Small claims and the bad-faith penalty
Yes. If a landlord wrongfully keeps your security deposit, you can pursue it — and California law can allow you to recover more than just the deposit itself.
Many deposit disputes are handled in small claims court, which is designed to be accessible and generally does not require a lawyer, for claims up to a certain amount. There, you can seek the wrongfully withheld deposit, and if the landlord acted in bad faith, an additional penalty of up to twice the deposit amount plus your actual damages. That potential penalty is a strong incentive for landlords to follow the rules — and a reason these claims can be worth pursuing.
Success usually depends on documentation: your lease, proof of the deposit paid, photos of the unit's condition at move-in and move-out, and whatever itemized statement (or lack of one) the landlord provided.
Whether small claims or another path fits depends on the amount and circumstances. If your landlord improperly withheld your deposit, a free, confidential review can help you understand your options and the best way to recover what you are owed.
This is general information about California tenant rights, not legal advice. Every situation is different.