California Court Rules Guide
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Overview
California state courts operate under a comprehensive set of rules including the California Code of Civil Procedure, California Rules of Court, and local court rules. Understanding these rules is essential for effective practice in California state courts.
Important: California has adopted many federal rules but with state-specific modifications. Always check local court rules for additional requirements.
California Code of Civil Procedure
Key Sections
- • CCP § 1.10: Computation of time
- • CCP § 415: Service of summons
- • CCP § 412: Service requirements
- • CCP § 430: Demurrers
- • CCP § 473: Relief from default
Response Deadlines
- • 30 days: General answer deadline
- • 10 days: Unlawful detainer
- • 60 days: Cross-complaints
- • Variable: Motions and demurrers
Service Method Extensions
| Service Method | Additional Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Service | None | Most reliable method |
| Mail (in state) | 5 calendar days | First-class mail |
| Mail (out of state) | 10 calendar days | Outside California |
| Electronic Service | 2 court days | With consent |
| Overnight Delivery | 1 court day | Express delivery |
California Rules of Court
Title 1: Rules Applicable to All Courts
- • Rule 1.6: Definitions and scope
- • Rule 1.10: Computation of time
- • Rule 1.40: Form and format requirements
- • Rule 1.100: Service and filing
Title 2: Trial Court Rules
- • Rule 2.100: Filing and service
- • Rule 2.200: Electronic filing
- • Rule 2.250: Format requirements
- • Rule 2.300: Filing deadlines
Title 3: Civil Rules
- • Rule 3.110: Calendar preferences
- • Rule 3.300: Discovery
- • Rule 3.400: Motions
- • Rule 3.500: Case management
Electronic Filing Requirements
Mandatory E-Filing Courts
- • Los Angeles Superior Court
- • Orange County Superior Court
- • San Francisco Superior Court
- • Riverside County Superior Court
- • Many other courts (check local rules)
E-Filing Benefits
- • 24/7 filing availability
- • Immediate confirmation
- • Reduced processing time
- • Electronic service options
- • Cost savings
Practice Areas
Personal Injury
- • Statute of limitations: 2 years
- • Government claims: 6 months
- • Medical malpractice: 3 years
- • Product liability: Various
Contract Disputes
- • Written contracts: 4 years
- • Oral contracts: 2 years
- • UCC sales: 4 years
- • Promissory notes: 6 years
Real Property
- • Quiet title: 5 years
- • Specific performance: 4 years
- • Breach of lease: 4 years
- • Unlawful detainer: 3 days notice
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Deadline Errors
- • Not accounting for service method
- • Forgetting California holidays
- • Mixing up calendar vs. court days
- • Ignoring local court rules
❌ Filing Issues
- • Wrong format for e-filing
- • Missing required forms
- • Incorrect service methods
- • Not checking local rules
✅ Best Practices
- • Use automated deadline calculators
- • Keep current on rule changes
- • Maintain local rule libraries
- • Set up redundant reminders
💡 Pro Tips
- • Build relationships with court clerks
- • Use court-approved forms
- • File early when possible
- • Keep detailed service records