Court Information
Filing Fees
Max claim: $12,500 · Required forms: SC-100, SC-104
| Claim amount | Filing fee |
|---|---|
| $1 – $1,500 | $30 |
| $1,501 – $5,000 | $50 |
| $5,001 – $12,500 | $75 |
Fee waiver available if you qualify (form FW-001).
How to File
Small claims cases in Contra Costa County are filed and heard at three locations: Martinez (725 Court St), Pittsburg (1000 Center Dr), and Richmond (100 37th St). File at the courthouse for the jurisdiction where the defendant lives or where the dispute occurred. Clerk's office hours are Mon-Fri 8:00am-4:00pm. Remote appearances require form RA-010 per CCP §367.75.
Serving the Defendant
Serve the defendant at least 15 days before the hearing (20 days if the defendant lives outside Contra Costa County). Service can be made by the Contra Costa County Sheriff for a fee, by a registered process server, or by any adult who is not a party. File proof of service (SC-104) with the court before the hearing.
Allowed methods: Personal service, Substituted service, Certified mail
Deadline: Serve at least 15 days before the hearing date.
Hearing Tips
- Cases are heard in Martinez (Dept 57), Pittsburg (Dept 54), and Richmond (Dept 50) — check your notice for assigned department and Zoom link if appearing remotely.
- Remote appearances require CCP §367.75 compliance — file form RA-010 and serve copies on all parties before the hearing.
- Submit documents in person, by drop box, or overnight delivery at least 3 court days before the hearing; electronic delivery is not permitted.
- Arrive 15 minutes early; bring three copies of all documents and your original evidence.
✓ Interpreters available ✓ Phone appearance allowed
Know Your Rights Under California Law
California Civil Code § 1950.5 requires landlords to return your deposit or provide an itemized statement within 21 days of move-out. If they fail to do so, you may be entitled to your deposit back plus up to 2× the deposit amount in statutory damages.
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