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Scammers are impersonating Pretrial Services to collect payments for GPS monitoring and other services.  Pretrial Services will never ask defendants or their family members for money. If you receive such a call, do not send payment or share any personal information.  Hang up and report it to law enforcement immediately.

Small Claims Court

Small Claims Court is a special court where you can resolve disputes quickly  and inexpensively. The rules are simple. You are not allowed to have an attorney represent you (except on appeal).

Small Claims Court Overview

Monetary Limits for Small Claims Court: The amount in dispute may not exceed $12,500 for a natural person. If you are filing on behalf of a business the limit of your claim may not exceed $6,250.

You may file as many claims as you wish for up to $2,500 in small claims court but are limited to 2 claims for up to $5,000 each calendar year. 

Covid-19 Rental Debt Cases

IMPORTANT: As of 10/1/2025, a landlord can no longer sue in Small Claims court for unpaid COVID-19 rental debt above $12,500. COVID-19 rental debt means unpaid rent and other costs incurred before Sept. 30, 2021, due to COVID-19.

Small Claims Court Services

  • Getting Help with Your Case

    Find resources to help with your case, including Fee Waivers, Mediation, and Small Claims Advisors.

    View Getting Help with Your Case

  • Small Claims Hearings

    Small Claims cases are heard in person at the Hayward Hall of Justice. Hearings may be scheduled for either the morning or afternoon session. For information about remote appearances, please click on the link above, Learn More about remote appearances.  

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