Sued for Debt in California? We Can Help
Our attorneys negotiate with debt collectors in California to reduce what you owe — often by 50-70%. Free consultation. Learn about your rights, deadlines, and options below.
Response Deadline: 30 Days
You have 30 days from the date you are served to file your Answer with the California court. Missing this deadline results in an automatic default judgment against you.
Statute of Limitations in California
| Debt Type | Years |
|---|---|
| Credit Card | 4 |
| Medical Debt | 4 |
| Auto Loan / Deficiency | 4 |
| Personal Loan | 4 |
| Written Contract | 4 |
| Oral Contract | 2 |
The statute of limitations is measured from the date of your last payment or activity on the account. If the SOL has expired, the debt is time-barred and you have a strong affirmative defense.
Wage Garnishment in California
Wage garnishment is allowed — up to 25% of disposable earnings
Greater of 75% of disposable earnings or 40x California minimum wage is exempt. More protective than federal law.
Court System in California
Small claims limit $12,500. Unlimited civil for amounts over $35,000. Limited civil for $35,000 and under.
Filing fees: $75-$435
California Consumer Protection Law
Rosenthal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (Cal. Civ. Code 1788)
In addition to the federal FDCPA, California has its own consumer protection law that may provide additional rights and remedies against debt collectors. Violations of state law can result in additional damages.
How We Help With California Debt Cases
- Free consultation. Tell us about the lawsuit and the debt. We review your case and assess your options at no cost.
- Case assessment. We evaluate the strength of the collector's case, check for FDCPA violations, and determine the best approach — negotiation, defense, or counterclaim.
- Attorney negotiation. Our attorney contacts the collector directly and negotiates a reduced settlement. Most California clients save 50-70% of their original debt amount.
- Resolution. You pay the agreed settlement, the lawsuit is dismissed, and the case is closed. No court appearances, no filing paperwork yourself.
Note: You have 30 days to respond to the lawsuit in California. Contact us as soon as possible to ensure we can negotiate before the deadline.
FAQ: Debt Collection in California
How long do I have to respond to a debt lawsuit in California?
30 days from personal service (or 35 if served by mail) to file your Answer with the court.
What is the statute of limitations for credit card debt in California?
4 years under CCP 337 for obligations based on a written contract. 2 years for oral contracts.
What is the Rosenthal Act?
The Rosenthal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act extends FDCPA-like protections to original creditors in California, not just third-party collectors. This gives California consumers broader protection.
Can they garnish my wages in California?
Yes, but California is more protective than federal law. The greater of 75% of disposable earnings or 40 times the California state minimum wage is exempt from garnishment.
What courts handle debt cases in California?
Small claims for amounts up to $12,500, limited civil for up to $35,000, and unlimited civil for larger amounts.
Reviewed by [Attorney Name], Esq. Last updated March 2026. This information is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice.
Get Help With Your California Debt
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