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. Starting November 1, 2021, you can sue or be sued for COVID-19 rental debt in small claims.
If you are: a person (this includes sole-proprietors) you may claim up to $12,500; if you are a Corporation, limited liability company or partnership, you may claim up to $6,250.
Small Estate Affidavit If the estate consists solely of personal property (for example a bank account) and the gross value is under $166,250, you could complete an Affidavit (or Declaration) for Collection or Transfer of Personal Property under Probate Code §13100. This is not a court procedure.
Notice of Settlement of Entire Case (CM-200) Tells the court and other side that the dispute in the case has been settled by agreement of the parties, and that the case will be dismissed.
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.
It is here that it is determined if probate is required. If the total of all assets of the estate is below $166,250 or if there aren't any assets that require a complex transfer, the estate may not require a probate in California.
Form 13101 is the specific Small Estate Affidavit used in California. Heirs fill it out to claim the deceased's assets, such as bank accounts and personal property. The affiant must provide accurate information about the deceased and sign under penalty of perjury.
A: To avoid probate in California the estate must be worth less than $166,250.