Program: SMALL CLAIMS COURT
Agency: COUNTY OF VENTURA SUPERIOR COURT
Description
Related to the recovery of money only. Small claims court has jurisdiction (the legal right to decide cases) in disputes up to $12,500 for a person (not a business or public entity). No attorneys permitted to represent either party.
Claims over $12,500 must be filed as a civil case.
Eligibility
Must be at least 18 years old to file a claim. If under 18, claim can be pursued through a guardian ad litem (person - often parent or family member - requested by the youth and appointed by the court to act for youth in the case).
Must sue in the right county. If you file your claim in the wrong county, the court will dismiss the claim. Ventura County is the proper place to file if:
-The defendant lives or does business in Ventura County.
-The property was damaged or the injury occurred in Ventura County.
-A contract (written or spoken) was made, signed, performed or broken by the Defendant in Ventura County.
-The defendant lived or did business in Ventura County when the contract was broken.
-The buyer or lessee signed the contract, now lives or lived in Ventura County when the contract was made, if this claim is about an offer or contract for personal, family, or household goods, services, or loans.
-The buyer signed the contract, now lives or lived in Ventura County when the contract was made, if this claim is about a retail installment contract (like a credit card).
-The buyer signed the contract, now lives, or lived in Ventura County when the contract was made, or where the vehicle is permanently garaged, if this claim is about a vehicle finance sale.
Application Process
Forms for filing small claims can be obtained at any court location or on the website.
Documents
-Photo ID
-Any paperwork related to case
Fees
Call for fee information
Service Areas
- Ventura County
Phone
| (805) 289-8527 | Appeals |
| (805) 289-8526 | Small Claims |
Hours
East County Courthouse:
Mon/Tues: 8am-4pm
Ventura Courthouse:
Mon-Fri: 8am-4pm
Website
Address
800 South Victoria Avenue Room 80, Ventura, CA, 93009
Disabilities Access
Fully accessible to individuals using mobility aids
Address
800 South Victoria Avenue Room 80, Ventura, CA, 93009
Listing Managed by: 211 Ventura | Print Listing
Information last updated: 2025-02-19T00:00:00