You must first file a claim meeting the requirements of the California Tort Claims Act (Government Code §§ 810-996.6). The California Tort Claims Act sets out strict timelines that you must follow when filing a claim against the District.California's Tort Law covers noncriminal, or civil, wrongdoings that cause harm or injury. Establishing grounds for a lawsuit.. Learn about the rules and procedures for filing a personal injury lawsuit against the state of California or a local California government. One of the elements of negligence is "damages," meaning the plaintiff must have suffered injuries or loss for the defendant to be held liable. The elements of a negligence claim include duty, breach, causation, and damages. . As a result, since 1963, all government tort liability in California has been based on statute. Under California law, strict liability does not require a plaintiff to prove a defendant's negligence. The attorney can help you find the right tort claim form, talk to you about when your timeline started, and help you figure out your deadline.