§5.01 Informal Nature of Hearing

Hearings in small claims are designed to be informal. The object is to dispense justice promptly, fairly, and inexpensively. [CCP §116.510.] Conducting the hearings for the convenience of individuals has priority over hearings involving other entities. [CCP §116.120(d).] The informal nature is reflected in the general prohibition against attorneys, the relaxed rules of evidence, the ability of the judicial officer to conduct investigations, and how evidence is gathered and presented. The law also recognizes the value and need to have attorneys volunteer their time to sit as temporary judges. [See CCP §116.240(a).]