Legal rules differ a lot from state to state. Here are the numbers that matter most for everyday problems in California, with the statutes behind them.
California at a glance
| Topic | California | Source or note |
|---|---|---|
| Small claims limit | $12,500 ($6,250 for businesses/corporations) | Largest claim most individuals can bring in small claims court. |
| Personal injury deadline | 2 years | Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 335.1 |
| Written contract deadline | 4 years | Statute of limitations for breach of a written contract. |
| Oral contract deadline | 2 years | Statute of limitations for breach of an oral agreement. |
| Security deposit return | 21 days | Civil Code § 1950.5 |
How we built this table. Figures come from published 50-state surveys of state statutes and court rules, retrieved 2026-10-20. A number is shown only when at least two surveys agree; otherwise we leave it out. Laws change, so confirm with the statute cited or your state court before you rely on a figure. This is general information, not legal advice.
Small claims court in California
California lets individuals bring claims of up to $12,500 in small claims court, with a different cap for businesses ($6,250 for businesses/corporations). That is above the national middle of about $10,000.
- Filing fee: $30, $50 or $75 ($100 for frequent filers). Fees vary by county, and fee waivers exist for people with low income.
- Lawyers: Not at the hearing.
- Appeals: Defendant only (plaintiff on a counterclaim), 30 days, new hearing.
Learn the steps in our guide to how small claims court works.
Deadlines to file a lawsuit in California
The deadline to file a personal injury lawsuit in California is generally 2 years, which is the same as the most common period of 2 years across the country (Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 335.1). For a written contract the period is 4 years and for an oral contract 2 years.
Deadlines can start later or pause in some situations, and claims against government bodies often have much shorter notice periods. See what a statute of limitations is and what to do after a car accident.
Security deposits in California
Landlords in California must return a tenant's security deposit within about 21 days (21 days; Civil Code § 1950.5). Missing the deadline can cost a landlord the right to keep deductions, and some states add penalties.
See security deposit rules and how evictions work.
Where to get legal help in California
- Legal Services Corporation: find a legal aid office, a directory of free civil legal help for people with low incomes.
- LawHelp.org, free legal information and referrals, where you can choose California.
- National Center for State Courts directory of state court websites, many with self-help forms.
Not sure whether you need an attorney? Read Do I need a lawyer? and how to find free or low-cost legal help.
Cities in California
Browse other states: Arkansas and Colorado. Or see the full 50-state comparison.