Small Claims Court in Yolo County

In Yolo County, CA small claims cases are filed in the Small Claim Court. Yolo County has one Courthouse that handles small claims, serving different jurisdictions.

Squabble can help you easily navigate the small claims court system to file a claim. We understand that not everyone is a legal expert, and we're here to make the process as simple as possible. In this guide, we'll address your questions about filing claims in the Yolo Court System.

Small Claims Court

Small Claims Court in Yolo County is designed to be a straightforward, cost-effective, and efficient way to resolve disputes. Here’s a quick breakdown of the key aspects of the process:

Who’s Who in Small Claims Court:

• Plaintiff: The person filing the case. This is you if you are suing someone.
• Defendant: The person being sued. This is the person or entity you're seeking to hold accountable.

Do I Need a Lawyer?

• Self-Representation: In Small Claims Court, you must represent yourself. While you can consult a lawyer for advice beforehand, lawyers are not allowed to speak on your behalf during the hearing.
• Goal: The primary aim is to make the legal process more accessible and allow individuals to handle their disputes without the need for attorneys.

How Much Can You Sue For?

• Maximum for Individuals: If you’re suing an individual, the maximum amount you can claim is $12,500.
• Claims Over $12,500: If your claim exceeds this amount, you have two choices:
  • File a Limited Civil Case: If you want to pursue the full amount, you can file a limited civil case in a regular court.
  • File in Small Claims Court: You can still file in Small Claims Court, but you would need to waive any amount above $12,500.

How Often Can You File a Claim?

• Unlimited Claims: You can file unlimited Small Claims cases throughout the year.
• Limit on Claims Over $2,500: If your claim is over $2,500, you can only file two such claims per calendar year.

Why Choose a Small Claims Court?

Small Claims Court is a great option for resolving disputes quickly and without the complexity and costs of a full court trial. It’s designed to be user-friendly and affordable, making it easier for individuals to seek justice in a timely manner.

If you're unsure about whether your case qualifies or have any questions, it’s always a good idea to reach out to a court clerk who can help guide you through the next steps.

Before you file a Claim

What to Know Before Filing a Small Claims

1. Age Requirement
   • You must be at least 18 years old to file a case on your own.
   • If you are under 18, the court requires that a guardian ad litem (usually a parent or responsible adult) file and appear on your behalf.
2. Demand Requirement
   • Before you file a claim, you must make a genuine effort to resolve the issue with the other party.
   • This can be done through a conversation, a written demand letter, or another formal request.
   • If the other party refuses to resolve the issue or ignores your request, you may proceed with filing the case.
3. Ownership of the Claim
   • Only the person or business who owns the claim can file it in Small Claims Court.
   • You cannot file on behalf of someone else, and you cannot sue over a claim that was transferred or gifted to you unless it meets specific legal requirements.
4. Appearance Requirement
   • Small Claims Court requires that you represent yourself—attorneys are not allowed to appear for you during the hearing.
   • Individuals must appear in person.
   • Businesses must send a corporate officer, director, or a regular employee who is familiar with the case.
   • Failure to appear may result in the case being dismissed or a judgment entered against you.
5. Claims Involving Property (Not Money)
   • If your case involves the return of personal property instead of money, you must first ask the other party to return the item.
   • This request should be made before filing and, if possible, documented in writing.
   • If the request is refused or ignored, you can move forward with filing the claim.

Types of Cases

Small Claims Court in Yolo County offers a faster and less formal way to resolve disputes—without the need for an attorney. If you're thinking about filing a claim, it’s helpful to understand the kinds of cases that are most commonly heard in this court and how the process works once you begin.

Common Types of Small Claims Cases

1. Car Accidents
   • If you’ve been involved in a car accident that wasn’t your fault and the other party won’t pay for damages, Small Claims Court allows you to seek compensation for:
     • Repair costs
     • Medical bills
     • Other related out-of-pocket expenses
2. Property Damage
   • If someone damages your property—such as a broken window, dented appliance, or damaged landscaping—and refuses to pay for the repairs or replacement, you can file a claim to recover the loss.
3. Security Deposit Disputes (Landlord-Tenant)
   • One of the most frequent Small Claims cases involves tenants who believe their landlord wrongfully withheld a security deposit. If your landlord:
     • Refuses to return your deposit, or
     • Deducts money without a valid reason,
   • You can sue to recover the withheld amount. Be prepared to bring documentation such as your lease, photos, and correspondence.
4. Collection of Unpaid Debts
   • If someone owes you money from a personal loan, unpaid services, or a shared expense and refuses to pay, Small Claims Court provides a straightforward way to try and recover the debt—especially if the amount doesn't justify the cost of hiring a lawyer.

After You File a Claim

Preparing for Your Small Claims Hearing in Marin County After you file a Small Claims case in Yolo County, the court will assign a hearing date—typically about 60 to 70 days from the filing date. This waiting period gives the court time to process your paperwork, notify the other party, and schedule your case for review.

Rather than simply waiting, this is your opportunity to prepare and strengthen your case. Here's how to make the most of that time:

1. Gather Your Evidence
   • Begin collecting all documents and materials that support your claim. The goal is to help the judge understand your position clearly and confidently. Useful evidence may include:
     • Receipts for purchases or services
     • Repair estimates or invoices
     • Medical bills (if seeking compensation for injury-related expenses)
     • Photos or videos showing damages or relevant events
     • Contracts, agreements, or any other signed documentation
     • Text messages, emails, or letters related to the dispute
2. Organize Your Documents
   • Once you have gathered your materials, organize them in a way that tells a clear and logical story. Group similar items together, label documents for easy reference, and bring at least three copies—one for you, one for the judge, and one for the other party.
   • A well-organized presentation not only helps the judge follow your case but also shows that you are taking the process seriously.
3. Prepare for the Hearing
   • On your court date, you will need to present your case calmly, clearly, and respectfully. Practice answering possible questions and be ready to tell your side using facts rather than emotions.
   • Consider these preparation tips:
     • Write a short outline of what you plan to say
     • Practice explaining your case out loud
     • Stay respectful, even if the other party disagrees or interrupts
   • The more prepared you are, the more confident and persuasive you’ll be in court.

Plaintiff

Step 1: Contact the Other Party

• Before you file a claim, make a good faith effort to resolve the issue directly. A respectful conversation, phone call, or written request for payment can often resolve disputes without court involvement.
• Consider Mediation
  • If communication doesn't work, mediation may help. This is an informal meeting between both parties facilitated by a neutral third party who helps guide you toward a resolution. Mediation is often free or low-cost and can save time, stress, and money.

Step 2: Understand the Court Rules

• Before filing your case, take time to learn how Small Claims Court works. Key points include:
  • Claim Limit: Up to $12,500 for individuals in California
  • Case Types: Common cases include unpaid loans, security deposit disputes, property damage, or breach of contract
  • Statute of Limitations: Make sure your case is still within the time allowed by law
  • Hearing Process: Learn what happens in court and what’s expected of you
• Also, calculate the full amount you’re owed, including repair costs, unpaid wages, or other damages.

Step 3: File Your Claim

• To start a case, complete Form SC-100 (Plaintiff’s Claim and Order to Go to Small Claims Court). This form tells the court and the defendant what your claim is about and how much you’re seeking.
  • Filing Fee: Ranges from $30 to $100, based on your claim amount
  • Business Claims: If filing for a business, you may need a valid Fictitious Business Name Statement
  • Filing Methods: File in person, by mail, or online (if available in your county)

Step 4: Serve the Defendant

• After filing, you must legally notify the defendant by delivering a copy of your claim.
  • Use a sheriff, process server, or a qualified adult over 18 (you cannot serve the papers yourself)
  • Service must be completed at least 15 days before the hearing if the defendant is in the same county, or 20 days if they’re in a different county
  • After service, file Form SC-104 (Proof of Service) with the court to confirm proper notice was given

Step 5: Prepare for the Hearing

• With a hearing typically scheduled 60 to 70 days after filing, use this time to gather your materials and plan your presentation.
  • Collect evidence such as receipts, contracts, estimates, photos, or written communications
  • Prepare witnesses who have firsthand knowledge of the issue
  • Think about what the other side might argue and be ready to respond
  • Organize all documents for easy reference in court

Step 6: Keep Communication Open

• You’re encouraged to continue communicating with the other party even after filing. If you reach a resolution, you can notify the court and potentially cancel the hearing or request a judgment based on the agreement.

Step 7: Attend the Hearing and Present Your Case

• On your hearing date:
  • Arrive early and dress appropriately
  • Bring all necessary documents and witnesses
  • Present your case respectfully and clearly, sticking to the facts
  • Answer the judge’s questions directly and stay calm throughout
• After the hearing, the judge may announce a decision immediately or send it to both parties by mail.

Defendant

Step 1: Contact the Plaintiff

• Before the hearing, consider reaching out to the person who filed the claim. A respectful conversation may help resolve the issue without needing to go to court, saving time and stress for both sides.
• Try Mediation
  • If direct communication doesn’t lead to a solution, mediation is a helpful next step. In San Luis Obispo County, free or low-cost mediation services are available to help both parties reach a fair agreement without going to trial.

Step 2: Understand the Process

• Take time to familiarize yourself with how Small Claims Court works so you can feel more confident going in.
  • The maximum claim for individuals is usually $12,500.
  • Carefully read the Plaintiff’s Claim (Form SC-100) to understand what the plaintiff is requesting and why.
  • Learn about hearing procedures, deadlines, and what to expect in the courtroom.

Step 3: Consider Filing a Counterclaim

• If you believe the plaintiff actually owes you money or caused you harm, you may file a Defendant’s Claim (Form SC-120).
• This must be filed before the scheduled hearing date, and your claim must fall within the court’s financial limits.

Step 4: Prepare for the Hearing

• Gather all the materials that support your side of the story, including:
  • Receipts, invoices, or contracts
  • Photos, videos, or written messages
  • Emails, texts, or letters related to the case
  • Witnesses with direct knowledge of the events
• Organize your documents so that you can present them clearly to the judge.

Step 5: Stay Open to Settlement

• Even after being served, you can still try to settle the case. If you and the plaintiff reach an agreement, notify the court. You may be able to cancel the hearing or request a dismissal.

Step 6: If You Owe Money, Be Proactive

• If you believe the plaintiff’s claim is correct, consider taking responsibility before the hearing:
  • Pay the amount you owe and bring proof to court.
  • Offer a reasonable payment plan and provide documents that show your willingness to resolve the issue.

Step 7: Request a Postponement If Needed

• If you’re not ready for your hearing—whether you need more time to collect evidence, find a translator, or prepare your defense—you can request a continuance.
• Submit your request in writing as early as possible. The court must approve the request, so do not wait until the last minute.

Step 8: Avoid a Judgment

• Settling the dispute before the hearing is one of the best ways to avoid a court judgment. A judgment could impact your credit and lead to wage garnishment, liens, or other collection efforts. If possible, resolve the matter before your court date.

Step 9: Attend the Hearing

• On your hearing day:
  • Arrive early and dress appropriately
  • Bring all relevant documents and evidence, with copies for the judge and the plaintiff
  • Be respectful to everyone in the courtroom, including the judge and opposing party
  • Present your side clearly and honestly, focusing on the facts

Where to File

What is Venue?

• Venue refers to the specific court location or judicial district where your case must be filed. It determines which court has the legal authority to hear your case.

Why Venue Matters:

• Ensures the court has proper jurisdiction
• Helps avoid delays or dismissal of your case
• Provides fair access and notice to the defendant

How to Choose the Correct Venue

• If You’re Suing an Individual:
  • File in the judicial district where the person lives.
• If You’re Suing a Business:
  • File in the district where the business is located or regularly conducts business.
• For Property Damage or Accidents:
  • File in the district where the incident occurred (e.g., car accident, vandalism).
• For Contract Disputes:
  • File in the district where:
    • The contract was signed, or
    • The contract was carried out.
• If You’re Suing a Corporation:
  • File in the district where:
    • The contract was signed, or
    • The corporation does regular business (such as having an office or facility).
• For Retail Installment Sales or Leases (e.g., car purchases):
  • File in the district where:
    • The defendant lives,
    • The contract was signed, or
    • The goods are located.
• Special Considerations
  • Multiple Defendants:
    • If you’re suing more than one person or business, make sure the venue is appropriate for each of them. Otherwise, the case could be delayed or dismissed.

Notifying the Defendant of the Claim

Service of Process in Small Claims Court

• What Is Service of Process?
  • It’s the official way to notify the defendant that a lawsuit has been filed.
  • You cannot serve the papers yourself—someone else must do it.
  • If done incorrectly, your case may be delayed or dismissed.

Four Approved Ways to Serve the Defendant

1. Service by a Law Officer
   • A sheriff or law enforcement officer personally delivers court papers.
   • Cost: Usually requires a fee (check with your local sheriff’s office).
2. Hiring a Process Server
   • A professional, neutral adult (18 or older) delivers the documents.
   • Cost: Typically higher than using a sheriff, but often faster and more reliable.
3. Certified Mail
   • The court clerk sends the claim via certified mail to the defendant.
   • Important: A return receipt with the defendant’s signature is required. Follow up with the court to ensure confirmation.
4. Substituted Service
   • If the defendant can't be served personally, someone else at their home or work (such as a roommate or coworker) may be served.
   • Note: Strict rules apply, including mailing a second copy. Check with the court to ensure compliance.

Service Deadlines You Must Follow

• If the defendant lives in the same county as the court: Serve them at least 10 days before the hearing.
• If the defendant lives in a different county: Serve them at least 15 days before the hearing.
• Missing these deadlines can result in a postponement or dismissal of your case.

File Proof of Service

• After serving the defendant, file Form SC-104 (Proof of Service) with the court.
• This lets the judge know that the defendant was properly notified and allows the case to move forward.

Cost

When filing a case in Small Claims Court, one of the first costs you'll encounter is the filing fee. The amount of this fee depends on two key factors:

• The amount of your claim, and
• How many claims you've filed in the past 12 months.

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay:

If You've Filed 12 or Fewer Claims in the Past Year:

• Claims of $1,500 or less: Filing fee is $30
• Claims over $1,500 but not more than $5,000: Filing fee is $50.
• Claims over $5,000: Filing fee is $75.

These lower fees apply to individuals or small businesses that don’t frequently use the court system.

If You've Filed More Than 12 Claims in the Past Year:

For frequent filers (typically businesses or collection agencies), the fees increase:

• Claims of $5,000 or less: Filing fee is $75.
• Claims over $5,000: Filing fee is $100.

This higher fee structure helps balance the court’s resources and discourages excessive use of the system by habitual filers.

Need Help With the Fees?

• If you can’t afford to pay the filing fee, you may be eligible for a fee waiver. You will need to complete and submit the appropriate request form to the court. The court will review your financial situation to determine if you qualify for a waiver.

Hearing

Winning a small claims case often comes down to how well you present your side and the strength of your evidence. Bringing the right materials to court can significantly impact the outcome. Here's a breakdown of the key types of evidence you should gather and how to present them effectively:

1. Witnesses
   • What to do: If someone directly saw what happened or has personal knowledge of the situation, ask them to come to court with you.
   • Why it's important: Firsthand testimony can add credibility and provide a strong foundation for your case.
   • Tips: Make sure your witness is reliable, well-spoken, and clear about what they saw or know.
2. Photos
   • What to do: Bring clear, dated photos to document the following:
     • Property damage
     • Personal injuries
     • Product defects
     • Conditions of a home or rental space
   • Why it's important: Visuals can tell a story more powerfully than words.
   • Tips: Print out the photos and label them clearly so the judge can easily understand what they’re looking at.
3. Bills and Receipts
   • What to do: Include all relevant receipts, invoices, and bills to prove any financial loss or reimbursement request
   • Why it's important: These documents demonstrate:
     • The exact amount of money spent or lost
     • When payments were made or expected
     • The nature of goods or services involved
   • Tips: Bring original copies and have extras in case the judge or defendant needs to see them.
4. Contracts
   • What to do: If the dispute centers on a written agreement (such as a lease, service contract, or bill of sale), bring the full contract to court.
   • Why it's important: The contract clarifies:
     • What was promise
     • Who was responsible for what
     • Terms of payment or performance
   • Tips: Ensure it's signed and dated, and bring a copy for the other party and the judge.
5. Other Relevant Documents
   • What to do: Supporting communication can be just as important as formal documents. Consider bringing:
     • Emails and text messages
     • Letters or handwritten notes
     • Screenshots of relevant conversations
   • Why it's important: These can show attempts to resolve the issue or highlight important interactions between you and the other party.

Tips for Presenting Evidence Effectively

• Organizing your documents in a logical order—chronologically is often best.
• Bring copies for yourself, the judge, and the other party.
• Highlight key details with tabs or sticky notes to make important information easy to find.
• Practice your explanation so you can confidently connect each piece of evidence to the facts of your case.

After the Hearing

Who Will Hear Your Case?

Most small claims cases are heard by a judge, but depending on the court’s schedule and resources, your case might be assigned to one of the following:

• Commissioner: A judicial officer who performs similar duties to a judge.
• Temporary Judge (Judge Pro Tem): Typically an experienced attorney who volunteers to help ease the court’s caseload.
  • Important to know: Temporary judges have the same legal authority as regular judges. Their rulings are binding and carry the same weight.
• If you prefer a regular judge, you can make that request. Just keep in mind that:
  • Your case may need to be rescheduled, which could lead to a longer wait before your hearing is held.

How the Hearing Works

Here’s what to expect once you step into the courtroom:

• Each side will present their case:
  • You’ll have a chance to speak, present evidence, and call any witnesses to support your position.
• The judge will ask questions:
  • Be prepared to answer clearly and directly. Stick to the facts and be respectful.
• After hearing both sides, the judge may:
  • Announce a decision immediately in court, or
  • Take the case under advisement and mail the decision to both parties at a later date.

Tips for a Smooth Hearing

• Arrive early and bring all your documents.
• Dress neatly and be respectful to everyone in the courtroom.
• Organize your evidence and be ready to explain how it supports your claim or defense.
• Practice what you want to say so you can present your side confidently and clearly.

Appeal

• Plaintiff (The Person Who Filed the Case):
  • If you're the plaintiff and the judge rules against you, you cannot appeal the decision. The judgment is final for you, and there is no right to appeal.
• Defendant (The Person Being Sued):
  • If you're the defendant and you lose the case, you can appeal the judgment. This gives you the opportunity for a new hearing where a different judge will review your case and make a decision.

Missed Your Hearing?

• If you missed your original hearing, you cannot appeal simply because you weren't there. However, you might be able to request the court to vacate the judgment (cancel it) and schedule a new hearing. This is a separate process, and you’ll need a valid reason—such as not being properly notified.

How to File an Appeal

1. Submit a Notice of Appeal (Form SC-140):
   • You can get this form at the courthouse or online.
2. File Within 30 Days:
   • Your appeal must be filed within 30 days of the date the court mailed you the Notice of Entry of Judgment.
3. Pay the Appeal Fee:
   • There is a $75 filing fee to appeal.
4. File in Person or by Mail:
   • You can submit your appeal either in person at the courthouse or by mail, but make sure you meet the 30-day deadline.

What Happens After You File an Appeal?

1. New Hearing Scheduled:
   • The court will schedule a new hearing with a different judge. This hearing is known as a "trial de novo", which means the case is heard from the beginning, with no reference to the previous judgment.
2. Present Your Case Again:
   • You’ll have the opportunity to present your evidence and arguments just like you did in the original hearing.

Key Differences During an Appeal Hearing

• Legal Representation Allowed:
  • Unlike the original small claims hearing, where neither party can have a lawyer, in the appeal hearing both sides can bring attorneys if they choose.
• New Evidence and Arguments:
  • The appeal judge may allow new evidence or arguments that weren’t presented in the first hearing, so you have the chance to strengthen your case.

Final Tips

• Prepare thoroughly, as the appeal hearing is your chance to correct any mistakes or weaknesses in your original case.
• Be sure to submit your appeal on time and follow all court rules carefully.
• If you believe the decision was unjust or that there are strong grounds for a different outcome, an appeal could be a valuable opportunity to have your case reconsidered. Just remember that it's not a chance to retry the case from scratch—it's about correcting errors or presenting new, important evidence.

Statute of Limitations

Common Time Limits for Different Types of Claims

1. Personal Injury
   • Time Limit: 2 years from the date of injury.
   • Example: If you're injured in a car accident, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim.
2. Verbal (Spoken) Agreement
   • Time Limit: 2 years from the date the agreement was broken.
   • Example: If someone fails to honor a verbal agreement (like a promise or deal), you must file within two years of the breach.
3. Written Agreement
   • Time Limit: 4 years from the date the agreement was broken.
   • Example: If there’s a breach of a written contract (e.g., a rental or service agreement), you have four years from the breach to file your claim.
4. Property Damage
   • Time Limit: 3 years from the date of the damage.
   • Example: If your property (e.g., car, home) is damaged, you have three years to file a claim.
5. Fraud
   • Time Limit: 3 years from when you discovered the fraud or reasonably should have discovered it.
   • Example: If someone deceives you or hides important information, the clock starts when you find out—or should have discovered—the fraud.
6. Suing a Government Agency
   • Time Limit: 6 months to file a claim with the agency before going to court.
   • Process: First, you must file a claim directly with the government agency within 6 months of the incident. If the agency denies your claim or doesn't respond within 45 days, you have another 6 months to file in Small Claims Court.

What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?

• If you file your claim after the statute of limitations has expired, the court will most likely dismiss your case. The clock on the statute of limitations starts ticking the moment the incident occurs (or when you discover the issue), so it's important to be aware of your deadlines.

What Should You Do If You're Not Sure About the Deadline?

• If you're unsure whether your claim is still within the statute of limitations, it's better to file your claim anyway. The judge will determine whether the statute has expired, but waiting too long guarantees that you lose the right to pursue your case. Better to file and let the court decide than to miss your chance entirely.

Court

Representation in Small Claims Court: Exceptions and Rules

In Small Claims Court, you're typically required to represent yourself, and lawyers are not allowed to argue your case (except in appeals). However, there are certain situations where someone else may be allowed to represent you. Here are the exceptions and what you need to do if they apply to your case.

1. Active Military Duty
   • Who Can Represent You: If you're in the military and stationed away from home for more than six months, you may be allowed to have someone else represent you.
   • What You’ll Need:
     • Form SC-109: Authorization to Appear (Small Claims)
     • This form must be filed with the court to authorize a representative to appear on your behalf.
2. Business Representation
   • Sole Proprietors:
     • General Rule: As a sole proprietor, you generally must appear in court yourself.
     • Exception: A regular employee can represent you if the case can be proven using business records (such as invoices, contracts, or account statements).
     • The employee must have direct knowledge of the case, not just be a messenger.
   • Partnerships:
     • Rule: One of the partners must appear in court.
     • Non-partner employees or representatives cannot attend on behalf of the partnership.
   • Corporations:
     • Rule: A corporate officer, director, or employee can represent the corporation in court.
     • The representative must be an actual employee or official of the company—not someone hired just for the hearing.

Why These Rules Exist

• The court wants to ensure that the person representing you has firsthand knowledge of the case. This is to ensure accurate information is presented and that the court makes a fair decision based on reliable details.

What to Do If You're Unsure

• If you’re unsure whether you qualify for an exception or whether someone else can represent you, it's a good idea to contact the court clerk. They can provide guidance and clarify the rules for your specific situation, as well as help you with any necessary forms.

Collect

Key Tools to Help Collect Your Judgment

1. Wage Garnishment
   • How it works: You can ask the court to order the debtor’s employer to withhold a portion of their wages and send it directly to you.
   • Duration: The garnishment continues until the judgment is paid off or the court orders otherwise.
2. Bank Levy
   • How it works: A bank levy allows you to freeze and seize funds directly from the debtor's bank account.
   • Process: This requires coordination with the sheriff's department and the debtor's financial institution.
3. Property Lien
   • How it works: You can place a lien on the debtor's real property (like a home or land).
   • Effect: While it doesn't guarantee immediate payment, it prevents the debtor from selling or refinancing the property without first settling the debt.

Important Considerations Before You Start

1. Debtor’s Financial Situation
   • Effectiveness: If the debtor has no income or assets, even the best collection tools might not work. You may need to wait until their financial situation improves or decide not to pursue collection further.
2. Payment Plans
   • Options: Some debtors may offer to pay in installments. While you are not obligated to accept, if you do, ensure you get the terms in writing (including amounts and due dates).
3. Time and Cost
   • Considerations: Collection efforts can be time-consuming and expensive, with court fees, paperwork, and possible delays adding up. Assess whether it's worth pursuing, particularly if you're only owed a small amount.
4. Avoiding Payment
   • Challenges: Some debtors may avoid payment or try to hide assets. In such cases, you can request a debtor’s examination—a court-ordered hearing where the debtor must disclose their finances.
   • Professional Help: You may also want to consider hiring a professional debt collection expert to assist with the process.
5. Set Realistic Expectations
   • Outcomes: While these tools can help, there’s no guarantee that you’ll be successful in collecting the debt. Some debtors may not have the means to pay, or they may resist paying. Be realistic about the time, effort, and costs involved.

Next Steps for Collecting Your Judgment

1. Obtain a Certified Copy of Your Judgment
   • Action: Get an official copy of the judgment from the court, as you’ll need it to initiate collection efforts.
2. Research Collection Options
   • Choices: Consider your options (wage garnishment, bank levy, property lien, etc.) and choose the one that best fits your situation.
3. File the Necessary Forms
   • Process: Depending on the collection method you select, file the required forms with the court and work with law enforcement or the court system.
4. Keep Records
   • Documentation: Maintain detailed records of all payments, communication with the debtor, and any actions taken to collect the judgment.

Final Thoughts

• Collecting on a judgment can be challenging, but with persistence and the right tools, you may be able to recover the money owed to you. If needed, don't hesitate to consult with professionals who specialize in debt collection to guide you through the process.

Enforcement of the judgment

Key Timelines and Steps for Enforcing a Judgment

1. 30-Day Appeal Period
   • No Collection During Appeal: Once the judgment is entered, the debtor has 30 days to file an appeal. During this period, you cannot begin collecting the debt.
   • If an Appeal is Filed: You must wait until the appeal process is concluded before moving forward with any collection efforts. If the appeal is denied, you can continue with enforcement.
2. Judgment Enforcement Timeline
   • Enforceable for 10 Years: A judgment remains enforceable for 10 years from the date it is entered. This gives you a decade to pursue collection.
   • Renewing the Judgment: You can renew the judgment for another 10 years before it expires. After the first renewal, you must wait 5 years before you can renew it again.
3. Judgment Debtor’s Statement of Assets (Form SC-133)
   • Debtor’s Obligation: If the debtor does not file an appeal, motion to vacate, or voluntarily pay, they are required to complete and submit Form SC-133 (Judgment Debtor’s Statement of Assets).
   • Purpose: This form provides essential information about the debtor’s income, assets, and bank accounts, helping you determine the best method for enforcing the judgment (e.g., wage garnishment or bank levies).
4. What If the Debtor Refuses to Provide Information?
   • Court Assistance: If the debtor refuses to complete the SC-133 form, you can request the court to compel them to submit the form.
   • Debtor’s Examination: If necessary, you can schedule a debtor’s examination, a court-ordered hearing where the debtor must appear and answer questions about their financial situation. This is a critical step to gather the information needed for enforcement.
5. Tracking Renewals and Deadlines
   • Keep Track of Dates: It's crucial to monitor both the 30-day appeal period and the judgment renewal deadlines. Missing these dates can prevent you from extending the judgment or taking enforcement actions.

Final Tip: Persistence and Patience in Collection

• Enforcing a judgment can take time, especially if the debtor has limited assets or tries to avoid paying. However, by staying diligent about tracking deadlines and utilizing the available enforcement tools, you enhance your chances of successfully recovering the debt. Persistence and patience are key to effectively enforcing your judgment.

Courthouse Locations:

Superior Court of California, County of Yolo

1000 Main Street
Woodland, CA 95695
(530) 406-6704
https://www.yolo.courts.ca.gov/

BUILDING HOURS

• Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., except court holidays.

CITIES SERVED

• Davis
• Woodland
• West Sacramento
• Winters
• Esparto
• Monument Hills
• Knights Landing
• Dunnigan
• Madison
• Clarksburg
• Yolo
• Guinda
• Rumsey
• Tancred

Let Squabble Help You With Your Claim at Yolo County

Don't let the complexity of the legal system deter you from seeking justice and compensation for your claim. With Squabble, you have a partner to simplify the process and help you navigate the path to resolution. If you're considering filing a claim at Yolo County small claims court, Squabble is here to assist you every step of the way. Contact us today to start your journey toward justice and compensation. Get started today and become one of the 95% of our customers who won or settled their case.