Small claims in California?

Can I represent my father in small claims court, so that he does not have to travel? A former friend of ours owes my father money, and I want to take her to small claims. She lives more than 5 hours away from my dad and that too far for him to travel to court. I realize that if we have to file the lawsuit in the venue where the person we are filing against, resides. Anyone know? We have tried mediation for over a year, and are running out of time to process the suit. I just want her to pay for the money she owes my dad. He's on a fixed income and has health issues. She really burned her bridge with us and ruined a good friendship.

Unless you are a party of the suit, you can not represent him.

David answered your first question right, so I will not repeat. Regarding venue, it can be where she resides now or at the time of the agreement. Was she still living five hours away a year ago or did she just move from being closer to your dad's area? Here is a good tip, you can save your dad about $20 by completing the service of the claim for him.

鈥淲hat if I don't have a contract, but the defendant owes me money? File your case in the county where the defendant lived or where the defendant's business was located when you made the agreement. You can also file where the defendant lives or where the defendant's business is located now.鈥?br>
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