Who can testify in a small claims court case?

In the state of California, people involved in a small claims court case can testify and be heard. This includes the plaintiff, or the person filing the case, and the defendant, or the person being sued. Other individuals who may be called to testify include witnesses, or people who have knowledge or evidence of the event that is in dispute and experts, or people with specialized knowledge in a given topic. Witnesses may include people who observed or have knowledge of the relevant events, such as a neighbor or a friend of the plaintiff or defendant. Expert witnesses can include specialists, such as accountants, appraisers, or doctors. Outside of court, witnesses and experts may be deposed, or interviewed, by the plaintiff or defendant before the case reaches court. This deposition often accompanies a sworn affidavit, in which the witness states their knowledge or evidence in the case. Depositions and affidavits can be submitted in court to be used as evidence. In small claims court, a witness or expert may be called to testify in person by both the plaintiff and defendant. During the hearing, questions may be asked by both sides and evidence may be presented, such as documents or other statements. Once all evidence is presented and discussed, the judge will review testimonies and make a ruling.

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