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Tenant Small Claims Resource Library

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 TO TENANTS SUED FOR COVID-19 RENTAL DEBT IN SMALL CLAIMS: 

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: 
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 – Download here

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 –

  • 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:

These resources are designed for tenants on housing-relating issues only. Individuals interested in other types of small claims suits can attend Small Claims workshops provided by the Los Angeles County Department of Consumer and Business Affairs (DCBA).

DCBA also offers small claims advisory services, including: 

IMPORTANT / IMPORTANTE

All LAFLA offices will be closed
Friday, December 6, 2024
for an all-staff meeting.

Todas las oficinas de LAFLA estarán cerradas
el viernes 6 de diciembre de 2024
para una reunión del personal de LAFLA.