Program: SMALL CLAIMS COURT

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.