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SC-109Optional

Authorization to Appear (Small Claims)

California · Judicial Council of California · Effective January 1, 2026

This form lets you tell the court that you have permission to speak or act for someone else in a small claims case. You can also use it to ask the court for permission to help someone who has trouble speaking for themselves.

The court describes it as: Tell the judge you're allowed (authorized) to appear for someone in a small claims case. Or, ask the court for permission to appear for someone who can't properly speak for themself.

Open the official PDFfrom Judicial Council of California

Where this fits in a case

Motions

Stage: Motions

This form is used when someone needs to show the court they are authorized to represent another person in a small claims case, or when they need help because they cannot properly present their case or defense.

Either party may file.

Official instructions

How-to guides published by the court for this form.

Common questions

Who should fill out this form?
The form is used to show the court that you are authorized to appear for a plaintiff or defendant, or to ask the court for permission to assist one of them.
Does this form help me if I am a lawyer?
The form notes that if you are a lawyer, you can only appear if authorized by a specific section of the Code of Civil Procedure.

Revision history

No changes recorded since we started tracking this form on October 9, 2026. The current version took effect January 1, 2026.

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