Divisions

A party who lost a case may ask a higher court to review the decision in their case and determine if the decision was correct. The losing party may do this by filing an appeal or, in some instances, a writ. Appeals and writs may be heard in the Superior Court, District Court of Appeals, and the Supreme Court.

The Civil Division assists parties with cases involving: recovery of money or property in non-contract civil disputes or contract enforcement; civil rights, and, landlord tenant actions. Petitions to Change Name and various writs are also handled by the Civil Division.

The Criminal Division has jurisdiction over felonies, misdemeanors, infractions.

Collections provides direct assistance in order to facilitate payment of delinquent fines and fees. Fines and fees may be related to Criminal, Traffic, Family Law or Jury matters.

The Family Court Services Division hears matters involving family-related issues and domestic relations.

Juvenile Delinquency cases are defined under Welfare and Institutions Codes and involve any persons under the age of 18 (minors) who are accused of violations of any law of the state or of the United States, or minors who are habitually disobedient or truant.

The Probate Division handles cases involving estates, trusts, guardianships, and conservatorships. The Court Investigator handles investigations related to guardianships, conservatorships, stepparent adoptions and freedom from parental control.

The Small Claims Division handles cases that do not exceed $10,000 and are resolved quickly and inexpensively with relatively simple and informal rules.

The Traffic Division has jurisdiction over Vehicle Code violations and local ordinance violations.