Legal Question in Civil Litigation in California

If the claim is for $4,880, it should be in small claims court.

Parties cannot have a lawyer represent them in small claims court -- people must represent themselves. An attorney, however, may be of help in determining what evidence is relevant to the case, and in helping you practice the presentation of your case to the judge.

Not necessarily. Some people can represent themselves. You may want to at least get some legal consultation and maybe even some coaching.

What kind of case is it? If it is a breach of contract case and the contract has an attorneys' fees clause, you may be able to get the defendant to reimburse your attorneys' fees. If not a breach of contract case, but one in which there is a statute (written law) providing that the prevailing party receive their attorneys' fees, it may be best to retain counsel. I agree that you should at least consult with an attorney to learn what you can before you represent yourself.