1 Year Limit to File; but How Does 9 Months Look Like to Judge?

[Heavenleelady]

My question involves small claims court in the state of: CA

I had a roommate who committed sub-rental fraud, assaulted me, and stole my brand new LCD TV which I have to pay on for many years. I have diabetes and was sick much of the winter, probably from stress and I did not get the demand letter out then. Does filing at 9 months after the theft look bad to the Small Claims Court Judge? Limit is 1 year. (If I can find her by certified mail; she hid). The D.A. had opened a felony case, but closed it due to lack of hard evidence. I have enough evidence for civil court, though.