Legal Question in Consumer Law in California

Re: car towing,theft

First, small claims court is not the proper venue. In California, a small claims court can only award damages up to $5,000.00, meaning your mother would be out the difference, or $3,000.00. Further, it sounds like your mother may have a claim against the Sheriff's Deparatment, the County, and potentially the tow yard. Before you can sue the Sheriff or County, you MUST, in most instances, first file a claim under the Government Tort Claims Act.

I would suggest that you speak with an attorney in your area who has some knowledge of the Government Tort Claims Act. You need to do this NOW, as there are strict time deadlines within which to file a claim. If these deadlines are not met, your mother will lose any claim she might otherwise have against the Sheriff, the County, or the tow yard.

Re: car towing,theft

The tow yard may be negligent in not adequately securing the yard. You cannot represent your mother in small claims court as you are not an attorney. Therefore, I would recommend getting representation on your mother's behalf. Call me directly at (619) 222-3504.