Although many different types of cases are tried in courts across California every year, they all have one thing in common - a person or business entity has been wronged and the justice system has been asked to step in to resolve the issue. California small claims are no exception.

An injustice does not need to be a headline grabbing offence. Major cases with payouts running into the millions, in fact, are not settled in California small claims. They are part of a different legal process entirely. Small claims court is reserved for disputes that can be settled swiftly and inexpensively.

The word “inexpensive” is not one usually associated with any type of legal proceeding. That is because we are used to hearing about pricey celebrity lawyers representing wealthy clientele, court cases that drag on for years, and endless appeals along with their associated costs. California small claims differs in the facts that no lawyers are present in the courtroom and court dates are set and carried out as quickly as possible. While California small claims decisions may be appealed, strict procedures keep the appeal process from getting out of hand.

Typical reasons for initiating a small claim are: default on rent, property not returned to the rightful owner or goods damaged by negligence. When things like this happen it is a good idea to first try and resolve the issue, if it is safe to do so, with the other party. For example, if your tenant has not paid rent, it is important to ensure you ask him or her for the rent money and document the conversation prior to filing a claim. Rule out the possibility of someone simply forgetting the rent due date or not noticing they damaged your property. If your attempts are unsuccessful, small claims court is available to ensure you are rightfully compensated.

While California small claims does not carry the drama of a high profile courtroom, one must still be prepared and follow procedure to have their claim successfully heard. The process is not difficult, but it can be time consuming. Californians have the option of outsourcing the paperwork to companies like Small Claims Department.com.

The advantage of using an outsourcing service is that these reputable companies have years of experience in filling out the required paperwork and filing the documents in the correct location. Like hiring a chef for a perfect meal or a personal organizer to whip your home into shape, companies like Small Claims Department.com specialize in one area of expertise. In their case, that area is California small claims.

Becoming involved with California small claims as the plaintiff or the defendant means being involved in a fair, accessible legal system that Californians can be proud of. Whether you need help forcing a loan repayment or need compensation for the dress the drycleaner ruined, California small claims is available to help you.