To do this, fill out a JL-1. You can put a lien on that property so that if they ever sell or refinance the property you might get paid.To do this, you first need an Abstract of Judgment. 1. Try to get them to pay voluntarily. Write them a letter or ask. Court forms are available at California Courts – Forms. Select "Small Claims" from the pull down menu. In California, if you're the person owed money (the creditor), you can place a judgment lien on the debtor's real estate or personal property. Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles. Renters Small Claims Project.