Amending a Small Claim

Mistakes happen. Maybe you realized you spelled the defendant's name wrong, or you forgot to include a second defendant. Or perhaps the amount you're suing for has changed. Whatever the reason, amending your small claims form (SC-100) in Los Angeles County is a manageable process, but the steps depend entirely on one key factor: has the defendant been served?

Scenario A: The Defendant Has Been Served

If you have already served the defendant with the original SC-100, you cannot simply change the original form. Instead, you must file a specific form to request an amendment.

Fill out the form explaining what you want to change and why. You will need to file this with the court and serve a copy on the defendant at least 10 days before the hearing.

Scenario B: The Defendant Has NOT Been Served

If the defendant has not yet been served, the process is more straightforward, but it requires specific attention to detail. You do not need the SC-114. Instead, you will essentially "redo" your SC-100.

Step 1: Prepare the Amended SC-100

Take a blank SC-100 form (or your original file) and fill it out again with the correct information.

• Keep the Case Number: You must use the exact same case number as your original filing. Do not leave this blank or the court will treat it as a new case.
• Mark as Amended: You must clearly write or type the word "AMENDED" at the top of the form, typically above the title "Plaintiff's Claim and ORDER to Go to Small Claims Court".

Exhibit A: Proper Annotation

Step 2: Filing the Amended Form

You have two options to file your amended claim:

1. In Person: Go to the clerk's office at the courthouse where you filed. Bring your amended SC-100 (original + copies). The clerk will process it and give you back your "conformed" copies (stamped by the court) immediately.
2. By Mail: Mail your amended SC-100 (original + copies) to the court clerk. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope so they can mail the conformed copies back to you.Note: This takes longer.

Step 3: Serve the Defendant

Once you have your conformed, amended SC-100 back from the court, you must serve this new document on the defendant. The original service (if you tried but failed) doesn't count. You must serve the Amended Plaintiff's Claim.

→ Read our guide on How to Serve a Defendant