Alternative Dispute Resolution
ADR Types and Benefits. The Judicial Council of California has created a video series with descriptions of different kinds of dispute resolution and where each might be helpful.
Ask for a Fee Waiver if you can't afford filing fees
In most cases, you have to pay a fee to file papers with the court. If you can’t afford the filing fee, you can ask the court for a “fee waiver” in order to file for free. With a fee waiver, you also may not have to pay for certified copies, sheriff's service of process fees, or other costs related to starting a case, such as the cost for a court reporter to be at your trial.
Auto Loans
Offers information on how auto loans work, what to consider when comparing financing options, and how to avoid costly loan terms.
Auto Repossession
Covers how vehicle repossessions work, what happens after a car is repossessed, and options to avoid repossession such as negotiating payments or voluntary surrender.
Buying and Maintaining a Car
Buying a car – whether new or used – is one of the biggest purchases we make. It is important to take your time in deciding which car to buy and not be pressured by anyone who simply wants your money or your signature on a contract. Once you decide on the vehicle that best fits your needs and budget, shop around for the best price, know the vehicle’s history (if used), and be prepared to walk away from the deal if your questions are not being answered.
California's Lemon Law: Questions & Answers
A quick guide to California’s Lemon Law, explaining your rights if you buy a defective vehicle. It covers eligibility, the claims process, and steps to resolve issues with manufacturers.
Financing or Leasing a Car
Shopping for a car? You have options other than paying cash. Whether you finance or lease, here are some things to keep in mind.
General Information on Suspended Drivers License
Under certain conditions, the California Department of Motor Vehicles can suspend or revoke your driver's license. This means either the DMV or the court has decided that you are NOT allowed to operate a motor vehicle until the suspension or revocation is lifted and your license is reinstated.
How to Complain
This guide offers suggestions to help you get results when you have a problem with the purchase of goods or services. It explains the proper way to make a complaint, and also discusses using government agencies, consumer groups, lawyers and small claims court. A sample complaint letter and a list of compliant-handling agencies are included.
Know Your Rights When Your Vehicle is Towed From Private Property
While this information is from the San Francisco Police Department, the parts that cite the California Vehicle Code ("CVC") apply state-wide. There may be additional rights that apply to other cities and counties. You can use LawHelpCa.Org to seek additional advice from a legal aid organization or attorney to find out more about your rights.
Lawyer Referral Service - Fresno County Bar Association
2444 Main Street, Suite 125 Fresno, CA 93721
(559) 264-2619
www.fresnocountybar.org/?pg=clientreferrals
This group does not provide legal representation in court.
Maintenance and Repairs
A guide from the California Bureau of Automotive Repair with resources for dealing with auto repair disputes, including how to file complaints, understand your rights, and find licensed repair shops.
Maintenance and Repairs
Explains consumer rights and responsibilities for auto maintenance and repairs in California, including how to choose a licensed shop, understand warranties and recalls, keep proper repair records, and file a complaint.
Marin County DMV
3501 Civic Center Drive Room 127 San Rafael, CA 94903
415-473-6962
www.marincounty.gov/departments/public-defender/california-drivers-license-project
This group does not provide legal representation in court.
Service Contracts and Extended Warranties - Los Angeles County
Gives consumer advice on service contracts (often sold as extended warranties for cars), explaining what to check (coverage, exclusions, deductibles, who backs the contract) and when cancellation or refund rights apply.
The California Lemon Law
An overview of California’s Lemon Law by the Better Business Bureau, offering details on how to file a claim, eligibility, and tips for resolving issues with defective vehicles.
The Lemon Law
Outlines how California’s Lemon Law protects consumers when a new (or still-warrantied used) vehicle cannot be repaired after a reasonable number of attempts, and describes remedies such as replacement, refund, or arbitration.
Vehicle Repossession
If you don’t make your car payments on time, your lender might have the right to take your car without going to court or telling you first. Here’s what to do if you can’t make car payments or if your car is repossessed. This article has more information about the federal laws regulating repossessions, but there may be California laws that apply too.
Vehicle Repossessions
This page explains your rights and responsibilities if your car is repossessed (voluntarily or involuntarily), including how to get your vehicle back, what notices you must receive, and how to retrieve personal items from the car.
What should I do if I can’t make my car payments?
If you’re experiencing financial difficulties, it may be difficult to know where to start, but there may be a number of options to help you address short or longer-term financial challenges. You also have rights and protections if you’re at risk of having your car or vehicle repossessed.