Conclusion: Going to small claims court may be worth it for $500, but it will determine how you weigh your costs versus benefits. At a minimum, it is worth it to send a demand letter.
Small claims basics Generally, you can only sue for up to $12,500 in small claims court (or up to $6,250 if you're a business). You can ask a lawyer for advice before you go to court, but you can't have one with you in court.
Penal Code 12022.1 PC states, “The primary offense means a felony for which somebody was released from custody on bail or their own recognizance before the final judgment, including appeal disposition, or release has been revoked.
For criminal histories, arrest records, copies of citations, dispositions, court dates and records, warrant checks and Information, and restraining order information, please contact the Superior Court, 725 Court St., Martinez or Call (925) 608-1000. For crime statistics, call (925) 335-1592.
The following bail schedule is promulgated under the mandate of Penal Code section 1269(c). For all unscheduled felonies, the bail amount is $15,000. For all unscheduled misdemeanors, the bail amount is $3,000. For all unscheduled infractions, the bail amount is $100.