The SC-100 form is a legal document known as the Plaintiff's Claim and Order to Go to Small Claims Court. This form is essential for individuals looking to file a claim in small claims court, as it outlines the details of the case, including the parties involved and the nature of the claim. If you're ready to take action, fill out the form by clicking the button below.
The SC-100 form, officially known as the Plaintiff's Claim and Order to Go to Small Claims Court, is a vital document for individuals and businesses seeking to resolve disputes in small claims court. This form serves as the initial step for plaintiffs who wish to file a claim against a defendant, outlining the nature of the dispute and the amount owed. It includes essential sections where plaintiffs must provide their information, details about the defendant, and a clear explanation of the claim. The form also emphasizes the importance of attending the scheduled court date, as failure to appear can lead to a loss of the case. Defendants, on the other hand, are informed of their rights and responsibilities, including the need to bring evidence and witnesses to support their case. Additionally, the SC-100 form contains instructions for both parties, ensuring they understand the process and the implications of their actions in court. Overall, this form plays a crucial role in facilitating the small claims process, making it accessible and straightforward for all involved.
Plaintiff's Claim and ORDER
Clerk stamps date here when form is filed.
SC-100
to Go to Small Claims Court
Notice to the person being sued:
•You are the defendant if your name is listed in 2 on page 2 of this form. The person suing you is the plaintiff, listed in 1 on page 2.
•You and the plaintiff must go to court on the trial date listed below. If you do not go to court, you may lose the case.
•If you lose, the court can order that your wages, money, or property be taken to pay this claim.
•
Bring witnesses, receipts, and any evidence you need to prove your case.
Fill in court name and street address:
Read this form and all pages attached to understand the claim against you
Superior Court of California, County of
and to protect your rights.
Aviso al Demandado:
•Usted es el Demandado si su nombre figura en 2 de la página 2 de este formulario. La persona que lo demanda es el Demandante, la que figura en
1 de la página 2.
Court fills in case number when form is filed.
Usted y el Demandante tienen que presentarse en la corte en la fecha del
Case Number:
juicio indicada a continuación. Si no se presenta, puede perder el caso.
Si pierde el caso la corte podría ordenar que le quiten de su sueldo, dinero u
Case Name:
otros bienes para pagar este reclamo.
•Lleve testigos, recibos y cualquier otra prueba que necesite para probar su caso.
•Lea este formulario y todas las páginas adjuntas para entender la demanda en su contra y para proteger sus derechos.
Order to Go to Court
The people in 1 and 2 must go to court: (Clerk fills out section below.)
Trial
1.
Date
Time
Department
Name and address of court, if different from above
2.
3.
Date:
Clerk, by
, Deputy
Instructions for the person suing:
•You are the plaintiff. The person you are suing is the defendant.
•Before you fill out this form, read form SC-100-INFO, Information for the Plaintiff, to know your rights. Get SC-100- INFO at any courthouse or county law library, or go to www.courts.ca.gov/smallclaims/forms.
•Fill out pages 2 and 3 of this form. Then make copies of all pages of this form. (Make one copy for each party named in this case and an extra copy for yourself.) Take or mail the original and these copies to the court clerk’s office and pay the filing fee. The clerk will write the date of your trial in the box above.
•You must have someone at least 18—not you or anyone else listed in this case—give each defendant a court-stamped copy of all five pages of this form and any pages this form tells you to attach. There are special rules for “serving,” or delivering, this form to public entities, associations, and some businesses. See forms SC-104, SC-104B, and SC-104C.
•Go to court on your trial date listed above. Bring witnesses, receipts, and any evidence you need to prove your case.
Judicial Council of California, www.courts.ca.gov Revised January 1, 2020, Mandatory Form Code of Civil Procedure, §§ 116.110 et seq., 116.220(c), 116.340(g)
SC-100, Page 1 of 5
(Small Claims)
Plaintiff (list names):
1The plaintiff (the person, business, or public entity that is suing) is:
Name:
Phone:
Street address:
Street
City
State
Zip
Mailing address (if different):
If more than one plaintiff, list next plaintiff here:
Check here if more than two plaintiffs and attach form SC-100A.
Check here if either plaintiff listed above is doing business under a fictitious name. If so, attach form SC-103.
Check here if any plaintiff is a “licensee” or “deferred deposit originator” (payday lender) under Financial Code sections 23000 et seq.
2The defendant (the person, business, or public entity being sued) is:
If the defendant is a corporation, limited liability company, or public entity, list the person or agent authorized for service of process here:
Job title, if known:
Address:
State Zip
Check here if your case is against more than one defendant, and attach form SC-100A.
Check here if any defendant is on active military duty, and write his or her name here:
3 The plaintiff claims the defendant owes $
. (Explain below):
a. Why does the defendant owe the plaintiff money?
When did this happen? (Date):
b. If no specific date, give the time period: Date started:
Through:
c.How did you calculate the money owed to you? (Do not include court costs or fees for service.)
Check here if you need more space. Attach one sheet of paper or form MC-031 and write “SC-100, Item 3” at the top.
Revised January 1, 2020
Plaintiff’s Claim and ORDER to Go to Small Claims Court
SC-100, Page 2 of 5
4You must ask the defendant (in person, in writing, or by phone) to pay you before you sue. If your claim is for possession of property, you must ask the defendant to give you the property. Have you done this?
Yes
No
If no, explain why not:
5Why are you filing your claim at this courthouse?
b.
c.
d.
e.
(4)Where a contract (written or spoken) was made, signed, performed, or broken by the defendant or where the defendant lived or did business when the defendant made the contract.
Where the buyer or lessee signed the contract, lives now, or lived when the contract was made, if this claim, is about an offer or contract for personal, family, or household goods, services, or loans. (Code Civ. Proc., § 395(b).)
Where the buyer signed the contract, lives now, or lived when the contract was made, if this claim is about a retail installment contract (like a credit card). (Civ Code, § 1812.10.)
Where the buyer signed the contract, lives now, or lived when the contract was made, or where the vehicle is permanently garaged, if this claim is about a vehicle finance sale. (Civ Code, § 2984.4.)
Other (specify):
6List the zip code of the place checked in 5 above (if you know):
7
Is your claim about an attorney-client fee dispute?
If yes, and if you have had arbitration, fill out form SC-101, attach it to this form, and check here:
8
Are you suing a public entity?
If yes, you must file a written claim with the entity first.
A claim was filed on (date):
If the public entity denies your claim or does not answer within the time allowed by law, you can file this form.
9Have you filed more than 12 other small claims within the last 12 months in California?
No If yes, the filing fee for this case will be higher.
10 Is your claim for more than $2,500?
If yes, I have not filed, and understand that I cannot file, more than two small claims cases for more than $2,500 in California during this calendar year.
11I understand that by filing a claim in small claims court, I have no right to appeal this claim.
I declare, under penalty of perjury under California State law, that the information above and on any attachments to this form is true and correct.
Plaintiff types or prints name here
Plaintiff signs here
Second plaintiff types or prints name here
Second plaintiff signs here
Requests for Accommodations
Assistive listening systems, computer-assisted real-time captioning, or sign language interpreter services are available if you ask at least five days before the trial. Contact the clerk’s office for form MC-410, Request for Accommodations by Persons With Disabilities and Response. (Civ. Code, § 54.8.)
SC-100, Page 3 of 5
Information for the defendant (the person being sued)
"Small claims court" is a special court where claims for $10,000 or less are decided. Individuals, including "natural persons" and sole proprietors, may claim up to $10,000. Corporations, partnerships, public entities, and other businesses are limited to claims of $5,000. (See below for exceptions.*) The process is quick and cheap. The rules are simple and informal. You are the defendant—the person being sued. The person who is suing you is the plaintiff.
Do I need a lawyer? You may talk to a lawyer before or after the case. But you may not have a lawyer represent you in court (unless this is an appeal from a small claims case).
How do I get ready for court? You don’t have to file any papers before your trial, unless you think this is the wrong court for your case. But bring to your trial any witnesses, receipts, and evidence that supports your case. And read “Be Prepared for Your Trial” at www.courts.ca.gov/smallclaims/prepare.
What if I need an accommodation? If you have a disability or are hearing impaired, fill out form MC-410, Request for Accommodations. Give the form to your court clerk or the ADA/ Access Coordinator.
What if I don’t speak English well? Ask the court clerk as soon as possible for a court-provided interpreter. You may use form INT-300 or local court form to request an interpreter. If a court interpreter is not available at the time of your trial, it may be necessary to reschedule your trial. You cannot bring your own interpreter for the trial unless the interpreter has been approved by the court as a certified, registered, or provisionally qualified interpreter. (See Cal. Rules of Court, rule 2.893, and form INT-140.)
Where can I get the court forms I need? Go to any courthouse or your county law library, or print forms at www. courts.ca.gov/smallclaims/forms.
What happens at the trial? The judge will listen to both sides. The judge may make a decision at your trial or mail the decision to you later.
What if I lose the case?If you lose, you may appeal. You’ll have to pay a fee. (Plaintiffs cannot appeal their own claims.)
•If you were at the trial, file form SC-140, Notice of Appeal. You must file within 30 days after the clerk hands or mails you the judge's decision (judgment) on form SC-200 or form SC-130, Notice of Entry of Judgment.
•If you were not at the trial, fill out and file form SC-135, Notice of Motion to Vacate Judgment and Declaration, to ask the judge to cancel the judgment (decision). If the judge does not give you a new trial, you have 10 days to appeal the decision. File form SC-140.
For more information on appeals, see www.courts.ca.gov/ smallclaims/appeals.
Do I have options?
Yes. If you are being sued, you can:
•Settle your case before the trial. If you and the
plaintiff agree on how to settle the case, the plaintiff must file form CIV-110, Request for Dismissal, with the clerk. Ask the Small Claims Advisor for help.
•Prove this is the wrong court. Send a letter to the court
before your trial explaining why you think this is the wrong court. Ask the court to dismiss the claim. You must serve (give) a copy of your letter (by mail or in person) to all parties. (Your letter to the court must say you have done so.)
•Go to the trial and try to win your case. Bring
witnesses, receipts, and any evidence you need to prove your case. To have the court order a witness to go to the trial, fill out form SC-107 (Small Claims Subpoena) and have it served on the witness.
•Sue the person who is suing you. If you have a claim
against the plaintiff, and the claim is appropriate for small claims court as described on this form, you may file Defendant's Claim (form SC-120) and bring the claim in this action. If your claim is for more than allowed in small claims court, you may still file it in small claims court if you give up the amount over the small claims value amount, or you may file a claim for the full value of the claim in the appropriate court. If your claim is for more than allowed in small claims court and relates to the same contract, transaction, matter, or event that is the subject of the plaintiff's claim, you may file your claim in the appropriate court and file a motion to transfer the plaintiff's 's claim to that court to resolve both matters together. You can see a description of the amounts allowed in the paragraph above titled “Small Claims Court.”
•Agree with the plaintiff's claim and pay the
money. Or, if you can’t pay the money now, go to your trial and say you want to make payments.
•Let the case "default." If you don’t settle and do not go to the trial (default), the judge may give the plaintiff what he or she is asking for plus court costs. If this happens, the plaintiff can legally take your money, wages, and property to pay the judgment.
What if I need more time?
You can change the trial date if:
You cannot go to court on the scheduled date (you will have to
•pay a fee to postpone the trial), or
You did not get served (receive this order to go to court) at least
•15 days before the trial (or 20 days if you live outside the county), or
You need more time to get an interpreter. One postponement is
•allowed, and you will not have to pay a fee to delay the trial. Ask the Small Claims Clerk about the rules and fees for postponing a trial. Or fill out form SC-150 (or write a letter) and mail it to the court and to all other people listed on your court papers before the deadline. Enclose a check for your court fees, unless a fee waiver was granted.
? Need help?
Your county’s Small Claims Advisor can help for free.
Or go to www.courts.ca.gov/smallclaims/advisor.
* Exceptions: Different limits apply in an action against a defendant who is a guarantor. (See Code Civ. Proc., § 116.220(c).)
SC-100, Page 4 of 5
Información para el demandado (la persona demandada)
La “Corte de reclamos menores” es una corte especial donde se deciden casos por $10,000 o menos. Los individuos, o sea las “personas físicas” y los propietarios por cuenta propia, pueden reclamar hasta $10,000. Las corporaciones, asociaciones, entidades públicas y otras empresas solo pueden reclamar hasta $5,000. (Vea abajo para las excepciones.*) El proceso es rápido y barato. Las reglas son sencillas e informales. Usted es el Demandado—la persona que se está demandando. La persona que lo está demandando es el Demandante.
¿Necesito un abogado? Puede hablar con un abogado antes o después del caso. Pero no puede tener a un abogado que lo represente ante la corte (a menos que se trate de una apelación de un caso de reclamos menores).
¿Cómo me preparo para ir a la corte? No tiene que presentar ningunos papeles antes del juicio, a menos que piense que ésta es la corte equivocada para su caso. Pero lleve al juicio cualquier testigos, recibos y pruebas que apoyan su caso. Y lea “Esté preparado para su juicio” en www.courts.ca.gov/reclamosmenores/preparese.
¿Qué hago si necesito una adaptación? Si tiene una discapacidad o tiene impedimentos de audición, llene el formulario MC-410, Request for Accomodations. Entregue el formulario al secretario de la corte o al Coordinador de Acceso/ADA de su corte.
¿Qué pasa si no hablo bien inglés? Solicite un intérprete al secretario de la corte lo más pronto posible. Puede usar el formulario INT-300 o un formulario de su corte local. Si no está disponible un intérprete de la corte para su juicio, es posible que se tenga que cambiar la fecha de su juicio. No puede llevar su propio intérprete para el juicio a menos que el intérprete haya sido aprobado por la corte como un intérprete certificado, registrado, o provisionalmente calificado. (Vea la regla 2.893 de las Reglas de la Corte de California, y el formulario INT-140.)
¿Dónde puedo obtener los formularios de la corte que necesito? Vaya a cualquier edificio de la corte, la biblioteca legal de su condado, o imprima los formularios en www.courts.ca.gov/ smallclaims/forms (página está en inglés).
¿Qué pasa en el juicio? El juez escuchará a ambas partes. El juez puede tomar su decisión durante la audiencia o enviársela por correo después.
¿Qué pasa si pierdo el caso? Si pierde, puede apelar. Tendrá que pagar una cuota. (El Demandante no puede apelar su propio reclamo.)
•Si estuvo presente en el juicio, llene el formulario SC-140, Aviso de apelación (Notice of Appeal). Tiene que presentarlo dentro de 30 días después de que el secretario le entregue o envíe la decisión (fallo) del juez en el formulario SC-200 o SC-130, Aviso de publicación del fallo (Notice of Entry of Judgment).
•Si no estuvo en el juicio, llene y presente el formulario SC-135, Aviso de petición para anular el fallo y Declaración para pedirle al juez que anule el fallo (decisión). Si la corte no le otorga un nuevo juicio, tiene 10 días para apelar la decisión. Presente el formulario SC-140.
Para obtener más información sobre las apelaciones, vea www.
courts.ca.gov/reclamosmenores/apelaciones.
¿Tengo otras opciones? Sí. Si lo están demandando, puede:
•Resolver su caso antes del juicio. Si usted y el Demandante se ponen de acuerdo en cómo resolver el caso, el Demandante tiene que presentar el formulario CIV-110, Solicitud de desestimación (Request for Dismissal) ante el secretario de la corte. Pídale al Asesor de Reclamos Menores que lo ayude.
•Probar que es la corte equivocada. Envíe una carta a la corte antes del juicio explicando por qué cree que es la corte equivocada. Pídale a la corte que despida el reclamo.Tiene que entregar (dar) una copia de su carta (por correo o en persona) a todas las partes. (Su carta a la corte tiene que decir que hizo la entrega.)
•Ir al juicio y tratar de ganar el caso. Lleve testigos, recibos y cualquier prueba que necesite para probar su caso. Si desea que la corte emita una orden de comparecencia para que los testigos vayan al juicio, llene el formulario SC-107, Citatorio de reclamos menores (Small Claims Subpoena) y entrégueselo legalmente al testigo.
•Demandar a la persona que lo demandó. Si tiene un reclamo contra el Demandante, y el reclamo se puede presentar en la corte de reclamos menores, tal como se describe en este formulario, puede presentar el formulario SC-120, Reclamo del demandado (Defendant’s Claim) y presentarlo en este mismo caso. Si su reclamo excede el límite permitido en la corte de reclamos menores, puede igualmente presentarlo en la corte de reclamos menores si está dispuesto a limitar su reclamo al máximo permitido, o puede presentar un reclamo por el monto total en la corte apropiada. Si su reclamo excede el límite permitido en la corte de reclamos menores y está relacionado con el mismo contrato, transacción, asunto o acontecimiento que el reclamo del Demandante, puede presentar su reclamo en la corte apropiada y presentar una moción para transferir el reclamo del Demandante a dicha corte, para poder resolver los dos reclamos juntos. Puede ver una descripción de los montos permitidos en el párrafo anterior titulado “Corte de reclamos menores”.
•Aeptar el reclamo del Demandante y pagar el dinero. O, si no puede pagar en ese momento, vaya al juicio y diga que quiere hacer los pagos.
•No ir al juicio y aceptar el fallo por falta de comparecencia. Si no llega a un acuerdo con el Demandante y no va al juicio (fallo por falta de comparecencia), el juez le puede otorgar al Demandante lo que está reclamando más los costos de la corte. En ese caso, el Demandante legalmente puede tomar su dinero, su sueldo o sus bienes para cobrar el fallo.
¿Qué hago si necesito más tiempo? Puede cambiar la fecha del juicio si:
•No puede ir a la corte en la fecha programada (tendrá que pagar una cuota para aplazar el juicio), o
•No le entregaron los documentos legalmente (no recibió la orden para ir a la corte) por lo menos 15 días antes del juicio (ó 20 días si vive fuera del condado), o
•Necesita más tiempo para conseguir intérprete. (Se permite un solo aplazamiento sin tener que pagar cuota para aplazar el
juicio).
Pregúntele al secretario de reclamos menores sobre las reglas y las cuotas para aplazar un juicio. O llene el formulario SC-150 (o escriba una carta) y envíelo antes del plazo a la corte y a todas las otras personas que figuran en sus papeles de la corte. Adjunte un cheque para pagar los costos de la corte, a menos que le hayan dado una exención.
?¿Necesita ayuda? El Asesor de Reclamos Menores de su condado le puede ayudar sin cargo.
O visite www.courts.ca.gov/reclamosmenores/asesores.
* Excepciones: Existen diferentes límites en un reclamo contra un garante. (Vea el Código de Procedimiento Civil, sección 116.220 (c).)
Reclamo del Demandante y ORDEN
SC-100, Page 5 of 5
Para Ir a la Corte de Reclamos Menores
(Reclamos Menores)
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Completing the SC-100 form is a crucial step in initiating a small claims case. This form requires specific information about both the plaintiff and the defendant, as well as details regarding the claim itself. Follow the steps below to ensure that you fill out the form correctly and efficiently.
After completing these steps, you will have successfully filled out the SC-100 form and initiated your small claims process. Be prepared to attend your trial on the date specified by the court, bringing any necessary evidence and witnesses to support your case.
What is the SC-100 form?
The SC-100 form, also known as the Plaintiff's Claim and Order to Go to Small Claims Court, is a legal document used in California small claims court. It allows a plaintiff to formally file a claim against a defendant. This form outlines the details of the claim, including the parties involved, the amount of money being claimed, and the reasons for the claim.
Who is considered the plaintiff and who is the defendant?
The plaintiff is the individual or entity that initiates the lawsuit, seeking a remedy or payment. The defendant is the person or entity being sued. Their names are listed on page 2 of the SC-100 form, with the plaintiff in section 1 and the defendant in section 2.
What should I bring to court on the trial date?
Both the plaintiff and the defendant should bring any relevant evidence to support their case. This includes:
What happens if I do not attend the court hearing?
If either party fails to attend the court hearing, they may lose the case. The court can issue a default judgment in favor of the attending party, allowing them to collect the amount claimed, which may include wages, money, or property.
How do I file the SC-100 form?
To file the SC-100 form, complete pages 2 and 3 of the form. Make copies for each party involved in the case, as well as an extra for your records. Submit the original and copies to the court clerk's office along with the required filing fee. The clerk will then schedule a trial date and provide you with a stamped copy of the form.
Can I have a lawyer represent me in small claims court?
What should I do if I need more time before the trial?
If you cannot attend the trial on the scheduled date, you may request a postponement. You will need to fill out form SC-150 or write a letter to the court. Reasons for postponement may include:
One postponement is typically allowed without a fee. Contact the Small Claims Clerk for specific rules and fees.
Filling out the SC-100 form can be a straightforward process, but many people make mistakes that can complicate their claims. One common error is not providing complete information about the plaintiff and defendant. Missing names, addresses, or phone numbers can lead to delays or even dismissals. Always double-check that all required fields are filled out accurately.
Another mistake is failing to specify the amount owed clearly. When stating the claim amount, it’s important to include a detailed explanation of why the defendant owes the plaintiff money. Omitting this information can weaken your case. Make sure to outline the reasons and provide any relevant dates.
Some individuals forget to check the appropriate boxes regarding additional plaintiffs or defendants. If there are more parties involved, it’s crucial to attach the necessary forms. This oversight can create confusion and complicate the case further.
People often neglect to serve the defendant properly. The SC-100 form requires that the defendant receives a stamped copy of the claim. If this step is skipped, the court may not proceed with the case. Be sure to follow the instructions on how to serve the documents correctly.
Another frequent issue is not bringing enough evidence to court. Many forget to gather receipts, witnesses, or any documentation that supports their claim. Arriving at court without this evidence can significantly impact the outcome of the case.
Some filers also overlook the importance of understanding the court's jurisdiction. It’s essential to file the claim in the correct courthouse based on where the defendant lives or where the incident occurred. Filing in the wrong location can lead to dismissal.
Additionally, failing to read the instructions thoroughly can lead to mistakes. The SC-100 form comes with detailed guidelines that explain how to fill it out correctly. Ignoring these can result in errors that could have been easily avoided.
Lastly, many people miss the deadline for filing their claims. Each small claims case has specific timelines that must be adhered to. Being late can mean losing the opportunity to have your case heard. Always keep track of important dates and file your claim on time.
The SC-100 form, known as the Plaintiff's Claim and Order to Go to Small Claims Court, is often accompanied by several other forms and documents. These documents help clarify the case and ensure that all parties are informed and prepared for the trial. Below is a list of commonly used forms alongside the SC-100.
These forms and documents play a vital role in the small claims process, ensuring that all parties have the necessary information and support to navigate their cases effectively. Always make sure to check for any updates or changes to the forms before filing.
When filling out the SC-100 form, there are several important do's and don'ts to keep in mind to ensure your submission is correct and effective.
This form is applicable to both individuals and businesses. Corporations and public entities can also file claims, but they have a lower limit on the amount they can claim.
While you can consult a lawyer for advice, you cannot have one represent you during the trial. This is designed to keep the process simple and accessible.
Preparation is essential. You should gather all relevant evidence, such as receipts and witness statements, to support your case during the trial.
You can appeal if you were present at the trial. However, if you did not attend, you must file a different form to request a new trial.
The form is designed to be straightforward. It includes clear instructions to guide both plaintiffs and defendants through the process.
Failing to attend the court date may result in a default judgment against you. It is crucial to appear in court to defend your case.
Understand Your Role: If your name appears in section 2 of the SC-100 form, you are the defendant. The person suing you is the plaintiff, listed in section 1.
Prepare for Court: Both you and the plaintiff must attend court on the trial date. Failing to appear may result in losing your case, so it’s crucial to be present.
Gather Evidence: Bring any witnesses, receipts, and evidence that support your case. This preparation can significantly impact the outcome of your trial.
Know the Process: Familiarize yourself with the form and its requirements. Understanding your rights and responsibilities can help protect your interests throughout the process.