An eligible consensual case that was commenced and continued in hard copy form may be converted to a NYSCEF case by filing a Stipulation and Consent to E–Filing (found on the website) with the court. Any such conversion should be done promptly after commencement.
In California, small claims court is designed for resolving disputes involving amounts up to $12,500 for individuals, making it a suitable venue for your case involving $2,000 in damages.
Proof of service shall specify the papers served, the person who was served and the date, time, address, or, in the event there is no address, place and manner of service, and set forth facts showing that the service was made by an authorized person and in an authorized manner.
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.
To begin an action in Small Claims Court, a person, or someone acting on his or her behalf, must come to the Small Claims Court Clerk's office in the proper county and fill out a statement of claim. To find out where the clerk's office is located in your county, click on Locations.