Even if it's not, you just ask for the limit of the small claims court. $5k is still better than a kick at the table leg, and it's probably more than you'd get were you to hire a lawyer and sue for the full amount.
The limit is $7.5k in California, but you can voluntarily reduce your claim to meet this threshold.
Yup. 10k is not within the limit. This is also a very easy win in small claims, it should be settled in a few months max.