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Download a copy, print it, send it by email, or mail it via USPS—whatever works best for your next step.

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If this form requires notarization, complete it online through a secure video call—no need to meet a notary in person or wait for an appointment.

We protect your documents and personal data by following strict security and privacy standards.
Debt collectors may not be able to sue you to collect on old (time-barred) debts, but they may still try to collect on those debts. In California, there is generally a four-year limit for filing a lawsuit to collect a debt based on a written agreement.
Most judgments (the court order saying what you're owed) expire in 10 years. This means you can't collect on it after 10 years. To avoid this, you can ask the court to renew it. A renewal lasts 10 years.
Most judgments (the court order saying what you're owed) expire in 10 years. This means you can't collect on it after 10 years. To avoid this, you can ask the court to renew it. A renewal lasts 10 years.
If the judgment debtor owns real property, you may record an Abstract of Judgment with the County Recorder which will act as a lien against all real property owned by the judgment debtor in the county in which the lien is recorded. Complete an Abstract of Judgment (EJ-001)PDF and submit to the court to be issued.
An individual, which includes a sole proprietorship, may file a claim up to a maximum of $12,500. Only the actual party to the claim may file. You must represent yourself at the small claims hearing. Attorneys or others are not permitted to represent a party in small claims court.
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.
The timeline for small claims cases depends on several factors, including the filing process, serving the defendant, and scheduling a hearing. Generally, small claims cases in California take about two to six months from start to resolution.
Most judgments (the court order saying what you're owed) expire in 10 years. This means you can't collect on it after 10 years. To avoid this, you can ask the court to renew it. A renewal lasts 10 years.
Enforcing Your Judgment Get in touch with the judgment debtor. Levy (seize) assets that you have personal knowledge of. Examine judgment debtor in court to locate unknown assets. Suspend the judgment debtor's driver's license if the judgment is for auto accident.
Here are four ways to avoid paying a judgment: 1) Use asset protection tools such as an asset protection trust, 2) use legal exemptions, 3) negotiate with the creditor, 4) file for bankruptcy.