Everything Marc needs to take these cases from demand to judgment.
California corporations CANNOT represent themselves in Superior Court. Bella Kitchen, Bath & Flooring, Inc. is a corporation and must retain a licensed attorney for actual court filings and appearances. This is not optional — the court will reject any complaint filed without attorney representation.
Estimated cost: $2,000 – $5,000 total for all three cases using a limited-scope attorney.
These items apply to ALL three cases. Complete them before sending any demand letters.
Effective immediately, stop all communication about these disputes with the defendants. Anything Marc says — by text, email, phone, or in person — can be used against Bella Kitchen in court. All future communication should go through the demand letters or through an attorney.
Step-by-step instructions for filing in OC Superior Court.
For each case, prepare: (a) Verified Complaint, (b) Civil Case Cover Sheet (form CM-010), (c) Summons (form SUM-100), and (d) Lis Pendens (for Allen and Maldonado only). All documents must be properly formatted — double-spaced, numbered lines, correct caption.
700 Civic Center Drive West, Santa Ana, CA 92701
Clerk's office hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Bring originals plus two copies of all documents. The clerk will file-stamp and assign a case number.
Filing fees vary by case type:
OC Superior Court accepts e-filing through approved Electronic Filing Service Providers (EFSPs). This avoids the trip to the courthouse. Approved providers include: One Legal, File & ServeXpress, and Green Filing.
OC Clerk-Recorder, 601 N. Ross Street, Santa Ana, CA 92701
Record the lis pendens against each property. The recording creates a public cloud on the title that prevents sale or refinancing. Fee: $15–$25 per document.
Each defendant must be personally served with the Summons and Complaint by a licensed process server or any adult (not Marc) who is not a party to the case. Service must be completed within 60 days of filing.
After each defendant is served, file the Proof of Service (form POS-010) with the court. This starts the 30-day clock for the defendant to respond. If no response: request entry of default (form CIV-100).
Each case has its own timeline and deadlines. Track progress per case below.
Construction work — $47,613.80 owed. Mechanics lien recorded. Must file complaint to enforce lien before May 24, 2026 (90-day deadline). Unlimited Civil jurisdiction ($435 filing fee).
Bathroom renovation — mechanics lien recorded. Must file complaint to enforce lien before June 23, 2026. Limited Civil jurisdiction ($370 filing fee).
Breach of contract action. The strategy is to voluntarily release the mechanics lien and pursue a direct contract claim. No lien enforcement deadline, but file promptly to maintain momentum. Limited Civil jurisdiction ($370 filing fee).
These resources are available at no cost and can help Marc navigate the process.
Free walk-in assistance with court forms, filing procedures, and general legal questions. No appointment needed.
Hours: Mon – Fri, 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Location: Central Justice Center, 700 Civic Center Dr W, Santa Ana
(657) 622-5555Online forms, filing instructions, fee schedules, and e-filing portal access.
Self-Help: occourts.org/self-help
E-Filing: Available through approved EFSPs
occourts.orgFree legal research resources located inside the courthouse. Access to legal databases, form books, and research assistance.
Location: Inside Central Justice Center
Hours: Mon – Fri, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Free AccessVerify contractor license status, file complaints, and access contractor dispute resolution programs.
License Lookup: cslb.ca.gov
(800) 321-2752Record lis pendens, mechanics lien releases, and other documents affecting real property title in Orange County.
Address: 601 N. Ross St, Santa Ana, CA 92701
Hours: Mon – Fri, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
(714) 834-2500Find a limited-scope attorney for corporate representation. $35 initial consultation fee.
Website: ocbar.org
(949) 440-6700