Say I live in California. And am the defendant in a case. Is there anyway to get documents from the other ?

Question

party to help me with my case. These are documents that were given to me, but do not have them anymore. For example, a rental agreement and other documents like that.

Answer 1

if you are talking about small claims, when you go to court if both parties are present, they must exchange any papers relevant the their side of the case before the judge hears it. (right of disclosure)

Answer 2

From a lawyer.  Write a letter to the court and name it Request for Production.  In the letter, name the things you want the Plaintiff to produce and the judge will grant your request.  Also, write a letter to the Plaintiff asking him to produce the documents.  So, write two letters, one to the court and one to the Plaintiff.  This will work in small claims court and higher courts since you are unrepresented.