Small Claims Court Prep Guide

Eligibility: CA small claims limit is $12,500 for individuals — $3,800 qualifies. Filing fee: ~$30–$75 depending on county. File at the courthouse in the county where the contractor lives or works. Documentation Checklist: ✓ Signed contract (bring 3 copies). ✓ Venmo receipt showing $3,800 payment. ✓ Text message screenshots printed and organized by date. ✓ Sent emails with delivery confirmation. ✓ Timeline of events typed on one page. Case Presentation (3 minutes): 'Your Honor, on [date] I hired [contractor] for a bathroom remodel and paid a $3,800 deposit per our signed contract. Work was scheduled to begin [date] and never started. I have made 15 documented attempts to resolve this. I am requesting return of my $3,800 deposit.' Do NOT: ramble, express anger, or discuss unrelated grievances.