What is small claims court??
Small claims court is an expedited and informal court process. Tenants can consult with an attorney about their small claims court case; however, tenants must represent themselves in their small claims court hearings.?
See resources on small claims court below.
Assistance for Tenants Sued for COVID-19 Rental Debt in Small Claims Court:
As of November 1, 2021, tenants can be sued by their landlord for the rent they were unable to pay during the COVID-19 pandemic. A suit for COVID-19 rental debt is different than an eviction (unlawful detainer), but it is still important for tenants who receive a COVID-19 rental debt lawsuit to engage in the court process and appear at their small claims court hearing.COVID-19 Rental Debt Resource Library:?
- Post-Judgment Guide: After your small claims hearing
- Webinar:
- How to Vacate a Default Judgment
- Judgment Debtor Examination Fact Sheet
- Impact of Rental Debt on Credit Report and Tenant Screening Fact Sheet
- Webinar: ?
For Legal Services Providers
Legal Services Providers can access training and materials on COVID-19 rental debt in small claims court by downloading Small Claims Back Rent Tool Kit –
Assistance to Tenants to Sue Their Landlords in Small Claims Court:
Tenants can file an action in small claims court against their landlord for up to $10,000 where they believe their landlord is violating the law.
Tenants experiencing harassment can also reference LAFLA’s Tenant Harassment Project page.
Tenants’ Affirmative Small Claims Resource Library:?
More information about the small claims process –
- Tenants Small Claims Process Overview
- Webinar:
- Webinar:
- Service of Process via the LA County Sheriff
- Collecting a Small Claims Judgment – details about the steps to obtain a levy, lien, or garnishment to collect a court judgment?
- ?
Sample forms and templates:
- Security Deposit in Small Claims Guide
These resources are designed for tenants on housing-relating issues only. Individuals interested in other types of small claims suits can attend .
DCBA also offers small claims advisory services, including:?