be the original owner of the claim to sue in Small Claims Court. If you purchased the claim or it was assigned to you, you generally cannot file the claim unless it falls under certain exceptions.
  4. Appearance Requirement
    • In-Person Appearance: You must attend the hearing in person to represent yourself. The only exceptions are when you're filing on behalf of a corporation or other entity:
    • Corporation: An employee, officer, or director must attend on behalf of the corporation.
    • Other Entities: A regularly employed person of the entity must attend.
  5. Possession of Property
    • Property Claims: If your case involves possession of property, you must first request the defendant to return or give you the property before filing the claim.

Additional Notes

  • These rules are set to ensure fairness and that the right party is pursuing the case. It's important to follow these steps closely to avoid your case being dismissed or delayed.

General Advice

Be sure to check all the requirements and deadlines carefully before filing your claim. Gather any evidence, documentation, and make sure to follow all the necessary procedures, such as serving the defendant, to avoid delays in your case.

Waiting Period

After you file your claim, you may need to wait 60 to 70 days before your case is heard. This period allows the court to process paperwork, schedule your hearing, and notify the other party. The exact time can vary depending on the court’s schedule and your case’s specifics.

During this waiting period, it’s important to stay prepared:

  • Gather your evidence: Collect any necessary documents, receipts, photos, or contracts that support your claim.
  • Organize your documents: Having your paperwork in order will help you present a stronger case.
  • Stay ready for your hearing: Once scheduled, be sure you are ready to present your case in court.

Plaintiff

  1. Contact the Other Party
    • Try to resolve the dispute before going to court.
    • Consider mediation if direct communication doesn’t work.
  2. Familiarize Yourself with Small Claims Court Procedures
    • Understand small claims court rules and limits (e.g., $12,500 for individuals).
    • Be clear about the amount in dispute, including all fees and damages.
  3. File the Claim
    • Complete the Plaintiff's Claim (SC-100) form.
    • Pay the filing fee, which varies by the amount claimed.
    • If applicable, file a Fictitious Business Name Declaration (SC-103).
  4. Arrange for Service of Process
    • Have the defendant served with the claim by a process server or sheriff.
    • Submit Proof of Service (SC-104) to the court to show the defendant was properly notified.
    • Ensure the defendant is given at least 15 to 30 days’ notice before the hearing.
  5. Prepare for the Hearing
    • Organize your evidence (receipts, contracts, photos, etc.).
    • Prepare witnesses and consider potential defenses from the defendant.
  6. Keep Communication Open
    • Try resolving the issue again before the hearing if possible.
  7. Attend the Hearing and Present Your Case
    • Present your evidence clearly and answer questions directly.
    • Be respectful and follow court etiquette throughout the hearing.

By following these steps and being well-prepared, you increase your chances of a favorable outcome in small claims court.

Defendant

  1. Contact the Plaintiff and Try to Resolve the Dispute
    • Reach out for resolution: Try to settle the issue outside of court before the hearing. Small claims court is often used as a last resort, so attempting to resolve the matter first can save time and money for both parties.
    • Consider mediation: If direct communication doesn’t work, consider mediation, which may help resolve the issue without going to court.
  2. Familiarize Yourself with Small Claims Court Procedures
    • Understand the process: Review small claims court procedures so you know what to expect. Understand the rules and limits for claims, and the steps involved in the case.
    • Determine your position: Be clear on the plaintiff’s claim against you and understand the evidence they will present. This will help you prepare your defense.
  3. Consider Bringing a Counterclaim (If You Have One)
    • File a counterclaim: If you have a valid claim against the plaintiff, consider filing a counterclaim. This allows both issues to be heard in the same hearing.
    • Complete the necessary forms: File the appropriate forms, such as SC-120 for counterclaims, to ensure the court hears both sides.
  4. Prepare for the Hearing
    • Organize your case: Gather all necessary evidence to support your defense, such as contracts, receipts, emails, text messages, or any other relevant documents.
    • Witnesses: If you have witnesses, ensure they are available for the hearing. You may need to subpoena them.
    • Anticipate the plaintiff’s argument: Think about the plaintiff’s case and prepare counter arguments for their points.
  5. Keep Communication Open
    • Continue trying to resolve the issue: Even after you’ve been served with notice of the lawsuit, attempt to work things out with the plaintiff. A settlement outside of court could lead to the case being dropped or settled more favorably.
  6. If You Owe Money, Try to Pay It or Work Out a Payment Plan
    • Pay or propose a payment plan: If you owe money, try to pay it before the hearing or propose a payment plan. Courts often allow defendants to pay over time.
    • Bring proof of payment: If you’ve already made a payment or started a plan, bring proof of this to the hearing.
  7. Request a Postponement (If Necessary)
    • Request a delay: If you need more time to gather evidence or resolve the matter, request a postponement before the hearing. The court will decide whether to grant this.
    • Postpone for informal resolution: If you're close to resolving the issue informally, ask the court for more time to finalize the agreement.
  8. Avoid a Judgment Against You
    • Credit record concerns: A judgment against you can affect your credit. Try to resolve the issue before the hearing to avoid a judgment being entered.
  9. Attend the Hearing and Present Your Defense
    • Present your case: On the day of the hearing, present your side of the story, explain why you disagree with the plaintiff’s claim, and show your evidence.
    • Be respectful and professional

Where to File

When filing a small claims case, it's important to choose the correct venue (court district) to avoid delays or potential dismissal. The correct venue depends on various factors, such as:

  1. Where the Defendant Lives or Business Location:
    • Individual Defendants: File where the defendant lives.
    • Business Defendants: File where the business operates.
  2. Where the Damage or Accident Occurred:
    • For property damage or accidents, file in the district where it happened.
  3. Where the Contract Was Signed or Performed:
    • If dealing with a contract, file where it was signed or where obligations were carried out.
  4. Corporations:
    • For corporate lawsuits, file where the corporation operates or where the contract was signed.
  5. Retail Installment Accounts and Sales Contracts:
    • File where the defendant lives, where the contract was signed, or where goods are kept.

Key Points:

  • Filing in the wrong venue could lead to dismissal, but it can be corrected if all defendants agree to the court.
  • Multiple Defendants: Follow proper venue rules for each defendant.
  • Always verify with a court clerk to confirm the correct venue before filing.

Selecting the correct venue ensures that your case is handled by the right court, preventing delays or the dismissal of your case.

Notifying the Defendant of the Claim

Properly notifying the defendant about your lawsuit is a crucial step in the small claims process, as it ensures your case moves forward without delays or issues. This is done through "service of process," where a copy of your claim is delivered to the defendant. Here are the four accepted methods:

  1. Service by a Law Officer
    • Fee: There is a fee for this service.
    • How It Works: A law enforcement officer (like a sheriff) delivers the claim to the defendant.
  2. Process Server
    • Fee: There is typically a fee for this service.
    • How It Works: A hired process server delivers the documents to the defendant. The process server must be at least 18 years old and not involved in the case.
    • Registered Process Servers: These professionals can be hired for a fee to serve the defendant.
  3. Certified Mail
    • Fee: There is a fee for this service.
    • How It Works: The court clerk can send the claim to the defendant via certified mail. You must verify that the defendant signed for the mail, confirming they received the notice.
  4. Substituted Service
    • How It Works: If the defendant cannot be served directly, you can serve someone else at their home or business, such as a family member or roommate. This method has specific rules that must be followed precisely

Important Notes:

  • Deadline for Service: Service must occur by a specific date, or your trial may be delayed.
    • For defendants within the county: Service must occur at least 10 days before the trial date.
    • For defendants outside the county: Service must occur at least 15 days before the trial.

Before the hearing, ensure that all required documentation (like certified mail receipts) is submitted to the court to verify proper service.

By following the correct method and timelines for service, you ensure that the defendant is properly notified, preventing delays or dismissal of your case.

Cost

In Small Claims Court, the filing fees depend on the amount of your claim and how many claims you've filed in the past 12 months. Here's a breakdown of the fees:

For the First 12 Claims in a Year:

  • Claims of $1,500 or less:/ The filing fee is $30.
  • Claims greater than $1,500 but less than or equal to $5,000: The filing fee is $50.
  • Claims exceeding $5,000: The filing fee is $75.

After Filing 12 Claims in a Year:

  • Claims of $5,000 or less: The filing fee increases to $75.
  • Claims over $5,000: The filing fee increases to $100.

Additional Notes:

  • Uniform Fees: These filing fees apply consistently across all counties in the state.
  • Fee Waiver: If you're unable to afford the filing fees, you can request a fee waiver by submitting the appropriate form to the court.

These fees help cover the administrative costs of processing your case and ensure that the court system remains efficient. If you're unsure about your eligibility for a fee waiver or need assistance, contacting the court clerk can help guide you through the process.

Hearing

When attending your Small Claims Court hearing, it is essential to bring all relevant evidence to strengthen your case. Here’s what you should prepare and bring with you:

Types of Evidence to Bring:

  1. Witnesses:
    • If there are people who can provide testimony relevant to your case, bring them with you to court. Their statements can help back up your side of the story and provide additional credibility to your claims.
  2. Photos:
    • Visual evidence can be very powerful. If you are claiming damages (e.g., property damage or injuries), bring photos that clearly show the extent of the damages or injuries. Pictures can speak louder than words in many cases.
  3. Bills and Receipts:
    • Documentation of any financial transactions, such as receipts, bills, or payment records, is crucial. These documents can show that you have made payments or incurred expenses related to the claim. They help to substantiate your financial loss or payments for goods and services.
  4. Contracts:
    • If your case involves a written contract or agreement, bring a copy with you. The terms of the contract are essential in cases involving business transactions, leases, or agreements. It can clarify any misunderstandings regarding what was agreed upon.
  5. Other Relevant Documents:
    • Any other documents that are important to your case, such as emails, text messages, letters, or other correspondence, should be brought to court. These can provide additional context or demonstrate the timeline of events that led to the dispute.

Additional Tips:

  • Organize your evidence: Make sure everything is well-organized and easy to reference during your hearing. Bring multiple copies of your evidence, one for the judge, one for the defendant, and one for yourself.
  • Be prepared to explain your evidence: The judge may ask questions about the evidence, so be ready to explain how each piece supports your case.

By presenting solid, well-organized evidence and having witnesses to back up your claims, you will increase your chances of winning your case.

After the Hearing

In Small Claims Court, the judge (or a Commissioner or temporary judge) will carefully listen to both sides of the case before making a decision. Here's what you can expect after the hearing:

Decision Outcome:

  1. Immediate Decision:
    • Sometimes, the judge will issue a decision immediately at the end of the hearing. This means the judge has heard all the evidence and will provide their ruling on the spot.
  2. Decision Later:
    • In some cases, the judge may take the case under advisement and mail the decision to you later. This usually happens if the judge needs more time to review the evidence or if there are complex issues involved.

Temporary Judges (Judge Pro Tem):

  • What Is a Temporary Judge?:
    • A temporary judge, often a qualified lawyer, can hear and decide your case. They have the same authority as a regular judge.
  • Requesting a Regular Judge:
    • If you prefer a regular judge instead of a temporary one, you can request this. However, keep in mind that this could lead to a delay and possibly rescheduling your hearing for a later date.

Key Tip for Success:

Being well-prepared and organized with your evidence will help you present your case clearly and effectively, whether you are in front of a regular judge, temporary judge, or commissioner. Having everything in order will help ensure that the judge understands your position and can make an informed decision.

Appeal

The appeal process in Small Claims Court can be a bit complex, and it's important to understand the rules and procedures if you're considering an appeal. Here’s an overview:

Who Can Appeal?

  1. Plaintiff (Person Who Filed the Claim):
    • No Appeal Rights: If you were the plaintiff and lost the case, you cannot appeal the decision. Once the judge has ruled, that decision is final.
  2. Defendant (Person Being Sued):
    • Right to Appeal: If you were the defendant and lost, you do have the right to appeal. You can file an appeal to have the case heard by a different judge.

What if You Missed the Hearing?

  • Defendant: If you missed the hearing, you cannot appeal simply because of your absence.
  • However, you may be able to request the judgment be vacated and a new hearing scheduled. This is a separate process from filing an appeal and has specific requirements.

Filing an Appeal

  1. Form to File:
    • To appeal a small claims judgment, you must complete and file a Notice of Appeal (form SC-140). You can file this in person or by mail.
  2. Deadline:
    • You must file the appeal within 30 days from the date the court mails the Notice of Entry of Judgment.
  3. Cost:
    • The cost for filing an appeal is typically $75.

After You Appeal

  1. New Hearing Scheduled:
    • After filing the appeal, a new hearing will be scheduled. Your case will be heard by a different judge, giving you a fresh review of the situation.
  2. What to Expect at the New Hearing:
    • Present Your Evidence Again: You will need to present the same evidence again to the new judge.
    • Explain Your Side: You will explain why you disagree with the previous judgment and present your arguments accordingly.

Key Differences in the Appeal Hearing

  • Legal Representation:
    • In Small Claims Court, neither party can have a lawyer during the original hearing, but in the appeal hearing, both parties can have legal representation.
    • Review of the Case:
    • The new judge will review the case from scratch, and may allow new evidence or arguments to be presented. Be prepared to introduce any new information that may be relevant to the case.

Final Considerations

  • Appeals Extend the Process:
    • Keep in mind that the appeal process can delay the resolution of your case, as it involves another round of hearings and legal procedures.
  • Prepare Thoroughly:
    • Since an appeal allows for a fresh review of your case, be sure to organize your evidence, arguments, and any new information carefully.

Following these procedures is essential to ensure your appeal is processed smoothly and you get a fair hearing. Be aware of the deadlines and costs associated with filing an appeal, and make sure you're prepared for the possibility of a prolonged process.

Statute of Limitations

Understanding the statute of limitations is crucial when filing a claim in Small Claims Court. The statute of limitations is the time period within which you must file your lawsuit. If you miss the deadline, you lose your right to pursue the case. Below is a breakdown of the key time limits for common types of claims:

  1. Personal Injury
    • Time Limit: 2 years from the date of the injury.
    • Example: If you were injured in a car accident or because of someone's negligence, you must file your claim within two years from the date of the incident.
  2. Verbal (Spoken) Agreement
    • Time Limit: 2 years from the date the agreement was breached.
    • Example: If you had a verbal contract, and the other party did not fulfill their obligations, you have two years from when the breach occurred to file your claim.
  3. Written Agreement
    • Time Limit: 4 years from the date the agreement was breached.
    • Example: If you entered into a written contract, and the other party violated the terms, you have four years from the date of the breach to take legal action.
  4. Property Damage
    • Time Limit: 3 years from the date the damage occurred.
    • Example: If someone damages your property (e.g., broken windows, vandalism), you have three years from the date the damage occurred to file your claim.
  5. Fraud
    • Time Limit: 3 years from when you discovered the fraud or when you should have reasonably discovered it.
    • Example: If you were defrauded (e.g., someone lied to you to take your money), you have three years from when you became aware of the fraud to file a claim.
  6. Suing a Government Agency
    • Time Limit: 6 months to file a claim with the government agency.
    • Process: If you are suing a government agency or public body, you must first file a claim with the agency within six months. The agency has 45 days to respond. If they deny or fail to respond, you then have six months to file your case in Small Claims Court.

What Happens if You Miss the Statute of Limitations?

If you miss the deadline, the court will likely dismiss your case, as it will be considered time-barred. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of the time limits for your specific case and file your claim within the required timeframe.

Tips for Ensuring Timely Filing

  • File Early: If you're unsure about the statute of limitations for your particular case, it's always a good idea to file your claim as soon as possible to avoid missing the deadline.
  • Consult with a Professional: If you are unsure of the time limit or need clarification, consider consulting with a legal professional or court clerk to confirm the applicable statute of limitations for your case.

Court

In Small Claims Court, you must appear in person to represent yourself unless certain exceptions apply. You cannot send someone else, including a lawyer, to represent you unless the situation meets specific criteria.

Exceptions to the Rule:

  1. Active Military Duty
    • Eligibility: If you are on active duty in the armed forces and were assigned to a duty station after your claim arose, and your assignment is for more than six months, you may be able to have someone else represent you in court.
    • How It Works: You must file an Authorization to Appear (Small Claims) form (SC-109) to allow another person to represent you. This authorization must be submitted before the hearing.
  2. Business Cases
    • Sole Proprietor (Only Owner of a Business):
      • Generally, the sole owner of a business must appear in court. However, if the claim is related to a business account and you can provide relevant evidence, a regular employee with knowledge of the account may represent you.
    • Business with Partners:
      • If your business has partners, one of the partners must appear in court.
    • Corporations:
      • If the business is a corporation, an employee, officer, or director must attend the hearing. However, they must hold an official position with the corporation, not just be hired to represent the corporation.

Why These Rules Matter:

The goal behind these rules is to ensure that the person representing the case has direct knowledge of the facts, business operations, or financial details. This helps maintain fairness and ensures that the facts of the case are accurately presented.

Key Reference:

For more detailed information on who can appear on your behalf in different situations, refer to Civil Code of Procedures Section 116.540.

When in Doubt:

If you're unsure whether you qualify for any of these exceptions, it's always a good idea to contact the court for guidance. They can provide clarity on the specific requirements for your situation and help ensure you're following the correct procedures.

Collect

After Winning a Small Claims Court Case:

Once you win a Small Claims Court case, the court’s role in collecting the judgment essentially ends. The court will issue the necessary documents and orders allowing you to pursue the collection efforts, but it’s your responsibility to collect the money.

Tools for Collecting the Judgment:

  1. Wage Garnishments:
    • How It Works: This allows you to take a portion of the debtor’s wages directly from their employer until the debt is paid off.
    • Considerations: The court can issue an order for wage garnishment, but there are limits to how much can be garnished based on the debtor’s income.
  2. Bank Levies:
    • How It Works: This involves freezing the debtor's bank account to collect the money directly from the account.
    • Considerations: You’ll need to know where the debtor’s bank account is located and request a levy through the court.
  3. Property Liens:
    • How It Works: You can place a lien on the debtor's property, preventing them from selling or refinancing it without paying the debt.
    • Considerations: If the debtor sells or refinances their property in the future, you may be able to recover the debt from the sale proceeds.

Important Factors to Consider:

  1. Debtor’s Ability to Pay:
    • Key Issue: If the debtor has no income, assets, or property of value, collecting the judgment can be difficult or even impossible.
    • Reality Check: Even though you have collection tools at your disposal, they may not be effective if the debtor doesn’t have the financial means to pay.
  2. Payment Plans:
    • Possible Scenario: The debtor may approach you with an offer for a payment plan.
    • Consideration: While you’re not obligated to accept a payment plan, it can be a good way to recover some of the money over time if you believe the debtor is trustworthy.
    • Tip: If you agree to a payment plan, ensure the terms are clearly documented in writing to avoid misunderstandings.
  3. Cost and Time of Collection:
    • Costs: Debt collection can be lengthy and costly, especially if the debtor is actively avoiding payment.
    • Realistic Expectations: Consider whether pursuing further collection efforts is worth the cost, especially if the debtor has limited resources.
  4. Decision to Pursue Further Collection:
    • Cost-Benefit Analysis: At some point, you’ll need to decide whether continuing collection efforts is worth it. If the debtor has limited assets, the time and money spent may exceed the amount you would recover.
    • Strategic Decision: Sometimes, it may be wiser to cut your losses and move on, rather than continue pursuing a debt that may never be collected.

Key Takeaways:

  • Collection is Not Guaranteed: Despite winning the case, collecting the judgment can be challenging, especially if the debtor is unable or unwilling to pay.
  • Keep Expectations Realistic: Understand that collection efforts may not be fruitful if the debtor lacks assets or income.
  • Professional Help: If you're unsure about whether to pursue further collection efforts or need assistance, consulting with a professional or attorney specializing in collections can provide valuable guidance.

Enforcement of the judgment

Enforcing a Judgment in Small Claims Court: Key Points and Timelines

Once you've won a Small Claims Court case, the process of enforcing the judgment can take time. Here's a breakdown of the key steps and timelines involved in the enforcement of a judgment:

  1. 30-Day Appeal Period
    • What It Means: After the judgment is entered, the debtor has 30 days to file an appeal. During this period, the judgment is not enforceable. The debtor is not required to pay, and you cannot begin the collection process.
    • After the Appeal: If the debtor appeals the judgment, you must wait until the appeal is resolved before you can enforce the judgment. If the appeal is denied, the case returns to Small Claims Court, and you can then proceed with collection.
  2. Judgment Enforcement Timeline
    • 10-Year Enforceability: In general, judgments are enforceable for 10 years from the date they are entered. This provides a decade of opportunity to collect the debt.
    • Renewal of Judgment: You can renew the judgment for an additional 10 years if necessary.
      • Important: After renewing the judgment, you cannot renew it again for 5 years. This means you must wait five years before you can apply for another renewal.
  3. Judgment Debtor's Statement of Assets (SC-133)
    • What It Is: If the debtor does not appeal, file a motion to vacate, or voluntarily pay the judgment, they are required to complete the Judgment Debtor's Statement of Assets (SC-133) form and send it to you. This form provides critical information about the debtor’s financial situation, including their:
      • Income
      • Assets
      • Bank accounts
    • Why It's Important: The SC-133 will help you decide which collection actions to pursue, such as:
      • Garnishing wages
      • Levying bank accounts
      • Seizing property
    • Follow-Up: It’s crucial to follow up on the debtor’s submission of the form, as it provides the information needed to take further steps in collecting the debt.
  4. What Happens If the Debtor Refuses to Provide Information
    • Refusal to Submit SC-133: If the debtor refuses to complete and submit the Judgment Debtor's Statement of Assets, you can request the court's assistance to compel them to provide the necessary information.
    • Debtor’s Examination: The court can schedule a debtor’s examination, where the debtor will be required to appear in front of the judge and answer questions about their assets. This can help gather the information needed to enforce the judgment.
  5. Tracking Renewals and Deadlines
    • Stay Diligent: It’s important to keep track of renewal dates and appeal deadlines to avoid missing any opportunities to extend the judgment or start enforcement. Missing these critical dates could severely impact your ability to collect the debt.

Final Tip:

The collection process can be lengthy, particularly if the debtor has limited financial resources. However, staying organized and proactive about: - Deadlines - Required forms (like SC-133) - Available enforcement tools (wage garnishment, bank levies, liens)

By remaining diligent, you'll maximize your chances of successfully collecting the judgment. If the debtor continues to avoid payment or is uncooperative, consider seeking professional legal help to explore more advanced options for enforcement.

Courthouse Location:

Superior Court of California Sonoma County

3055 Cleveland Ave.
Santa Rosa CA 95403
(707) 521-6610
https://sonoma.courts.ca.gov/divisions/small-claims

BUILDING HOURS

  • Office Hours: 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM Mon-Fri
  • Court Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Mon-Fri
  • Phone Hours: 8:00 AM to Noon Mon-Fri
  • Except court holidays.

CITIES SERVED

  • Santa Rosa
  • Petaluma
  • Rohnert Park
  • Windsor
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  • Sonoma
  • Cloverdale
  • Boyes Hot Springs
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  • Cotati
  • Sebastopol
  • Guerneville
  • Forestville
  • El Verano
  • Sonoma State University
  • Penngrove
  • Graton
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  • Sea Ranch
  • Glen Ellen
  • Occidental
  • Geyserville
  • Fulton
  • Monte Rio
  • Bodega
  • Eldridge
  • Kenwood
  • Cazadero
  • Timber Cove
  • Sereno Mar
  • Carmet
  • Salmon Creek

Let Squabble Help You With Your Claim at Sonoma County

Don't let the complexity of the legal system deter you from seeking justice and compensation for your claim. With Squabble, you have a partner to simplify the process and help you navigate the path to resolution. If you're considering filing a claim at Sonoma County small claims court, Squabble is here to assist you every step of the way. Contact us today to start your journey toward justice and compensation. Get started today and become one of the 95% of our customers who won or settled their case.

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