What is the court's decision-making process for small claims cases?

The decision-making process for small claims cases in California is relatively straightforward. Small claims court is designed to provide a simple, inexpensive, and expeditious remedy for individuals and small businesses to resolve disputes without having to hire attorneys or go through a lengthy trial. In California’s small claims court, a judge listens to each party’s claim and testimony and reviews evidence and documents before making a decision. The judge then decides which party is awarded the damages. The judge’s decision is based on the facts and evidence presented by both parties, the applicable laws, and the judge’s interpretation of that evidence and those laws. The judge does not hear witnesses other than the parties involved in the dispute, and the parties are not allowed to have legal representation. If a party wishes to appeal the judge’s decision, they may file an appeal in the appropriate court. The appeal must be filed within a specific amount of time from the original ruling and must comply with certain requirements set forth by the court. Ultimately, the judge’s decision in small claims court is final and binding. It is important that all parties understand the decision-making process and understand what their rights are before filing a case in small claims court.

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What is the court's decision-making process for small claims cases?

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