Find Judges by Department; in alphabetical order; and by courthouse. Find staff members by Division in Support Staff Telephone list. Also consult Divisions for specific contact information.
\n\n\u00a0
\n575 Polk St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
Community Justice Center
\n555 Polk Street (Social Services)
\n575 Polk Street (Courtroom)
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\n(415) 551-3834
\nDirections
![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/575Polk%20new.jpg\")
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\nEffective January 1, 2010, Rule 10.500 of the California Rules of Court sets forth comprehensive public access provisions applicable to judicial administrative records.
\nThe Court will make identifiable judicial administrative records available upon request, unless the records are exempt from disclosure under rule 10.500. Records may be subject to payment of a fee pursuant to CRC 10.500(e)(4).
\nRequests for judicial administrative records can be submitted online using the Request Records form below.\u00a0
\n\nThese guidelines are not Rules of Court and do not have the force and effect of Rules of Court. They are standards drafted to formalize the view of the members of the San Francisco Bar Association as to the level of professional conduct expected for the practice of law within the jurisdiction of the courts of the City and County of San Francisco. While litigation is largely an adversarial process and attorneys are ethically bound to zealously represent and advocate their clients' interests, certain guidelines of professional courtesy that should be observed and certain duties of professionalism that are owed by attorneys to their clients, opposing parties, opposing parties' counsel, the courts and the public as a whole.
\nThese guidelines are not meant as a substitute for other statutes and rules. None of these guidelines is intended to be a method to extend time limitations of statutes and rules including fast track time limitations without an appropriate court order. These guidelines are not meant to be exhaustive, but they are meant to set a tone or guide for conduct not specifically mentioned in these guidelines.
\nThese have been adopted by the Courts of the City and County of San Francisco as guidelines.
\nNo attorney shall engage in any bias or discrimination based on age, gender, sexual orientation, physical or mental impairment, religion or race while litigating.
\nConsistent with existing law and court orders, an attorney should grant a reasonable request by opposing counsel for an extension of time within which to respond to a pleading, discovery, and other matters, when such an extension will not prejudice his or her client or unduly delay a proceeding.
\nAn attorney should only initiate discovery requests that are reasonably related to the matter at issue. An attorney shall not use discovery (i) for the purpose of harassing, embarrassing or causing the adversary to incur unnecessary expenses, as a means of delaying the timely, efficient and cost-effective resolution of a dispute; or (ii) to obtain an unfair advantage. An attorney shall avoid repetitive or argumentative questions, questions asked solely for the purposes of harassment, or questions which are known to the questioner to be an invasion of the rights of privacy of third parties not present or represented.
\nSimilarly, an attorney should ensure that responses to reasonable discovery requests are timely, complete and responsive to the discovery request. An attorney responding to written discovery should not do so in an evasive or artificial manner designed to assure that answers and responses are not truly responsive or solely to attempt to avoid a disclosure.
\nMotions should be filed sparingly, in good faith and when the issue(s) cannot be otherwise resolved. An attorney should, whenever appropriate, stipulate to all facts and legal authority not reasonably in dispute. An attorney should not engage in conduct which forces opposing counsel to file a motion and then not oppose the motion, or provide information called for in the motion only after the motion is filed.
\nAn attorney should inform his or her client that conflicts with opposing counsel are professional and not personal, that vigorous advocacy is not inconsistent with professional courtesy, and that the conduct of counsel in litigation should not be influenced by ill feelings or anger between clients and their conduct, attitude or demeanor toward opposing attorneys. Further, an attorney should refrain from disparaging or denigrating the Court, opposing counsel, or, except in the course of appropriate examination or argument, parties, or witnesses before clients, the public, or the media.
\nThe Human Resources Office is responsible for overseeing the needs of the Court\u2019s Judges and employees. Staff administers programs for Court employees\u2019 pay and benefits; job classifications; recruitment, selection and hiring; labor relations; grievances and labor contract negotiations; employee safety and disability programs; and disciplinary actions and appeals.
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\n400 McAllister St. -- Room 205
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\nJ.M. Mu\u00f1oz
\nHuman Resources Director
8:30 a.m. \u2013 4 p.m.
\nOn March 23, 2018, Assistant Presiding Judge Garrett L. Wong, Judge Richard C. Darwin, Judge Anne-Christine Massullo, and Judge Daniel A. Flores organized a table\u00a0at the San Francisco Sunday Streets event in the Excelsior neighborhood. The event provided an opportunity for the judges to meet with members of the public and answer general questions about the Court and its services.\u00a0
\n![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/3-25-18%20SF%20Judges%20at%20Excelsior%20Sunday%20Streets.jpg\")
Photo from left to right- Assistant Presiding Judge Garrett L. Wong, Judge Richard C. Darwin, Judge Anne-Christine Massullo, and Judge Daniel A. Flores
\nOn May 14, 2015, in partnership with The Bar Association of San Francisco, the San Francisco Superior Court held the \u201cMeet the Judges: A Community Forum\u201d where members of the public were able to ask questions of San Francisco Judges outside of the courtroom. Over 70 members of the public attended and had the opportunity to speak with Judges about topics that included Civil Harassment/Restraining Orders, Family Law, Housing, Traffic, Small Claims, ACCESS Self-Help Center, and Jury Service. A short reception where citizens could talk one-on-one with the Judges was held after the event.
\n![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/IMG_2955-2.jpg\")
Photo from left to right - Timothy W. Moppin, former BASF President, T. Michael Yuen, Court Executive Officer, (Retired) Judge Donald S. Mitchell, then-Presiding Judge John K. Stewart, Judge Gail Dekreon, Judge Edward Torpoco, Judge Monica F. Wiley,\u00a0Presiding Judge Teri L. Jackson, and Judge Angela Bradstreet.\u00a0
\nThe San Francisco Superior Court hosts many foreign delegations of visitors eager to learn more about the American justice system and the trial courts in California. Delegations often visit from China, Japan, Korea and Australia. Foreign delegations bring their own translator and observe court proceedings and visit with San Francisco Superior Court Judges who answer their questions about the justice system in California.
\n![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/IMG_5302.jpg\")
Presiding Garrett L. Wong (center, front\u00a0row)\u00a0and Court Executive Officer T. Michael Yuen (front\u00a0row, right) host the Osaka Bar Assocation on a visit to the Civic Center Courthouse in October 2019.
\n![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/SouthKorea.jpg\")
Former Presiding Judge\u00a0John K. Stewart (center, back row), Presiding Judge Teri L. Jackson (back row, right), Judge Harold E. Kahn (left, first row), Judge Andrew Y.S. Cheng (center left, first row), (Retired) Judge Lillian K. Sing (center right, first row) and Judge Suzanne Ramos Bolanos (right, first row),\u00a0 host a judicial delegation from the Supreme Court of Korea in March 2015.\u00a0
\n![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/Japanese%20Visitors_0_0.JPG\")
Former Presiding Judge John K. Stewart (center) meets with Japanese judges, arbitrators and professors in March 2015.
\nIn cooperation with the San Francisco Superior Court, the Day in Court Program, under the direction of the Bar Association of San Francisco, takes students from the classroom to the courtroom, allowing them to witness first-hand the trial of civil cases.\u00a0
\n![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/IMG_3732.jpg\")
Photo - Judge Andrew Y.S. Cheng meets with students from Live Oak Elementary School in April 2016.
\nTours take\u00a0place at the San Francisco County Courthouse located at 400 McAllister Street and are led by tour guides who are practicing attorneys. Each tour accommodates 30-45 students and takes place on Wednesday mornings throughout the school year.
\nJudges meet with the students at the end of their visit to\u00a0answer any questions they may have about\u00a0the judicial system. To learn more from Judge Curtis E.A. Karnow, listen to his radio interview with KALW's Carol Kocivar.\u00a0
\n![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/JudgeKarnowDayinCourt.JPG\")
Photo - Judge Curtis E.A. Karnow meets with San Francisco schoolchildren in his courtroom after answering their questions during a trip to the Civic Center Courthouse.
\nJudge Karnow has recently\u00a0edited a valuable resource for students based on real questions Judges have received from students during visits to the San Francisco Superior Court.\u00a0The book, What's Your Weirdest Case? Judges Answer Questions on the Courts, is a valuable resource for students, teachers\u00a0or\u00a0anyone seeking answers to the most commonly-asked questions about the courts and serving as a Judge.
\nKen Garcia
\nCommunications Director
\n(415) 551-5957
\n[email\u00a0protected]
The San Francisco Superior Court has its operations in four facilities.
\nThe Civic Center Courthouse (CCC) opened in 1998 after damage from the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake forced the Court to relocate from its City Hall location. Civil, Family Law, Probate and some Criminal cases are heard in the CCC, which also is home to the Self-Help Center. Several blocks away, the Polk Street Annex is home to the Community Justice Center.
\nThe Hall of Justice (HOJ) is the location of the Criminal courthouse where the majority of Criminal cases are heard. The Traffic Division also is located at the HOJ.
\nThe Juvenile Justice Center Center handles juvenile matters, including juvenile traffic.
\nThe Polk Street Annex is the location of the Community Justice Center, which includes a co-located courtroom and service center.
\nIn an effort to minimize COVID-19 related risks to the public and court staff, the San Francisco Superior Court has closed its Children's Waiting Rooms at both the Civic Center Courthouse and the Hall of Justice. These closures are part of the Court's operational changes effective March 17th.
\n| \n Civic Center Courthouse Hours Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. to Noon and 1 to 4:30 p.m. Closed Noon to 1 p.m. daily \n | \n\n Hall of Justice 850 Bryant St. Hours Monday-Friday | \n
\u00a0![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/pdfs/WR-Civic-Center-v-7-Flyer.jpg\")
\u00a0
The Children\u2019s Waiting Rooms were founded by the San Francisco Women Lawyers Alliance and operated by the Northern California Service League.
\nFor information: www.cjcj.org or call (415) 863-2323
\nT. Michael Yuen, Chief Executive Officer
\nThe CEO is the chief executive of the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco, who is responsible for managing approximately\u00a0420 employees, overseeing a\u00a0$76.9 million budget and implementing Court policies and procedures.
Please contact Court Administration at 400 McAllister Street, Room 205 or 415-551-5737 as soon as possible if you have had an item misplaced at the Court. All unclaimed items placed in the Court's Lost and Found will be discarded after 30 days.\u00a0
\n![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/Yuen-Michael-6363.jpg\")
\nT. Michael Yuen
Administrative Offices
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\n400 McAllister St. Room 205
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\n(415) 551-5737
\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/StarChef%20Logo.png\")
The Civic Center Courthouse is home to the popular Starchef Caf\u00e9. Hours of operation are Monday-Thursday 7:30 a.m.- 3:30 p.m. and Fridays 7:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
\nYou must have Acrobat Reader installed on your computer to read the files marked with a PDF icon. If you do not have Acrobat Reader, click on this link to download this free Adobe Software.
\n![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/01.jpg\") How to Request Accomodations | \n![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/02.jpg\") Deaf or Hearing Impaired | \n
![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/03.jpg\") Request for Accommodations Form | \n\n\n | \n
![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/05.jpg\") Rule 1.100 | \n\n\n | \n
![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/07.jpg\") ADA Coordinators | \n\n\n | \n
| \n\n | \n\u00a0 | \n
The Court recognizes that individuals who are deaf or hard-of-hearing are unable to participate in court proceedings and unable to benefit from court programs and services when they are not provided with appropriate auxiliary aids and services. Likewise, people who are blind or have low vision are unable to benefit from court services when printed materials are the only means of communication available.
\n![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/tdd.gif\")
A TDD line has been installed for persons who are deaf or heaing impaired. The access number is (415) 551-4001.
\nQuestions related to all branches of the San Francisco Superior Court can be handled via this number.
\nAmerican Sign Language (ASL) interpreters are available through the Court at no charge to the requesting party.
\nAssistive listening devices are available and may be obtained by contacting the courtroom clerk IN EACH DEPARTMENT.
Accessible Telephones:
\n\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Civic Center Courthouse: \u00a0 \u00a0Every Floor
\n\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Hall of Justice: \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 To The Right of the Metal Detectors
\n\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Youth Guidance Center: \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a02nd and 3rd Floor Across from the Elevators\u00a0\u00a0
The Court will ensure that communications with individuals with disabilities are as effective as communications with others. The Court when possible, will provide appropriate auxiliary aids and services for people with disabilities (e.g., CART for deaf and hard-of-hearing persons, qualified interpreters, computer-aided transcription services, assistive listening systems, written materials, audio recordings, computer disks, large print, and Braille materials) to ensure that individuals with disabilities will be able to participate in the complete range of court services and programs. The Court will give primary consideration to the type of auxiliary aid or services that individual with disabilities request. The Court will make reasonable efforts to accommodate disability accommodation requests made less than five days before a hearing or other court appearance.
\n\u00a0The Court\u2019s list of certified CART providers is presented below:
\nKatherine Baca
\n110 Gardenside #502
\nSF, CA 94131
\n(415) 279-7195
\n[email\u00a0protected]
Jane James
\nCaptioning Agency Professionals (CAP)
\n6031 Girvin Drive
\nOakland, CA 94611
\n(510) 530-3989
\n[email\u00a0protected]
Laura Brewer
\nLaura Brewer & Associates
\n49 Lyell St.
\nLos Altos, CA 94022
\n(650) 949-1900
\n[email\u00a0protected]
Teri Darrenougue
\nLaura Brewer & Associates
\n49 Lyell St.
\nLos Altos, CA 94022
\n(650) 949-1900
\n[email\u00a0protected]
\n\u00a0
\nRichard A. Walker
\n(510) 525-3327
\n[email\u00a0protected]
Audrey Maloney\u00a0
\n(415) 531-4502
\n[email\u00a0protected]
Captioning Online
\n14895 14th St.
\nSan Leandro, CA 94577
\n(707) 476-8737
\n[email\u00a0protected]
CART\u00a0
\nP.O. BOX 20278
\nCastro Valley, CA 94546
\n(510) 888-9825\u00a0
| Civic Center Courthouse | \n\u00a0 | \n
| \n \u00a0Adrienne Williams | \n\n Website: http://www.sfsuperiorcourt.org Accessible telephones: Every floor \n | \n
| Hall of Justice | \n\u00a0 | \n
| \n Rose Gonzalez | \n\n Website: http://www.sfsuperiorcourt.org | \n
| Polk Street (Community Justice Center) | \n\u00a0 | \n
| \n Maria Batres | \n\n Website: http://www.sfsuperiorcourt.org \u00a0 \n | \n
| Youth Guidance Center | \n\u00a0 | \n
| \n Yvette King | \n\n Website: http://www.sfsuperiorcourt.org/ Accessible telephones: 2nd and 3rd floors across from the elevators \n | \n
Revised: December 2021
\nIt is the policy of the San Francisco County Superior Court to assure that qualified individuals with disabilities have equal and full access to the judicial system. Court staff shall make every effort to assist individuals requesting reasonable accommodations in accordance with Rule 1.100 of the California Rules of Court (CRC).
\nMost requests for accommodations will be oral and should be easily and expeditiously provided. Complicated or extraordinary requests for accommodation may necessitate completion of form MC 410, Request for Accommodations by Persons with Disabilities and Order. The Interactive Process is an ongoing dialogue between the individuals with disabilities requesting accommodation(s) and the appropriate ADA coordinator within the Court about possible options for reasonably accommodating an individual with a disability. This process includes ascertaining the individual\u2019s limitations and determining how they could be overcome with a reasonable accommodation, as well as identifying potential accommodations and assessing their effectiveness. Both the individual and the Court are required to participate in this process in good faith.
\n
\nThe Court will promptly inform the applicant of the determination to grant or deny an accommodation request. If the accommodation request is denied in whole or in part, the response will be in writing and the reason(s) will be provided in writing to the individual requesting the accommodation. Upon the request of the applicant, the Court may also provide an additional response in an alternative format. The response to the applicant will indicate whether the request for accommodation is granted or denied, in whole or in part, or an alternative accommodation is granted.
It shall be the responsibility of each court employee to familiarize themselves with CRC Rule 1.100, the use of Form MC 410 and established court procedures for processing request for accommodations.*
\nGrievances and Appeals:\u00a0If the Court denies your request for accommodation, you have 10 days from the date your request was denied to appeal the Court\u2019s decision. You must follow the procedures in California Rule of Court rule 1.100(g). If your request was denied by a Judge or Commissioner, you must file a petition for writ of mandate in the appropriate reviewing court under California Rules of Court rules 8.485-8.493 or 8.930-8.936. If your request was denied by any other Court staff, you must submit a written request for review under California Rules of Court rule 1.100(g). Please submit appeals to the ADA Coordinator. If you believe that the Court has otherwise discriminated against anyone on the basis of disability, you can follow the Court\u2019s Grievance Procedure for Disability Discrimination Complaints.
\n| Agency Name | \nPhone Number | \nServices For | \n
|---|---|---|
| \n Independent Living | \n\n (415) 543-6222 | \n\n All Disabilities \n
| \n
| \n Deaf Counseling, Advocacy & Referral Agency (DCARA), San Leandro \n | \n\n (510) 483-0753 \n | \n\n Deaf Persons \n
| \n
| \n Law Center for the Deaf \n | \n\n (510) 483-0922 \n | \n\n Deaf Persons \n
| \n
| \n AIDS Legal Referral Panel \n | \n\n (415) 701-1100 \n | \n\n Persons with HIV \n
| \n
| \n Family Caregiver Alliance \n | \n\n (415) 434-3388 \n | \n\n For families and caregivers of persons with disabilities \n
| \n
| \n Employment Law Center, Legal Aid Society \n | \n\n (415) 864-8848 \n | \n\n Employment Issues for persons with Mental Health Issues. Ask for Claudia Center \n
| \n
| \n Golden Gate Regional Center \n | \n\n (415) 546-9222 \n | \n\n Persons with Developmental Disabilities. Must be client or eligible for assessment with the center. \n
| \n
| \n Legal Assistance to the Elderly \n | \n\n (415) 538=3333 \n | \n\n Elderly Persons \n
| \n
| \n Legal Services \n | \n\n (415) 863-3762 \n | \n\n Family Law Issues \nLegal Services for: \n
| \n
| \n Bay Area Legal Aid \n | \n\n (415) 982-1300 \n | \n\n General Legal Questions \nCounseling & legal representation \n
| \n
To assure equal access, fair treatment, and the just and efficient resolution of disputes for all people asserting their rights under the law.
\nWe will be happy to help you if we can. However, we are allowed to help you only in certain ways since we want to be fair to everyone. This is a list of some things the court staff can and cannot do for you.
\n\n| \n We can \n | \n\n explain and answer the questions about how the court works. \n | \n\n We cannot \n | \n\n tell you whether or not you should bring your case to court. \n | \n
| \n We can \n | \n\n provide you the number of the local lawyer referral service, legal aid program and other services where you can get legal advice. \n | \n\n We cannot \n | \n\n tell what words to use in your court papers. However, we will check your papers for completeness. For example, we check for signatures, notarization, correct county name, correct case number and presence of attachments. \n | \n
| \n We can \n | \n\n give you general information about court rules, procedures and practices. \n | \n\n We cannot \n | \n\n tell you what to say in court. \n | \n
| \n We can \n | \n\n provide court schedules and information on how to get a case scheduled. \n | \n\n We cannot \n | \n\n give you an opinion about what will happen if you bring your case to court. \n | \n
| \n We can \n | \n\n give you information from your case file. \n | \n\n We cannot \n | \n\n talk to the Judge for you. \n | \n
| \n We can \n | \n\n provide you with court forms that are available, \n | \n\n We cannot \n | \n\n let you talk to the judge outside of Court. \n | \n
| \n We can \n | \n\n usually answer questions about court deadlines and how to compute them. \n | \n\n We cannot \n | \n\n change an order signed by a Judge. \n | \n
\u00a0
\n| Court staff do not know the answers to all questions about court rules, procedures and practices. We have been instructed not to answer questions if we do not know the correct answer. For additional information, please contact a lawyer or your local law library, or check the California Courts Self-Help Center. | \n
Unified Family Court (UFC) is comprised of Juvenile Dependency, Juvenile Delinquency, Child Support, and Family Law. Its mission is to provide coordinated services to those who have family-related issues in the Court system, strengthen services to the community, and assist and promote healthy families and children. UFC handles divorce, legal separation and nullity; parentage; domestic abuse restraining orders; child, spousal and family support; child custody and visitation; mediation and self-help services; child abuse and neglect; and children\u2019s violations of criminal law.
\nUFC INSTRUCTIONS FOR REMOTE COURT HEARINGS VIA BLUEJEANS
\nEnglish
\n\nBlueJeans Self Help and Tech Requirements Links
\nBlueJeans VC Admonitions and Instructions
\nFCS Remote Parent Orientation Video-Phone Conferencing Tip Sheet
\nBlueJeans - Welcome and Admonishment
\nStanding BlueJeans Meeting Info
\nUFC Remote Appearance Etiquette
\nChinese (Simplified)
\nBlue Jeans Instructions_CHSIMPLIFIED
\nBlueJeans self help and Tech requirements links_CHS
\nBlueJeans -Welcome and Admonishment 010821_CHS
\nFCS Remote Parent Orientation Video-Phone Conferencing Tip Sheet FINAL_CHS
\nFINAL Zoom BlueJeans VC-Admonitions and Instructions - 2-16-2021_CHS
\nStanding BlueJeans Meeting info (Generic)_CHS
\nUFC Remote Appearance Etiquette_CHS
\nChinese (Traditional)
\nBlue Jeans Instructions_CHTRADITIONAL
\nBlueJeans self help and Tech requirements links_CHT
\nBlueJeans -Welcome and Admonishment 010821_CHT
\nFCS Remote Parent Orientation Video-Phone Conferencing Tip Sheet FINAL_CHT
\nFINAL Zoom BlueJeans VC-Admonitions and Instructions - 2-16-2021_CHT
\nStanding BlueJeans Meeting info (Generic)_CHT
\nUFC Remote Appearance Etiquette_CHT
\nRussian
\nBlue Jeans Instructions_RUSSIAN
\nBlueJeans self help and Tech requirements links_RU
\nBlueJeans -Welcome and Admonishment 010821_RU
\nFCS Remote Parent Orientation Video-Phone Conferencing Tip Sheet FINAL_RU
\nFINAL Zoom BlueJeans VC-Admonitions and Instructions - 2-16-2021_RU
\nStanding BlueJeans Meeting info (Generic)_RU
\nUFC Remote Appearance Etiquette_RU
\nSpanish
\nBlue Jeans Instructions_SPANISH
\nBlueJeans self help and Tech requirements links_SP
\nBlueJeans -Welcome and Admonishment 010821_SP
\nFCS Remote Parent Orientation Video-Phone Conferencing Tip Sheet FINAL_SP
\nFINAL Zoom BlueJeans VC-Admonitions and Instructions - 2-16-2021_SP
\nStanding BlueJeans Meeting info (Generic)_SP
\nUFC Remote Appearance Etiquette_SP
\nTagalog
\nBlue Jeans Instructions_TAGALOG
\nBlueJeans self help and Tech requirements links_TL
\nBlueJeans -Welcome and Admonishment 010821_TL
\nFCS Remote Parent Orientation Video-Phone Conferencing Tip Sheet FINAL_TL
\nFINAL Zoom BlueJeans VC-Admonitions and Instructions - 2-16-2021_TL
\nStanding BlueJeans Meeting info (Generic)_TL
\nUFC Remote Appearance Etiquette_TL
\nVietnamese
\nBlue Jeans Instructions_VIETNAMESE
\nBlueJeans self help and Tech requirements links_VI
\nBlueJeans -Welcome and Admonishment 010821_VI
\nFCS Remote Parent Orientation Video-Phone Conferencing Tip Sheet FINAL_VI
\nFINAL Zoom BlueJeans VC-Admonitions and Instructions - 2-16-2021_VI
\nStanding BlueJeans Meeting info (Generic)_VI
\nUFC Remote Appearance Etiquette_VI
\nUFC E-Service of Documents
\nDuring the state of emergency related to the COVID-19 pandemic, and consistent with California Rules of Court, Emergency Rule 12, attorneys shall accept electronic service on all filed documents otherwise required to be served by mail or in person with the following exceptions: documents filed under seal or subject to a pending motion to seal. As required by Emergency Rule 12, before serving a represented party electronically, the serving party must confirm by telephone or email the appropriate electronic service address for counsel being served.
\nSearch for Case Calendars by Case Type and Date. Information is available up to 120 calendar days from today.
\n\nJudge\u00a0Monica F. Wiley, Supervising Judge
\n400 McAllister St. - Department 405
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 551-3747
Judge Maria Evangelista
\n400 McAllister St. - Department 403
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 551-3741
Judge Victor F. Hwang
\n400 McAllister St. - Department 404
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 551-3744
Judge\u00a0Roger C. Chan
\n400 McAllister St. - Department 405
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 551-3747
[email\u00a0protected]\u00a0
\nJudge Monica F. Wiley, Presiding Judge
\nJJC - Department 2
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 682-5202
Judge Daniel A. Flores
\nJJC - Department 3
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 682-5203
Judge Roger C. Chan
\nJJC - Department 4
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 682-5204
Judge Newton J. Lam
\n400 McAllister St. - Department 406
\nCourt Clerk (415) 551-3750
[email\u00a0protected]
\n
\nJudge Susan M. Breall
\n400 McAllister St. - Department 425
\nCourt Clerk (415) 551-3759
[email\u00a0protected]\u00a0
\nInstructions for Adoption Form
\n\nCommissioner Rebecca L. Wightman
\n400 McAllister St. - Department 416
\nCourt Clerk (415) 551-3756
Information on Title IV-D Remote Appearances in Department 416
\nJudy Louie, Director
\n400 McAllister St. - Room 509
\n(415) 551-0605
Family and Dependency Mediation
\nFelicia Fleming, Acting Manager
\n400 McAllister St. - Room 402 B
\n(415) 551-5983
Court Manager\u00a0- Frances Yokota
\n400 McAllister St. - Room 402
\n((415) 551-3914
Acting Court Supervisor - Jonathan Wong
\n400 McAllister St. - Room 402
\n(415) 551-3962
Court Supervisor - Yvette King
\nDelinquency/Juvenile Traffic
\nJJC - Room 101
\n(415) 682-5101
If the person seeking the restraining order and the person against whom the restraining order is sought have minor children in common, court orders may be entered regarding custody and visitation of the children.
\nIf both parents appear on the date of the court hearing on the request for a restraining order, they will be ordered to participate in a domestic violence-related orientation (even if they recently attended the 3-hour orientation class) and in a mediation conducted by Family Court Services. The mediation and orientation will take place in separate sessions in order to ensure the safety of both parents.
\nThe mediation will occur between, approximately, 10 a.m. and 12 p.m., immediately after orientation. The Court will hear the restraining order application and enter child custody and visitation orders (based on either the parties\u2019 stipulation or after hearing) once the mediation is completed. In some cases, the parties may have to return to Court in the afternoon to have their matter heard.
\n![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/i_unified_court.jpg\")
Civic Center Courthouse
\n400 McAllister St., Room 402
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
Family Law, Dependency and Child Support
\n(415) 551-3900
Clerk's Office Hours in Room 402: Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
\nDrop box\u00a0available Monday through Friday except on court holidays, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Provide a self-addressed stamped envelope and 2 copies to ensure return of documents.
\n\nJuvenile Justice Center
\n375 Woodside Ave., Room 101
\nSan Francisco, CA 94127
(415) 682-5100
\nClerk's Office Hours in Room 101: Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
\nDrop box available Monday through Friday, except on court holidays. 8:30 a.m to 4 p.m. Provide a self-addressed stamped envelope and 2 copies to ensure return of documents.
\n
\nDirections
The Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco\u2019s Temporary Judge Program, welcomes and invites you to become a part of our Temporary Judge panel. The Temporary Judge Program utilizes a panel of qualified, experienced and trained attorneys who volunteer their time to serve in various divisions of the Court as Temporary Judges. A \"Court-appointed Temporary Judge\" is an attorney who has satisfied the requirements for appointment listed in California Rules of Court 2.812, and has been appointed by the Court to serve as a Temporary Judge. Temporary Judges will serve in the areas of Traffic, Small Claims and Unlawful Detainer (UD) Settlements. This page will provide up-to-date information regarding experience, the application process, training requirements, and available resources for Temporary Judges.
\nBefore appointment, the attorney must have attended and successfully completed at least three hours of training on the subjects identified in rule 2.813(a) approved by the Court in which the attorney will serve. This course must be taken in person and be taught by a qualified Judicial Officer or other person approved by the Administrative Office of the Courts.
\nAnnoucement for upcoming Bench Conduct and Demeanor Training
\nTemporary Judges serving in the Traffic Departments will preside over trials, traffic calendars and other matters as necessary.
\nTemporary Judges serving in the Small Claims Departments will preside over Small Claims calendars and trials, hearing only such law and motion matters as may pertain to the trial before them. \u00a0
\nSettlement attorneys will preside over\u00a0UD Settlement calendars and cases.
\nThe Presiding Judge may not appoint an attorney to serve as a Temporary Judge unless the attorney has been admitted to practice as a member of the State Bar of California for at least 10 years before the appointment. However, for good cause, the Presiding Judge may permit an attorney who has been admitted to practice for at least five years to serve as a Temporary Judge.
\nConditions for Appointment by the Court
\nThe Presiding Judge may appoint an attorney to serve as a Temporary Judge only if the attorney has met the following minimum requirements:
NOTE: Consistent with CRC Rule 2.818 Temporary Judges have an ongoing duty to report any disciplinary action pending or taken against them by the State Bar of California at least two court days before arriving to serve as a Temporary Judge.
\nThe Court's Temporary Judge Program invites interested attorneys who have been members of the California State Bar for at least 10 years to download and submit the Temporary Judge Application form. Upon completion of the application, you may submit the application in one of the following manners:
\nThe Presiding Judge may appoint an attorney to serve as a Temporary Judge only if the following minimum training requirements are satisfied:
\nBefore appointment, the attorney must have attended and successfully completed at least three hours of training on the subjects identified in rule 2.813(b) approved by the Court in which the attorney will serve. This course may be taken by any means approved by the Court, including in-person, or online.
\nBefore appointment, the attorney must have attended and successfully completed a course on the substantive law in each subject area in which the attorney will serve as a Temporary Judge. These courses may be taken by any means approved by the Court, including in person, by broadcast, or online. The substantive courses have the following minimum requirements:
\nEach attorney appointed as a Temporary Judge must attend and successfully complete every three years a course on bench conduct and demeanor, an ethics course, and a course in each substantive area in which the attorney will serve as a Temporary Judge. The courses must cover the same subjects and be of the same duration as the courses prescribed in rule 2.812(c). These courses must be approved by the Court that appoints the attorney.
\nThe following rules of the California Rules of Court apply to Temporary Judges:
\nThe following sections of the Canons of Judicial Ethics relating to fairness are applicable to Temporary Judges: Canons 2A, 2C, 3B(5), 3B(6), 3B(8), 3C(1), 3C(2), 3C(4), 3E, 5B, and 6D(3)(a).
\nTemporary Judge Resources Provides access to online courses, publications, and participatory materials that were developed by the Education Division/California Center for Judicial Education and Research (CJER) for use by Judges, Commissioners, and Referees. The Trial Courts are making these resources available to Temporary Judges to use in preparing for their assignments and satisfying training requirements. (CRC 2.812(c)\u2013(d), 2.813, 2.815).
\nTemporary Judge Program
\n400 McAllister St., Room 205
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\nAdrienne Williams
\n(415) 551-3621
\u00a0
\n575 Polk St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
Community Justice Center
\n555 Polk Street (Social Services)
\n575 Polk Street (Courtroom)
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\n (415) 551-3834
\nDirections
Congress created the U-Visa program for certain victims of criminal activity with the enactment of the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act of 2000. Under the statute, a non-citizen may be entitled to a U-Visa if the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) determines that the applicant has suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result of a having been a victim of a qualifying criminal activity, and was helpful, is being helpful or is likely to be helpful to law enforcement, prosecutors, judges, or government officials in the detection, investigation, prosecution, conviction or sentencing of the qualifying criminal activity.
\nIn order to be eligible for a U-Visa, the applicant must obtain a certification from a certifying agency or official explaining that the victim has been helpful, is being helpful, or is likely to be helpful in the detection, investigation, prosecution , conviction or sentencing of qualifying criminal activity. Judges are listed in the federal statute as eligible certifiers to complete the U visa Certification Form I-918, Supplement B. The certification is required to establish eligibility for the U visa, but does not by itself grant immigration status to the applicant. To obtain a U visa, applicants must meet eligibility requirements in addition to U visa certification. DHS has sole authority to grant or deny a U visa.
\nThe Presiding Judge will assign all U Visa certification requests received by the Civil Division of the San Francisco Superior Court to a Judge designated to sign U Visa certifications. This approach helps ensure uniformity of decision and a clear transparent process for the applicant. For more\u00a0information, consult\u00a0the San Francisco Superior Court\u2019s U visa protocol.
\nAll California Courts are required to report the number of U visa certifications that were signed and the number of certifications that were not signed to the California Legislature. The San Francisco Superior Court\u2019s certification activity is available here.
\n| \n Case Query On this site, you can look up Unlimited/Limited Civil, Family Law, Probate, and Small Claims cases by case number or by case name for cases filed from 1987 to present. For all other cases contact those court departments directly. \u00a0MORE \u00bb \nCivil UD and Rental Debt\u00a0Case Query:\u00a0\u00a0https://ud.sftc.org\u00a0 \n | \n\n\n | \n
| \n\n Search for Case Calendars by Case Type and Date. Information is available up to 120 calendar days from today. \n | \n\n\n | \n
| Courtroom Live Stream | \n\n\n | \n
| \n Criminal\u00a0\u2014\u00a0Upcoming Cases Report \n | \n\n\n | \n
| \n Tentative Rulings\u00a0\u2014\u00a0Civil (Non-Family) \n
| \n\n |
| \n\n Pay Traffic and Citations \n | \n\n\n | \n
| Traffic School & Administrative Fees \nSign up and pay for traffic school | \n\n\n | \n
In an effort to minimize COVID-19 related risks to the public and court staff, the San Francisco Superior Court has closed its Children's Waiting Rooms at both the Civic Center Courthouse and the Hall of Justice. These closures are part of the Court's operational changes effective March 17th.
\n| \n Civic Center Courthouse Hours Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. to Noon and 1 to 4:30 p.m. Closed Noon to 1 p.m. daily \n | \n\n Hall of Justice 850 Bryant St. Hours Monday-Friday | \n
\u00a0\u00a0
The Children\u2019s Waiting Rooms were founded by the San Francisco Women Lawyers Alliance and operated by the Northern California Service League.
\nFor information: www.cjcj.org or call (415) 863-2323
\nCourt Reporters, as guardians of the record, are not only employees of the Court, but purveyors of transcripts for all interested parties. Their professional responsibilities include providing appellate transcripts to the California Court of Appeal and the Superior Court of California, as well as legislated transcripts arising out of criminal proceedings. Court reporters who report in civil, family and juvenile matters also work with law firms and the public to provide requested transcripts.
\nOrder it directly from the Court Reporter who took the proceedings. Call the Department in which the matter was heard and ask the Clerk who the Court Reporter was on a given date. The Clerk will put you in touch with the correct reporter.
\nIf the Clerk is unable to provide you with the Court Reporter's name, call (415) 551-3778. Requests for transcripts also may be made by email at [email\u00a0protected]. Include the date of the proceedings,\u00a0the Department and the Court Reporter's name in your email request to obtain\u00a0a transcript.
\nPursuant to Rule 2.956 (b)(1), and effective immediately, the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco, will post the Departments in which the services of Official Court Reporters will not normally be available during regular Court hours. A notice shall be posted on the outside of each affected Department and in the Clerk's Office, Room 103, Civic Center Courthouse.
\nPursuant to Rule 2.956(c), if the services of an Official Court Reporter are not available for a hearing or trial in a civil case, a party may arrange for the presence of a certified shorthand reporter to serve as an official pro tempore reporter. It will be that party's responsibility to pay the reporter's fee for the attendance at the proceedings, but the expense may be recoverable as part of the costs, provided by law.
\nIf a party arranges and pays for the attendance of the certified shorthand reporter, none of the parties will be charged the reporter's attendance fee provided for in Government Codes 68086 (a)(1) or (b) (1).
\nIt is further noticed that the stenographic notes of the certified shorthand reporter are the official records of the Court and shall be secured by the Court in either paper and/or electronic format in accordance with CGC Section 69955 (a), (b), (c) and (d).
\nCounsel are encouraged to work with a Court Reporter that can provide an electronic transcript preferably through YesLaw.
\nFor hearings where the moving party must pay a fee for a court reporter provided by the court, the following procedures must be followed to ensure the court is able to access the fee.
\nFee waiver recipients who desire a verbatim record of a trial court proceeding must notify the court in writing by filing a notice, a request or other form of written notification.\u00a0The notice/request must be received within the following time perimeters:
\nFailure to make the request within the time perimeters listed above may result in the courts inability to honor your request in a timely manner, on the day of your hearing.
\n8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m., Monday - Friday, excluding Court holidays
\n| \n If you have a Court\u00a0related e-filing inquiry please contact the E-filing Unit through email:\u00a0 \n\u00a0 \nCIVIL FILINGS:\u00a0[email\u00a0protected]\u00a0 \nFAMILY LAW FILINGS:\u00a0\u00a0[email\u00a0protected]\u00a0 \n\n | \n
\u00a0
\nSENATE BILL 310 \u2013 JURY SERVICE (FELONY CONVICTIONS)
\nAn amendment to the Code of Civil Procedure, Section 203 will be in effect January 1, 2020.\u00a0 The amendment is to the prohibition relative to persons who have been convicted of a felony from being eligible and qualified to be a prospective trial juror.\u00a0 Instead, the new law now makes persons previously convicted a felony now eligible and qualified, unless they are incarcerated in any prison or jail, or persons who have been convicted of a felony and are currently on parole, post release community supervision, felony probation, or mandated supervision for the conviction of a felony, and persons who are currently required to register as a sex offender based on a felony conviction (Penal Code 290).
\nGROUPS REPORTING:
\nGroups 102, 104, 105, 110, 112, 114 and 118, you are instructed to complete the survey form by clicking on this link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SFJuryReporting , or by logging onto the Jury Duty Portal and entering your Badge Number and Pin Number.\u00a0 If you are unable to complete the survey, you MUST report to 400 McAllister Street, Room 007 on Thursday, February 3, 2022\u00a0at 8:45 a.m.
\nGroups 107, 109 and 113 report to 400 McAllister Street, Room 007 on Thursday, February 3, 2022\u00a0at 8:45 a.m.
\nGroups 106, 111 and 120 report to 400 McAllister Street, Room 007 on Thursday, February 3, 2022\u00a0at 12:45 p.m.
\nGROUPS ON STANDBY:
\nGroups 101, 103, 108, 115, 116, 117\u00a0and 119\u00a0revisit this website on Thursday, February 3, 2022 after 4:30 p.m.
\nGROUPS ALREADY REPORTED:\u00a0Please call the Juror Hotline at 415-551-3608 if you did not report.
\nNo groups have reported.
\nGROUPS REPORTING:
\nThere are no groups scheduled to report on Thursday, February 3, 2022.\u00a0\u00a0
\nGROUPS ON STANDBY:
\nGroups 601, 602, 603, 604, 605, 606, 607, 609, 611, 612, 613, 614, 615, 616, 618, 619, 620, 621, 622, 624 and 625 revisit this website on Thursday, February 3, 2022 after 4:30 p.m.
\nGROUPS ALREADY REPORTED:\u00a0Please call the Juror Hotline at 415-551-3608 if you did not report.
\nGroups 608, 610, 617 and 623.
\nParking Information
\nCivic Center Courthouse: The Court has negotiated a discounted rate at the Performing Arts Garage and Civic Center Plaza Garage, subject to availability. The Performing Arts\u00a0Garage is located at 360 Grove Street, between Gough and Franklin Streets; enter from\u00a0Gough Street. Bring the\u00a0ticket to the Jury Assembly Room for a validation stamp. There are no in-and-out privileges. Please note that the garage is sometimes full in the afternoon. The Civic Center Plaza Garage is located at 355 McAllister Street, between Polk and Larkin Streets; enter from McAllister Street. Bring the\u00a0ticket to the Jury Assembly Room for a validation stamp. There are no in-and-out privileges. Please note that the garage is sometimes full in the afternoon.
\nHall of Justice: Parking is extremely limited around the Hall of Justice. Most parking lots are full by mid-morning. We strongly recommend taking public transportation.
\nPublic Transit Information
\nCivic Center Courthouse: 49 Van Ness/Mission, 19 Polk, 5 Fulton, 5R Fulton Rapid, and 31 Balboa, in addition to Metro service to Civic Center Station.
\nHall of Justice:\u00a019 Polk, 12 Folsom, 8 Bayshore, and 27 Bryant. Please visit www.sfmta.com for more information.
\nBiking Information
\nCivic Center Courthouse:\u00a0The Civic Center Courthouse is accessible via several bicycle routes along Polk Street and Market Street. There are bike racks available on Polk Street next to the Courthouse, in front of City Hall, and in the Civic Center Garage. There is a Bay Area Bike Share station in front of City Hall. For more information on City Bike Share stations, visit www.bayareabikeshare.com.
\nHall of Justice:\u00a0The Hall of Justice is accessible by bike via several bicycle routes along 7th Street, Townsend Street, and 5th Street. There are bike racks available in front of the Hall of Justice on Bryant Street.
\nSecurity Information
\nYou are required to pass through airport-style security when entering the courthouse. Weapons and items construed to be weapons are not allowed and will be confiscated. You must clear security to enter the Jury Assembly Room. As there may be lines, please allow sufficient time for the security process. Peak times are generally 8:30-10 a.m. and 12-2:30 p.m.
\nItems that are not allowed in the courthouse include, but are not limited to: firearms; knives; scissors; pepper spray; sharp tools or objects; tasers; graffiti pens or markers; flammable gas or materials; aerosol cans; spray paint; skateboards; scooters; portable speakers; large musical instruments; and other large/bulky items. You may not enter the courthouse with these or any items that security staff deem unacceptable. There is no storage available for any such items.
\nWiFi and Cell Phones
\nJurors are welcome to use laptops and cell phones while in the Jury Assembly Room. Free WiFi is available.
\nJuror Hotline
\nIf you have questions, call us at 415-551-3608, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. to 4:00\u00a0p.m.
\nThe Welfare and Institutions Code, starting at section 602, describes the Court's jurisdiction over misdemeanors and felonies committed by minors (persons under 18 years of age). For those who cannot afford legal representation for their children, the Court will appoint an attorney. The objectives of the Delinquency Court are to provide for the protection and safety of the public and each minor; to preserve and strengthen the minor\u2019s family ties whenever possible; give care, treatment and guidance to the minor; and hold them accountable for their behavior when they commit delinquent acts. If a minor becomes a ward of the Delinquency Court, the Court will make orders for the parents or guardians, and the minor. The minor may be allowed to live in the parents' or guardians' home under Court supervision or may be placed outside of the home in an unlocked or locked facility. The factors that the Court will consider in making this determination include the child's age, the seriousness of the offense and the history of delinquency.
\nCompetency Protocol Pursuant to\u00a0Welfare and Institutions Code Section 709
\nProtocol for Implementation of Welfare and Institutions Code Section 241.1
\nIf it is a Traffic Violation, go to 375 Woodside Ave., Room 101, the Traffic Court, or call (415) 682-5100. For non-traffic violations, go to the Intake Probation Department, 375 Woodside Ave., Room 237, if you are a San Francisco resident, or call (415) 753-7530. If you are a non-resident, go to 375 Woodside Ave., Room 214, or call (415) 753-7530.
\nDELINQUENCY
\nPlease call:
\n(415) 682-5100
Please write:
\nClerk's Office
\n375 Woodside Ave., Room 101
\nSan Francisco, CA 94127
DEPENDENCY Please call:
\n(415) 551-3747
Please write:
\nClerk to the Supervising Judge
\nDepartment 405
\n400 McAllister St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4512
Please include the following information:
\nName and any alias;
\nDate of birth;
\nApproximate time period of the person being in the system;
\nYour telephone number; and
\nYour relationship to the case (minor, parent, guardian, attorney of record, etc., or person) under W&I 827
Please call:
\n(415) 682-5101
Please Write:
\nYvette King
\nCourt Supervisor
\nJuvenile Court
\n375 Woodside Ave., Room 101
\nSan Francisco, CA 94127
Please include the following information
\nName and any alias;
\nDate of birth;
\nApproximate time period of the person being in the system;
\nYour telephone number; and
\nYour relationship to the case (minor, parent, guardian, attorney of record, etc., or person) under W&I 827
Please call the Special Services of the Probation Department at (415)753-7661.
\nPlease call the Supervising Judge's Clerk at (415)551-3747.
\nPlease call the Court Clerk of Department in which matter will be set.
\n![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/i_juveniledelinquency.jpg\")
Juvenile Justice Center
\n375 Woodside Ave.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94127
\nDirections
Juvenile Justice Center
\nRoom 101
\n8:30 a.m. - 2\u00a0p.m., Monday - Friday\u00a0(excluding Court holidays)
\n(415) 682-5100
Supervising Judge
\nMonica F. Wiley
\nDepartment 2
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 682-5202
Judge Daniel A. Flores
\nDepartment 3
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 682-5203
Judge\u00a0Roger C. Chan
\nDepartment 4
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 682-5204
Wayne Parinas
\nDirector, Collaborative Justice Courts
\nAllyson West
\n(415) 551-3983\u00a0
Court Supervisor
\nYvette King
\n(415) 682-5101
Calendaring:
\n(415) 682-5105
Filings:
\n(415) 682-5100
The Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco\u2019s Temporary Judge Program, welcomes and invites you to become a part of our Temporary Judge panel. The Temporary Judge Program utilizes a panel of qualified, experienced and trained attorneys who volunteer their time to serve in various divisions of the Court as Temporary Judges. A \"Court-appointed Temporary Judge\" is an attorney who has satisfied the requirements for appointment listed in California Rules of Court 2.812, and has been appointed by the Court to serve as a Temporary Judge. Temporary Judges will serve in the areas of Traffic, Small Claims and Unlawful Detainer (UD) Settlements. This page will provide up-to-date information regarding experience, the application process, training requirements, and available resources for Temporary Judges.
\nBefore appointment, the attorney must have attended and successfully completed at least three hours of training on the subjects identified in rule 2.813(a) approved by the Court in which the attorney will serve. This course must be taken in person and be taught by a qualified Judicial Officer or other person approved by the Administrative Office of the Courts.
\nAnnoucement for upcoming Bench Conduct and Demeanor Training
\nTemporary Judges serving in the Traffic Departments will preside over trials, traffic calendars and other matters as necessary.
\nTemporary Judges serving in the Small Claims Departments will preside over Small Claims calendars and trials, hearing only such law and motion matters as may pertain to the trial before them. \u00a0
\nSettlement attorneys will preside over\u00a0UD Settlement calendars and cases.
\nThe Presiding Judge may not appoint an attorney to serve as a Temporary Judge unless the attorney has been admitted to practice as a member of the State Bar of California for at least 10 years before the appointment. However, for good cause, the Presiding Judge may permit an attorney who has been admitted to practice for at least five years to serve as a Temporary Judge.
\nConditions for Appointment by the Court
\nThe Presiding Judge may appoint an attorney to serve as a Temporary Judge only if the attorney has met the following minimum requirements:
NOTE: Consistent with CRC Rule 2.818 Temporary Judges have an ongoing duty to report any disciplinary action pending or taken against them by the State Bar of California at least two court days before arriving to serve as a Temporary Judge.
\nThe Court's Temporary Judge Program invites interested attorneys who have been members of the California State Bar for at least 10 years to download and submit the Temporary Judge Application form. Upon completion of the application, you may submit the application in one of the following manners:
\nThe Presiding Judge may appoint an attorney to serve as a Temporary Judge only if the following minimum training requirements are satisfied:
\nBefore appointment, the attorney must have attended and successfully completed at least three hours of training on the subjects identified in rule 2.813(b) approved by the Court in which the attorney will serve. This course may be taken by any means approved by the Court, including in-person, or online.
\nBefore appointment, the attorney must have attended and successfully completed a course on the substantive law in each subject area in which the attorney will serve as a Temporary Judge. These courses may be taken by any means approved by the Court, including in person, by broadcast, or online. The substantive courses have the following minimum requirements:
\nEach attorney appointed as a Temporary Judge must attend and successfully complete every three years a course on bench conduct and demeanor, an ethics course, and a course in each substantive area in which the attorney will serve as a Temporary Judge. The courses must cover the same subjects and be of the same duration as the courses prescribed in rule 2.812(c). These courses must be approved by the Court that appoints the attorney.
\nThe following rules of the California Rules of Court apply to Temporary Judges:
\nThe following sections of the Canons of Judicial Ethics relating to fairness are applicable to Temporary Judges: Canons 2A, 2C, 3B(5), 3B(6), 3B(8), 3C(1), 3C(2), 3C(4), 3E, 5B, and 6D(3)(a).
\nTemporary Judge Resources Provides access to online courses, publications, and participatory materials that were developed by the Education Division/California Center for Judicial Education and Research (CJER) for use by Judges, Commissioners, and Referees. The Trial Courts are making these resources available to Temporary Judges to use in preparing for their assignments and satisfying training requirements. (CRC 2.812(c)\u2013(d), 2.813, 2.815).
\nTemporary Judge Program
\n400 McAllister St., Room 205
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\nAdrienne Williams
\n(415) 551-3621
\nRecord Type\n | \n\nHow to Access\n | \n
|---|---|
| \n Civil Records | \n\n In Person: Review instructions and submit a completed Civil Records Request Form.\u00a0 Public Viewing Room (Currently Open) --Onsite, online Civil Records viewing may be requested on a first-come, first-served basis. \nMail-In: Follow instructions for mail requests as indicated on the Civil Records Request Form (See Above).\u00a0 \nOnline: Some Civil cases are available online. Please visit Online Services to access case information. Computers are made available for public use in Room 103, CCC. Please note that files may only be viewed on the premises. \nFor more detailed information please visit our website. | \n
| Court Reporter Transcripts | \nInformation about transcript requests is available here. | \n
| Criminal Records | \n\n Records Requests \nIn Person: Review instructions and submit a completed Criminal Records Request Form to Window #7\u00a0or #8\u00a0in Room 101 at the Hall of Justice.\u00a0 \nMail-In: Follow instructions for mail requests here.\u00a0 \nOnline: Criminal records are NOT available online. \n\u00a0Public Viewing of Records \nA Public Viewing Room is available in Room 101, Hall of Justice, 850 Bryant St.,\u00a0 \nIf submitting a Record Request for Vewing via mail or fax, indicate \"View Only\" and a clerk will contact you when the file is ready to be viewed. \nIf you request a file and that file is onsite, you may view the file if space is available in the viewing room that day or make an appointment to view at a later date. \nViewing is available from 8:30am-12:30pm without an appointment on a first-come, first-serve basis. Viewing appointments may be scheduled for afternoons from 1:00pm-3:00pm. To schedule a viewing appointment please contact 415-551-0651. \nDue to the ongoing pandemic emergency, hours of operation are subject to change. Please check our website for any updates regarding office closures or reduced business hours.\u00a0 \n | \n
| \n Judicial Administrative Records \n | \n\n Submit all requests here. \n*This is for judicial administrative records only pursuant to CRC 10.500, do not use this form for case records.\u00a0 \n | \n
| \n Juvenile Records | \nFor record request information, visit Juvenile Deliquency. | \n
| \n Probate Records | \n\n Only parties to a case may view case files. Non-parties require advanced approval to view confidential documents from the Probate Department, Room 202, Civic Center Courthouse, 400 McAllister St., or call (415) 551-3650. \n | \n
| Traffic Records | \n\n The court does NOT maintain traffic driving records. Contact the DMV for any information. For current or delinquent citations, or court citations, call (415) 551-8550 or visit in person Room 145, Hall of Justice, 850 Bryant St. \n | \n
| \n Unified Family Court Records | \n\n Juvenile Dependency request for information is available here. For Adoption requests, review the Adoption Instructions, then bring the completed\u00a0Adoption Records Form to Room 402, Civic Center Courthouse, 400 McAllister St. \u00a0All other family records are available in Room 103, Civic Center Courthouse.\u00a0 \n | \n
| \n Vital\u00a0Records | \n\n Vital records are not maintained by the Court. For all requests,\u00a0please contact\u00a0the San Francisco County Clerk at (415) 554-4950 or online at\u00a0http://sfgov.org/countyclerk/. \n | \n
\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\nCivic Center Courthouse (CCC)
\n400 McAllister St., Room 103
\nSan Francisco, CA\u00a0 94102
\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\nHall of Justice\u00a0(HOJ)
\n850 Bryant Street, Room 101
\nSan Francisco, CA\u00a0 94103
Records Viewing Room Hours at Hall of Justice
\nTo learn more about about Access to Electronic Court Records.\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\nRule 1.150
\nMedia Request to Photograph, Record, or Broadcast\u00a0(form MC-500)
Order on Media Request to Permit Coverage (form MC-510)
\nFact Sheet: Cameras in the Court
\nAttention Media:\u00a0Local Rule on Media Access in the Court (Effective Date January 1, 2016)
\nSection 5:31\u00a0 PUBLIC COMMENT ON CASE PENDING BEFORE THE JUDGE
\n\"Comment on a case pending before the judge or on appeal could affect the outcome in the case and display bias. The judge's need to comment is not as important as the need to maintain the appearance of fairness and impartiality during the pendency of proceedings.\"
\nHall of Justice Veteran to Retire After Serving 31 Years on the San Francisco Bench, 04-22-19
\nSan Francisco Superior Court Seeks Qualified Attorneys for Successful Case Settlement Program, 03-08-19
\nSan Francisco Superior Court Judges Seek Candidates for Civil Grand Jury, 02-05-19
\nPresiding Judge Garrett L. Wong Announces 2019 Judicial Assignments, 01-07-19
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\n![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/Mediapage.jpg\")
Ken Garcia
\nCommunications Director
\n400 McAllister St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
\n(415) 551-5957 (Office)
\n(415) 551-4017 (FAX)
\n[email\u00a0protected]
Trials calendared in the Master Calendar Department (Department of the Presiding Judge, Room 206, Civic Center Courthouse) is called\u00a0as follows:
\nPlease remember the Court has no Motion Calendar or Ex Parte Calendar on Tuesday when Monday is a Court holiday.
\nThere are no tentative decisions in Department 206.
\n**Note About Electronic Equipment\u00a0in Trial Departments**
\nWith the exception of a 6-feet-by-6-feet white screen available in all trial departments, parties must provide ALL other electronic equipment, including extension cords, projectors, laptops, etc.
\nAll parties are ordered to call (415) 551-3685 or email the court at [email\u00a0protected]\u00a0seven to\u00a014\u00a0days before the trial date and provide the following information:\u00a0
\nParties must appear on the day of trial unless a Notice of Dismissal, Settlement, or Stay is filed with courtesy copies delivered to Department 206 by 4 p.m. on the Thursday before trial. If the trial date is continued, this requirement applies to the new trial date. Failure to comply may result in monetary sanctions, C.C.P. 177.5.
\nThe Court believes in supporting the development of our next generation of trial attorneys. To that end, the Court encourages parties and senior attorneys to allow\u00a0newer practitioners\u00a0in Civil actions the opportunity to participate in court, either by arguing motions or examining witnesses at trial.
\nIn view of the Jameson v. Desta decision:\u00a0
\nFee waiver recipients who desire a verbatim record of a trial court proceeding must notify the court in writing by filing a notice, a request or other form of written notification.\u00a0The notice/request must be received within the following time perimeters:
\nFailure to make the request within the time perimeters listed above may result in the courts inability to honor your request in a timely manner, on the day of your hearing. \u00a0
\n![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/Feng-Samuel-8597.jpg\")
Presiding Judge Samuel K. Feng
\nDepartment 206
\n400 McAllister St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
Civic Center Courthouse
\nRoom 208
\n(415) 551-3693
Civic Center Courthouse
\nRoom 206
\n(415) 551-3705
Civic Center Courthouse
\nRoom 208
\n(415) 551-3984
The Civil Division handles non-criminal lawsuits among individuals and/or corporations brought to enforce, redress, or protect private rights. The largest division in the San Francisco Superior Court, the Civil Division conducts civil trials and manages civil filings, records, small claims cases, appeals, probate matters, unlawful detainers, defaults, case management, dispute resolution, name changes, and civil restraining orders to prevent harassment and elder abuse.
\nCalifornia state law requires that all 58 counties impanel a Civil Grand Jury to serve during each fiscal year. The function of the Civil Grand Jury is to investigate the operations of the various officers, departments and agencies of the City and County of San Francisco. The 19 members of the Civil Grand Jury serve for a period of one year, from July 1 through June 30 of the following year, and are selected at random from a pool of 30 prospective grand jurors.
\nThe San Francisco Superior Court is well-recognized nationally for its Collaborative Justice Courts, also known as \u201cproblem-solving\u201d courts. These courts work with individuals and families in the criminal justice, juvenile delinquency, and child welfare systems who are challenged by substance abuse, mental illness and other social welfare concerns.
\nCourt Reporters, as guardians of the record, are not only employees of the Court, but purveyors of transcripts for all interested parties. Their professional responsibilities include providing appellate transcripts to the California Court of Appeal and the Superior Court of California, as well as legislated transcripts arising out of criminal proceedings. Court reporters who report in civil, family and juvenile matters also work with law firms and the public to provide requested transcripts.
\nThe Criminal Court has jurisdiction over infraction, misdemeanor and felony cases. The Criminal Court conducts arraignments, preliminary hearings, trials, motions, probation hearings, mental health proceedings, and other types of criminal proceedings. These cases are heard in the Hall of Justice Building, 850 Bryant St. (between 6th and 7th streets). However, some criminal cases are heard in the Civic Center Courthouse, 400 McAllister St., and the Community Justice Center, 575 Polk St. Calendars are posted on the wall outside Room 101, Monday-Friday.
\nThe Human Resources Office staff administers programs for Court employees\u2019 pay and benefits; job classifications; recruitment, selection and hiring; labor relations, grievances and labor contract negotiations; employee relations and investigations; employee safety and disability programs; and disciplinary actions and appeals.
\nThe San Francisco Superior Court seeks to provide the most efficient and convenient jury service experience for criminal and civil trials. Daily reporting instructions, frequently asked questions, maps, parking information, and directions to the Courthouse locations are available to assist you with your service.
\nThe Probate Court deals directly with the everyday personal and financial matters of San Franciscans. Most people think of probate courts as working exclusively with wills and the financial affairs of people who have died. However, the Probate Court also deals with guardianships of children, conservatorships of adults, mental health treatment, trusts, elder abuse and dependent adult restraining orders.
\nIn the Small Claims Court disputes are resolved quickly and inexpensively, the rules are simple and informal. Litigants may not be represented by an attorney. The Small Claims Jurisdiction is limited to $7,500 for individual. Corporations, partnerships, governmental entities and other legal entities cannot claim more than $5,000. Individuals may file unlimited claims for up to $2,500 each in a year. However, individuals may only file two claims a year that seek more than $2,500.
\nTraffic Court deals with violations of traffic laws and other minor offenses of state and county ordinances. These violations are considered \u201cinfractions\u201d and include, for example, speeding, cell phone violations, expired registrations and automobile equipment needing repair. Infractions are enforced by the issuance of citations (\u201ctickets\u201d) by law enforcement.
\nUnified Family Court (UFC) is comprised of Juvenile Dependency, Juvenile Delinquency and Family Law. Its mission is to provide coordinated services to those who have family-related issues in the Court system; strengthen services to the community; and assist and promote healthy families and children. UFC handles divorce, legal separation and nullity; parentage; domestic abuse restraining orders; child, spousal and family support; child custody and visitation; mediation and self-help services; child abuse and neglect; and minors\u2019 violations of criminal law.
\nLocal Rules of Court Effective January 1, 2022
\nOVERVIEW
\nThe\u00a0San Francisco Superior Court\u00a0Judicial Mentor Program\u00a0(the Program)\u00a0is\u00a0designed\u00a0to increase the\u00a0diverse background and experience of its bench.\u00a0This program was designed by judges in collaboration with the Office of Governor Gavin Newsom.\u00a0The primary objective of the program is to provide attorneys who are interested in becoming judges with a mentor to provide insight and encouragement throughout the process.\u00a0Wherever possible, applicants\u00a0will be paired with\u00a0judicial mentors\u00a0based upon shared backgrounds, professional experiences, and common interests.\u00a0\u00a0
\nMentor judges will be available to those seeking guidance in applying to the bench.\u00a0The role of the mentor judges is not to select or recommend candidates; rather it is to demystify the application and vetting process.\u00a0Mentors and applicants will be expected to meet quarterly each year to set objectives, evaluate progress, and discuss future professional development goals.\u00a0
\nMISSION STATEMENT\u00a0
\nThis Program\u00a0is designed to\u00a0promote public trust and confidence\u00a0in the judicial system by ensuring\u00a0a\u00a0judiciary that reflects the unique communities in San Francisco and California. Judges involved in the Program will work to support and encourage\u00a0anyone\u00a0who is interested in being a judicial officer.\u00a0\u00a0
\nPROGRAM OBJECTIVES\u00a0
\nAssist in the recruitment of qualified and diverse judicial applicant pool.\u00a0
\nConnect judicial mentors\u00a0with\u00a0all qualifying individuals\u00a0interested in pursuing\u00a0a judicial career.\u00a0
\nConduct educational outreach programs to provide information on the\u00a0judicial application and\u00a0appointment process and general criteria for appointment.\u00a0
\nEvaluate Program success by capturing\u00a0data to measure\u00a0overall effectiveness of the Program.\u00a0
\nHOW THE PROGRAM WORKS\u00a0
\nThis two-part program consists of a one-on-one mentor committee and a community outreach\u00a0committee.\u00a0
\nMENTOR COMMITTEE\u00a0
\nThe San Francisco Superior Court bench is committed to the important work of\u00a0mentoring\u00a0people\u00a0interested in applying to the bench.\u00a0\u00a0To assist in the recruitment and development of an outstanding,\u00a0inclusive\u00a0and diverse judicial applicant pool, the\u00a0Court\u00a0has appointed a formal panel of mentor judges who will be available to\u00a0qualified persons\u00a0seeking guidance in applying to the bench.\u00a0Participants will be paired with a mentor judge who will discuss the prospective applicant\u2019s career objectives, answer questions regarding the application and vetting process, and be available to assist in providing input as the candidate completes the application and progresses through the judicial appointments process.\u00a0
\nMENTORSHIP\u00a0OUTREACH COMMITTEE\u00a0
\nThe Outreach Committee will work with all sectors of the legal community, including bar associations, public interest organizations, government attorneys, private law firms and solo practitioners.\u00a0The Outreach Committee will coordinate with bar organizations that already have judicial recruitment programs\u00a0and work to complement their efforts.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0
\nAPPLICANT REQUIRMENTS\u00a0
\nAn applicant must:\u00a0
\nHave practiced law in the State of California for at least\u00a010\u00a0years.\u00a0
\nBe in good standing with the\u00a0State Bar of\u00a0California.\u00a0
\nBe able to\u00a0commit to meeting with assigned mentor at least four times a year.\u00a0
\nJudicial Mentor Application Form
\nPROGRAM OVERVIEW\u00a0
\nThe Program is\u00a0offered\u00a0under the leadership of\u00a0San Francisco Superior Court Presiding Judge Samuel K. Feng and Judge Russell Roeca, the Chair of the\u00a0Judicial Mentorship\u00a0Committee.\u00a0\u00a0
\nFollowing the launch of the Program, the Committee will meet three times a year to review the Program,\u00a0identify best practices,\u00a0and\u00a0if necessary, conduct additional training of judicial mentors. Additional meetings will be at the sole discretion of the chair.\u00a0
\nThe\u00a0Committee\u00a0will create\u00a0a toolkit with education and training resources\u00a0that will be available for all mentors and mentees\u00a0and will collect and retain statewide data\u00a0on judicial appointments.\u00a0
\nHOW TO APPLY\u00a0
\nInterested individuals should download the fillable\u00a0Judicial Mentorship Program Application\u00a0\u00a0and submit their completed Application and Resume to\u00a0[email\u00a0protected].\u00a0
\nParticipation in the San Francisco Superior Court Judicial Mentor Program does not guarantee appointment of any applicant to the bench.\u00a0
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\n\u00a0
\n\u00a0
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\nSearch for Case Calendars by Case Type and Date. Information is available up to 120 calendar days from today.
\n\nThe Real Property Court\u00a0is located in the Civic Center Courthouse, 5th Floor, Department 501.\u00a0
\nNOTICE TO THE PUBLIC:
\n* Pursuant to LRSF 2.7(B)(2) courtesy copies of all filed papers for motions heard in Department 501 (Real Property Court) must be delivered to Department 501.
\n* Limited Unlawful Detainer Cases - As of April 20, 2020, remote access to the Court Index, Register of Actions, or other records after the complaint is filed can be obtained via the San Francisco Superior Court website:\u00a0https://ud.sftc.org \u00a0by entering the access code provided on the Notice to Defendants or your payment receipt or by entering the name of at least one plaintiff and one defendant and the address of the premises, including the apartment or unit number, exactly as it appears on the complaint.
\n* Pursuant to LRSF 2.11, effective July 1, 2020, the San Francisco Superior Court expanded its mandatory e-filing program to include Limited Unlawful Detainer Cases. For more information regarding E-Filing, please refer to the E-FILING FOR CIVIL\u00a0webpage.
\nCORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) UPDATE:
\nApply to get help with your rent.
\nYou can get up to 18 months of rental assistance, including prospective rental assistance and utility assistance.\u00a0 To learn more, visit sf.gov/renthelp.
\nGet free help with your application: call 833-687-0967 to make an appointment or visit housingiskey.com to apply online.\u00a0 If you have applied and need assistance, call the California COVID-19 Rent Relief Program Call Center at 833-430-2122.
\nPlease refer to the Information Regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Court Operations page (https://www.sfsuperiorcourt.org/general-info/Information-Regarding-Coronavirus-And-Court-Operations) for the most current information in light of the COVID-19 public health crisis.
\nVIDEOCONFERENCE HEARINGS IN REAL PROPERTY COURT
\n\u623f\u5730\u4ea7\u6cd5\u5ead\u4e4b\u89c6\u9891\u4f1a\u8bae\u542c\u8bc1\u4f1a
\n\u623f\u5730\u7522\u6cd5\u5ead\u4e4b\u8996\u8a0a\u6703\u8b70\u807d\u8b49\u6703
\nMGA PAGDINIG SA REAL PROPERTY COURT SA PAMAMAGITAN NG VIDEO CONFERENCE
\n\nAUDIENCIAS POR VIDEOCONFERENCIA EN LA CORTE DE BIENES INMUEBLES
\n\nEffective Monday, March 1, 2021, the Real Property Court will be holding hearings by videoconference and the public can view and/or listen to hearings, by clicking on the appropriate link below:
\nReal Property Court Department 501 Daily at
\n\u00a0(https://sfsuperiorcourt-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_GddZiBrxR62vLWy46L-wjQ)
\nIf unable to join using the links above, the hearings may be joined by telephone by dialing
\n\u00a0+1 415 762 9988 and entering the meeting ID and password below.\u00a0
\nDepartment 501: Meeting ID: 836 2280 0051\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Password: 613303
\nReal Property Court hears all matters pertaining to real property including but not limited to:
\nUNLAWFUL DETAINER CASES
\nAll unlawful/forcible detainer matters including mandatory settlement conferences, calling of the UD trial calendar, motions to continue UD trials, UD discovery,\u00a0and requests for posting and mailing.
\nCIVIL MATTERS
\nMotions to continue trial and calling of the trial calendar in non unlawful/forcible detainer matters are heard in Department 206.
\nMotions
\nAll motions (including discovery not handled via pro tempore system and motions to continue UD trials) are heard at 9:30 a.m., Monday - Friday, excluding Court holidays.
\nCourtesy copies must be delivered to Department 501 on the date of filing by the moving party and not later than one day before the hearing by the opposing party. Failure to deliver courtesy copies may result in the matter being taken off calendar.\u00a0\u00a0
\nEx-Parte applications
\n\u00a0 \u00a0Ex parte applications are heard \u00a0Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday at 9\u00a0a.m.; and Tuesday at 10 a.m. as follows:\u00a0
\nUnlawful Detainer pre-trial and date-of-trial MANDATORY SETTLEMENT CONFERENCES
\nStarting June 1, 2021, the Court will gradually resume its pre-trial Mandatory Settlement Conferences (\u201cMSCs\u201d) in Unlawful Detainer Cases. Until further notice pre-trial MSCs in Unlawful Detainer cases will be set for remote appearances on Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays afternoons the week before trial call. Information regarding the date, time and login for remote appearance will be provided in the\u00a0Notice of Time and Place of Trial and Settlement Hearing. While initially not all cases will be assigned a pre-trial Mandatory Settlement Conference, all cases may be assigned to a day-of-trial MSC. Please read your\u00a0Notice of Time and Place of Trial and Settlement Hearing\u00a0carefully as information for remote appearance is unique for each case. Attendance at the settlement conference by the attorney who will try the case, and each party is mandatory (See LRSF 5.0 B, E). Parties will be afforded an opportunity, and will be required to participate in a Mandatory Settlement Conference on the date of their trial assignment
\n\nCourtesy Copies\u00a0
\nAll e-mail addresses provided by the department in this posting or via the tentative rulings may be used SOLELY for the designated purposes
\nMotions\u00a0- Hard copies of all filings in support of and in opposition to noticed motions must be delivered in accordance with the Local Rule 2.7B.
\nEx-Parte Applications\u00a0- Hard copies of all filings that exceed 10 pages (including the application, supporting documents and the proposed order) in support of and in opposition to ex-parte applications must be delivered by 8:30 a.m. on the date of the hearing. Filings that do not exceed 10 pages (including the application, supporting documents and the proposed order) may be submitted electronically to\u00a0[email\u00a0protected] .
\nOther Filings\u00a0- Hard copies of all other filings\u00a0for which a courtesy copy is required to be provided under the state and local rules must be delivered to the department within one business day of submission for filing.
\nUse of E-mail Addresses
\nAll e-mail addresses provided by the department in this posting or via the tentative rulings may be used SOLELY for the designated purposes. Communications sent to the wrong email address and those communications that are not specifically authorized will not be considered and will not be responded to. Unauthorized communications include, but are not limited to, e-mails addressing any other issues and e-mails submitted outside the specified time window. Parties and their representatives who repeatedly abuse the permission to use electronic communications with the Court may be disallowed to do so at the Court's discretion.
\n[email\u00a0protected]\u00a0may be used to submit courtesy copies of ex-parte filings that do not exceed 10 pages (including the application, supporting documents and the proposed order). This e-mail address shall not be used for any other purposes.
\n[email\u00a0protected]\u00a0shall be used only by the parties who intend to appear at the Law and Motions calendar hearing to contest a tentative ruling. Notice of contesting a tentative ruling shall be provided by sending an email to the court to [email\u00a0protected] with a copy to all other parties stating, without argument, the portion(s) of the tentative ruling that the party contests. The email must be sent between 3:00 p.m.amd 4:00 p.m.one court day before the calendared hearing. A party may not argue at the hearing if the opposing party is not so identified and the opposing party does not appear.\u00a0This e-mail address shall not be used for any other purposes.
\n[email\u00a0protected]\u00a0shall be used to provide proposed orders prepared in response to the posted tentative rulings and must be submitted after 3:00 p.m. on the court date before the scheduled hearing and before 8:00 a.m. on the date of the scheduled hearing. All orders after hearing must be submitted to the department by providing a hard copy and with proof of compliance with CRC 3.1312, if applicable. This e-mail address shall not be used for any other purposes
\nMotions Calendar and Ex-Parte Calendar
\nUntil further notice due to the\u00a0 COVID-19 pandemic, telephonic appearances are encouraged. If you intend to personally appear for a noticed motion or trial call, please notify the department pursuant to the instructions herein.
\nIf you appear in person for your case notify the department by 5:00 p.m. one day before the hearing @\u00a0[email\u00a0protected].\u00a0Advanced notification of personal appearance for matters on the\u00a0Ex-Parte calendar is encouraged, but not required.
\nUnlawful Detainer Trial Call
\nUntil further notice due to COVID-19 pandemic telephonic appearances are encouraged. If you personally appear for your case notify the department by 5:00 p.m. one court day before the hearing at [email\u00a0protected]. For trial call counsel and unrepresented parties shall appear by CourtCall (preferred) or in-person at 9 a.m. If parties for any reason are not able to appear by CourtCall or in-person, contact the Court at 415-551-3762 two court days before the hearing for alternative appearance arrangements. Represented parties are not required to appear for the trial call; all parties (represented and unrepresented) must be available to appear in-person on a one-hour telephonic standby upon assignment for trial, settlement conference, or other required appearance. The court will provide specific instructions for appearance for each case at the trial call.
\nCourt Reporters
\nA Court Reporter will not be available in the Law & Motion/Discovery Department. Parties may privately arrange to have a certified Official Pro Tempore Court reporter present for motion hearings. Pursuant to GC 69955, the notes of the Official Pro Tempore Reporter are the official records of the Court, and shall be maintained or delivered to the Clerk of the Court in the paper and/or electronic form after the hearing.
\nPresiding Judge Matters
\nThe Presiding Judge of the Court (or person designated by the Presiding Judge) hears all applications for Waiver of Court fees(\"In forma Pauperis\").
\nLunch Break
\nDepartment 501 is generally closed for lunch at Noon. If the morning calendar runs past Noon, the staff will recess thereafter. When this happens, a notice will be posted outside of the courtroom.
\nProposed Orders
\nWith the exception of proposed orders for motions for summary judgment/adjudication, it is recommended that parties appear at the hearing with proposed orders even if the hearing is uncontested to ensure timely processing of the order. Orders submitted after the session is over may experience a delay in processing. When submitting a proposed order after the session is over, submit an original, one copy, and a self-addressed stamped envelope. (Please refer to CRC 2.100 \u2013 2.11 for specific details.
\nIn view of the Jameson v. Desta decision
\nFee waiver recipients who desire a verbatim record of a trial court proceeding must notify the court in writing by filing a notice, a request or other form of written notification.\u00a0The notice/request must be received within the following time perimeters:
\nFailure to make the request within the time perimeters listed above may result in the courts inability to honor your request in a timely manner, on the day of your hearing. \u00a0
\nJudge Charles F. Haines
\nReal Property Court
\nDepartment 501
\n400 McAllister St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
Lead Clerk
\n(415) 551-3762
Calendar Clerk
\n(415) 551-3779
375 Woodside Ave.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94127
MUNI Metro: K-L-M cars to Forrest Hill station. Exit the station; proceed to Woodside Avenue (4-minunte walk).
\nCall (415) 673-MUNI (6864) or visit www.sfmuni.com for more information.
\nMUNI Buses: 44 O\u2019Shaughnessy; 43 Masonic; 52 Excelsior; 48 Quintara
\nBART: All lines from the East, South and West stop at the Glen Park station.
\nDirections from the Glen Park Center BART/MUNI station:
\nExit the station and proceed upstairs to street level. Cross the street to the northeast corner of Bosworth Street and Diamond Street. Take the 44 O\u2019Shaughnessy Bus up the hill and get off on the northwest corner of Woodside Avenue and Portola Drive. The Youth Guidance Center Courthouse is located directly outside of the bus stop.
\nTake I-80 West. Continue on US-101 South. Take the I-280 South Exit toward Daly City. Take the Monterey Boulevard exit. Make a sharp right at Monterey Boulevard. At the \u201cY,\u201d make a left at the next split to stay on Monterey Boulevard. Turn left at Bosworth Street (traffic light, BART on the right). Bosworth Street becomes O\u2019Shaughnessy Boulevard. Continue on O\u2019Shaughnessy Boulevard as it winds up the hill. Stay in the right lane. After the light at Twin Peaks Gas Station, O\u2019Shaughnessy Boulevard becomes Woodside Avenue. Turn right into parking lot. The entrance to the facility is right after you pass the Twin Peaks Gas Station.
\nFollow the signs for San Francisco I-280 and merge onto I-280 North. Slight left at CA-1/Junipero Serra Boulevard (signs for 19th Avenue/State Hwy 1 North). Junipero Serra Boulevard turns slightly right and becomes Portola Drive. Turn left at O\u2019Shaughnessy Boulevard/Woodside Avenue. Turn right into parking lot, the entrance to the facility is right after you pass the Twin Peaks Gas Station.
\nTake US-101 South. Take the State Highway 1 exit toward 19th Avenue. Merge onto CA-1 (19th Avenue), drive through Golden Gate Park, etc. Turn left on Sloat Boulevard. Get in the middle lanes to turn left at Junipero Serra Boulevard/Portola Drive (far left lane makes sharp turn onto West Portal). Turn left at O\u2019Shaughnessy Boulevard/Woodside Avenue. Turn right into parking lot, the entrance to the facility is right after you pass the Twin Peaks Gas Station.
\nThe Juvenile Justice Center has a parking lot, with a 4-hour free parking time limit. Parking is available on a first-come, first-serve basis and visitors must park in the assigned visitor section of the parking lot. Parking tickets will be given to any unauthorized parking or to those who park for more than 4 hours.
\nThere also is limited street parking available when the parking lot is full.
\nThere are a few disabled parking spots available upon entering the facility.
\n850 Bryant St.
\nHall of Justice (HOJ)
\nSan Francisco, CA 94103
Information on public transportation options in and around the San Francisco area:
\nhttp://transit.511.org/accessible/tripplanner/index.aspx
\nThe Hall of Justice is located seven blocks from the Powell Street Station. Walk South on 5th Street for five blocks. Turn right at Bryant Street and walk one block to 6th Street. The Hall of Justice is next to McDonalds between 6th and 7th streets.
\nFrom 80 Westbound, cross the Bay Bridge into San Francisco. Take the 5th Street exit. Stay in the middle lanes to drive directly onto Harrison Street. Turn Left on 8th Street. Turn Left on Bryant Street. HOJ is located at 850 Bryant St. between 6th and 7th streets; it will be on your left.
\nCross the San Mateo Bridge into Foster City. Take the 101 North exit. Stay on 101 North and follow the directions for 101 \"From the Peninsula.\"
\n(280 North)
\nTake the 6th Street Exit. Turn Left on Harrison. Turn Left on 8th Street. Turn Left on Bryant Street. HOJ is located between 6th and 7th streets; it will be on your left.
Take the 7th Street exit. Stay in the right lanes to drive directly onto Bryant Street. HOJ will be on left.
\nTake 101 South into San Francisco across the Golden Gate Bridge. Follow the curve on Doyle Drive to Lombard Street. Take Lombard to Van Ness Avenue. Turn right on Van Ness Avenue. Turn left on Golden Gate Avenue. Turn right on Hyde Street. Cross Market Street and Hyde Street becomes 8th Street. Turn left on Bryant Street. HOJ is located between 6th and 7th streets; it will be on your left.
\n\nMetered parking is available on streets surrounding the Hall of Justice.
\nPARKING LOTS/GARAGES located near the Hall of Justice:
\nMUNI Metro: J-K-L-M-N cars to Van Ness and/or Civic Center stations Call (415) 673-MUNI (6864) or visit www.sfmuni.com for more information.
\nMUNI Buses: 19 Polk; 31 Balboa; 49 Van Ness, 5 Fulton
\nBART: All lines from the East, South and West stop at the Civic Center station.
\nDirections from the Civic Center BART/MUNI station:
\nExit the station by the Grove Street exit. Proceed upstairs to street level. Travel one block north on Hyde Street to Fulton Street. Make a left on Fulton. Walk one block west toward City Hall on Fulton to Larkin Street. Make a right on Larkin and proceed to the intersection of Larkin and McAllister streets. Take a Left on McAllister Street and go one block. At Polk Street, make a right and walk 1\u00bd blocks past Golden Gate Avenue and Elm Street. The Polk Street Annex, 575 Polk St., is located between Elm and Turk streets.
Cross the Bay Bridge and take 9th Street/Civic Center exit. Follow 9th Street, which becomes Larkin Street. Go two blocks. Make a left on McAllister Street. Go one block. Make a right past Golden Gate Avenue. The Polk Street Annex is on the left between Elm and Turk streets.
\nTake 101 North. Exit at 9th Street/Civic Center exit. Follow 9th Street, which becomes Larkin Street. Go two blocks. Make a left on McAllister Street. Go one block. Make a right past Golden Gate Avenue. The Polk Street Annex is on the left between Elm and Turk streets.
\nFrom the Golden Gate Bridge, take Doyle Drive to Lombard Street. Turn right on Van Ness Avenue. Turn left at McAllister and go one block. Make a right past Golden Gate Avenue. The Polk Street Annex is on the left between Elm and Turk streets.
\n\nThe Polk Street Annex does not have a public parking facility. There is metered parking in front of the building. Parking also is available close to the courthouse at these locations:
\nCivic Center Plaza Garage
\nEnter on McAllister, between Polk and Larkin streets
\nHastings Garage
\n376 Larkin St.
\nBetween McAllister Street and Golden Gate Avenue
\nOutdoor Valet Parking Lot
\nFederal Auto Parks, Inc.
\n530 Turk Street, between Larkin and Polk streets.
\nOpera Plaza Garage
\nEnter on Golden Gate Avenue at Van Ness Avenue
Click on any Job Code number to view the Job Description. The documents are in PDF format. You may print and save any description that you desire.
\nSan Francisco Superior Court Salary Schedule
\n| JOB CODE | \nCLASS TITLE | \n
| 131C | \nManaging Attorney | \n
| 144C | \nTraffic Hearing Officer | \n
| 146C | \nEmergency Protective Orders Commissioner | \n
| 147C | \nMental Health Hearing Officer | \n
| 148C | \nCourt Manager | \n
| 149C | \nCommunications Director | \n
| 150C | \nChief Administrative Officer | \n
| 155C | \nCourt Reporter Coordinator | \n
| 165C | \nDirector, Probate | \n
| 168C | \nManager, Unified Family Court Mediation | \n
| 176C | \nDirector, Training | \n
| 185C | \nDirector, Information Technology Group | \n
| 192C | \nCourt Administrator | \n
| 195C | \nExecutive Assistant to the Presiding Judge | \n
| 201C | \nCourt Supervisor I | \n
| 202C | \nCourt Supervisor II | \n
| 245C | \nDrug Court Coordinator | \n
| 255C | \nAssistant Court Reporter Coordinator | \n
| 261C | \nMental Health Coordinator | \n
| 265C | \nAssistant Director, Probate | \n
| 268C | \nSupervising Family Court Counselor/Mediator | \n
| 272C | \nFiscal Services Supervisor | \n
| 274C | \nFiscal Systems and Services Manager | \n
| 285C | \nCourt Computer Systems Manager | \n
| 291C | \nSupervising Court Administrative Secretary | \n
| 311C | \nCourt Staff Attorney I | \n
| 312C | \nCourt Staff Attorney II | \n
| 315C | \nCivil Case Settlement Specialist | \n
| 316C | \nSenior Court Staff Attorney | \n
| 351C | \nCourt Computer Systems Engineer I | \n
| 352C | \nCourt Computer Systems Engineer II | \n
| 353C | \nCourt Computer Business Analyst | \n
| 354C | \nCourt Computer Applications Programmer | \n
| 355C | \nCourt Computer Facilities Coordinator | \n
| 366C | \nDependency Mediation Assistant | \n
| 370C | \nAdministrative Analyst I | \n
| 372C | \nAdministrative Analyst II | \n
| 374C | \nAdministrative Analyst III | \n
| 375C | \nCourt Training Specialist | \n
| 376C | \nSenior Human Resources Analyst | \n
| 377C | \nPrincipal Management Analyst | \n
| \n\n | \n\n Senior Court Training Specialist \n | \n
| 381C | \nGrand Jury Administrative Analyst | \n
| 410C | \nDeputy Court Clerk I | \n
| 420C | \nDeputy Court Clerk II | \n
| 430C | \nDeputy Court Clerk III | \n
| 432C | \nTrial Delay Reduction Coordinator | \n
| 441C | \nCourt Paralegal | \n
| 442C | \nExecutive Assistant, Juvenile Justice Commission | \n
| 444C | \nCourt Alternative Dispute Resolution Coordinator | \n
| 450C | \nBuilding Services Technician | \n
| 470C | \nAdministrative Services Technician | \n
| 472C | \nFiscal Technician | \n
| 474C | \nSenior Fiscal Technician | \n
| 475C | \nTraining Technician | \n
| 476C | \nPersonnel/Payroll Representative | \n
| 479C | \nPrincipal Personnel/Payroll Representative | \n
| 491C | \nCourt Administrative Secretary | \n
| 495C | \nSecretary to the Presiding Judge | \n
| 500C | \nCourt Reporter | \n
| 620C | \nCourt Interpreter | \n
| 0648 | \nCourt Investigator | \n
| 0649 | \nProbate Examiner | \n
| 0655 | \nFamily Court Counselor/Mediator | \n
| 0676 | \nLegal Research Assistant | \n
| 876C | \nDirector, Human Resources | \n
| 879C | \nDirector, Fiscal Services | \n
| 899C | \nCourt Executive Officer | \n
Click on any Job Code number to view the Job Description. The documents are in PDF format. You may print and save any description that you desire.
\nSan Francisco Superior Court Salary Schedule
\n| JOB CODE | \nCLASS TITLE | \n
| 131C | \nManaging Attorney | \n
| 144C | \nTraffic Hearing Officer | \n
| 146C | \nEmergency Protective Orders Commissioner | \n
| 147C | \nMental Health Hearing Officer | \n
| 148C | \nCourt Manager | \n
| 149C | \nCommunications Director | \n
| 150C | \nChief Administrative Officer | \n
| 155C | \nCourt Reporter Coordinator | \n
| 165C | \nDirector, Probate | \n
| 168C | \nManager, Unified Family Court Mediation | \n
| 176C | \nDirector, Training | \n
| 185C | \nDirector, Information Technology Group | \n
| 192C | \nCourt Administrator | \n
| 195C | \nExecutive Assistant to the Presiding Judge | \n
| 201C | \nCourt Supervisor I | \n
| 202C | \nCourt Supervisor II | \n
| 245C | \nDrug Court Coordinator | \n
| 255C | \nAssistant Court Reporter Coordinator | \n
| 261C | \nMental Health Coordinator | \n
| 265C | \nAssistant Director, Probate | \n
| 268C | \nSupervising Family Court Counselor/Mediator | \n
| 272C | \nFiscal Services Supervisor | \n
| 274C | \nFiscal Systems and Services Manager | \n
| 285C | \nCourt Computer Systems Manager | \n
| 291C | \nSupervising Court Administrative Secretary | \n
| 311C | \nCourt Staff Attorney I | \n
| 312C | \nCourt Staff Attorney II | \n
| 315C | \nCivil Case Settlement Specialist | \n
| 316C | \nSenior Court Staff Attorney | \n
| 351C | \nCourt Computer Systems Engineer I | \n
| 352C | \nCourt Computer Systems Engineer II | \n
| 353C | \nCourt Computer Business Analyst | \n
| 354C | \nCourt Computer Applications Programmer | \n
| 355C | \nCourt Computer Facilities Coordinator | \n
| 366C | \nDependency Mediation Assistant | \n
| 370C | \nAdministrative Analyst I | \n
| 372C | \nAdministrative Analyst II | \n
| 374C | \nAdministrative Analyst III | \n
| 375C | \nCourt Training Specialist | \n
| 376C | \nSenior Human Resources Analyst | \n
| 377C | \nPrincipal Management Analyst | \n
| \n\n | \n\n Senior Court Training Specialist \n | \n
| 381C | \nGrand Jury Administrative Analyst | \n
| 410C | \nDeputy Court Clerk I | \n
| 420C | \nDeputy Court Clerk II | \n
| 430C | \nDeputy Court Clerk III | \n
| 432C | \nTrial Delay Reduction Coordinator | \n
| 441C | \nCourt Paralegal | \n
| 442C | \nExecutive Assistant, Juvenile Justice Commission | \n
| 444C | \nCourt Alternative Dispute Resolution Coordinator | \n
| 450C | \nBuilding Services Technician | \n
| 470C | \nAdministrative Services Technician | \n
| 472C | \nFiscal Technician | \n
| 474C | \nSenior Fiscal Technician | \n
| 475C | \nTraining Technician | \n
| 476C | \nPersonnel/Payroll Representative | \n
| 479C | \nPrincipal Personnel/Payroll Representative | \n
| 491C | \nCourt Administrative Secretary | \n
| 495C | \nSecretary to the Presiding Judge | \n
| 500C | \nCourt Reporter | \n
| 620C | \nCourt Interpreter | \n
| 0648 | \nCourt Investigator | \n
| 0649 | \nProbate Examiner | \n
| 0655 | \nFamily Court Counselor/Mediator | \n
| 0676 | \nLegal Research Assistant | \n
| 876C | \nDirector, Human Resources | \n
| 879C | \nDirector, Fiscal Services | \n
| 899C | \nCourt Executive Officer | \n
400 McAllister St.
\n(Between Polk Street and Van Ness Avenue, near City Hall)
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
MUNI Metro: J-K-L-M-N cars to Van Ness and/or Civic Center stations
\nCall (415) 673-MUNI (6864) or visit www.sfmuni.com for more information.
\nMUNI Buses: 19 Polk; 31 Balboa; 49 Van Ness, 5 Fulton
\nBART: All lines from the East, South and West stop at the Civic Center station.
Directions from the Civic Center BART/MUNI station:
\nExit the station by the Grove Street exit. Proceed upstairs to street level. Travel one block north on Hyde Street to Fulton Street. Make a left on Fulton. Walk one block West toward City Hall on Fulton to Larkin Street. Make a right on Larkin and proceed to the intersection of Larkin and McAllister streets. Take a Left on McAllister Street and go one block. The courthouse is located on the corner of Polk and McAllister streets.
Cross the Bay Bridge and take 9th Street/Civic Center exit. Follow 9th Street, which becomes Larkin Street. Go two blocks. Make a left on McAllister Street. Go one block. The Civic Center Courthouse is on the corner of Polk and McAllister streets.
\nTake 101 North. Exit at 9th Street/Civic Center exit. Follow 9th Street, which becomes Larkin Street. Go two blocks. Make a left on McAllister Street. Go one block. The Civic Center Courthouse is on the corner of Polk and McAllister streets.
\nFrom the Golden Gate Bridge, take Doyle Drive to Lombard Street. Turn right on Van Ness Avenue. Turn left at McAllister and go one block. The Civic Center Courthouse is one the corner of Polk and McAllister streets.
\n\nThe Civic Center Courthouse does not have a public parking facility. Parking is available close to the courthouse at these locations:
\nCivic Center Plaza Garage
\nEnter on McAllister, between Polk and Larkin streets
\nHastings Garage
\n376 Larkin St.
\nBetween McAllister Street and Golden Gate Avenue
\nFox Plaza
\n1390 Market St.
\nEnter on Hayes Street, between Larkin and Polk streets
\nPerforming Arts Center Garage (Juror Discount Available)
\nEnter on Grove Street, at Gough Street
\nOpera Plaza Garage
\nEnter on Golden Gate Avenue at Van Ness Avenue
MUNI Metro: J-K-L-M-N cars to Van Ness and/or Civic Center stations Call (415) 673-MUNI (6864) or visit www.sfmuni.com for more information.
\nMUNI Buses: 19 Polk; 31 Balboa; 49 Van Ness, 5 Fulton
\nBART: All lines from the East, South and West stop at the Civic Center station.
\nDirections from the Civic Center BART/MUNI station:
\nExit the station by the Grove Street exit. Proceed upstairs to street level. Travel one block north on Hyde Street to Fulton Street. Make a left on Fulton. Walk one block west toward City Hall on Fulton to Larkin Street. Make a right on Larkin and proceed to the intersection of Larkin and McAllister streets. Take a Left on McAllister Street and go one block. At Polk Street, make a right and walk 1\u00bd blocks past Golden Gate Avenue and Elm Street. The Polk Street Annex, 575 Polk St., is located between Elm and Turk streets.
Cross the Bay Bridge and take 9th Street/Civic Center exit. Follow 9th Street, which becomes Larkin Street. Go two blocks. Make a left on McAllister Street. Go one block. Make a right past Golden Gate Avenue. The Polk Street Annex is on the left between Elm and Turk streets.
\nTake 101 North. Exit at 9th Street/Civic Center exit. Follow 9th Street, which becomes Larkin Street. Go two blocks. Make a left on McAllister Street. Go one block. Make a right past Golden Gate Avenue. The Polk Street Annex is on the left between Elm and Turk streets.
\nFrom the Golden Gate Bridge, take Doyle Drive to Lombard Street. Turn right on Van Ness Avenue. Turn left at McAllister and go one block. Make a right past Golden Gate Avenue. The Polk Street Annex is on the left between Elm and Turk streets.
\n\nThe Polk Street Annex does not have a public parking facility. There is metered parking in front of the building. Parking also is available close to the courthouse at these locations:
\nCivic Center Plaza Garage
\nEnter on McAllister, between Polk and Larkin streets
\nHastings Garage
\n376 Larkin St.
\nBetween McAllister Street and Golden Gate Avenue
\nOutdoor Valet Parking Lot
\nFederal Auto Parks, Inc.
\n530 Turk Street, between Larkin and Polk streets.
\nOpera Plaza Garage
\nEnter on Golden Gate Avenue at Van Ness Avenue
\u00a0
\nINFORMATION REGARDING CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) AND COURT OPERATIONS
\nACCESS Center's updated hours of operation\u00a0is available here.\u00a0El Centro ACCESS servicios remotos solamente.
\nSelf-help services for family law matters and non-family law cases are available for self-represented Court customers.\u00a0The ACCESS Center can give you legal information\u00a0and/or referrals to other resources\u00a0to help you represent yourself. We cannot provide\u00a0you legal advice.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The ACCESS Center is available to help both parties to a case, which means we may also help the other side in your case.\u00a0
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 We do NOT represent you, will NOT act as your lawyer, and your meetings with us are not private. This means that what you tell the ACCESS Center is NOT confidential.\u00a0
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0We can help with general information and instructions with San Francisco cases only and when appropriate, we may give you referrals for other resources.\u00a0
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0We are not able to assist or answer questions for third parties or family members, including attorneys, law firms, document preparers and paralegal services.\u00a0
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Communications between you and the ACCESS Center are not confidential. You may want to consult with your own attorney if you want personalized advice or strategy, to have a confidential conversation, or to be represented by an attorney in court.\u00a0
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0ACCESS Staff cannot advise, strategize, go to court on your behalf, nor speak to a judge to discuss your case. Contact the (BASF) Bar Association of San Francisco\u2019s Lawyer Referral Service at (415) 989-1616 to hire an attorney, and/or to see if you qualify for a low fee or free attorney.\u00a0
\n\u00a0
ACCESS Center\u00a0
\nSan Francisco Superior Court
\n400 McAllister Street, Room 509
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
ACCESS Center Hours and Services, \u00a0effective January 2022
\nCentro ACCESS Horario\u00a0y Servicios
ONLINE SERVICES
\nComplete an intake form
CHILD SUPPORT INQUIRIES
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.\u00a0
\n(415) 551-0605*
ALL OTHER QUESTIONS
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:\u00a0
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.
\n(415) 551-0605*
*Your phone will need to be able to accept blocked calls and accept voicemails\u00a0in order to receive a return call from ACCESS staff.\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\nA Tentative Ruling\u00a0is a proposed ruling of the Court (informs you how the judge is planning to rule on the Request For Order, Notice of Motion, and/or Order to Show Cause) and is only issued if your case is set on a Tuesday or Thursday at 9 a.m. in Department 403 or Department 404.\u00a0\u00a0
\nThe\u00a0Unified Family Court will publish a written Tentative Ruling\u00a0by 2 p.m. on the court day BEFORE your scheduled court hearing (Tuesday or Thursday morning calendars only) to tell you how the judge is planning to rule on your Request.
\nYou may obtain\u00a0the Tentative Ruling by:
\n(NOTE: Family Law cases that are designated as confidential by California law or by Court order will not be posted online.)
\nIf the\u00a0Monday or Wednesday before the hearing is a court holiday, the ruling will be available by 2\u00a0p.m. on the court day before the holiday.
\nIf you want the Tentative Ruling to become the Court's order and you do not hear from the other party by 4 p.m., you do not have to appear at the court hearing the following morning.
\nIf you do not want to Tentative Ruling to become the Court's order, then you must do the following:
\nSee complete information in the Tentative Ruling Instructions.
\nIt is a court order that helps protect you from someone who has abused you; and \u00a0
\nThese forms are also available free of charge at the\u00a0Civic Center Courthouse, Room 402 from 8:30 a.m. to 2\u00a0p.m., Monday - Friday, excluding Court holidays.
\n\nMake two copies of the completed Request for Domestic Violence\u00a0Restraining Order (DV-100).\u00a0Staple the\u00a0original (and copies), then take the\u00a0completed Request for Domestic Violence\u00a0Restraining Order (DV-100)\u00a0and two copies, the\u00a0Confidential CLETS Information (CLETS-001),\u00a0the\u00a0Notice of the Court Hearing (DV-109),\u00a0and the\u00a0Temporary Restraining Order (DV-110)\u00a0to the courthouse for filing.
\n\nPresent completed forms and copies to Family Law Front Window in Room 402 of the\u00a0Civic Center Courthouse.
\n\nIf you will need an\u00a0interpreter at your Restraining Order Hearing, tell the clerk in Room 402 when you file your restraining order forms so that one may be arranged for you.\u00a0
\n\nIf you file your petition before 10 a.m., you may pick up your restraining order the same day between 2:30 and 4 p.m. outside Room 402, Family Law filing.
\nIf you file your petition after 10 a.m., you may pick-up your restraining order on the next court day between 2:30\u00a0and 4\u00a0p.m. outside Room 402, Family Law filing.
\nPlease pick up your order promptly to allow enough time to have the defendant(s) served with the Temporary Restraining Order and Notice of Court Hearing. Pick up your restraining order between 8:30 a.m. and 2\u00a0p.m. at the Family Law Front Window in Room 402, Monday through Friday, excluding Court holidays.
\n\nYou can choose one of\u00a0three ways to serve the defendant:
\nYou can go through the Sheriff\u2019s Department (located in City Hall, Room 456 on the 4th Floor), or any law enforcement officer.\u00a0
\nThere is a $30 fee unless you have a granted\u00a0fee waiver\u00a0to go through the Sheriff\u2019s Department.
\nAny person who is at least 18 years old and is not a party to the action can serve the defendant on your behalf. Make sure the person fills out the\u00a0Proof or Personal Service (DV-200).
\nHire a process server. You can find one online by searching in a web brower for \"process server.\" Make sure you get the completed Proof of Service form from the process server.
\nA\u00a0Proof of Service\u00a0must be completed and signed by the person who serves the other party.\u00a0You must file the Proof of Service in Room 103 and bring a copy to your court hearing.
\n\nThere are two ways you can continue your court date on your Domestic Violence case.
\nBoth methods extend your Temporary Restraining Order so you will be protected until the new hearing date.
\n\nThe\u00a0ACCESS Center\u00a0can show you how to fill out the forms you will need, explain the filing process, and help you prepare for Court.
\nThe Bar Association of San Francisco's Cooperative Restraining Order Clinic can assist with the process. Call (415) 255-0165 to schedule an appointment.\u00a0
\nFirst Impressions: Exposure to Violence and a Childs Developing Brain (English)
\nFirst Impressions: Exposure to Violence and a Childs Developing Brain (Spanish)
\n\nACCESS Center\u00a0
\nSan Francisco Superior Court
\n400 McAllister Street, Room 509
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
ACCESS Center Hours and Services
\nONLINE SERVICES
\nComplete an intake form
CHILD SUPPORT INQUIRIES
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:\u00a0
\n8:30 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.\u00a0
\n(415) 551-5880
ALL OTHER QUESTIONS
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:\u00a0
\n1:00 p.m. \u2013 4:00 p.m.
\n(415) 551-0605
In-person assistance not available at this time
\nKnow Before You Go:
\nIf you do not have a case number, you should obtain a RAP sheet before requesting criminal records. Please visit the San Francisco Police Department, Indentification Bureau, Room 475 (4th floor), Hall of Justice, to request your local RAP sheet information.
\nRecords Request Form & Instructions
\nCriminal Clerk's Office:
\nRoom 101
\nHall of Justice\u00a0
\nDirections
Hours of Operation:\u00a0
\nMonday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 12:30\u00a0p.m.\u00a0(except Court holidays)
\nPhone Hours:\u00a0
\nCriminal Records Department Phone Number: (415) 551-0651
\n
\nMonday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 2:00\u00a0p.m.\u00a0(except Court holidays)
Certificate of the Record:
\nA Certificate of the Record\u00a0is a document that certifies conviction and sentencing disposition of the defendant's case. Certificates are $40\u00a0per court number.
\nInitiating filings for all General Civil case types except:\u00a0 Small Claims, Civil Harassment, Name/Gender petitions,\u00a0Probate Conservatorships and Guardianships, and Unlawful Detainers.
\nSubsequent filings for all General Civil case types, including:\u00a0Asbestos, Probate Estate cases,\u00a0Probate Trust cases, Complex Litigation cases and Unlawful Detainers.
\nSmall Claims, Initiating Unlawful Detainers, Civil Harassment, Name/Gender petitions, Probate Conservatorships and Guardianships, Judgments related to Sister State, Confession, Labor, and Summary\u00a0cases are not subject to the mandate
\nApplications for waiver of court fees and costs are accepted electronically in cases that are electronically filed. Per CRC 2.252 (f) The court must permit electronic filing of an application for waiver of court fees and costs in any proceeding in which the court accepts electronic filings.\u00a0
\nNo. Currently the only Probate cases\u00a0designated for electronic filing are Trust and Decendent Estate cases. See LRSF 2.11. In addition, refer to LRSF 14.60\u00a0for the exceptions and additions specific to Probate.
\nYes, Initial filings for all General Civil case types except:\u00a0\u00a0Civil Harassment, Name/Gender petitions,\u00a0and Unlawful Detainers.
\nPursuant to CCP 1010.6 (b)(3), any document received electronically by the Court between 12:00 a.m. and 11:59:59 p.m. on a court day shall be deemed filed on that court day. Any document that is received electronically on a non-court day shall be deemed filed on the next court day. (Effective date: 1/1/18)
\nNo Asbestos, Complex litigation and Probate Trust and Decedent's\u00a0cases must be e-filed through File & ServeXpress.
\nNo, in Civil cases, they are encouraged to do so, but e-filing is not mandatory for self-represented litigants or non-parties. In Probate Trust cases, once a self-represented litigant chooses to e-file, such chosen filing method must be used exclusively in that case [see LRSF 14.100(B)].
\nE-filing rules are contained in San Francisco Superior Court local rule 2.11.
\nYes, pending cases under this mandate will be required to e-file subsequent filings.
\nDocuments issued by the Court, Summons for Unlawful Detainer Cases, Orders of Examination, Writs, Abstracts,\u00a0Bonds, and DMV Certifications, must be submitted conventionally in paper form. (see San Francisco Local Rule 2.10R).
\nNo.
\nFor questions about available vendors and how to e-file in the San Francisco Superior Court, visit the Court Approved Vendor List.
\nUsers must submit one courtesy paper copy of all filed documents requiring Court review, action, or signature directly to the assigned Judge's department. These courtesy copies must be delivered to the Court not later than 1:30 p.m. of the day following electronic filing, except all papers\u00a0related to motions brought on shortened time must be delivered to the Judge's department as early as practicable but at least before the time set for hearing. All courtesy copies must append the relevant vendor's transaction receipt.
\nCourtesy copies for the Probate Department must be endorsed filed, Copies must include the hearing date in the caption of the document and should be directed to the attention of specific staff members to the extent known, i.e.,\u00a0Director, Assistant Director, assigned Examiner, or assigned Investigator.
\nThe convenience fee will be $2.25\u00a0per transaction. You may submit more than one filing per transaction, provided it is the SAME case. The service fee is $10.80.
\nThe Court has selected six vendors that will provide e-filing services and has no plans to expand the list at this time.
\nYou may choose to attend Traffic Violator School for a vehicle code violation that is assigned one point only. Violations\u00a0committed by a pedestrian or a bicyclist are not assigned point counts. To\u00a0verify whether a violation is assigned a point count, review the Traffic Bail Schedule\u00a0to be sure you need to attend traffic school. Look up your violation(s) and check the far right column to see if there is a DMV point attached to the violation(s).\u00a0If you pay the $52 administrative Traffic School fee for committing a violation that is not eligible for Traffic School, the fee will not be refunded.\u00a0
\nPursuant to Vehicle Code section 42005 and California Rules of Court rule 4.104, court clerks are only authorized to grant traffic school requests if the following criteria is met:
\nThere are court fees and a fee charged by the traffic school. To register for traffic school, you must pay:
\nPlease note: If you choose to take an online traffic school course from an approved traffic school, you must pay the (bail) fine and the administrative fee before the completion of the online school. If payment has not been received, your certificate will be rejected.
\nAfter you have verified that you and the violation meet the above requirements, you may sign up and pay by mail, in person, or online (link below). If you sign up online, your traffic school due date and link to the Traffic School agreement will be on your confirmation page once paid.\u00a0You are generally given three months from your date of payment to complete Traffic School. You may attend only the DMV-Approved Classroom and Online Traffic Schools.
\nBy Mail: Mail a check or money order, payable to the San Francisco Superior Court, in the amount of the bail (fine) and the $52 fee to:
\nSan Francisco Superior Court
\n850 Bryant St. Room 145
\nSan Francisco, CA 94103-4610
\n
\nBe sure to include the citation number on the check. Do Not Send Cash Through the Mail.
\n
\nIn Person: 8:30 a.m. -- 12:30 p.m., Monday -- Friday, except Court holidays.
\n
\nSan Francisco Superior Court
\n850 Bryant St., Room 145
\nSan Francisco, CA 94103-4610
Online: To sign-up for Traffic School online, a valid MasterCard, Visa, Discover or American Express card is required. A state-mandated, non-refundable administrative fee of $52 and a convenience fee of 3.5% of the transaction will be charged to your credit card in addition to your fine amount.
\n
\nIf you have questions, please review the Frequently Asked Questions visit the Traffic Division\u00a0Web site for additional information.
Read and Print Traffic School Agreement
\n\nTraffic school completions cannot be accepted if the bail (fine) and the $52 administrative fee have not been paid. The Traffic Schools will notify the DMV of course completion and the Court will access that information from the DMV through its secured Web site.
\nBender\u2019s Legal Service, Inc.
\n1625 The Alameda, #511
\nSan Jose, CA 95126
\nPhone: 408-286-4182
\nwww.benderslegal.com
e-Filing Sign up:\u00a0https://directlegal.legalconnect.com/registration
\n\nWELFARE AND INSTITUTIONS CODE SECTION 225-236 225
\nIn each county there shall be a juvenile justice commission consisting of not less than seven and no more than 15 citizens. Two or more of the members shall be persons who are between 14 and 21 years of age, provided there are available persons between 14 and 21 years of age who are able to carry out the duties of a commission member in a manner satisfactory to the appointing authority.
\nThe Commission's purpose is to:
\n(City and County of San Francisco Juvenile Justice Commission Bylaws, Article 1, Section 1.2)
\nRegular Commission meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month from 5:30-7 p.m., unless otherwise designated by the Commission, and are open to the public. For more information about public meetings, or for advance copies of meeting agendas, please contact:
\nYvette King at (415)\u00a0628-5101 or Lisa Kong at (415) 682-5107.
2021\u00a0Juvenile Justice Membership
\nCommission Openings:
\n\u00a0Please contact\u00a0Yvette King\u00a0([email\u00a0protected]) or Lisa Kong ([email\u00a0protected])\u00a0for more information about Commission openings.
\n\nJanuary 2019\u00a0Meeting Summary
\nFebruary 2019\u00a0Meeting Summary
\nMarch 2019\u00a0Meeting Summary
\n\n\n\nUnified Family Court
\nJuvenile Justice Commission
\n375 Woodside Ave.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94127
Juvenile Justice Commission
\nExecutive Staff
\nYvette King
\n[email\u00a0protected]
\n(415) 682-5101
\n(415) 682-5255 (FAX)
\n
\nDirections
The Juvenile Justice Center Improvement Committee has provided educational and vocational services to youth, 14-18 under the jurisdiction of the Courts for more than 27 years. To enroll young people into the Early Morning Studies Academy GED school, or for help getting them a job in the New Directions Employment Program, call (415) 753-7690.
\nThe Probate Court deals directly with the everyday personal and financial matters of San Franciscans. Most people think of probate courts as working exclusively with wills and the financial affairs of people who have died. However, the Probate Court also deals with guardianships of children, conservatorships of adults, mental health treatment, trusts, and dependent adult restraining orders when related to an existing conservatorship. The Judge and staff of the San Francisco Probate Court are committed to the administration of justice with thoughtfulness and concern for the citizens of San Francisco.
\nADMINISTRATIVE ORDER OF THE PROBATE AND MENTAL HEALTH DIVISION RE: COVID-19 PANDEMIC (JUNE 28, 2021)
\n\n\nADMINISTRAVE ORDER OF THE PROBATE AND MENTAL HEALTH DIVISION RE: COVID-19 PANDEMIC (OCTOBER 30,2020)
\nADMINISTRATIVE ORDER OF THE PROBATE AND MENTAL HEALTH DIVSION RE: COVID-19 PANDEMIC (JULY 21, 2020)
\n\n\n\n\nADMINISTRATIVE ORDER OF THE PROBATE AND MENTAL HEALTH DIVISION RE COVID-19 PANDEMIC\u00a0(April 2, 2020)
\n\nHearing dates for all appearance matters are assigned by the filing clerk at the time the petition is filed. Other hearing times are:
\nIn view of the Jameson v. Desta decision:\u00a0
\nFee waiver recipients who desire a verbatim record of a trial court proceeding must notify the court in writing by filing a notice, a request or other form of written notification.\u00a0The notice/request must be received within the following time perimeters:
\nFailure to make the request within the time perimeters listed above may result in the courts inability to honor your request in a timely manner, on the day of your hearing.
\nIf a Judge decides that an adult cannot safely handle personal or financial affairs or both, the Judge may appoint an individual or an agency to manage the adult\u2019s affairs under Court supervision.
\n\nIn California, there are two types of guardianships for children. The first type is connected with the Juvenile Dependency Court\u00a0 .https://www.sfsuperiorcourt.org/divisions/ufc/juvenile-dependency In those cases, a child has been removed from the home by a Child Protective Services social worker because there is information that the child is being neglected, abused, or is in danger. The other type of guardianship is handled by the Probate Court. In these guardianships, the child lives with the person who is the guardian.
\n\nThe Judge of the Probate Department hears cases in the courtroom and administers the policies and procedures for this specialized court in San Francisco. The Probate Judge appoints people and at times institutions and agencies, to act as administrators and executors of wills, as trustees, as guardians of children, and as conservators of adults who cannot handle their own affairs. The Court also supervises these matters and reviews and approves the fees that are charged. In each probate matter, the Judge must apply the law, taking into account the views of all the people involved, the evidence that has been offered and the reports prepared by staff. The Judge must consider what is fair and in the best interests of the people who are involved.
\nThe Judge is assisted by an administrative staff, examiners and investigators, a lawyer from the Court's attorney staff, courtroom clerks, clerks who receive and process the documents filed by attorneys and the public, and by a bailiff in the courtroom. Examiners review all the petitions in the estates of deceased people, trusts, conservatorships and guardianships. They make certain that the law has been followed and that the accountings are accurate. The investigators go out into the community to see how people are doing, to inform them of their rights, and to report their circumstances, wishes, and concerns to the Judge.
\nAll Probate Estate and Trust cases are subject to e-filing. These cases have either a PES or PTR prefix.
\nProbate cases must be filed through File & ServeXpress.
\nJudge\u00a0Joseph M. Quinn, Supervising Judge
\nJudge Ross C.Moody
\n400 McAllister St.
\nDepartment 204
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
Probate Department - Room 202
\nJudge, Examiners (415) 551-3650
Director, Investigators (415) 551-3657
\nCourtroom Clerk (415) 551-3702
\nCourt Supervisor of Probate Section Clerk's Office\u00a0(415) 551-3924
\n\u00a0
\nClerks Office- 8:30 a.m. - 12:30\u00a0p.m., Monday through Friday, except Court holidays.
\nDepartment Office, Room 202-\u00a0 CLOSED\u00a0
\nExcept as provided in California Rule of Court 1.150, Court proceedings may not be photographed, recorded, or broadcast. Under the rule, use of cameras and other recording devices require permission from the Judicial Officer presiding over the proceeding. Requests to photograph must be submitted to the Judicial Officer five court days before the proceeding, unless good cause is shown.
\nThe rule requires that the requestor file (1) a Media Request to Photograph, Record, or Broadcast (form MC-500) and (2) a completed, proposed Order on Media Request to Permit Coverage ( form MC-510)
\nYou may submit your paperwork in one of two ways:
\nCourt Notifies Affected Parties in Cases Handled By Unlicensed Court Reporter, 12/29/16
\nPresiding Judge-Elect Teri L. Jackson Announces New Judicial Assignments, Effective January 23, 2017
\nSan Francisco Superior Court Bench Elects New Assistant Presiding Judge, 11-02-16
\nSan Francisco Superior Court Bench Elects First Female African American Judge to Serve as Presiding Judge, 10-05-16
\nGraduation Ceremony Honors Veterans Who Successfully Completed San Francisco's Veterans Justice Court Program, 09-23-16
\nOne Legal LLC Completes Direct E-Filing Connection to the SF Superior Court, 07-20-16
\nJudge James P. Collins -- A Legendary Hall of Justice Legal Eagle -- Announces Retirement, 07-19-16
\nPresiding Judge John K. Stewart Invites SF Mayor to Veterans Justice Court Graduation to Witness How the Court Helps to Improve the Lives of San Franciscans, 05-27-16
\nNew Online Case Calendar Search Available on San Francisco Superior Court's Website, 04-21-16
\nSan Francisco Superior Court in Search of Volunteers for the Civil Grand Jury, 03-03-16
\nJudge Ernest H. Goldsmith Announces Retirement, 02-04-16
Presiding Judge Teri L. Jackson Announces 2018 Judicial Assignments, 12-18-17
\nDrug Addiction in San Francisco: Innovations in Treartment and Treatment Courts, 11-13-17
Region 2 Courts and Court Interpreters Reach Labor Agreement, 09-27-17
\n\nJust Eight Days Left to Apply -- Apply Now to Serve as a Government \"Watchdog\", 05-24-17
\nMandatory E-Filing to Expand to Misdemeanor Appeals -- Effective July 3, 2017, 05-17-17
\nSF Superior Court\u00a0Receives Judicial Council Court Innovations Grant for Veterans Justice Court, 03-29-17
\nSF Superior Court Launches Pilot Judicial Settlement Program to Settle Larger, High-Exposure Cases, 03-27-17
\nSan Francisco Superior Court Judges Encourage San Franciscans to Apply for the Civil Grand Jury, 03-06-17
\nJudge Donald J. Sullivan Announces His Retirement, 02-28-17
\nJudge Ronald E. Albers \u2013 SF Collaborative Court Champion \u2013 Announces Retirement, 02-06-17
\nSan Francisco Superior Court Issues New Tentative Rulings for Family Law Matters, 01-06-17
\nUnified Family Court (UFC) is comprised of Juvenile Dependency, Juvenile Delinquency, Child Support, and Family Law. Its mission is to provide coordinated services to those who have family-related issues in the Court system, strengthen services to the community, and assist and promote healthy families and children. UFC handles divorce, legal separation and nullity; parentage; domestic abuse restraining orders; child, spousal and family support; child custody and visitation; mediation and self-help services; child abuse and neglect; and children\u2019s violations of criminal law.
\nUFC INSTRUCTIONS FOR REMOTE COURT HEARINGS VIA BLUEJEANS
\nEnglish
\n\nBlueJeans Self Help and Tech Requirements Links
\nBlueJeans VC Admonitions and Instructions
\nFCS Remote Parent Orientation Video-Phone Conferencing Tip Sheet
\nBlueJeans - Welcome and Admonishment
\nStanding BlueJeans Meeting Info
\nUFC Remote Appearance Etiquette
\nChinese (Simplified)
\nBlue Jeans Instructions_CHSIMPLIFIED
\nBlueJeans self help and Tech requirements links_CHS
\nBlueJeans -Welcome and Admonishment 010821_CHS
\nFCS Remote Parent Orientation Video-Phone Conferencing Tip Sheet FINAL_CHS
\nFINAL Zoom BlueJeans VC-Admonitions and Instructions - 2-16-2021_CHS
\nStanding BlueJeans Meeting info (Generic)_CHS
\nUFC Remote Appearance Etiquette_CHS
\nChinese (Traditional)
\nBlue Jeans Instructions_CHTRADITIONAL
\nBlueJeans self help and Tech requirements links_CHT
\nBlueJeans -Welcome and Admonishment 010821_CHT
\nFCS Remote Parent Orientation Video-Phone Conferencing Tip Sheet FINAL_CHT
\nFINAL Zoom BlueJeans VC-Admonitions and Instructions - 2-16-2021_CHT
\nStanding BlueJeans Meeting info (Generic)_CHT
\nUFC Remote Appearance Etiquette_CHT
\nRussian
\nBlue Jeans Instructions_RUSSIAN
\nBlueJeans self help and Tech requirements links_RU
\nBlueJeans -Welcome and Admonishment 010821_RU
\nFCS Remote Parent Orientation Video-Phone Conferencing Tip Sheet FINAL_RU
\nFINAL Zoom BlueJeans VC-Admonitions and Instructions - 2-16-2021_RU
\nStanding BlueJeans Meeting info (Generic)_RU
\nUFC Remote Appearance Etiquette_RU
\nSpanish
\nBlue Jeans Instructions_SPANISH
\nBlueJeans self help and Tech requirements links_SP
\nBlueJeans -Welcome and Admonishment 010821_SP
\nFCS Remote Parent Orientation Video-Phone Conferencing Tip Sheet FINAL_SP
\nFINAL Zoom BlueJeans VC-Admonitions and Instructions - 2-16-2021_SP
\nStanding BlueJeans Meeting info (Generic)_SP
\nUFC Remote Appearance Etiquette_SP
\nTagalog
\nBlue Jeans Instructions_TAGALOG
\nBlueJeans self help and Tech requirements links_TL
\nBlueJeans -Welcome and Admonishment 010821_TL
\nFCS Remote Parent Orientation Video-Phone Conferencing Tip Sheet FINAL_TL
\nFINAL Zoom BlueJeans VC-Admonitions and Instructions - 2-16-2021_TL
\nStanding BlueJeans Meeting info (Generic)_TL
\nUFC Remote Appearance Etiquette_TL
\nVietnamese
\nBlue Jeans Instructions_VIETNAMESE
\nBlueJeans self help and Tech requirements links_VI
\nBlueJeans -Welcome and Admonishment 010821_VI
\nFCS Remote Parent Orientation Video-Phone Conferencing Tip Sheet FINAL_VI
\nFINAL Zoom BlueJeans VC-Admonitions and Instructions - 2-16-2021_VI
\nStanding BlueJeans Meeting info (Generic)_VI
\nUFC Remote Appearance Etiquette_VI
\nUFC E-Service of Documents
\nDuring the state of emergency related to the COVID-19 pandemic, and consistent with California Rules of Court, Emergency Rule 12, attorneys shall accept electronic service on all filed documents otherwise required to be served by mail or in person with the following exceptions: documents filed under seal or subject to a pending motion to seal. As required by Emergency Rule 12, before serving a represented party electronically, the serving party must confirm by telephone or email the appropriate electronic service address for counsel being served.
\nSearch for Case Calendars by Case Type and Date. Information is available up to 120 calendar days from today.
\n\nJudge\u00a0Monica F. Wiley, Supervising Judge
\n400 McAllister St. - Department 405
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 551-3747
Judge Maria Evangelista
\n400 McAllister St. - Department 403
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 551-3741
Judge Victor F. Hwang
\n400 McAllister St. - Department 404
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 551-3744
Judge\u00a0Roger C. Chan
\n400 McAllister St. - Department 405
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 551-3747
[email\u00a0protected]\u00a0
\nJudge Monica F. Wiley, Presiding Judge
\nJJC - Department 2
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 682-5202
Judge Daniel A. Flores
\nJJC - Department 3
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 682-5203
Judge Roger C. Chan
\nJJC - Department 4
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 682-5204
Judge Newton J. Lam
\n400 McAllister St. - Department 406
\nCourt Clerk (415) 551-3750
[email\u00a0protected]
\n
\nJudge Susan M. Breall
\n400 McAllister St. - Department 425
\nCourt Clerk (415) 551-3759
[email\u00a0protected]\u00a0
\nInstructions for Adoption Form
\n\nCommissioner Rebecca L. Wightman
\n400 McAllister St. - Department 416
\nCourt Clerk (415) 551-3756
Information on Title IV-D Remote Appearances in Department 416
\nJudy Louie, Director
\n400 McAllister St. - Room 509
\n(415) 551-0605
Family and Dependency Mediation
\nFelicia Fleming, Acting Manager
\n400 McAllister St. - Room 402 B
\n(415) 551-5983
Court Manager\u00a0- Frances Yokota
\n400 McAllister St. - Room 402
\n((415) 551-3914
Acting Court Supervisor - Jonathan Wong
\n400 McAllister St. - Room 402
\n(415) 551-3962
Court Supervisor - Yvette King
\nDelinquency/Juvenile Traffic
\nJJC - Room 101
\n(415) 682-5101
If the person seeking the restraining order and the person against whom the restraining order is sought have minor children in common, court orders may be entered regarding custody and visitation of the children.
\nIf both parents appear on the date of the court hearing on the request for a restraining order, they will be ordered to participate in a domestic violence-related orientation (even if they recently attended the 3-hour orientation class) and in a mediation conducted by Family Court Services. The mediation and orientation will take place in separate sessions in order to ensure the safety of both parents.
\nThe mediation will occur between, approximately, 10 a.m. and 12 p.m., immediately after orientation. The Court will hear the restraining order application and enter child custody and visitation orders (based on either the parties\u2019 stipulation or after hearing) once the mediation is completed. In some cases, the parties may have to return to Court in the afternoon to have their matter heard.
\n
Civic Center Courthouse
\n400 McAllister St., Room 402
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
Family Law, Dependency and Child Support
\n(415) 551-3900
Clerk's Office Hours in Room 402: Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
\nDrop box\u00a0available Monday through Friday except on court holidays, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Provide a self-addressed stamped envelope and 2 copies to ensure return of documents.
\n\nJuvenile Justice Center
\n375 Woodside Ave., Room 101
\nSan Francisco, CA 94127
(415) 682-5100
\nClerk's Office Hours in Room 101: Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
\nDrop box available Monday through Friday, except on court holidays. 8:30 a.m to 4 p.m. Provide a self-addressed stamped envelope and 2 copies to ensure return of documents.
\n
\nDirections
Traffic Court deals with violations of traffic laws and other minor offenses of state and county ordinances. These violations are considered \u201cinfractions\u201d and include, for example, speeding, cell phone violations, expired registrations and automobile equipment needing repair. Infractions are enforced by the issuance of citations (\u201ctickets\u201d) by law enforcement. Punishment for infractions requires payment of fines and does not carry any potential jail or prison time. Failure to respond to a citation may lead to additional penalties including imposition of a $300 Civil Assessment and the notification to the Department of Motor Vehicles of your failure to appear, pursuant to Vehicle Code section 40509.5.
\nIf you Received a Ticket, please read this important Information Sheet.
\nDid you receive a ticket, can't afford to pay?\u00a0Learn more about your options.\u00a0
\nThe San Francisco Superior Court does not handle parking tickets, please contact the\u00a0San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency.
\nA Reminder Notice is mailed to the address listed on the citation. This notice is usually received within 21 days from the date the citation was issued. The notice contains information about the requirements and options available for resolving the ticket, such as:
\nIf a Reminder Notice has not been received, contact the Court. If you are unsure about your options, appear at the Court no later than the date listed at the bottom of the citation.
\nYou may not have received a Reminder Notice due to the following: \u00a0
\nFailure to receive a Reminder Notice does not relieve you of the obligation to appear by the date stated in the Notice to Appear. By signing the citation, in front of the Officer, you have agreed to appear and/or respond to the citation in lieu of being arrested.\u00a0
\nFailure to appear or resolve a citation on or before the due date, or failure to appear at a scheduled hearing may result in:
\nIf You Fail to Appear In Court
\nOr Fail To Pay Your Citation,
\nIt Could Cost You $300.
You will receive this Notice of Civil Assessment to the Address listed on the Citation.
\nA civil assessment of $300 will be added to any traffic/infraction fine if you fail to post bail,\u00a0appear for your scheduled court date, or pay any fine ordered by the Court.\u00a0All delinquent citations will be referred to Alliance One\u00a0for collection. If your citation has been referred to Alliance One and you can't afford to pay,\u00a0learn\u00a0more\u00a0about your options.
\nCalifornia law permits the Court to impose a civil assessment of\u00a0$300 against any individual who fails, after notice and without good cause, to appear in Court for any proceeding, or who fails to pay all or any portion of a fine ordered by the Court. The civil assessment is imposed in addition to, and separate from, any fine connected with a traffic citation.
\nEven if you later contest your citation and win, you may be required to pay the civil assessment.
\nThe Court has entered into an agreement with\u00a0Alliance One to collect unpaid fines and civil assessments. If you fail to appear or fail to pay your fine, the Court will refer your matter to\u00a0Alliance One for immediate collection. The Court and\u00a0Alliance One will use a number of methods to collect unpaid fees and the civil assessment, including:\u00a0notice to the Department of Motor Vehicles, the garnishment or attachment of your wages, and other various collection methods.
\nDon't neglect your obligation to the Court ... it could cost you $300.
\nIf you disagree with the Court's ruling after a traffic trial, you have the right to an appeal. The appeal must be filed within 30 days of the ruling. Go to Room 145, Hall of Justice, and request a\u00a0copy of our packet titled \"Instructions on Appeal Procedures for Infractions.\u201d\u00a0The packet covers non-parking traffic matters and contains the\u00a0forms you need to file your Appeal. Complete these forms and take them to the Appeals clerk in Room 101, Hall of Justice.\u00a0After your paperwork is processed, you will be notified\u00a0by mail of the next step in the appeal process and subsequent hearing date.\u00a0Be aware that the fine ordered by the Court must be paid in Room 145 by the due date.
\nIf you received a citation for a correctable violation, such as an expired registration or no proof of insurance, you must submit \u2013 by the date at the bottom of your citation or the due date on your Reminder Notice \u2013 the proof of correction to the Court by mail or in person, along with a $25 fee per correctable violation. (See Vehicle Code Section 40611)
\nIf you received a citation for a mechanical violation, such as a broken tail light, you must correct the violation and then contact any law enforcement agency to arrange for an officer to verify and sign off on the correction. You must then mail, or bring to the Court, the signed citation along with the $25 fee.
\nIf you were cited for a expired registration violation, mail a copy of your current registration or bring your current registration to the Court, along with the $25 fee.
\nIf you were cited for a driver's license violation, either bring to the Court or mail, a copy of your driver's license, the citation signed off by the DMV and the $25 fee.
\nIf you were cited for no proof of insurance, mail or bring to the Court, proof of insurance that you were insured on the date of the violation, along with the $25 fee. Valid proof of insurance must show the driver's name, vehicle information and the insurance effective and expiration dates.
\n\u00a0
\n![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/i_trafficdivision.jpg\")
Hall of Justice
\n850 Bryant St., Room 145
\nSan Francisco, CA 94103
\n8:30 a.m. - 12:30\u00a0p.m. Monday - Friday\u00a0(except\u00a0Court holidays)
To pay your citation call (415)\u00a0551- 8550 or go to the online payment system. Phone payments are available Monday -\u00a0Friday 4 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Pacific Standard Time), and Saturday -\u00a0Sunday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Pacific Standard Time).\u00a0Hours may vary on major holidays.
\nThe following law enforcement agencies issue tickets for offenses within the City and County of San Francisco:
\nDisputes are resolved quickly and inexpensively in Small Claims Court, where the rules are simple and informal. Litigants may not be represented by an attorney. Generally, claims are limited to $5,000. The jurisdictional limit is 10,000 for individuals who are filing a claim in the Small Claims Division.\u00a0 Corporations, partnerships, governmental entities, and other legal entities cannot claim more than $5,000. Individuals may file unlimited claims for up to $2,500 each in a year. However, individuals may only file two claims a year that seek more than $2,500.
\nCORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) UPDATE\u00a0\u00a0
\n\u00a0Apply to get help with your rent. You can get up to 18 months of rental assistance, including prospective rental assistance and utility assistance.\u00a0 To learn more, visit sf.gov/renthelp. Get free help with your application: call 833-687-0967 to make an appointment or visit housingiskey.com to apply online.\u00a0 If you have applied and need assistance, call the California COVID-19 Rent Relief Program Call Center at 833-430-2122. Please refer to the Information Regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Court Operations page (https://www.sfsuperiorcourt.org/general-info/Information-Regarding-Coronavirus-And-Court-Operations) for the most current information in light of the COVID-19 public health crisis
\nCase information is available at\u00a0S.F. Superior Court Online Services. You must have the case number or party name for an inquiry.
\n\u00a0
\nVideoconference Hearings in Small Claims
\n\u5c0f\u989d\u7d22\u8d54\u4e4b\u89c6\u9891\u4f1a\u8bae\u542c\u8bc1\u4f1a
\n\u5c0f\u984d\u7d22\u8ce0\u4e4b\u8996\u8a0a\u6703\u8b70\u807d\u8b49\u6703
\nMga Pagdinig sa Small Claims sa Pamamagitan ng Video Conference
\n\nAudiencias por videoconferencia en Reclamos Menores
\n\nEffective Monday, February 22, 2021, the Small Claims Department will be holding hearings by videoconference, and the public can view and/or listen to hearings, by clicking on the appropriate link below. At least 10 calendar days\u00a0before the hearing the party requesting to appear by Zoom must obtain and submit the following forms:\u00a0 \u00a0
\nIf you have evidence such as documents or pictures, which support your case, send them to the opposing party, and\u00a0Department 506\u00a0at least 5 days before\u00a0the hearing.\u00a0
\nSmall Claims (Department 506) Zoom link:\u00a0(https://sfsuperiorcourt-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_pQ8VosaNRGa78-kGyiMABg)
\nIf unable to join using the links above, the hearings may be joined by telephone by dialing:\u00a01-415-762-9988\u00a0
\nDepartment 506: Meeting ID: 86113173445\u00a0 Passcode: 805364
\nhttps://www.sfsuperiorcourt.org/self-help/small-claims
\nTHE SMALL CLAIMS MEDIATION PROGRAM IS TEMPORARILY SUSPENDED.
\nCase information is available at S.F. Superior Court Online Services. You must have the case number or party name for an inquiry.
\nSee Small Claims Instructions for what you need to file your Small Claims case.
\nTo request a Small Claims Forms\u00a0by mail, please send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to the Small Claims Division, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102. The Small Claims Packet with envelope weighs 3 ounces.
\nSmall Claims Video Conference Appearance\u00a0Package
\nIf you are unable to speak or understand English, bring a friend or someone else to help you. Court interpreters are not provided free of charge unless you are eligible for a fee waiver. If you would like to hire an interpreter for your Small Claims hearing, you may refer to the\u00a0California Interpreter Program (CIP)
\n![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/i_smallclaimes.jpg\")
\nDepartment 506
\n400 McAllister St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
Clerk\u2019s Office Filing Window
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\n400 McAllister St., Room 103
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
8:30 a.m. \u2013 12:30\u00a0p.m., Monday \u2013 Friday, except Court holidays\u00a0
\nThe San Francisco Superior Court seeks to provide the most efficient and convenient jury service experience. Daily reporting instructions, frequently asked questions, maps, parking information, and directions to the courthouse locations are available to assist you with your service.
\nSan Francisco Superior Court has two jury assembly rooms: Civic Center Courthouse, 400 McAllister St., Room 007 and the Hall of Justice, 850 Bryant St., Room 307. You can reach us by phone on the Juror Information Line: (415) 551-3608.
\nYou have been randomly selected by computer to serve as a trial juror. The selection of persons for jury service is accomplished by randomly drawing names from the list of registered voters and the Department of Motor Vehicles driver's license and identification card list for San Francisco. The law requires a fair cross-section of each county's qualified residents to be available each day for jury duty. Random summoning enhances juror impartiality. There is no attempt to deliberately inconvenience anyone.
\nThere is no statutory exemption for any occupation except certain categories of peace officers. However, a juror may be disqualified for service for various reasons, such as citizenship, residency, or prior service within the past 12 months. A juror may also ask to be excused for various reasons, such as financial hardship or the need to provide care to another person. The postcard summons has a QR code or URL to submit a request to be excused, postponed, or disqualifed from jury service.
\nIn order to accommodate your schedule, you may postpone, or reschedule, the start of your jury service once to a more convenient time. The postponement cannot exceed 6 months. You may postpone your service over the phone by calling the Jury Office at (415) 551-3608, entering your badge number (located on the back of the postcard summons), and following the instructions for postponement.\u00a0You may also postpone your service by using the QR code or URL to submit a request for postponement.
\nExcuses from service may be granted in specific circumstances. If you want to request to be excused, you may submit a request online by using the QR code or URL on your postcard summons. Requests for excuse or disqualification must be received online\u00a0and cannot be accepted over the phone.\u00a0 To check on the status of your request, you may call the automated system at (415) 551-3608 and enter your badge number.
\nThe U.S. Constitution and the California State Constitution guarantee the right to trial by jury. A\u00a0Postcard Summons is mailed to you to determine if you are qualified to serve jury duty (See Code of Civil Procedure, Section 203(a).)
\nBoth the voter registration and motor vehicle records are used as source lists for prospective jurors. Names are randomly selected from the countywide population by computer. If your name and address do not match exactly in both the voter registration and motor vehicle records, you may have more than one record in the jury system. If this happens, you may receive more than one summons in a 1-year period. If you receive more than one summons in a 1-year period, please contact the Jury Office at 415-551-3608.
\nThe Court receives its data from these two sources each year in October. If you have moved out of the City recently, the Court may have still received your name from either the DMV or the Department of Elections. You must notify DMV within 10 days of your move. Registering to vote in another county does not necessarily remove your name from the SF Department of Elections rolls; you should also call the Department of Elections to tell them that you no longer live in the City.
\nYou may be required to appear anytime during the 5-day period of your jury service. You are required to obtain reporting instructions, by calling the Court at (415) 551-3608 or visiting the website, every day for the duration of the one week of jury service. You are required to follow your reporting instructions for every day of your service week.
\nIf you are not required to report during the 5-day period, your jury service is completed for one year.
\nIf you are asked to report and come in to the courthouse, but are not assigned to a courtroom for jury selection on the day you report, your jury service is completed for one year.
\nIf you are assigned to a courtroom for jury selection that is not completed by the end of that day, you are required to return to finish the selection for that trial.
\nIf you are selected to serve on a trial, your term of service will be the length of that trial.
\nYes. The Court realizes prospective jurors may be summoned at an inconvenient time and is willing to postpone service to a more convenient time. You may postpone your jury service by calling the automated system at (415) 551-3608 or by using the QR code or URL to submit a request for postponement. Jurors are entitled to a one-time postponement not to exceed 6 months from the summons date.
\n![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/i_jurypage.jpg\")
Juror Information Line
\n(415) 551-3608
\n8:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
\nMonday through Friday, except Court holidays
\nCivic Center Jury Assembly Room
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\n400 McAllister St., Room 007
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
Jury Assembly Room Hours:
\n8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
\nMonday through Friday, except Court holidays
\nDirections
Hall of Justice Jury Assembly Room
\n850 Bryant St., Room 307
\nSan Francisco, CA 94103
Jury Assembly Room Hours:
\n8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
\nMonday through Friday, except Court holidays
\nDirections
The Human Resources Office is responsible for overseeing the needs of the Court\u2019s Judges and employees. Staff administers programs for Court employees\u2019 pay and benefits; job classifications; recruitment, selection and hiring; labor relations; grievances and labor contract negotiations; employee safety and disability programs; and disciplinary actions and appeals.
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\n400 McAllister St. -- Room 205
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\nJ.M. Mu\u00f1oz
\nHuman Resources Director
8:30 a.m. \u2013 4 p.m.
\nNew Procedures to Conduct Business Online\u00a0in the Criminal Division
\nThe Criminal Court has jurisdiction over infraction, misdemeanor and felony cases. The Criminal Court conducts trials, motions, arraignments, preliminary hearings, probation hearings, mental health proceedings, and other types of criminal proceedings. These cases are heard in the Hall of Justice Building, 850 Bryant St. (between 6th and 7th streets). However, some criminal cases are heard in the Civic Center Courthouse, 400 McAllister St., and the Community Justice Center, 575 Polk St.
\nTo find out which department your case is being heard in, please review the Daily Calendar for criminal and traffic hearings, which is\u00a0displayed\u00a0on an electronic wall monitor outside Room 101, Monday-Friday, or call the Clerk\u2019s Office.
\nA felony case is a criminal action in which the defendant is charged with violation of a felony. Misdemeanor or infraction violations may be included.
\nA misdemeanor case is a criminal action in which the defendant is charged with a misdemeanor and it may include an infraction charge. It does not include any felony violations. Misdemeanors include serious traffic violations, such as driving under the influence, which may result in fines up to $2,000 and possible jail time.
\n\nPlease note that the Court does NOT handle parking citations. For information on how to take care of these citations, please contact SFMTA.
\nThe San Francisco County Jail is operated by the Sheriff's Department, not the Court. For information regarding inmates and arrested persons, call (415) 553-1430.
\nFor information regarding inmates housed at San Bruno, call (415) 266-7501.
\nNOTE: SUBMITTING MULTIPLE REQUESTS FOR THE SAME CASE NUMBER WILL CAUSE UNDUE DELAYS IN PROCESSING YOUR RECORD REQUESTS. PLEASE ALLOW 30 DAYS BEFORE SUBMITTING A SECOND REQUEST.
\nRequest for Criminal Records Viewing here
\nCriminal Records Department Phone Number (415) 551-0651.
\nThis following information only deals with criminal convictions obtained in California and is intended to assist you with cleaning up your criminal record. We do not guarantee any results for a particular case, nor is the information intended as legal advice.
\nIf you have been convicted of a crime you may be eligible for relief. Some convictions can be modified on your record so that when you apply for most jobs, you can legally indicate that you were not convicted of that crime. Other convictions may be reduced from felony to misdemeanor status in certain situations. Also, if you have completed a term in prison you may be eligible for a Certificate of Rehabilitation and Pardon.
\nThe California Courts website has detailed information and the necessary forms needed for cleaning up your criminal record.
\nThe San Francisco Public Defender\u2019s Clean Slate Program\u00a0may\u00a0also be able to assist you in this process.\u00a0
\nCourt Administrator -\u00a0Mark Culkins\u00a0(415) 551-0350
\nActing Court Manager, Criminal Division -\u00a0Sherife Huseny (415) 551-0665
\nCourt Manager, Comprehensive Collections Unit - Jennifer Chan (415) 551-8576
\nCourt Manager, Criminal Courtroom Clerks -\u00a0Gina Guidi (415) 551-4004
\nActing Court Manager, Criminal Operations, Sherife Huseny (415) 551-0665
\nCourt Interpreter Supervisor -\u00a0Rose Gonzalez\u00a0(415) 551-0656
\nCourt Supervisor, Criminal Master Cal -\u00a0Wesley Ramirez\u00a0(415) 551-7572
\nCourt Supervisor, Criminal Courtroom Clerks -\u00a0Cynthia Karadi (415) 551-0352
\nActing Court Supervisor, Criminal Operations\u00a0- Sharon Menis (415) 551-0696
\nCourt Supervisor, Criminal Records - Bryan Wong (415) 551-0684
\nAppeals, Felony (415) 551-0354 or (415) 551-0693
\nAppeals, Misdemeanors and Traffic (415) 551-0657\u00a0
\nArchives\u00a0 (415) 551-0679
\nBond Desk (415) 551-0608 or (415) 551-0691
\nComprehensive Collections Unit (415) 551-0670
\nDMV (415) 551-0683
\nExhibits (415) 551-0671
\nFilings (415) 551-0651
\nRecords (415) 551-0651
\nSubpoenaed Records (415) 551-0653
\n\u00a0
\nJudge Christopher C. Hite
\nSupervising Judge, Master Calendar
\nDepartment 22, 3rd Floor
\nHall of Justice
\n850 Bryant St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94103
Department 22 Courtroom Clerk: (415) 551-0322
\nFor more information about the Criminal Division, call General Information at (415) 551-0651.
\nCriminal Clerk\u2019s Office
\nRoom 101
\nHall of Justice
Monday-Friday\u00a08:30 a.m -12:30\u00a0p.m.\u00a0
\nDropbox Hours 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
\nPhone service is available from\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. 415-551-0651
\nWe are pioneers in the Justice Community contributing to a safe and just San Francisco for all. We change lives by demonstrating our Core Values in everything we do.
\nThe San Francisco Superior Court delivers high quality collaborative justice programs that address addiction, mental health, and other social service needs.
\nWe do this by:
\n\u2022\u00a0Behavioral Health Court (BHC): Works with individuals who have serious and persistent mental illness in their efforts toward community re-integration and greater self-sufficiency.
\u2022\u00a0Community Justice Center (CJC): Bridges the gap between communities and the Court and addresses issues that have led to a participant\u2019s criminal justice involvement through the use of restorative justice and treatment services for substance use, mental health, and other primary health issues; adjudicates clients\u2019 criminal cases from the Tenderloin, Civic Center, Union Square, and South of Market neighborhoods.
\n\u2022\u00a0Drug Court (DC): Links non-violent offenders who have substance use disorders to outpatient and/or residential treatment intended to support a life free from substance use.
\n\u2022\u00a0Family Treatment Court (FTC): Provides\u00a0comprehensive, highly coordinated services to families impacted by parental substance use to help them establish stability and prevent children\u2019s re-entry into foster care.
\n\u2022\u00a0Intensive Supervision Court (ISC): Provides high-risk high-needs probationers with a \u201clast chance\u201d at community supervision as an alternative to State prison.
\n\u2022\u00a0Juvenile Reentry Court (JRC): Enhances public safety and reduces recidivism of youth returning from long-term commitments by providing comprehensive case planning and aftercare services for high needs youth returning from out-of-home placement and Log Cabin Ranch.
\n\u2022\u00a0Veterans Justice Court (VJC): Addresses the specialized needs of veterans facing criminal charges by providing the social service, educational and vocational support they need to lead productive and independent lives.
\n\u2022\u00a0Young Adult Court (YAC): Young Adult Court works with transitional aged adult youth (ages 18-25) and includes a range of nonviolent and violent cases.
\nFind out more about our Collaborative Courts in San Francisco.\u00a0
\nHere is a current version of the Collaborative Court Eligibility Guidelines.\u00a0
\nThe Bureau of Justice Assistance and other funders strongly emphasize the use of substance abuse and mental health treatment practices that have a demonstrated evidence base and are appropriate for our target population. The San Francisco Superior Court developed STANDARDS\u00a0for our programs to ensure that the Court is following many of the suggested practices.
\nHere is a\u00a0\u00a0schedule of the Collaborative Courts currently operating in San Francisco. \u00a0
\nAllyson West, Director
\nSan Francisco Collaborative Courts
\nSuperior Court of California, County of San Francisco
\n400 McAllister St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\n(415) 551-5941
\n[email\u00a0protected]
Federal Grants
\n2018\u00a0Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP), Family Treatment Court, ($900,000)
\n2017 Bureau of Justice Assistance for Drug Court for transitional housing ($330,000)
\n2015 Bureau of Justice Assistance for Behavioral Health Court for transitional housing ($200,000)
\n2014 Bureau of Justice Assistance for Veterans Justice Court ($350,000)
\n2012 BJA Justice and Mental Health Collaboration Award for Supportive Employment and Housing for BHC clients ($250,000)
\n2011 BJA Grant Award for Transitional Housing and Clinical Support for Drug Court ($200,000)
\n2010 SAMHSA Grant for Principal Center Collaborative ($975,000)
\n2010 Cal EMA Grant for Parole Reentry Court ($1,315,961)
\nState Grants
\n2017\u00a0Judicial Council of California, Innovations Grant for Veterans Justice Court ($318,000)
\n2015 Judicial Council of California, Recidivism Reduction Grant for transitional housing ($600,000)
\n2015 California Corrections and Rehabilitation, Judicial Council of California for Parole Revocation Court ($350,000)
\nFoundation Grants
\n2018\u00a0Gilmore Foundation Grant for motivational incentives for Behavioral Health Court ($5000)
\n2014\u00a0Doris Duke Foundation's Prevention and Family Recovery grant for families in Dependency Drug Court ($225,000)
\n2013\u00a0Janssen, Division of Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. for housing stipends ($4,400)
\n2013\u00a0Janssen, Division of Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. for motivational incentives ($5,000)
\n2012\u00a0Janssen, Division of Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. for community stipends ($5,000)
\n2010 Margoes Foundation for services for Juvenile Wellness Court ($32,000)
\n2010 SF Foundation Grant for Drug Court Database ($20,000)
\nIn order to evict a tenant, a landlord must first get a court order giving him/her the right to have the apartment or house back from the tenant. The landlord will have to file an Unlawful Detainer case after first giving the tenant a written notice. Usually it is a 3-day, 30-day, 60-day or 90-day notice.
\nIf you need to evict a tenant, or if you are a tenant and your landlord is trying to evict you, the ACCESS Center can show you how to fill out the forms and understand the eviction process if you qualify for our services. Different counties have different rules, so it is important that you talk to an attorney in your county.
\nACCESS Center\u00a0
\nSan Francisco Superior Court
\n400 McAllister Street, Room 509
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
ACCESS Center Hours and Services, \u00a0effective January 2022
\nCentro ACCESS Horario\u00a0y Servicios
ONLINE SERVICES
\nComplete an intake form
CHILD SUPPORT INQUIRIES
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.\u00a0
\n(415) 551-0605*
ALL OTHER QUESTIONS
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:\u00a0
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.
\n(415) 551-0605*
*Your phone will need to be able to accept blocked calls and accept voicemails\u00a0in order to receive a return call from ACCESS staff.\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\nCivil Records Division
\nThe Civic Center Clerk's Office
\n400 McAllister St., Room 103
\nSan Francisco, CA\u00a0 94102-4514
\nCustomer Service: (415) 551-3802
Public Viewing Room (Currently Open)
\nOn-site, online Civil Record viewing may be requested on a first-come, first-served basis.
HOURS OF OPERATION
\n8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. excluding Court holidays.
\nThe Clerk's Office provides access to information related to Limited and Unlimited Civil, Probate/Wills, and Family Law case files. For all other cases (Criminal, Small Claims and Traffic), contact\u00a0those court departments directly.
\n
\nFor Civil Records inquiries email [email\u00a0protected]. \u00a0Include Contact Information,\u00a0Case Number, Case Name and Nature of Request.
The clerks CAN\u00a0assist or provide you with:
\nThey CANNOT assist or provide you with:
\nNeed Legal Help?
\nLooking for case information?
\nBefore starting your file search, please be aware that you may not have access to the following:
\nNOTE: SUBMITTING MULTIPLE REQUESTS FOR THE SAME CASE NUMBER WILL CAUSE UNDUE DELAYS IN PROCESSING YOUR RECORD REQUESTS.\u00a0 PLEASE ALLOW 30 DAYS BEFORE SUBMITTING A SECOND REQUEST.
\nIt is a Felony to remove files and documents from the Clerk\u2019s Office and any of its facilities. It is also a criminal act to steal, destroy, mutilate, deface, alter or falsify any files or documents, Pursuant to G.C. 6200/6201.
\nCivil, Probate, and Family Law Judicial Council forms and some local court forms may be printed at no cost from the Forms & Fees page.
\nPlease include the following with your request:
\n1. Form name and/or number;
\n2. Self-addressed stamped envelope; and
\n3. A check made payable to \"San Francisco Superior Court\" indicating \"Not to exceed $100.00\" on the MEMO line. Leave the payment amount blank.
\n| Copies of Judicial Council Forms and Local Forms \n(per page) | \nLocal Rule 2.10 | \n$0.50** | \n
| Small Claims Forms Packet | \nLocal Rule 2.10 | \n$9.00** | \n
**LOCAL RULE 2.10: Fees For Certain Court Services or Products. Pursuant to CRC 10.815, the Court may charge a reasonable fee not to exceed the Court's cost of providing the following products and services: forms, information materials, publications, off-site retrieval and return of documents to the off-site storage facility, and postage. These fees are published in the Court's fee schedule.
\n\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\nFor requests for Marriage, Birth, and/or Death Certificates, please contact\u00a0the San Francisco County Clerk at (415) 554-4950 or online at http://sfgov.org/countyclerk/.
\nVITAL RECORDS ARE NOT MAINTAINED BY THE COURT.\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\nAn employer whose employee has suffered unlawful violence or threat of violence from any individual that can be construed to be, or to have been, carried out at the workplace, may seek a restraining order through the court. An employee may not seek a Workplace Violence Restraining Order on his or her own behalf.
\n\nMake three\u00a0copies of the completed Petition for Workplace Violence Restraining Order (WV-100).\u00a0Staple the\u00a0original (and copies), then take the\u00a0completed\u00a0Request for Workplace Violence Restraining Order (WV-100)\u00a0and two copies, the\u00a0Confidential CLETS Information (CLETS-001),\u00a0the\u00a0Notice of the Court Hearing (WV-109),\u00a0and the Temporary Restraining Order (WV-110) to the courthouse for filing.
\n\nPresent completed forms and copies to the new filings clerk\u00a0(unless otherwise specified) in Room 103 of the\u00a0Civic Center Courthouse.
\n\nIf you will need an\u00a0interpreter at your Restraining Order Hearing, tell the clerk in Room 103 when you file your restraining order forms so that one may be arranged for you.\u00a0
\n\nJudicial Council Forms to apply for a fee waiver:
\nIf you file your petition before 10 a.m., you may pick-up your restraining order the same day between\u00a02:30\u00a0p.m.- 4:30 p.m.\u00a0at window #1 in the\u00a0Civil Filing Office, Room 103.
\nIf you file your petition after 10 a.m., you may pick-up your restraining order the next court day between\u00a02:30\u00a0p.m.- 4:30 p.m.\u00a0at window #1 in the\u00a0Civil Filing Office, Room 103.
\nPlease pick up your order promptly to allow enough time to have the defendant(s) served with the Temporary Restraining Order and Notice of Court Hearings.
\n\nYou can choose one of\u00a0three ways to serve the defendant:
\nYou can go through the Sheriff\u2019s Department (located in City Hall, Room 456 on the 4th Floor), or any law enforcement officer.\u00a0
\nThere is a fee unless you have a granted\u00a0fee waiver\u00a0to go through the Sheriff\u2019s Department.
\nAny person who is at least 18 years old and is not a party to the action can serve the defendant on your behalf. Make sure the person fills out the\u00a0Proof or Personal Service (WV-200).
\nHire a process server. You can find one online by searching in a web brower for \"process server.\" Make sure you get the completed Proof of Service form from the process server.
\nA\u00a0Proof of Service\u00a0must be completed and signed by the person who serves the other party.\u00a0You must file the Proof of Service in Room 103 and bring a copy to your court hearing.
\n\nThere are two ways you can continue your court date on your Workplace Violence case.
\nBoth methods extend your Temporary Restraining Order so you will be protected until the new hearing date.
\n\nThe\u00a0ACCESS Center\u00a0can show you how to fill out the forms you will need, explain the filing process, and help you prepare for Court.
\n\n\u00a0
\nMake three\u00a0copies of the completed \u00a0Petition for Private Postsecondary School Violence Restraining Order (SV-100).\u00a0Staple the\u00a0original (and copies), then take the\u00a0completed\u00a0Petition for Private Postsecondary School Violence Restraining Order (SV-100)\u00a0and two copies, the\u00a0Confidential CLETS Information (CLETS-001),\u00a0the\u00a0Notice of the Court Hearing (SV-109),\u00a0and the\u00a0Temporary Restraining Order (SV-110)\u00a0to the courthouse for filing.
\n\nPresent completed forms and copies to the new filings clerk\u00a0(unless otherwise specified) in Room 103 of the\u00a0Civic Center Courthouse.
\n\nIf you will need an\u00a0interpreter at your Restraining Order Hearing, tell the clerk in Room 103 when you file your restraining order forms so that one may be arranged for you.\u00a0
\n\nJudicial Council Forms to apply for a fee waiver:
\nIf you file your petition before 10 a.m., you may pick-up your restraining order the same day between\u00a02:30\u00a0p.m.- 4:30 p.m.\u00a0at window #1 in the\u00a0Civil Filing Office, Room 103.
\nIf you file your petition after 10 a.m., you may pick-up your restraining order the next court day between\u00a02:30\u00a0p.m.- 4:30 p.m.\u00a0at window #1 in the\u00a0Civil Filing Office, Room 103.
\nPlease pick up your order promptly to allow enough time to have the defendant(s) served with the Temporary Restraining Order and Notice of Court Hearing.
\n\nYou can choose one of\u00a0three ways to serve the defendant:
\nYou can go through the Sheriff\u2019s Department (located in City Hall, Room 456 on the 4th Floor), or any law enforcement officer.\u00a0
\nThere is a\u00a0fee unless you have a granted\u00a0fee waiver\u00a0to go through the Sheriff\u2019s Department.
\nAny person who is at least 18 years old and is not a party to the action can serve the defendant on your behalf. Make sure the person fills out the\u00a0Proof or Personal Service (SV-200).
\nHire a process server. You can find one online by searching in a web brower for \"process server.\" Make sure you get the completed Proof of Service form from the process server.
\nA\u00a0Proof of Service\u00a0must be completed and signed by the person who serves the other party.\u00a0You must file the Proof of Service in Room 103 and bring a copy to your court hearing.
\n\nThere are two ways you can continue your court date on your Private Postsecondary School Violence case.
\nBoth methods extend your Temporary Restraining Order so you will be protected until the new hearing date.
\n\nThe\u00a0ACCESS Center\u00a0can show you how to fill out the forms you will need, explain the filing process, and help you prepare for Court.
\n\n\u00a0
\n\nMake three\u00a0copies of the completed\u00a0Petition for Firearms Restraining Order (GV-100).\u00a0Staple the\u00a0original (and copies), then take the\u00a0completed Petition for Firearms Restraining Order (GV-100)\u00a0and two copies, the\u00a0Confidential CLETS Information (CLETS-001),\u00a0the\u00a0Notice of the Court Hearing (GV-109),\u00a0and the\u00a0Temporary Firearms Restraining Order (GV-110)\u00a0to the courthouse for filing.
\n\nPresent completed forms and copies to the new filings clerk\u00a0in Room 103 of the\u00a0Civic Center Courthouse.
\n\nIf you will need an\u00a0interpreter at your Restraining Order Hearing, tell the clerk in Room 103 when you file your restraining order forms so that one may be arranged for you.\u00a0
\n\nJudicial Council Forms to apply for a fee waiver:
\nIf you file your petition before 10 a.m., you may pick-up your restraining order the same day between\u00a02:30\u00a0p.m.- 4:30 p.m.\u00a0at window #1 in the\u00a0Civil Filing Office, Room 103.
\nIf you file your petition after 10 a.m., you may pick-up your restraining order the next court day between\u00a02:30\u00a0p.m.- 4:30 p.m.\u00a0at window #1 in the\u00a0Civil Filing Office, Room 103.
\nPlease pick up your order promptly to allow enough time to have the defendant(s) served with the Temporary Restraining Order and Notice of Court Hearing.
\n\nYou can choose one of\u00a0three ways to serve the defendant:
\nYou can go through the Sheriff\u2019s Department (located in City Hall, Room 456 on the 4th Floor), or any law enforcement officer.\u00a0
\nThere is a $30 fee unless you have a granted\u00a0fee waiver\u00a0to go through the Sheriff\u2019s Department.
\nAny person who is at least 18 years old and is not a party to the action can serve the defendant on your behalf. Make sure the person fills out the\u00a0Proof or Personal Service (GV-200).
\nHire a process server. You can find one online by searching in a web brower for \"process server.\" Make sure you get the completed Proof of Service form from the process server.
\nA\u00a0Proof of Service\u00a0must be completed and signed by the person who serves the other party.\u00a0You must file the Proof of Service in Room 103 and bring a copy to your court hearing.
\n\nThere are two ways you can continue your court date on your Gun Violence case.
\nBoth methods extend your Temporary Restraining Order so you will be protected until the new hearing date.
\n\nThe\u00a0ACCESS Center\u00a0can show you how to fill out the forms you will need, explain the filing process, and help you prepare for Court.
\n\nAn elder or dependent adult abuse restraining order applies to a person seeking a protective order who falls within the definition of an elder or dependent adult, and a victim of:
\nMake three\u00a0copies of the completed Elder and Dependent Adult Abuse Restraining Order (EA-100).\u00a0Staple the\u00a0original (and copies), then take the\u00a0completed Elder and Dependent Adult Abuse Restraining Order (EA-100)\u00a0and two copies, the\u00a0Confidential CLETS Information (CLETS-001),\u00a0the\u00a0Notice of the Court Hearing (EA-109),\u00a0and the\u00a0Temporary Restraining Order (EA-110)\u00a0to the courthouse for filing.
\n\nPresent completed forms and copies to the new filings clerk\u00a0in Room 103 of the\u00a0Civic Center Courthouse.
\n\nIf you will need an\u00a0interpreter at your Restraining Order Hearing, tell the clerk in Room 103 when you file your restraining order forms so that one may be arranged for you.\u00a0
\n\nIf you file your petition before 10 a.m., you may pick-up your restraining order the same day between\u00a02:30\u00a0p.m.- 4:30 p.m.\u00a0at window #1 in the\u00a0Civil Filing Office, Room 103.
\nIf you file your petition after 10 a.m., you may pick-up your restraining order the next court day between\u00a02:30\u00a0p.m.- 4:30 p.m.\u00a0at window #1 in the\u00a0Civil Filing Office, Room 103.
\nPlease pick up your order promptly to allow enough time to have the defendant(s) served with the Temporary Restraining Order and Notice of Court Hearing.
\n\nYou can choose one of\u00a0three ways to serve the defendant:
\nYou can go through the Sheriff\u2019s Department (located in City Hall, Room 456 on the 4th Floor), or any law enforcement officer.\u00a0
\nThere is a fee unless you have a granted\u00a0fee waiver\u00a0to go through the Sheriff\u2019s Department.
\nAny person who is at least 18 years old and is not a party to the action can serve the defendant on your behalf. Make sure the person fills out the\u00a0Proof or Personal Service (EA-200).
\nHire a process server. You can find one online by searching in a web brower for \"process server.\" Make sure you get the completed Proof of Service form from the process server.
\nA\u00a0Proof of Service\u00a0must be completed and signed by the person who serves the other party.\u00a0You must file the Proof of Service in Room 103 and bring a copy to your court hearing.
\n\nThere are two ways you can continue your court date on your Elder or Dependent Adult Abuse case.
\nBoth methods extend your Temporary Restraining Order so you will be protected until the new hearing date.
\n\nThe\u00a0ACCESS Center\u00a0can show you how to fill out the forms you will need, explain the filing process, and help you prepare for Court.
\nIf you are 65 or older and are being abused physically, emotionally and/or financially by someone, call Legal Assistance to the Elderly at (415) 538-3333 for help with an Elder Abuse Restraining Order.
\n\nCORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) UPDATE
\nPlease refer to the Information Regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Court Operations page for the most current information in light of the COVID-19 public health crisis.
\nHearings in Law & Motion and Discovery Departments
\n9:00 a.m. Discovery Hearings \u2013 Counsel and parties may appear in the Discovery Department only by videoconference using Zoom (see below).
\n9:30 a.m. Law & Motion Hearings \u2013 Effective Monday, January 3, 2022, all attorneys and parties may appear in Department 302 remotely. \u00a0Remote hearings will be conducted by videoconference using Zoom (see below).
\n11:00 a.m. Ex Parte Hearings \u2013 Appearances are by CourtCall only.\u00a0 Parties must contact CourtCall at 1-888-88-COURT in advance to schedule an appearance.
\nCounsel and parties can appear by videoconference and the public can view and/or listen to hearings, by clicking on the appropriate links below:
\nDiscovery, Department 301 Daily at 9:00 a.m.\u00a0
\nLaw & Motion,\u00a0Department 302\u00a0Daily at 9:30 a.m.
\n\u00a0
\nIf unable to join using the links above, the hearings may be joined by telephone by dialing +1 669 900 6833 and entering the meeting ID and password below.
\nDepartment 301: Meeting ID: 883 1747 5273\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Passcode: 421662
\nDepartment 302: Meeting ID: 862 4684 9687\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Passcode: 490158
\n\u00a0
\n\n\nMga Pagdinig sa Law & Motion at Discovery Department sa Pamamagitan ng Video Conference
\n\n\n\n\u00a0
\nLaw and Motion
\nFor motions to be filed, the moving party should confer with all other parties before scheduling and noticing a hearing, and may then e-file and notice the hearing in accordance with Code of Civil Procedure Section 1005 or other applicable requirements.\u00a0 The moving party does not need to clear the selected hearing date with or obtain a reservation number from the court/Dept. 302 before filing the motion.\u00a0 The moving party must state the selected hearing date on the motion to be filed.
\nFor all law and motion matters, the court will post tentative rulings and follow the procedures set forth in San Francisco County Superior Court Local Rule 8.3 et seq.
\n
\nEx Parte Hearings
Ex parte hearings for both law and motion and discovery matters are held daily at 11:00 a.m. by CourtCall.\u00a0 No in-person appearances will be permitted.\u00a0 No later than two (2) hours prior to the hearing, the moving party must efile the moving papers and attach them to an email to the opposing party/counsel addressed to [email\u00a0protected] with the subject line, \u201cEx Parte Application.\u201d
\n\u00a0
\nA party presenting an ex parte application in the law and motion department for a temporary restraining order, alternative writ, appointment of a receiver must schedule the hearing with the court by sending an email to [email\u00a0protected] at least 24 hours in advance of the proposed hearing date.
\n
\nDiscovery
Discovery motions are heard on the daily 9:00 a.m. Discovery Calendar.\u00a0 For discovery motions to be filed, the moving party should confer with all other parties before scheduling and noticing a hearing, and may then e-file and notice the hearing in accordance with Code of Civil Procedure Section 1005 or other applicable requirements.\u00a0 The moving party does not need to clear the selected hearing date with or obtain a reservation number from the court/Dept. 302 before filing the motion.\u00a0 The moving party must state the selected hearing date on the motion to be filed.\u00a0
\nFor all discovery matters, the court will post tentative rulings and follow the procedures set forth in San Francisco County Superior Court Local Rule 8.3 et seq. All hearings will be conducted remotely by Zoom videoconference.\u00a0 No in-person appearances will be permitted.
\nThe parties need not deliver courtesy copies of their filed discovery motion papers to Department 302. After filing the discovery motion papers, they should attach copies to an email addressed to\u00a0[email\u00a0protected].\u00a0The subject line of the email should state the case name and number and the date of the hearing. The text of the email should include the name and contact information, including the email address of the attorney or party who will appear at the hearing.
\nThe court does not provide official court reporters for hearings in the discovery department. Any party who wishes to supply its own court reporter must ensure that the reporter is a California-certified shorthand reporter and is capable of reporting a hearing conducted by Zoom videoconference.
\nPLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING TYPES OF REQUESTS/CASES ARE NOT HEARD IN DEPT. 302
\n\n\n| \n Request/Case Type \n | \n\n Correct Department \n | \n
\n
\u00a0 \n | \n\n Dept. 206, Presiding Judge \n\u00a0 \n(Courtroom Tel: 415-551-3705) \n | \n
\n
\u00a0 \n(only fully-noticed discovery motions may be noticed for the 9:00 a.m. Discovery Calendar) \n\u00a0 \n
\u00a0 \n | \n\n\n | \n
\n
\u00a0 \n | \n\n\n | \n
\n
\u00a0 \n | \n\n Dept. 514 \n\u00a0 \n(Courtroom Tel: 415-551-3788) \n\u00a0 \n | \n
| \n Asbestos cases \u2013 All requests \nCEQA cases \u2013 All requests \n\u00a0 \n | \n\n\n | \n
| \n Probate cases\u2013 All requests \n\u00a0 \n | \n\n\n | \n
| \n Family Law cases \u2013 All requests \n\u00a0 \n | \n\n\n | \n
TENTATIVE RULINGS (AND PROPOSED ORDERS SUBMITTED THEREAFTER
\nTentative rulings are generally available by 3 p.m. the court day prior to the hearing, and are accessible via the Tentative Rulings website by clicking on the link titled \u201cLaw & Motion/Discovery Department 302\u201d
\nThe Court\u2019s tentative rulings will typically instruct prevailing parties to email a proposed order to the department prior to the start of the hearing even if the matter is uncontested.\u00a0
\nProposed orders submitted after the date of the hearing may experience delays in processing and are subject to the requirements under CRC 3.1312.\u00a0 If the hearing date has passed, a paper hard copy of the proposed order must be delivered directly to Dept. 302.
\nFor orders on matters taken under submission, the parties can check the public Register of Actions via Online Services on the court\u2019s website.\u00a0 If an order has been signed, the order will be filed and scanned, and will be viewable on the Register of Actions.
\nSTIPULATION AND PROPOSED ORDERS / DOE AMENDMENT REQUESTS
\nParties must first pay any required local fees electronically and then must deliver a paper hard copy of their submission directly to the department for the request to be reviewed and considered.\u00a0
\nThe local form for a Doe Amendment request can be accessed here.
\nREQUESTS TO CONTINUE HEARINGS / TAKE HEARINGS OFF CALENDAR.
\nPer Local Rule 8.2B, a request that a motion be taken off calendar or that a hearing be continued to a later date must be made by email, with a copy to all other parties to [email\u00a0protected]. The request must include the name of the party making the request, the name of the person making the request on behalf of the party, the case number, and the current date of the hearing. If the request is to continue the motion to a later date, the request must state that all parties affected by the motion have agreed to the new date. If a party requesting that a motion be taken off calendar or that a hearing be continued to a later date does not have email access, the party may, in lieu of email, provide all of the foregoing information in a letter personally delivered to the Law & Motion department. No continuances will be granted on the date set for hearing except upon a personal appearance and a showing of good cause in writing. The judge hearing the matter has discretion concerning continuances, including the right to deny continuances, to rule, or to take the matter off calendar at any time despite the agreement of parties to the contrary. Matters cannot be taken off calendar after noon the Court day before the hearing.
\nE-FILING TRANSACTION QUESTIONS
\nQuestions regarding pending or rejected efiling transactions should be directed to the Civil Clerk\u2019s Office\u2019s E-Filing Division at [email\u00a0protected] as that is the division that directly reviews and either accepts or rejects all efiling transactions.
\n\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\nJudge Richard B. Ulmer Jr.
\n
\nDepartment 302
\n400 McAllister St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
Contact Information for Department 302\u00a0
\nCourt Clerk for Department 302 - (415) 551-3723
\nCalendar Clerk for Department 302 - (415) 551-3823
\nMonday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., except Court holidays
Default Unit Clerks: (415) 551-3812; (415) 551-5969; (415) 551-4034
\nCourt Supervisor, Defaults: (415) 551-3870
\nPlease Note: Court staff can not give legal advice.
\nDepartment 304
\nJudge Ethan P. Schulman
\n400 McAllister St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\nClerk: (415) 551-3729/5948
\n
\nDepartment 613
\nJudge Andrew Y.S, Cheng
\n400 McAllister St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\nClerk: (415) 551-3840
\u00a0
\nDepartment 304 Court Procedures
\nDepartment 613\u00a0Court Procedures
\nChallenging Confidentiality Designations
\n\n\u00a0
\n\nA \u201ccomplex case\u201d is an action that requires exceptional judicial management to avoid placing unnecessary burdens on the Court or the litigants and to expedite the case, keep costs reasonable, and promote effective decision making by the court, the parties, and counsel.
\nSpecial Instructions for Electronic Filing
\nE-Filing Sealed Discovery Motion Documents:
\nE-Filing Sealed Papers Re: Non-Discovery Motions:
\nThe confidential portions of an unredacted document should be highlighted (e.g. grayscaled) to assist the judge in differentiating between what is considered confidential information and what is considered non-confidential information. For further information on e-filing, see the\u00a0E-Filing Special Instructions page.
\n\u00a0
\nIt is a court order that helps protect people from harassment. Civil Harassment Restraining Orders are different from Family Law Domestic Violence Restraining Orders in that the person harassing is not for people who have dated or who are closely related. A person may seek protection if you are worried about your safety because you are being:
\nby someone with whom you do not have an intimate or familial relationship with, such as a neighbor or roommate, great-grand parent, great-grand child, niece/nephew, aunt/uncle, cousin, classmate, etc.
\n\nComplete a\u00a0Request for Civil Harassment Restraining Orders\u00a0(CH-100)\u00a0and make three copies. \u00a0A\u00a0Confidential CLETS Information (CLETS-001)\u00a0form,\u00a0the\u00a0Notice of the Court Hearing (CH-109),\u00a0and the Temporary Restraining Order (CH-110) should also be completed, but you do not need to make copies of these completed forms before filing.\u00a0
\n\nPresent completed forms and copies to the new filings clerk\u00a0in Room 103 of the Civic Center Courthouse.
\n\nPresent a completed\u00a0Dept. 514 Zoom Appearance\u00a0form to the subsequent filing clerk in room 103 at 400 McAllister Street.
\n\u00a0
\nIf you will need an\u00a0interpreter at your Restraining Order Hearing, tell the clerk in Room 103 when you file your restraining order forms so that one may be arranged for you.\u00a0
\n\nIf you (Protected Person) allege no violence in the petition, there will be a filing fee (please see the Statewide fee schedule for current fees) or you may qualify for a fee waiver.
\nIf petitioner alleges violence in the petition, there will be no filing fee, however if your request is denied by the Judge, you will be expected to pay the filing fee upon pick up of your order.
\nJudicial Council Forms to apply for a fee waiver:
\n\nIf you file your petition before 10 a.m., you may pick-up your restraining order the same day between\u00a02:30\u00a0p.m.- 4:30 p.m.\u00a0at window #1 in the\u00a0Civil Filing Office, Room 103.
\nIf you file your petition after 10 a.m., you may pick-up your restraining order the next court day between\u00a02:30\u00a0p.m.- 4:30 p.m.\u00a0at window #1 in the\u00a0Civil Filing Office, Room 103.
\nPlease pick up your order promptly to allow enough time to have the defendant(s) served with the Temporary Restraining Order and Notice of Court Hearing.\u00a0
\n\nYou can choose one of\u00a0three ways to serve the defendant:
\nYou can go through the Sheriff\u2019s Department (located in City Hall, Room 456 on the 4th Floor), or any law enforcement officer.\u00a0
\nThere is a\u00a0fee unless you have a granted fee waiver to go through the Sheriff\u2019s Department.
\nAny person who is at least 18 years old and is not a party to the action can serve the defendant on your behalf. Make sure the person fills out the Proof or Personal Service (CH-200)
\nHire a process server. You can find one online by searching in a web brower for \"process server.\" Make sure you get the completed Proof of Service form from the process server.
\nA Proof of Service must be completed and signed by the person who serves the other party. You must file the Proof of Service in Room 103 and bring a copy to your court hearing.
\n\nThere are two ways you can continue your court date on your Civil Harassment case.
\nBoth methods extend your Temporary Restraining Order so you will be protected until the new hearing date.
\n\nThe ACCESS Center can show you how to fill out the forms you will need, explain the filing process, and help you prepare for Court.
\n\nThere are three choices for pleading your ticket: (1) Not guilty (2) Guilty or (3) No contest. A plea of either guilty or no contest means that you admit you committed the violation, and you want to pay the ticket. A plea of not guilty means you want to fight the ticket, and you will be assigned a trial date.
\nIn most circumstances, you may choose to attend traffic school if you have received a ticket for a moving violation. You may attend traffic school once every 18 months. You will need to pay the ticket and a $52 administrative fee. You also will need to pay the traffic school whatever fee it charges.\u00a0The point for the moving violation will not appear on your driving record when you have successfully finished your class and paid all the charges described above. Internet traffic school also is available. If you have questions, contact the Court to confirm your eligibility.
\nIf you know that you will not be able to come to your first appearance arraignment, you must go to Room 145 at the Hall of Justice to request a continuance. Make your request as soon as you know you won't be able to appear for your court date, at least five court days before your hearing.\u00a0Up to\u00a0a 1-month continuance will be granted from the original first appearance arraignment date. No further continuances will be allowed at the windows in Room 145.
\nIf you know that you will not be able to come to your trial date, you must go to Room 145 at the Hall of Justice to request\u00a0a continuance. Your request must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the trial date. Your request to continue a trial is not automatically granted. Unless a Judge has granted your request to continue the trial date, you are required to appear or the trial will proceed in your absence.
\nThe Court does not have extensions or continuances to pay your fine, complete traffic school or complete community service.
\nBe sure to be on time for your trial. If you are not present when your name is called, the Court will hear your case in your absence.\u00a0At trial, the police officer testifies first, and then you will have the chance to ask the officer questions about the ticket. You may then testify, and present any evidence you might have brought with you, including any witnesses. The\u00a0Judge\u00a0will then inform you if you have been found guilty or not guilty. You have the right to appeal if you disagree with the Judge's decision.
\nIf you plead guilty, or are found guilty by the Judge, you will be given a fine. You may pay the amount of the fine that same day or ask for time to pay.\u00a0You must pay by the date the Judge gives you; no further continuances will be granted.
\nIf you are unable to pay the fine because you are unemployed only work part-time, or receive GA, SSI or SSA, you may choose to take care of it by doing community service through Project 20.With this option, you work your fine off at the rate of $24\u00a0per hour. You may not do community service if you wish to attend traffic school and you may not do community service if you are employed full-time. If you have a finanical hardship, you may file a Petition for Ability to Pay Determination in Room 145, Window 5\u00a0at 850 Bryant St., San Francisco, CA 94103. More information about your options.\u00a0
\nEffective August 22, 2005, a civil assessment of $300 will be added to any traffic fine if you fail to post bail on time or to appear for your scheduled court date. All delinquent citations will be referred to Alliance One for collection.
\nCalifornia law permits the Court to impose a civil assessment of up to\u00a0$300 against any individual who fails, after notice and without good cause, to appear in Court for any proceeding, or who fails to pay all or any portion of a fine ordered by the Court. The civil assessment is imposed in addition to, and separate from, any fine connected with an infraction citation.
\nKnow what you are cited for - check your ticket, or get a copy in Room 145 before you go to the courtroom.
\nIf you are charged with expired registration, bring your current registration to the Court. The same applies with insurance, change of address, or driver's license. If you have a \"fix-it\" ticket, and you have fixed the problem - headlight out, taillight out, for example - have it signed off by any police officer and bring it to the Court. If you've sold the vehicle, donated it, or had it towed, bring the sales, donation or tow documents.
\nPhotographs and/or diagrams of the area where your ticket was issued are often helpful in showing the\u00a0Judge the points you want to make.
\nDo:
\nTell the Judge what street or highway you were on, what intersection, if any, was involved, and the direction you were traveling.
\nDescribe what happened in the order it happened. Present your best reasons first for why you think your ticket should be dismissed.
\nSimple and to the point is best. If the Judge asks you any questions, try to answer them directly.
\nDress as if you are coming to a business appointment.
\nDon't
\nInterrupt or argue with the Judge or the police officer.
\nRepeat yourself unnecessarily.
\nCome into Court unprepared, without the documents you need for your case.
\nBring a cell phone in to Court.
\nBy phone or online: Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express
\nIn person: Visa, Mastercard, Discover, Check, Money Order, Cash
\nBy Mail: Check, Money Order
In the case of traffic citations, Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco must collect 100% of the citation due. Therefore, in order to offer our customers the convenience of online payment, a processing fee must be levied.
\nYour e-mail address will be used to confirm receipt of your online payment.
\nHall of Justice -- Traffic Division
\n850 Bryant Street, Room 145
\nSan Francisco, CA 94103
\n(415) 551-8550
To obtain a copy of your traffic record, please visit our office in Room 145 and have this Records Request Form completed along with the required payment of fee(s).\u00a0
\nA civil assessment of $300.00 will be added to any infraction fine if you fail to post bail on time or fail to appear for your scheduled court date.\u00a0
\nCalifornia law permits the Court to impose a civil assessment of three hundred dollars ($300) against any individual who fails, after notice and without good cause, to appear in court for any proceeding, or who fails to pay all or any portion of a fine ordered by the court. The civil assessment is imposed in addition to, and separate from, any fine connected with a traffic citation.
\nEven if you later contest your citation and win, you may be required to pay the civil assessment.
\nThe Court has entered into an agreement with Alliance One to collect unpaid fines and civil assessments. If you fail to appear or fail to pay your fine, the Court will refer your matter to Alliance One for collection. The Court and Alliance One will use a number of methods to collect unpaid fees and the civil assessment. These methods may include notice to the Department of Motor Vehicles of your failure to appear, which may result in a hold and/or suspension of your driver's license pursuant to Vehicle Code section 40509.5, the garnishment or attachment of your wages along with other various collection devices. If your citation has been referred to Alliance One and you can't afford to pay, learn\u00a0more\u00a0about your options.
\nCertain citations that include the $300 civil assessment fee may be paid online. Click on Pay Your Citation on the Pay Traffic Citations page.
\nYes, you can sign-up and pay traffic citation online by clicking here.
\nOnline Services uses Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) technology to safeguard your online transactions. SSL encrypts all of your personal information, including credit card number, so that it cannot be read as the information travels over the Internet.
\nDid you receive\u00a0a ticket, but can't afford to pay? Learn more about your options.
\nCAN'T AFFORD TO PAY YOUR TRAFFIC TICKET?
\nIf you are unable to pay your traffic ticket or fine, you have the right to ask the Court to consider your financial circumstances. You may be eligible to have your fines and fees reduced by 80% or more.
\nPlease be sure to follow all instructions on your ticket and any notices sent to you, including payment deadlines, to avoid late fee penalties.
\nVisit the\u00a0When You're in Court\u00a0page to learn more about appearing in court and resolving your ticket.
\n\u00a0
\nAM I ELGIBLE FOR A DISCOUNT?
\nThere are THREE ways you can qualify for a discount based on your income, you can either:
\n\u00a0
1.\u00a0 Indicate you receive public benefits such as Medi-Cal; CalFresh (Food Stamps); CalWORKs or Tribal TANF; Supplemental Security Income (SSI); General Assistance (GA) or County Adult Assistance Program (CAAP); In Home Supportive Services (IHSS); or Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI).
\n
\n
\n\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 OR
\n
\n2.\u00a0 Show that your income is less than 250% of the Federal Poverty Level:
| \n Household Size \n | \n\n 1 \n | \n\n 2 \n | \n\n 3 \n | \n\n 4 \n | \n
| \n Income Equal to or Less Than \n | \n\n $32,200 \n | \n\n $43,550 \n | \n\n $54,900 \n | \n\n $66,250 \n | \n
R\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Review the\u00a0Federal Poverty Line guidelines to find out if your household income is within these guidelines.
\n
\n\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 OR
\n
\n3.\u00a0 Describe your financial hardship. If you have another financial hardship that prevents you from paying for your household\u2019s basic needs and the full amount of your traffic ticket, you can describe the hardship as part of the application.
\u00a0
\nHOW DO I REQUEST AN ABILITY TO PAY DISCOUNT?
\nThere are FOUR options. Use the table below to find the best one for you.
\n\u00a0
\n| \n OPTIONS \n | \n\n HOW TO APPLY \n | \n
| \n 1. Apply Online \nDo not use this option if: \n
\u00a0 \nThis option works well if: \n
\u00a0 \n | \n\n\n You will need your ticket number*, and proof of your income such as your benefits card, pay stubs, or information about your financial hardship. If your online application did not go through, you can still submit a request using a paper form. You will hear a decision from the court in 30 days. \n*If your case does not contain a Driver\u2019s License or ID number, please call the clerk (415) 551-8540 so you can apply online. \n\u00a0 \n | \n
| \n 2. Apply In-Person or By Mail \nDo not use this if: \n
\u00a0 \nThis option works well if: \n
\u00a0 \n | \n\n\n You can fill out an Ability to Pay paper form and return it in person or by mail to the Traffic Clerk with proof of your financial situation (if available). \nThe Traffic Clerk is available Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at 850 Bryant St., Room 145, Window 5. \nFor a link to the form, and more information about how to apply, click here. You will hear a decision from the court in four to six weeks. \n | \n
| \n 3. Apply for a Leniency Request with Traffic School \nDo not use this if: \n
\u00a0 \nThis option works well if: \n
\u00a0 \n | \n\n Apply for a Leniency Request with Traffic School \nComplete the application form at the link above. This option requires a plea of No Contest or Guilty. \nYou will hear a decision from the court in four to six weeks. \n | \n
| \n 4. CONNECT Program \nDo not use this option if: \n
\u00a0 \nThis option works well if: \n
| \n\n\n You may be able to clear certain citations if you receive 20 hours or more of social services assistance. Learn more about the San Francisco District Attorney's Office CONNECT program. Read the FAQs for this program to see if this option will work for you. If you would like to apply, print out the application form and follow the instructions.\u00a0 \n\u00a0 \n\u00a0 \n | \n
\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\nCan I Get Help Filling Out the Application?
\nThere are several \u00a0community organizations that can help you complete the application process.\u00a0They include:
\n\nIf you are a San Francisco Human Services Agency aid recipient on either CALWORKS, Personal Assisted Employment Services (PAES), or Able-Bodied Adult Without Dependents (ABAWD) or MEDI-CAL programs, please talk to your case worker about a possible referral to Bay Area Legal Aid for free legal assistance.
\nCoalition on Homelessness, San Francisco
\nAddress: 468 Turk Street, San Francisco, CA 94102
\nDrop-in Clinics: Wednesdays at 10:00 am \u2013 12:00 pm.
\n\nAddress: 1950 University Avenue, Suite 200, Berkeley, CA 94704
\nFor referrals or to schedule an appointment, call (510) 548-4040
\nOr drop in during our open hours on Wednesdays 9:00am-12:00pm.
\nLawyers\u2019 Committee for Civil Rights
\nAddress: 330 Ellis Street, San Francisco, CA 94102
\nHours: Mondays and Thursdays 2:00-5:00 pm
\nGLIDE (ask for the legal clinic at the front desk)
\nLegal Services for Children (for individuals under the age of 21).
\nAddress: 1254 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94102.
\nPhone: 415-863-3762
\n\u00a0
\nI Received a Fix-It Ticket. Can I Request A Discount?
\nUnfortunately, the Ability to Pay options above do not address fix-it tickets.
\n\u00a0
\nMy Ticket Was Referred to Alliance One. Can I Still Request A Discount?
\nYes, you still have the right to ask the Court to consider your financial circumstances as described above. To request a discount, you can use the online or paper application described above. Once your order has been adjusted, you can also arrange for a payment plan with Alliance One for as low as $25 per month. To learn more about the status of your outstanding balance with Alliance One, call 1 (877) 541-8420. Be sure to have these items ready when you call: Name, Driver\u2019s License Number, Citation Number.
\n\u00a0
\nMy License is on Hold for Failures to Appear. Can I Still Request a Discount?
\nIf your driver\u2019s license was suspended for failing to pay or failing to appear in the San Francisco Traffic Court, you may be able to get your license back. The court has eliminated all license suspensions for failure to pay and failure to appear. You can now go to the DMV and request to have your license reinstated. You may still have your license suspended for other reasons. To learn more, see the this flyer.
\n\u00a0
\nPlease refer to the section titled, \"Not the Driver\" if you are not the person in the Red Light camera photograph.
\nIf you are the person in the Red Light camera photograph, and you wish to pay the fine, you have three options:
\nAcceptable forms of payment are: cash, check, money order, debit card or credit card (Visa/ Master card only)
\nDo Not Send Cash Through The Mail
If your payment is late, the initial bail (fine) will incur additional penalties. Late payments cannot be made using the Automated Phone System. Contact the San Francisco Superior Court in person or by telephone (415) 551-8550 for additional information.
\nAfter a red light camera photograph is taken, the vehicle's registered owner will receive a citation in the mail. The citation will state when and where the violation occurred. It will include a photo of the vehicle in the intersection, a close-up of the driver, and the vehicle's license plate. It will also include instructions about what to do next, including what to do if you, the registered owner, is not the person pictured behind the wheel.
\nIf you are the owner and someone else is driving, do the following by the due date on the citation:
\nIt is recommended that the requested documentation be sent certified mail with a return receipt.
\nUpon receipt of the documentation, the agency will review it and issue a citation to the\u00a0person that has been identified as the driver. The citation in\u00a0your name will not be dismissed until the\u00a0agency has received the completed identification form and the required additional documentation.
\nThis process may take\u00a0eight to 12 weeks.\u00a0It is important to note that once the dismissal process has started, no additional penalties will incur unless you fail to respond to additional communications by the date indicated.
\nIf you are the person in the Red Light camera photograph and were driving a company car, do the following by the due date on the citation:
\nIt is recommended that the requested documentation be sent certified mail with a return receipt.
\nUpon receipt of the documentation, the agency will review it and issue a citation to the person that has been identified as the driver. The citation in the company's name will not be dismissed until the agency has received the completed identification form. This process may take eight to 12 weeks. It is important to note that once the dismissal process has started, no additional penalities will incur.
\nIf the citation is to be taken out of the company name: DO NOT PAY THE CITATION
\nRead this Important Information Sheet.
\nDid you receive a ticket, can't afford to pay?\u00a0Learn more about your options.\u00a0
\nAn arraignment is a hearing where an individual is advised by the Court of his rights and the charges he or she faces. The individual will be asked to enter a plea of guilty, not guilty or no contest. Please note that the citing officer will not be present in Court.
\nAn arraignment can be scheduled in person in Room 145, Hall of Justice.
\nA trial is where an individual testifies about the case. The citing officer will be subpoenaed to appear. The individual has the right to bring witnesses or have a lawyer present. The Court will not provide an attorney.
\nWhen requesting a trial in person or by mail, the bail (fine) must be paid in full.
\nA trial by written declaration is a procedure where, instead of appearing in Court, an individual protests his/her case by mail. The individual mails in a written statement on a Trial by Written Declaration form explaining and outlining the facts and events of the case. The individual may include any documentary evidence that could help his/her case. A written report by the citing officer will be subpoenaed. The Commissioner will review all documentation and the ruling will be issued by mail.
\nDue to the pandemic, the court is not requiring a payment of bail\u00a0when submitting a request for a Trial by Written Declaration.
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\nCalifornia law permits the Court to impose a civil assessment of up to $300 against any individual who fails, after notice and without good cause, to appear in Court for any proceeding, or who fails to pay all or any portion of a fine ordered by the Court. The civil assessment is imposed in addition to, and separate from, any fine connected with a traffic citation.
\nIn San Francisco, the Probate Court Judge oversees mental health conservatorships and related mental health proceedings. A mental health conservatorship is different from a probate conservatorship. It is used only for people who have a psychiatric disorder so severe that it prevents them from providing for their most basic personal needs such as food, clothing, and shelter. The legal term is\u00a0gravely disabled.
\nThe purpose of mental health conservatorships is to provide individualized treatment, supervision, and living arrangements for people who are seriously mentally ill while still protecting their individual rights. Mental health conservatorships, which are sometimes called LPS conservatorships because they are governed by the Lanterman-Petris-Short Act, can involve confinement in a locked psychiatric facility, which means the person is deprived of personal liberty. Therefore, there are strict legal procedures and laws that must be followed by doctors and hospitals and which involve review and monitoring by the Probate Court.
\nFamily members or other private parties cannot start a mental health conservatorship. Only the professional treatment staff at the hospital where the person is being treated can begin the process. The first step is to request an investigation by the Office of the Public Conservator, which is a division of the Department of Aging and Adult Services in San Francisco. If the investigation by the Public Conservator agrees with the professional staff of the psychiatric facility, the Public Conservator will formally request the Probate Court to establish a temporary mental health conservatorship and eventually, a general conservatorship. The formal request is called a petition. The person who is affected is legally called a proposed conservatee and must receive\u00a0written notice of the temporary conservatorship at least five days\u00a0before it takes place. The Probate Court also appoints an attorney, generally the Public Defender\u2019s Office, to represent the person.
\nA temporary conservatorship cannot last longer than 30 days. At the end of 30 days, the Probate Judge considers the petition for the general conservatorship.
\nDuring the 30-day period of temporary conservatorship, the Public Conservator is required to prepare a comprehensive written report to the Court. The report must contain all relevant aspects of the proposed conservatee\u2019s medical, psychological, financial, family, vocational and social condition, and information obtained from the person\u2019s family members, close friends, social worker or main mental health therapist. The Public Conservator also must investigate all possible alternatives to conservatorship. If the conservatorship investigation results in a recommendation for conservatorship, the Public Conservator also makes recommendations as to what specific powers should be denied to the person. The most important recommendation is whether or not the person can keep the right to give or withhold consent to psychiatric treatment, including medication. A copy of the investigator\u2019s report must be furnished to the person recommended for conservatorship.
\nAt the hearing on the petition for general conservatorship, evidence supporting the petition is presented by attorneys from the District Attorney\u2019s Office. If the person objects to the petition, a psychiatrist or psychologist must testify. The person is represented by counsel, and may testify or call others to testify. On the basis of the testimony, together with the report of the conservatorship investigator, the Judge will grant or deny the petition, or continue the proceeding to a later date. The hearings and all psychiatric records related to the proceedings are confidential.
\nIf the petition for general conservatorship is granted, the Judge will appoint a conservator and determine which, if any legal rights, will be removed from the person. The Probate Judge may order the conservator to place the conservatee in a specific setting to ensure that the placement is the least restrictive appropriate setting. In San Francisco, the powers granted to the mental health conservator are for the person only, not for assets such as bank accounts or property. A probate conservator can be appointed to handle any assets. A mental health conservatorship expires at the end of one year, but may be renewed year-by-year if the treating medical team makes a formal request to the Probate Court to continue the conservatorship and the Judge determines it is necessary. The conservatee is entitled to a full evidentiary hearing and legal representation on the renewal petition as well.
\nDuring the period of the general conservatorship, the conservatee may petition the Court at any time for a hearing to challenge the conservatorship, on the basis that he or she no longer meets the legal criteria for conservatorship. The conservatee also may petition the Court for a hearing to contest any rights denied or powers granted under the conservatorship. The Court maintains ongoing supervision over the conservatorship, and frequently makes decisions as to whether the conservatee is receiving appropriate treatment in ways that are least restrictive of the personal liberty of the conservatee. The Court also makes decisions as to whether the conservatee is capable of giving or withholding consent to various forms of medical and psychiatric treatment.
\nIn addition to mental health conservatorships, the Probate Court handles a range of other psychiatric proceedings, including writs of habeas corpus for persons who are civilly committed to a hospital but not on conservatorship. Other proceedings, which can be brought to the Probate Judge for a decision, include petitions to administer medical treatment to persons without a conservator, and petitions for the commitment of developmentally disabled persons to state hospitals.\u00a0The law provides that the person subject to the proceedings is provided with an attorney.
\nJudge Joseph M. Quinn, Presiding
\n400 McAllister St.
\nDepartment 204
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
Probate Department - Room 202
\nJudge, Examiners (415) 551-3650
Director, Investigators (415) 551-3657
\nCourtroom Clerk (415) 551-3702
\nCourt Supervisor of Probate Section Clerk's Office (415) 551-3673
\nRoom 103 Filing Windows 23, 24\u00a0and 25\u00a0(415) 551-3892
\nClerks Office- 8:30 a.m.-\u00a012:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Court holidays.
\nDepartment Office, Room 202- Closed
\nA trust is a legal arrangement where someone, called a trustee, holds property for the benefit of someone else, called a beneficiary. The person who places his or her assets into the trust is called the trustor or settlor. The trust can be part of a decedent's will if the will provides that all or part of the estate is to be distributed to a trustee with directions to use the trust in specific ways.
\nThere are\u00a0various kinds of trusts, including\u00a0testamentary, special needs, and living. A trust that is part of a will is called a testamentary trust. Another kind of trust is called a special needs trust which is set up to assist a disabled person who is receiving public benefits. A special needs trust can be part of a decedent's will or can be created in other ways by court order. Perhaps the most common trust is the living trust. Settlors of living trusts put their property into the trust during their lifetime, with provisions for use of the property during their lifetime and after they die. A living trust can be a useful tool for managing assets during a person's lifetime and for distribution of assets without a\u00a0probate proceeding when a person dies.
\nIt is important that anyone considering a trust should talk to an attorney experienced in estate planning. Trusts are individual documents that only work well when they are correctly written to meet the specific needs of the individual trustor and his or her family. Sometimes people make trusts with unethical people who \u201ccold call\u201d them on the telephone or tell them that a trust will help avoid taxes which may not be true.
\nThere are organizations called \u201ctrust mills\u201d that telephone people, usually elders, and convince them to make trusts which may be expensive, poorly written, and not appropriate for their needs. \u201cTrust mill\u201d trusts are \u201cone size fits all\u201d documents. The elder deals with a person who says he or she is a \u201ctrust advisor.\u201d The attorney whose name is on the trust never meets the person and does not know the person\u2019s individual circumstances.
\nTrusts come under the Probate Court\u2019s supervision for a variety of reasons. For example, special needs trusts may come before the Probate Court for determination of whether a child or incapacitated adult qualifies for this type of trust and if so who should be appointed the trustee. The Probate Court reviews periodic accountings of the special needs trustee. Living trusts although advertised as a way to avoid the Probate Court, come to the Court if the language of the trust is not clear or if a beneficiary thinks the trustee is not acting properly and the beneficiary wants a new trustee. The beneficiary can file a petition with the Probate Court asking the Court to review the trust and require the trustee to submit an accounting of how the assets have been handled.
\nTrusts are legal arrangements created for the orderly administration of a person\u2019s assets, usually while they are still living. Consulting an experienced estate-planning attorney to prepare a trust is the safest way to be certain that this happens.
\nJudge Joseph M. Quinn, Presiding
\n400 McAllister St.
\nDepartment 204
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
Probate Department - Room 202
\nJudge, Examiners (415) 551-3650
Director, Investigators (415) 551-3657
\nCourtroom Clerk (415) 551-3702
\nCourt Supervisor of Probate Section Clerk's Office (415) 551-3673
\nRoom 103 Filing Windows 23, 24\u00a0and 25\u00a0(415) 551-3892
\nClerks Office- 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Court holidays.
\nDepartment Office, Room 202- Closed
\nWhen people die, their assets including personal belongings, bank accounts, stocks, and real estate need to be safeguarded and managed. Bills need to be paid. Because of the grief process and the effects on families when there is a death, it can be difficult to deal with the business of settling the deceased person's affairs.
\nThe process can be simple or complex depending on such factors as the size and nature of the deceased person's assets, whether assets are hard to locate, and whether the survivors can cooperate with one another. California law permits estates under $150,000 to be settled outside of the formal Probate Court process. Estates that exceed $150,000, and sometimes smaller estates for various reasons, are handled by the Probate Department.
\nThe person who died is called the decedent. If the decedent signed a will, the person who is designated in the will to handle the decedent's estate is called an executor. The executor files the will with the Court and files a petition for probate of the will and for appointment as the executor. If the decedent has not made a will, his or her affairs will still be settled through the Probate Court. In those cases, the person who the Court appoints to handle the estate is called an administrator. The term personal representative means either an executor or an administrator. Although the law does not require a person to have a lawyer in the Probate Court, the process is complicated and an experienced probate lawyer is most helpful.
\nAfter a petition for probate of a will and appointment of a personal representative is filed, it is set for hearing in the Probate Court. It is the responsibility of the Probate Court to determine whether the will is a valid will, who the decedent's heirs are, and whether family members and beneficiaries named in the will have been notified of the probate proceedings as required by law.\u00a0After being appointed by the Court, the executor or administrator, assisted by his or her attorney, must prepare a list of all the assets of the decedent. This is called an Inventory. The attorney then sends the Inventory to a neutral appraiser who is called a Probate Referee. The Probate Referee is a person who has been appointed by the California Controller. The Probate Referee values all\u00a0non-cash assets and returns the inventory to the attorney for filing with the Court.
\nThe executor or administrator must keep careful track of all the assets, income and expenses during the probate process and must file an accounting to the Court that is reviewed in detail by the probate examiners unless the accounting is waived by all beneficiaries or heirs. Settling the estate of a decedent can become complicated and lengthy if the estate is large or contains unusual assets, or if the Probate Court must resolve disputes. For example, the Court may have to decide which of several wills is the decedent's true wishes, or decide what the language of the will means, or decide the rights of different people to certain assets.
\nWhen all the assets have been collected and inventoried, property sold if necessary, all the bills and taxes paid, and any disputes resolved, the estate is ready to be closed. The executor or administrator files a petition with the Probate Court to report what he or she has done, to request a court order to distribute the assets remaining, and to request approval of fees for the executor or administrator and the attorney. State law sets the\u00a0ordinary fees for attorneys and executors or administrators according to a percentage of the value of the estate. If the executor or administrator or the attorney has done extra work, he or she can request\u00a0additional fees. The Probate Court reviews all fee requests to make sure the\u00a0ordinary fees are correctly calculated and any extra fees are reasonable. If the decedent had a will, the will specifies how the decedent wanted his or her property to be distributed. If the decedent did not make a will, the California Probate Code specifies how the estate will be distributed. The Probate Court examiners review the petition for distribution to be sure that the executor or administrator is abiding by the terms of the will if there is one, or the provision of the California Probate Code if there is no will. When all the assets have been distributed as the Court ordered, the probate proceedings are over and the executor or administrator can ask the Probate Court to be dicharged.
\nJudge Joseph M. Quinn, Presiding
\n400 McAllister St.
\nDepartment 204
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
Probate Department - Room 202
\nJudge, Examiners (415) 551-3650
Director, Investigators (415) 551-3657
\nCourtroom Clerk (415) 551-3702
\nCourt Supervisor of Probate Section Clerk's Office (415) 551-3673
\nRoom 103 Filing Windows 23, 24\u00a0and 25\u00a0(415) 551-3892
\nClerks Office- 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Court holidays.
\nDepartment Office, Room 202- \u00a0 Closed
\nGuardianships of children can be ordered by judges in Juvenile Dependency Court and Probate Court. In Juvenile Dependency Court cases, the child may have been removed from the home by a Child Protective Services social worker because there is information that the child is being neglected, abused, or is in danger. The child then lives in a licensed home while several court actions take place. One such action is to try and reunify the child with his or her parents. If reunification is not successful, a guardian may be appointed for the child. Relatives or friends may be appointed to serve. If appropriate, the guardianship can continue until the child turns 18.
\nIn Probate Court guardianships, the child usually lives with the person who is the guardian. The proposed guardian or another person in the child\u2019s life may petition the Court to establish the guardianship for a variety of reasons. The parents of the child may be unable to care for the child due to serious illness, military duty in another country, drug or alcohol addiction, incarceration, or death. Unlike Juvenile Dependency Court, the Probate Court suspends, rather than terminates parental rights. A parent, a guardian, or another person can file a petition for termination of a probate guardianship, as can a child who is 12 years-old or older.
\nIf you want to ask the Court to establish the guardianship over the person of a child, you may wish to make an appointment with the ACCESS Center and ask for help.
\nIf you already filed for guardianship of the person and need assistance with next steps, the ACCESS Center may be able to help you figure out which relatives to serve (give notice), and the paperwork you are required to send.
\nIf you want to ask the Court to end a guardianship, the ACCESS Center may be able to show you how to fill out the required forms that must be filed.
\nWhen a petition for probate guardianship of the person, estate, or person and estate is filed, a court investigator personally interviews the child and other significant people in the child\u2019s life. Background screenings are conducted on the proposed guardian and all other adults who live with the child. Once the investigation is completed, the investigator will file a confidential report for the Judge. Sometimes, a Judge will also appoint an attorney to represent the child.
When a petition for guardianship is filed, the Court Clerk will provide a court date for the hearing. Guardianship appointment hearings are held on Tuesday afternoons. All petitions for the establishment of a guardianship of the person require the proposed guardian and the proposed ward to attend the court hearing. If the petition seeks to appoint a guardian over the child\u2019s estate only, the proposed guardian must attend and the child\u2019s appearance at the appointment hearing is not required
\nEven after a guardian has been appointed, the Probate Court continues to be concerned about the child. Every year, the Probate Court sends a blank Status Report form to the guardian along with a return envelope. Therefore, it is important for guardians to make sure the court has their current contact information. All guardians are required to fill out the annual Status Report with information about how the child is doing. When there is a guardianship of the estate, the guardian is required to account for the child\u2019s assets and is not allowed to spend any of the money in the estate without permission from the Judge.
\nAll children need care and attention. Fortunately, there are people in our community who are willing to step forward and serve as guardians when a child\u2019s parents are not available. The Probate Court participates in this process by appointing guardians for children, by helping make certain that children in guardianships are protected, and by helping guardians get the information they need.
\nJudge Joseph M. Quinn\u00a0Presiding
\n400 McAllister St.
\nDepartment 204
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
Probate Department - Room 202
\nJudge, Examiners (415) 551-3650
Director, Investigators (415) 551-3657
\nCourtroom Clerk (415) 551-3702
\nCourt Supervisor of Probate Section Clerk's Office (415) 551-3673
\nRoom 103 Filing Windows 23, 24\u00a0and 25\u00a0(415) 551-3892
\nClerks Office- 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Court holidays.
\nDepartment Office, Room 202- Closed
\nIn the United States, all adults are considered capable of handling their own affairs unless a Judge determines otherwise. In California, this legal arrangement is called a conservatorship.
\nConservatorships are established for impaired adults, most often older people. Adults who are developmentally disabled or the victims of a catastrophic illness or accident also may have a conservatorship.
\nFor help filling out the forms to file a conservatorship, please visit ACCESS.
\nEstablishing a conservatorship is a formal legal proceeding and involves several steps. Some adults who are concerned about possible future mental and physical incapacity decide to establish a power of attorney or a trust, in part so they can avoid the court action. They choose an individual or an institution to make decisions for them if they become impaired. These are private arrangements and must be made while the person has full mental capacity. In California, courts do not routinely monitor powers of attorney or trusts. Most people do not make these arrangements probably because it is difficult to think about becoming incapacitated mentally or physically. But it happens, especially to people over 75 years of age. For those who have not made prior arrangements, or if the person handling the power of attorney or trust is incapable or dishonest, a conservatorship may become necessary.
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\nWhen a conservatorship is established, the Judge will require that a bond be obtained for the liquid assets and annual income in the person's estate. Liquid assets include bank accounts and stocks. A bond is like an insurance policy. If the conservator mishandles the money or takes it, the person in conservatorship can be reimbursed.
\nThe Judge also schedules the case for Court monitoring of the finances and property of the person in conservatorship as well as his or her welfare. The law requires that an Inventory and Appraisal of all assets be filed within 90 days of the appointment of the conservator. The conservator must also file a General Plan for the conservatorship. If the conservatee has any real property, the conservator must record evidence of the conservatorship with The Recorder of the City and County of San Francisco.
\nOne year after the appointment of the conservator and every two years thereafter, an accounting of the assets, including the income and the expenditures must be filed with the Court. The accounting is reviewed in detail by a probate examiner. An investigator personally interviews the individual in conservatorship periodically and determines if the conservator is acting properly.
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\nThere are times when family members are unavailable or incapable of serving as conservators. Occasionally, the person who is thought to need a conservator does not want a family member to be the conservator. In those situations, there are agencies and individuals that can serve. The Public Guardian is an agency of the City and County of San Francisco and is the largest non-family conservator. There are also non-profit agencies that have complied with the law and can be appointed to serve as conservators. In addition there are individuals who are available to serve. They are called private professional conservators. As of July 1, 2008, they must be licensed by the State of California and meet ongoing educational requirements. All professional conservators are expected to keep a case and provide services even if the money runs out, especially if they have been appointed to serve as conservator of the person.
\nAll conservators and attorneys in a conservatorship case are entitled to request the Court for fees for their work. The fees are carefully reviewed and granted by the Probate Court only if they have been properly justified. Conservators and attorneys cannot take money without a formal court order.
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\nConservatorships affect mainly older people, especially those over 85 years of age. Coincidentally, the fastest growing age group in the United States is the one over 85 years of age. In California, that age group will increase by 143 percent between 1990 and 2020. Some counties will experience even higher rates, up to 400 percent. The influence of the 85 and older age group will emerge most strongly between 2030 and 2040 as the first of the baby boomers reaches 85 years of age (http://www.aging.ca.gov). With the right genes, healthy living, and luck, most people will escape being incapacitated. However, many San Franciscans will have impairments and will need help with daily living. Most likely the number of conservatorships will increase over time. Fortunately, the California legislature has mandated many court safeguards for those who need conservatorships.
\nJudge Joseph M. Quinn, Presiding
\n400 McAllister St.
\nDepartment 204
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
Probate Department - Room 202
\nJudge, Examiners (415) 551-3650
Director, Investigators (415) 551-3657
\nCourtroom Clerk (415) 551-3702
\nCourt Supervisor of Probate Section Clerk's Office (415) 551-3673
\nRoom 103 Filing Windows 23, 24\u00a0and 25\u00a0(415) 551-3892
\nClerks Office- 8:30 a.m. - 12:30\u00a0p.m., Monday through Friday, except Court holidays.
\nDepartment Office, Room 202- Closed
\nHours of Operation: 8:30 a.m. - 12:30\u00a0p.m., Monday through Friday (except Court holidays)\u00a0
\nCalendars that are heard in Department 610:
\nTUESDAYS at 10:30 a.m.
\nWEDNESDAYS at 10:30 a.m.
\nCivil Case Management Clerk: (415) 551-3872
\nCourt Supervisor, Civil Case Management: (415) 551-3870
\nPlease Note: Court staff can not give legal advice.
\nAll ex parte hearings are being conducted by telephonice appearance in Dept. 204, so when setting up CourtCall please use Dept. 204 as the location.
\nPursuant to Probate Code\u00a0\u00a78223, a copy of the lost Will must be attached to the order admitting the lost Will to Probate.
\nThe second Town Hall meeting on May 10, 2019\u00a0was well attended. A number of issues were raised and discussed, including the need to continue to address getting courtesy copies to the examiners. While this issue cannot be fully resolved at one meeting, the examiners have agreed that if they have to do an administrative continuance, the tentative ruling will alert the attorney if the examiner does not have a file stamped copy of the petition and/or the proposed order.
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\nAlso discussed at the Town Hall was the request to raise the hourly rate for professional fiduciaries and family members acting as fiduciaries.
\nThe court is proposing changes to LRSF 14.78.A.6. \u00a0The current proposal is to require two bids for any project estimated at $20,000 - $50,000 and three bids for projects estimated to cost more than $50,000. \u00a0Attorneys will have the opportunity to post comments re the change when the proposed rules are posted. \u00a0The proposed change would take effect on January 1, 2020.
\nFinally, a couple of procedural matters were clarified: if you are opening a new case and also have a related ex parte petition to file, you may file both petitions over the counter at the same time; examiners will not consider checking tentative rulings as administrative services; and attorneys will contact the Director if they are subject to serial notes.
\nNo date has been set yet for the next Town Hall meeting, but the Director presented an annual update to BASF on\u00a0June 4, 2019.
PROBATE TOWN HALL MEETING
\nWhen:\u00a0 May 10, 2019
\nWhere:\u00a0 Room 617, Civic Center Courthouse
\nTime:\u00a0\u00a02 p.m. \u2013 4 p.m.
Please submit your questions/topics for discussion to [email\u00a0protected] no later than noon on Friday, May 3, 2019.
\nThank you again to all who attended the luncheon on Wednesday, October 3, 2018. As an\u00a0update and in response to the demand for the brochure, please see below.
\nPROBATE TOWN HALL MEETING
\nWhen:\u00a0 November 16, 2018
\nWhere:\u00a0 Room 617, Civic Center Courthouse
\nTime:\u00a0\u00a02:00 p.m. \u2013 4:00 p.m. \u2013 Please note, the time was changed due to a scheduling conflict.
BROCHURE DEVELOPED BY THE PROBATE CLERKS.
\nHighlights from the BASF Luncheon on October 2, 2015
\nWelcome to the first in a series of monthly updates from the Court. Here you will find helpful information about topics trending in the Probate Department, policy changes and changes in the law. The subject of this month's update is appointment of probate referees and related notes of interest:
\nPlease check back next month for more updates from our office.\u00a0
\nCourt Administrator, Wayne Parinas
\n400 McAllister St., Room 103
\nSan Francisco, CA\u00a0 94102-4514
Office Hours:\u00a0 Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. \u2013 12:30\u00a0p.m.
\nInformation (415) 551-4000
\n\u00a0
Court Manager
\n400 McAllister St., Room 103
\nSan Francisco, CA\u00a0 94102
\n\u00a0
Supervisor, (415) 551-3876
\n[email\u00a0protected]\u00a0
\nSupervisor,\u00a0(415) 551-4030
\n[email\u00a0protected]\u00a0\u00a0
\nSupervisor,\u00a0(415) 551-3955
\nClerk, (415) 551-3872
\n\u00a0[email\u00a0protected]
\n\u00a0[email\u00a0protected]\u00a0
\nSupervisor, (415) 551-3802
\n\nSupervisor,\u00a0(415) 551-5795
\nProbate Clerk:\u00a0[email\u00a0protected]\u00a0\u00a0
\nAppeals Clerk:\u00a0[email\u00a0protected]\u00a0
\nProbate Department
\n400 McAllister St., Room 202
\nSan Francisco, CA\u00a0 94102
\n(415) 551-3650
\nProbate Investigation Unit, (415) 551-3657
\n\u00a0
CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) UPDATE
\nIn light of the current public health crisis, all attorneys are encourage to appear telephonically. Telephone appearance must be arranged through Court Call by calling 1-888-88-COURT. No prior notice or permission is required.
\nOfficial tentative ruling phone line: (415) 551-4000
\nThe phone line is the only official posting of tentative rulings. Tentative rulings may also be viewed online by following these steps:
\nIn both Asbestos and CEQA actions, any party who wishes to contest a tentative ruling must send an e-mail to [email\u00a0protected] no later than 4:30 p.m. the court day before the hearing stating, without argument, their intention to contest. The e-mail must refer to the line number, case number, short case title and the party you represent. This notification to the court is in addition to rules dictating notice to all other parties. Failure to follow this procedure may result in the court adopting its tentative ruling or continuing the hearing.\u00a0
\nPlease note that this e-mail address is strictly for contesting tentative rulings only.\u00a0
\nAsbestos actions filed in this court are dictated by San Francisco Superior Court Local Rule 20.
\nLocal Rule 20 codifies many prior orders of the Asbestos Department, including the following:
\nSuperior Court of California, County of San Francisco Local Rules of Court: Rule 6.10
\nJudge\u00a0Cynthia Ming-mei Lee
\nAsbestos and CEQA Judge
\n400 McAllister St.
\nDept. 503
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
Hearing Officer:
\nPang V. Ly, Esq.
\n400 McAllister St., Room 603
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\nTelephone (415) 551-3791
\nEmail:\u00a0[email\u00a0protected]
Clerks:\u00a0
\nLead clerk: (415) 551-3716
\nCalendar clerk: (415) 551-3706
Most civil disputes are resolved without filing a lawsuit, and most civil lawsuits are resolved without a trial.\u00a0 Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is a term used to describe various processes in which a neutral person helps people resolve their case without a trial.\u00a0
\nADR is designed to take place as early as possible in the life of a case, to provide an opportunity to settle all or part of the case and keep litigation expense to a minimum. ADR is typically faster, cheaper and less stressful than going to court. \u00a0ADR also lets people resolve their disputes in a more private environment.
\nParties in a civil case can use a mediator, arbitrator, or settlement conference neutral for assistance in resolving a case. \u00a0Click on the ADR Information Package for more information about our various ADR options.
\nThis comprehensive guide to Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR) provides information and resources to learn all about mediation and settling cases out of Court.
\n\nJudicial Mediation Program Information Sheet
\n\nElizabeth M. Kelber
\nADR Administrator
\n400 McAllister St. - Room 103-A
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
\n(415) 551-3970 FAX: (415) 551-5748
\nADR Clerk (415) 551-3869
\u00a0
\n| Division | \nName | \nForm # | \nDate Rev | \n
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-Help | \n\n\n\n | \n\u00a0 | \n\u00a0 | \n
| Self-Help | \n\n\n | \n\u00a0 | \n\u00a0 | \n
| Self-Help | \n\n\n | \n\u00a0 | \n\u00a0 | \n
| How Do I... | \n\n Find out the amount of my civil filing fee? | \n\u00a0 | \n\u00a0 | \n
| How Do I... | \n\n Find out information about the 2019 Traffic Bail Schedule\u00a0-\u00a0Uniform Bail Penalty Schedule? \n | \n\u00a0 | \n\u00a0 | \n
| How Do I... | \n\n Find out the Felony-Misdemeanor Bail Index and Schedule\u00a0? \n | \n\u00a0 | \n\u00a0 | \n
| How Do I... | \n\n \n | \n\u00a0 | \n\u00a0 | \n
| How Do I... | \n\n\n | \n\u00a0 | \n\u00a0 | \n
| How Do I... | \n\n\n | \n\u00a0 | \n\u00a0 | \n
\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\nWhen adding a title to your document, be sure to include: (1) the name of the party filing the document, (2) the nature of the document, (3) party against whom relief, if any, is sought, and (4) nature of relief sought. For example, \u201cDefendant ABC Corporation\u2019s Request for Dismissal of Plaintiff John Smith's Complaint.\u201d
\nThe document title that you enter in the \u201cDocument Title\u201d box should be the exact same as the document title on the caption of your document.
\nEach document, submitted in pleading format, that is uploaded separately (even if uploaded in the same transaction) must include a caption page as a cover sheet.
\nThe caption page must include a very specific document title (e.g., \u201cDeclaration of Joe Smith in Support of Motion for Summary Judgment.\u201d
\nThe caption page must also comply with all applicable codes and rules, including California Rules of Court, Rule 2.111. Specifically, subsections (1) and (2) require that each caption page contain a blank space in the upper right corner for use by the court clerk. The blank space must be the first 2 inches of space between lines 1 and 7 to the right of the center of the page. In addition, the title of the court must begin on line 8, which must be at or below 3 1/3 inches from the top of the page. These rules ensure each caption page will have enough space for the court\u2019s file-stamp.
\nIf smaller documents, such as exhibits, are grouped together and uploaded as one document, there must be a caption page as a cover sheet and the caption page must include a very specific document title (e.g., \u201cExhibits A-E to Declaration of Joe Smith in Support of Motion for Summary Judgment\u201d). Slip sheets must be used between each document (e.g., a page where the only words printed are \u201cExhibit A,\u201d a page where the only words printed are \u201cExhibit B\u201d and so on). Blank pages are not allowed as slip sheets.
\nIf a large document is broken down, each portion of the document that is uploaded separately must include a caption page as a cover sheet. The caption page must include a very specific document title (e.g., \u201cExhibit A to Declaration of Joe Smith in Support of Motion for Summary Judgment \u2013 Part 1 of 4\u201d).
\nExhibits may or may not be uploaded as separate documents, depending on the situation.
\nProposed Orders, Stipulations & Orders, Judgments and Verdicts with Exhibits
\nTo submit exhibits as part of a proposed order, stipulation & order, judgment or verdict, you must upload everything as one document.
\nAll Other Types of Documents with Exhibits
\nTo submit exhibits as part of any other type of document (such as a declaration, appendix or request for judicial notice), it is your choice whether or not to upload the exhibits as separate documents.
\nYou may:
\nWhen one or more exhibits are appended to another document (such as a declaration) and everything is uploaded as one document, or when a group of exhibits are uploaded as one document, slip sheets must be used as exhibit tabs to delineate the exhibits (e.g., a page where the only words printed are \u201cExhibit A,\u201d a page where the only words printed are \u201cExhibit B\u201d and so on). Blank pages are not allowed as slip sheets.
\nEach exhibit, group of exhibits or portion of an exhibit that is uploaded as a separate document must include a caption page as a cover sheet. The caption page should include a very specific document title (e.g., \u201cExhibit A to Declaration of Joe Smith in Support of Motion for Summary Judgment\u201d). Please see Section 1 above (Preparing you Documents) for more information.\u00a0
\nMotions and other pleadings may be filed as separate documents or combined as one document. If combined, the pleading must specify the items separately in the caption of the pleading. If filed separately in one transaction the documents must have an appropriate caption page for each document. \u00a0
\nProposed Orders
\nProposed orders, prepared in pleading format, must be submitted as a standalone document with its own caption page in compliance with CRC\u00a72.100 \u2013 2.111, unless the proposed order is incorporated into a Judicial Council form. All proposed orders submitted for e-filing will be \u201cLodged\u201d. The document will not appear on the Court\u2019s website as filed until it has been signed by the Judge. \u00a0
\nProposed Stipulation and Orders\u00a0
\nIf the proposed stipulation and order is prepared in pleading format or if submitted on a Judicial Council form, a fee of $20 will be collected for the document if all parties that signed the document have already paid their first appearance/first paper fee. \u00a0If not, the first appearance/first paper fee of $450 will be assessed as to each party that has not already paid this fee. \u00a0
\nPlease note: The party submitting the document is responsible for paying the first appearance fees for those parties that have not yet paid. If the submitting party is not willing to pay this fee on behalf of the other party/parties who are appearing for the first time, the document should not be submitted until all signing parties have paid their first appearance/first paper fee.\u00a0
\nThe proposed stipulation and order will not receive a file-stamp and will not be posted to the court\u2019s public website until it has been signed by the Judge.
\nCourtesy copies of proposed orders and original stipulation and proposed orders must be delivered to the appropriate department.
\nPlease see Section 10 (\u201cCourtesy Copies\u201d) for more information.
\nThe court requires documents to be scanned at 300 dpi or higher. Increasing the dpi will increase the file sizes for your documents. Therefore, it is recommended that you scan your documents at 300 dpi to meet the court\u2019s minimum requirement and also scan in black & white (instead of color or grayscale) to produce smaller file sizes for your documents.\u00a0
\nYou are still required to e-file proofs of service the same as you would normally do if you were filing the documents traditionally in paper. A proof of service uploaded as a separate document must include a caption page as a cover sheet.
\nWhen submitting a transaction with multiple documents done in pleading format (i.e., a motion and supporting documents to be filed as standalone documents each), you must upload each document separately under the same transaction. \u00a0Each document must have a caption page of its own in compliance with CRC\u00a72.100-2.111.
\nWhen submitting a transaction with multiple Judicial Council forms (i.e., MC-051 Notice of Motion and Motion to be Relieved as Counsel and MC-052 Declaration in Support of Attorney\u2019s Motion to be Relieved as Counsel), you must upload each form separately under the same transaction.
\nNo caption page required as it is considered a stand-alone document.\u00a0
\nPursuant to CCP 1010.6 (b)(3) documents e-filed or electronically served between 12:00 a.m. and 11:59 p.m. are deemed filed or served on that same day.
\nApplications for waiver of court fees and costs are accepted electronically in cases that are electronically filed. Per CRC 2.252(f) The court must permit electronic filing of an application for waiver of court fees and costs in any proceeding in which the court accepts electronic filings.\u00a0
\nIf your fee waiver application is denied, you must pay all fees owed to the court by e-filing a cover letter or notice of payment in the case in which the application was denied. The cover letter/notice should specify the case name, case number, name of the party that is paying the fees and the amount of the fees. The Document Type of \"Fee Waiver Denial Payment\" must be selected for the cover letter/notice. \u00a0The court will not file the document, but will accept the document as \u201cfee paid.\u201d
\nSelf-represented parties may pay fees using this method or pay at the civil subsequent filing counter in the Civic Center Courthouse (Room 103).
\nYou must deliver a courtesy copy of the packet to the proper location:
\nFile-stamped copies are not required for the courtesy copy packet except as noted above regarding the entered default. Do not include an additional copy of the judgment by default form (Judicial Council Form JUD-100) in your courtesy copy packet as a file-endorsed copy may not be returned to you. If a default judgment is entered, you can obtain a file-stamped copy from the court\u2019s public website, which you are responsible for serving on all parties.
\nIf you are submitting a request for entry of default at the same time as a request for default judgment that requires a prove-up hearing:
\nIn general civil cases and complex litigation cases, you must deliver a courtesy copy of your request for entry of default packet to the Default Unit (Room 103). You must also deliver a courtesy copy of your request for default judgment packet to the department where the prove-up hearing will be held. \u00a0
\nWhen a petition is filed to initiate a case, you must select a hearing date and schedule it in the appropriate department by e-filing a Notice of Hearin.
\nHearing dates for default judgment prove-ups and Minor's Compromise are heard on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9 a.m. No reservation is required. Hearing dates are obtained at the time of submission of the motion to the Court. \u00a0You must e-file the motion without a hearing date. Upon filing, the clerk will select a hearing date and schedule the hearing in accordance with CCP\u00a71005 and available calendar space. \u00a0
\nA fee of $60 for the hearing plus an additional $30 court reporter fee is required for both, Prove-Up and Petitions for Minor\u2019s Compromise hearing dates. \u00a0
\nPlease see the court's website and/or Local Rules for information on how to obtain hearing dates and times in all other cases and situations.
\nMotions: A motion to file documents under seal must be e-filed.
\nDocuments: The Court must receive the redacted and un-redacted versions in the SAME transaction. \u00a0Failure to submit the documents in the same transaction may result in rejection of the documents.
\nThe redacted version of a document must be e-filed and the first caption page must have \u201cREDACTED\u201d in CAPS, BOLD and UNDERLINED under the title of the document with a space between the end of the title and REDACTED.\u00a0
\nThe sealed, un-redacted document must be e-filed and the first caption page must have \u201cUN-REDACTED\u201d in CAPS, \u00a0BOLD and UNDERLINED under the title of the document with a space between the end of the title and\u00a0 \"UN-REDACTED\". \u00a0The UN-REDACTED document will be filed as conditionally sealed until the court renders it\u2019s ruling.\u00a0
\nThe format and content of the un-redacted document must contain all confidential and public portions. The redacted\u00a0document must be identical to the\u00a0un-redacted document, however\u00a0the confidential information must be properly\u00a0redacted\u00a0as noted above.\u00a0
\nIf you want to separate a large document, the un-redacted document and the redacted document must be separated in the same manner (i.e., if you separate your redacted document into four separate documents within the same transaction, the un-redacted versions of those documents must be separated in the same way).
\nCourtesy Copies\u00a0of the un-redacted document must be lodged in paper with the department where the motion will be heard. The Courtesy copies must be placed in an envelope labeled \u201clodged conditionally under seal\u201d with a copy of the caption page taped on the outside of the envelope. The courtesy copies must be separated the same way as the e-filed redacted and un-redacted documents and placed in separate envelopes with the words \u201clodged conditionally under seal\u201d on each envelope.
\nThe caption page taped on the outside of the envelope must be the same caption page as the sealed e- filed version. \u00a0 \u00a0
\nNote: After the court has rendered it\u2019s ruling, any changes to the redacted version must be updated and resubmitted electronically. The new/amended redacted document will bear the new filing date unless the order of the court dictates differently. If there are no changes to the redacted version, the redacted version previously filed will remain for public viewing. \u00a0Upon the order to seal, the un-redacted document will no longer be conditionally sealed and will become a sealed document.\u00a0
\nUn-redacted courtesy copies\u00a0of all discovery documents must be submitted to the department where the discovery hearing will be heard. If the entire document is not sealed, the redacted or confidential portion of the document should be highlighted to assist the judicial officer in differentiating \u00a0between what is considered confidential information and what is considered non-confidential information.
\nNote: If you e-file a guardian ad litem application or stipulation and proposed orders, you should deliver the original application (not a courtesy copy) to the appropriate department.
\nFor motions where the moving party must pay a fee for a court reporter provided by the court, the following procedures must be followed to ensure the court is able to collect payment.
\nTo post the non-refundable jury fees deposit:
\nTo post advanced jury fees:
\nFor subsequent jury fees:
\nFees for undertakings must be paid at the civil subsequent filing counter in the Civic Center Courthouse (Room 103). Funds deposited with the court must be certified funds such as cash, cashier\u2019s check, or money order. No personal checks are accepted unless stated in the order.
\nTo pay sanctions, the firm representing the party owing the sanctions must e-file a cover letter or notice of payment of sanction in the case in which the sanctions were ordered. The cover letter/notice should specify the case name, case number, amount of the sanction, name of the party and the date(s) of the sanction order(s). The firm should attach the order(s) as an exhibit to the cover letter/notice. The Document Type of \"Sanction Payment\" must be selected for the cover letter/notice. The court will not file the document, but will accept the document as \u201cfee paid.\u201d
\nSelf-represented parties may pay sanctions using this method or may pay at the civil subsequent filing counter in the Civic Center Courthouse (Room 103).
\n\u00a0
The annual renewal fee of $500 is due on or before the anniversary of the date the application to appear as counsel pro hac vice was granted.
\nA separate document must be uploaded to collect the fee which may be submitted in one of the following formats:
\n1.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Cover Letter/Correspondence
\n2.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Pleading
The document must specify the case name, case number, the bar number issued by the court, amount of the fee ($500) and name of the attorney for whom the fee is being paid. The Document Type \"Pro Hac Vice Annual Renewal Fee\" must be used. The court will not file the document, but will accept the document as \u201cfee paid.\u201d
\nIf the cover letter/notice is not e-filed by the anniversary date of the Order Granting Pro Hac Vice status, the attorney's pro hac vice status will terminate on the anniversary date.
\nThere are several Document Types available for filings related to appeals, some of which require additional information to be entered or documents to be e-filed in order to post a deposit or pay the necessary fee. The court will not file these documents, but will accept the document as \u201cfee paid.\u201d\u00a0
\nAn administrative fee of $50 is required pursuant to GC\u00a770632 and CRC\u00a78.130, whenever the reporter transcript fees are deposited. The administrative fee must be submitted as a separate document type. When e-filing payments, only a cover letter and the description for the payment (e.g., reporter\u2019s transcript fee or reporter\u2019s transcript administration fee) must be submitted with the fee.\u00a0
\nSelf-represented parties may post deposits or pay fees using this method or may do so at the appeals filing counter in the Civic Center Courthouse (Room 103).
\nCourtesy copies of Court Appeal filings, including appellate brief, writs, oppositions, etc., must be delivered directly to the trial Judge in paper form. Do not electronically file them. If the trial Judge or department is unknown, a courtesy copy may be lodged at the Appeals Division, Window 28, in the Clerk\u2019s Office.
\n**See Local Rules 15.4(G) and 2.7(B) re: delivery of courtesy copies of the filed designation if a certified Reporter\u2019s Transcript is attached to the designation.
\nIf your document has been rejected, you should receive an e-mail from the vendor\u00a0indicating the reason for rejection. The name and phone number of the clerk that rejected the document should be provided in the e-mail. If you decide to call the court for an additional explanation, the court requests that you contact the specific clerk who rejected the document. When you call, be sure to have your Transaction ID number ready, as it will help the clerk assist you more quickly.\u00a0
\nThe court will continue to issue summons for Unlawful Detainer cases, abstracts, commissions to take deposition out of state, subpoena, certificate of facts, writs and orders of examination traditionally in paper. If you need a summons issued on a subsequent filing (such as an amended complaint or cross-complaint) that has been submitted for e-filing, you should wait until the filing has been accepted by the court and a file-stamped copy has been posted on the court\u2019s website. You can then submit your summons by mail or in person and the court will issue the summons. (Note: before a writ can be issued the Memorandum of Costs must be e-filed.)
\nDuring trial, documents presented to the court in writing for decision (such as motions and memoranda of points & authorities) may be served in open court traditionally in paper. To become part of the court record, the document and proof of service must be e-filed no later than 11:59 p.m. the same day as the personal service was completed in open court. The proof of service must reference the date the documents were served in open court.
\nA guardian ad litem application may be filed traditionally in paper at the same time as the initial complaint or petition. Otherwise, the application must be e-filed and only a fee will be processed as \u201cfee paid.\u201d The documents will not receive a file stamp and will not be posted to the court\u2019s public website. \u00a0The original application must be delivered to the appropriate department. \u00a0Please see Section 10 (Courtesy Copies) for more information.
\nAll initial documents (those documents that open the case) requesting a Civil Restraining Order prohibiting harassment must be filed in room 103, Monday \u2013 Friday, 8:30 a.m. \u2013 12:30\u00a0p.m. If your request is received prior to 10 a.m., you may pick up your document on the same day between 2:30 p.m. -4:00 p.m. \u00a0Requests received after 10 a.m. can be picked up on the following day after 2:30 p.m. \u00a0All other documents (subsequent filings) must be e-filed.
\nRequests to Reissue a Temporary Restraining Order and Notice of New Hearing and Order on Reissuance must be e-filed. \u00a0\u00a0
(Note: pursuant to CRC2.503(c) Remote electronic access is not available for civil restraining orders. Viewing is limited to courthouse access only.)
\nBonds must be filed traditionally in paper.
\nIf you are rejecting an arbitrator\u2019s award, the request for trial de novo must be e-filed and the Document Type of \u201cArbitration (Judicial) - Request For Trial De Novo\u201d must be selected.
\nYou can obtain a certified copy of an e-filed document from our Records department.
\nIf you have questions about how the court calculated the statutory filing fees when your document was accepted, contact the court\u2019s E-File Unit at (415) 551-3824.
\nIf you would like to request a refund of statutory filing fees, go to the court\u2019s public website, http://sfsuperiorcourt.org/forms-filing, click \u201cForms & Fees,\u201d select \u201cLocal Forms,\u201d print the \u201cAccounting \u2013 Request for Refund\u201d form, and e-mail the completed form to [email\u00a0protected]
Government agencies are not required to pay e-filing and e-service fees. \u00a0If you are exempt from paying fees, use the \u201cAttorney Note\u201d field to alert the e-file clerk of this so that no fees will be assessed on your transaction.
\nSan Francisco Superior Court\u2019s eFile Unit:
\nNote: When calling these numbers, please leave a message with your question, transaction number(s) and a toll-free phone number (or a phone number where the court can place a collect call). Please do not call other court numbers with questions regarding e-filing transactions.
\nE-Filed \u2013 The document is accepted by the court, file stamp applied, entered to the official court record and the image is viewable.
\nFee Paid \u2013 The filing fee associated with the document is collected. The document itself will not be entered onto the official court record nor will it be viewable however, information of the fee paid will become a part of the official court record.
\nPending - The filing has been received by the court and is pending clerk review.
\nLodged \u2013\u00a0The document is received by the court. The document will not become a part of the official court record and information of lodging of the document will not be posted onto the court record.
\nRejected \u2013\u00a0The document is not accepted by the court, the document will not be filed or entered to the official court record. The document will be returned to the vendor with the reason(s) for rejection. \u00a0
\n\u00a0
\n| Division | \nName | \nForm # | \nDate Rev | \n
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-Help | \n\n\n\n | \n\u00a0 | \n\u00a0 | \n
| Self-Help | \n\n\n | \n\u00a0 | \n\u00a0 | \n
| Self-Help | \n\n\n | \n\u00a0 | \n\u00a0 | \n
| How Do I... | \n\n Find out the amount of my civil filing fee? | \n\u00a0 | \n\u00a0 | \n
| How Do I... | \n\n Find out information about the 2019 Traffic Bail Schedule\u00a0-\u00a0Uniform Bail Penalty Schedule? \n | \n\u00a0 | \n\u00a0 | \n
| How Do I... | \n\n Find out the Felony-Misdemeanor Bail Index and Schedule\u00a0? \n | \n\u00a0 | \n\u00a0 | \n
| How Do I... | \n\n\n | \n\u00a0 | \n\u00a0 | \n
| How Do I... | \n\n\n | \n\u00a0 | \n\u00a0 | \n
| How Do I... | \n\n\n | \n\u00a0 | \n\u00a0 | \n
CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) OPERATIONS UPDATE
\nPlease refer to the Court\u2019s website Home Page for the most current information regarding court operations in light of the COVID-19 public health crisis
\nThe Civil Division handles non-criminal lawsuits among individuals and/or corporations brought to enforce, redress, or protect private rights. The largest division in the San Francisco Superior Court, the Civil Division conducts civil trials and manages civil filings, records, small claims cases, appeals, probate matters, unlawful detainers, defaults, case management, dispute resolution, name changes, and civil restraining orders to prevent harassment and elder abuse.
\n| Alternative Dispute Resolution\n The Court\u2019s Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Program assists attorneys and litigants in selecting appropriate dispute resolution options prior to trial. The ADR program currently offers a voluntary civil mediation program, judicial arbitration program and, in cooperation with the San Francisco Bar Association, an \"early\" settlement program. \n | \n\n\n | \n
| Appeals \nFind out information about appeals. | \n\n\n | \n
| Asbestos Department \nThe San Francisco Superior Court carries the largest asbestos litigation caseload of any of California\u2019s 58 Superior Courts. In 2009, the Court created a single asbestos case management department to handle asbestos cases.\u00a0 | \n\n\n | \n
| Civil Case Management \nFind out more about civil case management. | \n\n\n | \n
| Civil Clerk\u2019s Office \nContact Information for key staff in the Civil clerk\u2019s office.\u00a0 | \n\n\n | \n
| Civil Grand Jury \nCalifornia state law requires that all 58 counties impanel a Civil Grand Jury to serve during each fiscal year. The function of the Civil Grand Jury is to investigate the operations of the various officers, departments and agencies of the City and County of San Francisco. The 19 members of the Civil Grand Jury serve for a period of one year, from July 1 through June 30 of the following year, and are selected at random from a pool of 30 prospective grand jurors. | \n\n\n | \n
| Civil Harassment Temporary Restraining Orders \nLearn who can obtain a Civil Harassment Restraining Order and how to obtain one. | \n\n\n | \n
| Civil Records \nLearn what information clerks may legally provide, how to obtain civil records in person or by mail, and other information about Civil Records. | \n\n\n | \n
| Complex Civil Litigation \n The San Francisco Superior Court is one of six California trial courts with Complex Civil Litigation departments. \n | \n\n\n | \n
| Court Reporters \nCourt Reporters, as guardians of the record, are not only employees of the Court, but purveyors of transcripts for all interested parties. Their professional responsibilities include providing appellate transcripts to the California Court of Appeal and the Superior Court of California, as well as legislated transcripts arising out of criminal proceedings. Court reporters who report in civil, family and juvenile matters also work with law firms and the public to provide requested transcripts. | \n\n\n | \n
| Law & Motion and Discovery \n Motion schedules, procedures and contact information. \n | \n\n\n | \n
| Probate Court \nThe Probate Court deals directly with the everyday personal and financial matters of San Franciscans. Most people think of probate courts as working exclusively with wills and the financial affairs of people who have died. However, the Probate Court also deals with guardianships of children, conservatorships of adults, mental health treatment, trusts, elder abuse and dependent adult restraining orders. The Judge and staff of the San Francisco Probate Court are committed to the administration of justice with thoughtfulness and concern for the citizens of San Francisco. | \n\n\n | \n
| Real Property Court\n Presiding Judge Katherine Feinstein created the Housing Court in November 2011 as a result of a budget-related reorganization. Most Unlawful Detainer matters are heard in Department 501, with the exception of calling of the trial calendar and requests for posting and mailing. The Court also hears all pre-trial motions involving foreclosures. \n | \n\n\n | \n
| Small Claims Division\n In the Small Claims court, disputes are resolved quickly and inexpensively, the rules are simple and informal.\u00a0Litigants may not be represented by an attorney. The Small Claims jurisdiction is limited to $10,000 for individuals. Corporations, partnerships, governmental entities and other legal entities cannot claim more than $5,000. Individuals may file unlimited claims for up to $2,500 each in a year. However, individuals may only file two claims a year that seek more than $2,500. \n | \n\n\n | \n
![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/i_civil_division.jpg\")
Civic Center Courthouse
\n400 McAllister St.
\n(between Polk and Van Ness)
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
Presiding Judge Samuel K. Feng
\nDepartment 206
\n400 McAllister St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
Civil Clerk's Office
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\n400 McAllister St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
\nDropbox Hours 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
Information (415) 551-4000
\nTTY/TDD (415) 551-4001
\u00a0
\nPresiding Judge John K. Stewart Announces New Judicial Assignments Effective January 11, 2016, 12-08-15
\nMandatory E-Filing to Expand to Probate Estate Cases Effective November 2, 2015, 09-30-15
\nJudge Lillian K. Sing Announces Retirement After More Than 30 Years as a San Francisco Jurist, 08-20-15
\nSan Francisco Superior Court Receives Judicial Council Grant to House Court Participants with Mental Illness and Drug Addiction, 05/12/15
SF Superior Court Adds Additional Vendor to Mandatory Civil E-Filing Program, 05/15/15
\nSan Francisco Superior Court Seeking Volunteers for the Civil Grand Jury - 28 Days Left to Apply, 04/24/15
\n\nSan Francisco Superior Court Announces Voluntary Judicial Mediation Program, 03/23/15
\nFormer Presiding Judge to Retire After Serving 21 Years on San Francisco Bench, 01/29/15
\nSan Francisco Superior Court Expands Interpreter Services in Civil Cases, 01/28/15
\nSan Francisco Superior Court Bench Hires New Adult Probation Chief, 01/23/15
\nSan Francisco Superior Court Seeking Volunteers for the Civil Grand Jury, 01/21/15
\nCivil Records Division
\nThe Civic Center Clerk's Office
\n400 McAllister St., Room 103
\nSan Francisco, CA\u00a0 94102-4514
\nCustomer Service: (415) 551-3802
Public Viewing Room (Currently Open)
\nOn-site, online Civil Record viewing may be requested on a first-come, first-served basis.
HOURS OF OPERATION
\n8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. excluding Court holidays.
\nThe Clerk's Office provides access to information related to Limited and Unlimited Civil, Probate/Wills, and Family Law case files. For all other cases (Criminal, Small Claims and Traffic), contact\u00a0those court departments directly.
\n
\nFor Civil Records inquiries email [email\u00a0protected]. \u00a0Include Contact Information,\u00a0Case Number, Case Name and Nature of Request.
The clerks CAN\u00a0assist or provide you with:
\nThey CANNOT assist or provide you with:
\nNeed Legal Help?
\nLooking for case information?
\nBefore starting your file search, please be aware that you may not have access to the following:
\nNOTE: SUBMITTING MULTIPLE REQUESTS FOR THE SAME CASE NUMBER WILL CAUSE UNDUE DELAYS IN PROCESSING YOUR RECORD REQUESTS.\u00a0 PLEASE ALLOW 30 DAYS BEFORE SUBMITTING A SECOND REQUEST.
\nIt is a Felony to remove files and documents from the Clerk\u2019s Office and any of its facilities. It is also a criminal act to steal, destroy, mutilate, deface, alter or falsify any files or documents, Pursuant to G.C. 6200/6201.
\nCivil, Probate, and Family Law Judicial Council forms and some local court forms may be printed at no cost from the Forms & Fees page.
\nPlease include the following with your request:
\n1. Form name and/or number;
\n2. Self-addressed stamped envelope; and
\n3. A check made payable to \"San Francisco Superior Court\" indicating \"Not to exceed $100.00\" on the MEMO line. Leave the payment amount blank.
\n| Copies of Judicial Council Forms and Local Forms \n(per page) | \nLocal Rule 2.10 | \n$0.50** | \n
| Small Claims Forms Packet | \nLocal Rule 2.10 | \n$9.00** | \n
**LOCAL RULE 2.10: Fees For Certain Court Services or Products. Pursuant to CRC 10.815, the Court may charge a reasonable fee not to exceed the Court's cost of providing the following products and services: forms, information materials, publications, off-site retrieval and return of documents to the off-site storage facility, and postage. These fees are published in the Court's fee schedule.
\n\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\nFor requests for Marriage, Birth, and/or Death Certificates, please contact\u00a0the San Francisco County Clerk at (415) 554-4950 or online at http://sfgov.org/countyclerk/.
\nVITAL RECORDS ARE NOT MAINTAINED BY THE COURT.\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\nWhen adding a title to your document, be sure to include: (1) the name of the party filing the document, (2) the nature of the document, (3) party against whom relief, if any, is sought, and (4) nature of relief sought. For example, \u201cDefendant ABC Corporation\u2019s Request for Dismissal of Plaintiff John Smith's Complaint.\u201d
\nThe document title that you enter in the \u201cDocument Title\u201d box should be the exact same as the document title on the caption of your document.
\nEach document, submitted in pleading format, that is uploaded separately (even if uploaded in the same transaction) must include a caption page as a cover sheet.
\nThe caption page must include a very specific document title (e.g., \u201cDeclaration of Joe Smith in Support of Motion for Summary Judgment.\u201d
\nThe caption page must also comply with all applicable codes and rules, including California Rules of Court, Rule 2.111. Specifically, subsections (1) and (2) require that each caption page contain a blank space in the upper right corner for use by the court clerk. The blank space must be the first 2 inches of space between lines 1 and 7 to the right of the center of the page. In addition, the title of the court must begin on line 8, which must be at or below 3 1/3 inches from the top of the page. These rules ensure each caption page will have enough space for the court\u2019s file-stamp.
\nIf smaller documents, such as exhibits, are grouped together and uploaded as one document, there must be a caption page as a cover sheet and the caption page must include a very specific document title (e.g., \u201cExhibits A-E to Declaration of Joe Smith in Support of Motion for Summary Judgment\u201d). Slip sheets must be used between each document (e.g., a page where the only words printed are \u201cExhibit A,\u201d a page where the only words printed are \u201cExhibit B\u201d and so on). Blank pages are not allowed as slip sheets.
\nIf a large document is broken down, each portion of the document that is uploaded separately must include a caption page as a cover sheet. The caption page must include a very specific document title (e.g., \u201cExhibit A to Declaration of Joe Smith in Support of Motion for Summary Judgment \u2013 Part 1 of 4\u201d).
\nExhibits may or may not be uploaded as separate documents, depending on the situation.
\nProposed Orders, Stipulations & Orders, Judgments and Verdicts with Exhibits
\nTo submit exhibits as part of a proposed order, stipulation & order, judgment or verdict, you must upload everything as one document.
\nAll Other Types of Documents with Exhibits
\nTo submit exhibits as part of any other type of document (such as a declaration, appendix or request for judicial notice), it is your choice whether or not to upload the exhibits as separate documents.
\nYou may:
\nWhen one or more exhibits are appended to another document (such as a declaration) and everything is uploaded as one document, or when a group of exhibits are uploaded as one document, slip sheets must be used as exhibit tabs to delineate the exhibits (e.g., a page where the only words printed are \u201cExhibit A,\u201d a page where the only words printed are \u201cExhibit B\u201d and so on). Blank pages are not allowed as slip sheets.
\nEach exhibit, group of exhibits or portion of an exhibit that is uploaded as a separate document must include a caption page as a cover sheet. The caption page should include a very specific document title (e.g., \u201cExhibit A to Declaration of Joe Smith in Support of Motion for Summary Judgment\u201d). Please see Section 1 above (Preparing you Documents) for more information.\u00a0
\nMotions and other pleadings may be filed as separate documents or combined as one document. If combined, the pleading must specify the items separately in the caption of the pleading. If filed separately in one transaction the documents must have an appropriate caption page for each document. \u00a0
\nProposed Orders
\nProposed orders, prepared in pleading format, must be submitted as a standalone document with its own caption page in compliance with CRC\u00a72.100 \u2013 2.111, unless the proposed order is incorporated into a Judicial Council form. All proposed orders submitted for e-filing will be \u201cLodged\u201d. The document will not appear on the Court\u2019s website as filed until it has been signed by the Judge. \u00a0
\nProposed Stipulation and Orders\u00a0
\nIf the proposed stipulation and order is prepared in pleading format or if submitted on a Judicial Council form, a fee of $20 will be collected for the document if all parties that signed the document have already paid their first appearance/first paper fee. \u00a0If not, the first appearance/first paper fee of $450 will be assessed as to each party that has not already paid this fee. \u00a0
\nPlease note: The party submitting the document is responsible for paying the first appearance fees for those parties that have not yet paid. If the submitting party is not willing to pay this fee on behalf of the other party/parties who are appearing for the first time, the document should not be submitted until all signing parties have paid their first appearance/first paper fee.\u00a0
\nThe proposed stipulation and order will not receive a file-stamp and will not be posted to the court\u2019s public website until it has been signed by the Judge.
\nCourtesy copies of proposed orders and original stipulation and proposed orders must be delivered to the appropriate department.
\nPlease see Section 10 (\u201cCourtesy Copies\u201d) for more information.
\nThe court requires documents to be scanned at 300 dpi or higher. Increasing the dpi will increase the file sizes for your documents. Therefore, it is recommended that you scan your documents at 300 dpi to meet the court\u2019s minimum requirement and also scan in black & white (instead of color or grayscale) to produce smaller file sizes for your documents.\u00a0
\nYou are still required to e-file proofs of service the same as you would normally do if you were filing the documents traditionally in paper. A proof of service uploaded as a separate document must include a caption page as a cover sheet.
\nWhen submitting a transaction with multiple documents done in pleading format (i.e., a motion and supporting documents to be filed as standalone documents each), you must upload each document separately under the same transaction. \u00a0Each document must have a caption page of its own in compliance with CRC\u00a72.100-2.111.
\nWhen submitting a transaction with multiple Judicial Council forms (i.e., MC-051 Notice of Motion and Motion to be Relieved as Counsel and MC-052 Declaration in Support of Attorney\u2019s Motion to be Relieved as Counsel), you must upload each form separately under the same transaction.
\nNo caption page required as it is considered a stand-alone document.\u00a0
\nPursuant to CCP 1010.6 (b)(3) documents e-filed or electronically served between 12:00 a.m. and 11:59 p.m. are deemed filed or served on that same day.
\nApplications for waiver of court fees and costs are accepted electronically in cases that are electronically filed. Per CRC 2.252(f) The court must permit electronic filing of an application for waiver of court fees and costs in any proceeding in which the court accepts electronic filings.\u00a0
\nIf your fee waiver application is denied, you must pay all fees owed to the court by e-filing a cover letter or notice of payment in the case in which the application was denied. The cover letter/notice should specify the case name, case number, name of the party that is paying the fees and the amount of the fees. The Document Type of \"Fee Waiver Denial Payment\" must be selected for the cover letter/notice. \u00a0The court will not file the document, but will accept the document as \u201cfee paid.\u201d
\nSelf-represented parties may pay fees using this method or pay at the civil subsequent filing counter in the Civic Center Courthouse (Room 103).
\nYou must deliver a courtesy copy of the packet to the proper location:
\nFile-stamped copies are not required for the courtesy copy packet except as noted above regarding the entered default. Do not include an additional copy of the judgment by default form (Judicial Council Form JUD-100) in your courtesy copy packet as a file-endorsed copy may not be returned to you. If a default judgment is entered, you can obtain a file-stamped copy from the court\u2019s public website, which you are responsible for serving on all parties.
\nIf you are submitting a request for entry of default at the same time as a request for default judgment that requires a prove-up hearing:
\nIn general civil cases and complex litigation cases, you must deliver a courtesy copy of your request for entry of default packet to the Default Unit (Room 103). You must also deliver a courtesy copy of your request for default judgment packet to the department where the prove-up hearing will be held. \u00a0
\nWhen a petition is filed to initiate a case, you must select a hearing date and schedule it in the appropriate department by e-filing a Notice of Hearin.
\nHearing dates for default judgment prove-ups and Minor's Compromise are heard on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9 a.m. No reservation is required. Hearing dates are obtained at the time of submission of the motion to the Court. \u00a0You must e-file the motion without a hearing date. Upon filing, the clerk will select a hearing date and schedule the hearing in accordance with CCP\u00a71005 and available calendar space. \u00a0
\nA fee of $60 for the hearing plus an additional $30 court reporter fee is required for both, Prove-Up and Petitions for Minor\u2019s Compromise hearing dates. \u00a0
\nPlease see the court's website and/or Local Rules for information on how to obtain hearing dates and times in all other cases and situations.
\nMotions: A motion to file documents under seal must be e-filed.
\nDocuments: The Court must receive the redacted and un-redacted versions in the SAME transaction. \u00a0Failure to submit the documents in the same transaction may result in rejection of the documents.
\nThe redacted version of a document must be e-filed and the first caption page must have \u201cREDACTED\u201d in CAPS, BOLD and UNDERLINED under the title of the document with a space between the end of the title and REDACTED.\u00a0
\nThe sealed, un-redacted document must be e-filed and the first caption page must have \u201cUN-REDACTED\u201d in CAPS, \u00a0BOLD and UNDERLINED under the title of the document with a space between the end of the title and\u00a0 \"UN-REDACTED\". \u00a0The UN-REDACTED document will be filed as conditionally sealed until the court renders it\u2019s ruling.\u00a0
\nThe format and content of the un-redacted document must contain all confidential and public portions. The redacted\u00a0document must be identical to the\u00a0un-redacted document, however\u00a0the confidential information must be properly\u00a0redacted\u00a0as noted above.\u00a0
\nIf you want to separate a large document, the un-redacted document and the redacted document must be separated in the same manner (i.e., if you separate your redacted document into four separate documents within the same transaction, the un-redacted versions of those documents must be separated in the same way).
\nCourtesy Copies\u00a0of the un-redacted document must be lodged in paper with the department where the motion will be heard. The Courtesy copies must be placed in an envelope labeled \u201clodged conditionally under seal\u201d with a copy of the caption page taped on the outside of the envelope. The courtesy copies must be separated the same way as the e-filed redacted and un-redacted documents and placed in separate envelopes with the words \u201clodged conditionally under seal\u201d on each envelope.
\nThe caption page taped on the outside of the envelope must be the same caption page as the sealed e- filed version. \u00a0 \u00a0
\nNote: After the court has rendered it\u2019s ruling, any changes to the redacted version must be updated and resubmitted electronically. The new/amended redacted document will bear the new filing date unless the order of the court dictates differently. If there are no changes to the redacted version, the redacted version previously filed will remain for public viewing. \u00a0Upon the order to seal, the un-redacted document will no longer be conditionally sealed and will become a sealed document.\u00a0
\nUn-redacted courtesy copies\u00a0of all discovery documents must be submitted to the department where the discovery hearing will be heard. If the entire document is not sealed, the redacted or confidential portion of the document should be highlighted to assist the judicial officer in differentiating \u00a0between what is considered confidential information and what is considered non-confidential information.
\nNote: If you e-file a guardian ad litem application or stipulation and proposed orders, you should deliver the original application (not a courtesy copy) to the appropriate department.
\nFor motions where the moving party must pay a fee for a court reporter provided by the court, the following procedures must be followed to ensure the court is able to collect payment.
\nTo post the non-refundable jury fees deposit:
\nTo post advanced jury fees:
\nFor subsequent jury fees:
\nFees for undertakings must be paid at the civil subsequent filing counter in the Civic Center Courthouse (Room 103). Funds deposited with the court must be certified funds such as cash, cashier\u2019s check, or money order. No personal checks are accepted unless stated in the order.
\nTo pay sanctions, the firm representing the party owing the sanctions must e-file a cover letter or notice of payment of sanction in the case in which the sanctions were ordered. The cover letter/notice should specify the case name, case number, amount of the sanction, name of the party and the date(s) of the sanction order(s). The firm should attach the order(s) as an exhibit to the cover letter/notice. The Document Type of \"Sanction Payment\" must be selected for the cover letter/notice. The court will not file the document, but will accept the document as \u201cfee paid.\u201d
\nSelf-represented parties may pay sanctions using this method or may pay at the civil subsequent filing counter in the Civic Center Courthouse (Room 103).
\n\u00a0
The annual renewal fee of $500 is due on or before the anniversary of the date the application to appear as counsel pro hac vice was granted.
\nA separate document must be uploaded to collect the fee which may be submitted in one of the following formats:
\n1.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Cover Letter/Correspondence
\n2.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Pleading
The document must specify the case name, case number, the bar number issued by the court, amount of the fee ($500) and name of the attorney for whom the fee is being paid. The Document Type \"Pro Hac Vice Annual Renewal Fee\" must be used. The court will not file the document, but will accept the document as \u201cfee paid.\u201d
\nIf the cover letter/notice is not e-filed by the anniversary date of the Order Granting Pro Hac Vice status, the attorney's pro hac vice status will terminate on the anniversary date.
\nThere are several Document Types available for filings related to appeals, some of which require additional information to be entered or documents to be e-filed in order to post a deposit or pay the necessary fee. The court will not file these documents, but will accept the document as \u201cfee paid.\u201d\u00a0
\nAn administrative fee of $50 is required pursuant to GC\u00a770632 and CRC\u00a78.130, whenever the reporter transcript fees are deposited. The administrative fee must be submitted as a separate document type. When e-filing payments, only a cover letter and the description for the payment (e.g., reporter\u2019s transcript fee or reporter\u2019s transcript administration fee) must be submitted with the fee.\u00a0
\nSelf-represented parties may post deposits or pay fees using this method or may do so at the appeals filing counter in the Civic Center Courthouse (Room 103).
\nCourtesy copies of Court Appeal filings, including appellate brief, writs, oppositions, etc., must be delivered directly to the trial Judge in paper form. Do not electronically file them. If the trial Judge or department is unknown, a courtesy copy may be lodged at the Appeals Division, Window 28, in the Clerk\u2019s Office.
\n**See Local Rules 15.4(G) and 2.7(B) re: delivery of courtesy copies of the filed designation if a certified Reporter\u2019s Transcript is attached to the designation.
\nIf your document has been rejected, you should receive an e-mail from the vendor\u00a0indicating the reason for rejection. The name and phone number of the clerk that rejected the document should be provided in the e-mail. If you decide to call the court for an additional explanation, the court requests that you contact the specific clerk who rejected the document. When you call, be sure to have your Transaction ID number ready, as it will help the clerk assist you more quickly.\u00a0
\nThe court will continue to issue summons for Unlawful Detainer cases, abstracts, commissions to take deposition out of state, subpoena, certificate of facts, writs and orders of examination traditionally in paper. If you need a summons issued on a subsequent filing (such as an amended complaint or cross-complaint) that has been submitted for e-filing, you should wait until the filing has been accepted by the court and a file-stamped copy has been posted on the court\u2019s website. You can then submit your summons by mail or in person and the court will issue the summons. (Note: before a writ can be issued the Memorandum of Costs must be e-filed.)
\nDuring trial, documents presented to the court in writing for decision (such as motions and memoranda of points & authorities) may be served in open court traditionally in paper. To become part of the court record, the document and proof of service must be e-filed no later than 11:59 p.m. the same day as the personal service was completed in open court. The proof of service must reference the date the documents were served in open court.
\nA guardian ad litem application may be filed traditionally in paper at the same time as the initial complaint or petition. Otherwise, the application must be e-filed and only a fee will be processed as \u201cfee paid.\u201d The documents will not receive a file stamp and will not be posted to the court\u2019s public website. \u00a0The original application must be delivered to the appropriate department. \u00a0Please see Section 10 (Courtesy Copies) for more information.
\nAll initial documents (those documents that open the case) requesting a Civil Restraining Order prohibiting harassment must be filed in room 103, Monday \u2013 Friday, 8:30 a.m. \u2013 12:30\u00a0p.m. If your request is received prior to 10 a.m., you may pick up your document on the same day between 2:30 p.m. -4:00 p.m. \u00a0Requests received after 10 a.m. can be picked up on the following day after 2:30 p.m. \u00a0All other documents (subsequent filings) must be e-filed.
\nRequests to Reissue a Temporary Restraining Order and Notice of New Hearing and Order on Reissuance must be e-filed. \u00a0\u00a0
(Note: pursuant to CRC2.503(c) Remote electronic access is not available for civil restraining orders. Viewing is limited to courthouse access only.)
\nBonds must be filed traditionally in paper.
\nIf you are rejecting an arbitrator\u2019s award, the request for trial de novo must be e-filed and the Document Type of \u201cArbitration (Judicial) - Request For Trial De Novo\u201d must be selected.
\nYou can obtain a certified copy of an e-filed document from our Records department.
\nIf you have questions about how the court calculated the statutory filing fees when your document was accepted, contact the court\u2019s E-File Unit at (415) 551-3824.
\nIf you would like to request a refund of statutory filing fees, go to the court\u2019s public website, http://sfsuperiorcourt.org/forms-filing, click \u201cForms & Fees,\u201d select \u201cLocal Forms,\u201d print the \u201cAccounting \u2013 Request for Refund\u201d form, and e-mail the completed form to [email\u00a0protected]
Government agencies are not required to pay e-filing and e-service fees. \u00a0If you are exempt from paying fees, use the \u201cAttorney Note\u201d field to alert the e-file clerk of this so that no fees will be assessed on your transaction.
\nSan Francisco Superior Court\u2019s eFile Unit:
\nNote: When calling these numbers, please leave a message with your question, transaction number(s) and a toll-free phone number (or a phone number where the court can place a collect call). Please do not call other court numbers with questions regarding e-filing transactions.
\nE-Filed \u2013 The document is accepted by the court, file stamp applied, entered to the official court record and the image is viewable.
\nFee Paid \u2013 The filing fee associated with the document is collected. The document itself will not be entered onto the official court record nor will it be viewable however, information of the fee paid will become a part of the official court record.
\nPending - The filing has been received by the court and is pending clerk review.
\nLodged \u2013\u00a0The document is received by the court. The document will not become a part of the official court record and information of lodging of the document will not be posted onto the court record.
\nRejected \u2013\u00a0The document is not accepted by the court, the document will not be filed or entered to the official court record. The document will be returned to the vendor with the reason(s) for rejection. \u00a0
\nBender\u2019s Legal Service, Inc.
\n1625 The Alameda, #511
\nSan Jose, CA 95126
\nPhone: 408-286-4182
\nwww.benderslegal.com
e-Filing Sign up:\u00a0https://directlegal.legalconnect.com/registration
\n\nLOCATION:\u00a0Juvenile Justice Center, 375 Woodside Avenue, Room 101, San Francisco, CA 94127
\nWHAT TO DO WHEN YOU GET A CITATION FROM SAN FRANCISCO POLICE:
\nIf it is a Traffic Violation, go to 375 Woodside Avenue, Room 101, the Traffic Court, or call (415) 682-5100
\nFor non-traffic violations, go to the Intake Probation Department. Go to 375 Woodside Avenue, Room 237 if you are a
\nSan Francisco resident or call (415) 753-7630. If you are a non-resident, go to 375 Woodside Avenue, Room 214 or
\ncall (415) 753-7530.
Besides Traffic Code violations by minors, Juvenile Traffic Court hears violations of certain Penal Code, Municipal Park Code, certain Health and Safety Code, Business and Professions Code related to alcohol only, Graffiti, Fish and Game, Animal Control and Skate Boarding laws by minors.
\nJudge Pro Tem
\nJuvenile Traffic Court
\n375 Woodside Ave., Department 5
\nSan Francisco, CA 94127
Wayne Parinas
\nYvette King, Court Supervisor (415) 682-5101
\nInformation: (415) 682-5100
WELFARE AND INSTITUTIONS CODE SECTION 225-236 225
\nIn each county there shall be a juvenile justice commission consisting of not less than seven and no more than 15 citizens. Two or more of the members shall be persons who are between 14 and 21 years of age, provided there are available persons between 14 and 21 years of age who are able to carry out the duties of a commission member in a manner satisfactory to the appointing authority.
\nThe Commission's purpose is to:
\n(City and County of San Francisco Juvenile Justice Commission Bylaws, Article 1, Section 1.2)
\nRegular Commission meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month from 5:30-7 p.m., unless otherwise designated by the Commission, and are open to the public. For more information about public meetings, or for advance copies of meeting agendas, please contact:
\nYvette King at (415)\u00a0628-5101 or Lisa Kong at (415) 682-5107.
2021\u00a0Juvenile Justice Membership
\nCommission Openings:
\n\u00a0Please contact\u00a0Yvette King\u00a0([email\u00a0protected]) or Lisa Kong ([email\u00a0protected])\u00a0for more information about Commission openings.
\n\nJanuary 2019\u00a0Meeting Summary
\nFebruary 2019\u00a0Meeting Summary
\nMarch 2019\u00a0Meeting Summary
\n\n\n\nUnified Family Court
\nJuvenile Justice Commission
\n375 Woodside Ave.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94127
Juvenile Justice Commission
\nExecutive Staff
\nYvette King
\n[email\u00a0protected]
\n(415) 682-5101
\n(415) 682-5255 (FAX)
\n
\nDirections
The Juvenile Justice Center Improvement Committee has provided educational and vocational services to youth, 14-18 under the jurisdiction of the Courts for more than 27 years. To enroll young people into the Early Morning Studies Academy GED school, or for help getting them a job in the New Directions Employment Program, call (415) 753-7690.
\nFamily Court Services provides mediation services in juvenile dependency cases. Dependency mediation services are free and confidential. All parties are ordered, and non-parties may be encouraged, to attend the mediation so that everyone involved in the child's life can participate in making the best plan possible for that child. Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) are always invited to a mediation that involves the child with whom they are working. The parties are ordered to attend mediation on a specific day and time.
\nThe mediator meets everyone in the Civic Center Courthouse, Room 402. The mediator explains how mediation works before beginning the session. Sometimes the mediator meets with everyone together. Sometimes the mediator meets with smaller groups of people. Everyone is given the opportunity to talk. The focus of the discussion is what the child needs from everyone involved. How can we make things better for the future?
\nChildren should not be brought to mediation or to Court unless the Court has specifically ordered them to appear. If children do attend the mediation the mediator will meet first with the child and his or her attorney or other support person. The child may, or may not, participate in the rest of the mediation.
\nAt the end of the mediation session, the mediator will write up the parties' agreement so that it can be presented to the Court. The parties go directly from the mediation session to the courtroom. The parties will present their agreement to the Court and request that it be made a Court order. If there is no agreement, the Court will schedule a hearing date to deal with any issues not resolved during the mediation.
\nSupervising Judge\u00a0Monica F. Wiley
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\n400 McAllister St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\nDepartment 405
\nCourt Clerk (415) 551-3747
\nDirections
Court Administrator
\nWayne Parinas
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\nRoom 402
Manager
\nDonna Guillroy
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\nRoom 402
\n(415) 551-5910
General Information (415) 551-4007
\nCourt Manager
\n(415) 551-3908
Court Supervisor
\nAngelique Andreozzi
\n(415) 551-3900
Clerk's Office
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\nRoom 402
\n(415) 551-3900
8:30 a.m. - 2\u00a0p.m., Monday - Friday,\u00a0excluding Court holidays.
\nCalendar Clerk (Not applicable to Dependency)
\n(415) 551-3906
Please note: Some forms are available in other languages for information only. Answers must be written in English on the English version of the form.
\nANNOUNCEMENT OF EMERGENCY DEPENDENCY COURT OPERATIONS, EFFECTIVE MARCH 24, 2020
\n\nJuvenile Dependency Department Calendars
\nLocal Rule of Court - Juvenile Dependency\u00a0(Rule 12)
\nJuvenile Dependency Local Forms\u00a0(scoll down to locate forms for the Juvenile Dependency Court)
\nSupervising Judge
\nMonica F. Wiley
Judge Monica F. Wiley, Supervising Judge
\nDepartment 405
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 551-3747
Judge Newton J. Lam
\nDepartment 406
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 551-3750
Judge Susan M. Breall
\nDepartment 425
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 551-3759
Court Supervisor
\nAngelique Andreozzi
\n(415) 551-3900
Clerk's Office
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\nRoom 402
\n(415) 551-3900
8:30 a.m. - 2\u00a0p.m., Monday - Friday (excluding Court holidays)
\nSan Francisco Transfer-In Instructions:
\nTo obtain a hearing date and time please email the Juvenile Dependency Transfer-In unit at [email\u00a0protected] with the following information:
\n\u00a0
\nSubject Line: Transfer-In from [enter county]-in-custody or Transfer-In from [enter county]-not in-custody
\n\u00a0
\nContent of Email:
\nPlease include the Minor\u2019s Name, Date of Birth, Custody Status, the current Social Worker\u2019s name and telephone number, Parent(s) name(s), and status of\u00a0 the case in the dependency timeline.
\n\u00a0
\nTransfer-In hearings in San Francisco will be set within:
\nReferences:
\nCalifornia Rule of Court, Rule 5.612. Transfer-in hearing
\n(a) Procedure on transfer (\u00a7\u00a7 378, 753)
\nOn receipt and filing of a certified copy of a transfer order, the receiving court must accept jurisdiction of the case. The receiving court may not reject the case. The clerk of the receiving court must confirm the transfer-in hearing date scheduled by the sending court and ensure that date is on the receiving court's calendar. The receiving court must notify the transferring court on receipt and filing of the certified copies of the transfer order and complete case file.
\n(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2017; repealed and adopted effective January 1, 1990; previously amended effective January 1, 1992, July 1, 1999, January 1, 2004, and January 1, 2007.)
\n(b) Conduct of hearing
\nAt the transfer-in hearing, the court must:
\n(1) \u00a0Advise the child and the parent or guardian of the purpose and scope of the hearing;
\n(2) \u00a0Provide for the appointment of counsel if appropriate; and
\n(3) \u00a0If the child was transferred to the county in custody, determine whether the child must be further detained under rule 5.667.
\n(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 2004.)
\n(c) Subsequent proceedings
\nThe proceedings in the receiving court must commence at the same phase as when the case was transferred. The court may continue the hearing for an investigation and report to a date not to exceed 10 court days if the child is in custody or 15 court days if the child is not detained in custody.
\n(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2004; previously amended effective July 1, 1999.)
\n(d) Limitation on more restrictive custody (\u00a7\u00a7 387, 777)
\nIf a disposition order has already been made in the transferring county, a more restrictive level of physical custody may not be ordered in the receiving county, except after a hearing on a supplemental petition under rule 5.565.
\n(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 2004.)
\n(e) Setting six-month review (\u00a7 366)
\nWhen an order of transfer is received and filed relating to a child who has been declared a dependent, the court must set a date for a six-month review within six months of the disposition or the most recent review hearing.
\n(Subd (e) amended effective January 1, 2004.)
\n(f) Change of circumstances or additional facts (\u00a7\u00a7 388, 778)
\nIf the receiving court believes that a change of circumstances or additional facts indicate that the child does not reside in the receiving county, a transfer-out hearing must be held under rules 5.610 and 5.570. The court may direct the department of social services or the probation department to seek a modification of orders under section 388 or 778 and under rule 5.570.
\n(Subd (f) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted effective January 1, 1992; previously amended effective July 1, 1999, and January 1, 2004.)
\nRule 5.612 amended effective January 1, 2017; adopted as rule 1426 effective January 1, 1990; previously amended effective January 1, 1992, July 1, 1999, and January 1, 2004; previously amended and renumbered as rule 5.612 effective January 1, 2007.
\n\u00a0
\nMost cases go through the Family Law Facilitator and Self Help Center in Room 509 if you do not have an attorney. After your papers have been prepared and reviewed by the Facilitator's Office, they must be filed in Room 402. You will be assigned a Monday morning hearing date. This court date is called the Readiness Calendar. Your filed papers must be properly served on the other party in the timeframe required by law. The proof of service should be filed with the Court before the hearing date. You should always keep copies of all of your court paperwork.
\nCases that include a dispute over custody or visitation are set on the Monday morning Readiness Calendar. When cases are called, the Court orders the parties to orientation immediately following the calendar call (the orientation is from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.). You also will be given the dates for a mediation session and a court hearing date before you leave the courtroom for orientation.
\nCases that include a request for a restraining order, in addition to custody and visitation issues, are set on Wednesdays. The parties proceed from Court to separate 1-hour orientations. Immediately after the orientation, the parties meet with a mediator, one at a time, to work out a parenting plan. The mediation session does not address the restraining order request. That issue will be dealt with after the mediation when the parties return to Court for a short hearing. (See Family Court Services for more information related to mediation services).
\nYou should bring a list of all the things you want the Court to order. You should also bring any papers that will show the Court that it should order what you want. For example, if you don't want your child to spend the night before school with his or her other parent because your child is late to school on the days following overnights, bring in a signed paper from the school that shows your child's absence or tardiness on those days.
\nIf you do not have an attorney, the Court is counting on you to act as your own attorney. The Court needs you to say what you're requesting and why. This is why it's a good idea to write down your ideas so you don't forget anything. The Court will want you to describe your request and to present any evidence you have as quickly as possible. Always talk directly to the Judge. You should never talk directly to your child's other parent or his or her attorney.
\nRequests for Orders and Orders to Show Cause that do not include requests for custody and/or visitation are heard on the 9 a.m. short cause hearing calendar on Tuesdays and Thursdays in Departments 403 and 404. Parties are limited to a total of 20 minutes for their hearing. Requests for Restraining Orders when the parties have children together are heard on Wednesdays at 8:30 a.m. in Departments 403 and 404. Requests for Restraining Orders when the parties do not have children together are heard on Fridays at 9 a.m. in Department 404.
\nMandatory Settlement Conferences are scheduled every Friday morning.
\nStatus Conferences are on Monday mornings at 10 a.m. in Departments 403 and 404.
\nLaw and motion matters and orders to show cause may be put on the 9 a.m. calendar in the appropriate department on Tuesdays or Thursdays only. These are short cause hearing calendars and parties may not exceed a total of 20 minutes for their hearing. Please select one of these days and put the date on your order to show cause or notice of motion. The clerk will try to accommodate the date as court time allows.
\nIf you are interested in how crowded the court calendar is, or to find out if the Judge is available on a certain date, contact the calendar clerk at (415) 551-3906.
\nYou may file your Request for Order for both custody and financial issues together. The Court may hear the financial issues on the same day as the custody issue if time permits. Otherwise, the custody matters will be given priority.
\nAll adoptions are heard on Monday morning at 8:45 a.m. in Department 405. The calendar is maintained exclusively by the Adoptions Coordinator. No adoption will be calendared until copies of the decree of adoption, the consent and agreement, and the accounting report have been lodged with the Adoptions Coordinator. The Coordinator can be reached at (415) 551-3900.
\nDue to state budget cuts, Official Court Reporters will only be provided by the Unified Family Court at the following calendars: Family Law & Motion; Domestic Violence Calendars; Domestic Violence and Contempt Long Cause matters; Self-Represented Litigants Law & Motion calendar; All Child Support matters in department 416; and all Dependency matters. Official Court Reporters will not normally be provided by the Court for Family Law Long Cause hearings or trials. To obtain a transcript, call the Department in which the matter was heard and ask the Clerk who the Court Reporter was on a given date. The Clerk will put you in touch with the correct reporter. If the Clerk is unable to provide you with the Court Reporter's name, call (415) 551-3778. Requests for transcripts also may be made by email at [email\u00a0protected]
\nSuperior Court staff are not permitted, under state law, to give legal advice. You can call the Bar Association of San Francisco Lawyer Referral line at (415) 989-1616 for a possible referral. Please consult the Family Law Facilitator and the Family Law Self-Help Center for other services to help you.
\nThe Family Law Facilitator and Family Law Self-Help Center is located in Room 509 of the Civic Center Courthouse. They will help you put together your own paperwork and will tell you what you do after you've finished the paperwork. The Family Law Facilitator services are free and are available in English and Spanish. The Family Law Facilitator does not give legal advice but will help guide you through the paperwork necessary to get into Court. You can contact the Family Law Facilitator at (415) 551-3991 for information on when you can be seen by them.
\nIn many cases the Department of Child Support Services can help you bring a request for child support to Court. In all cases, the Department can help you recover child support payments once the Court has made an order for payment. The Department also can help file papers related to the paternity of a child. You can reach the Department at (415) 356-2700 at the Mission Office. If your zip code is 94124 or 94134, call (415) 550-3500 for the Bayview Office.
\nIf a child is in need of immediate help you should dial 911. If you want to make a child abuse report for investigation, call (415) 558-2650 or 1-800-856-5553. If the abuse is not in San Francisco, call that county's Child Emergency Services. You can get the phone number by calling information in that county.
\nCall the Clerk at (415) 551-3900 for information or use the link to Fees
\nMost guardianships are established through the Probate Department, not through the Unified Family Court. More information is available here.
\nFamily Law handles domestic relations cases including dissolutions, separations, nullity, domestic violence prevention, paternity actions, child custody, child support, visitation arrangements, spousal support, family support and adoptions.
\nANNOUNCEMENT OF EMERGENCY FAMILY COURT OPERATIONS, EFFECTIVE MARCH 24, 2020
\nCOVID-19 Modifying Child Support Information
\nJudge\u00a0Monica F. Wiley, Supervising Judge
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\nDepartment 405
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 551-3747
Judge Maria E. Evangelista
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\nDepartment 403
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 551-3741
Judge Victor M. Hwang
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\nDepartment 404
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 551-3744
Judge Roger C. Chan
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\nDepartment 405
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 551-3747
Judge Newton J. Lam
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\nDepartment 406
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 551-3750
Judge Susan M. Breall
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\nDepartment 425
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 551-3759
Wayne Parinas, Court Administrator
\nCourt Manager
\nDonna Guillory
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\nRoom 402
\n(415) 551-5910
(415) 551-4007
\nCourt Supervisor - Office Staff
\n(415) 551-3962
Court Supervisor - Courtroom Clerks
\n(415) 551-3962
Civic Center Courthouse
\nRoom 402 (415) 551-3900
8:30 a.m. - 2\u00a0p.m. Monday - Friday (excluding Court holidays)
\n(415) 551-3906
\nFamily Court Services (FCS) is staffed by mental health practitioners who work with families with children when there are disputes. The FCS staff provides mediation services in both Family Law cases that involve either child custody and/or timeshare plans (visitations schedules) and in Juvenile Dependency cases. The main function of FCS is to provide mediation services\u2014although it also provides other services to the Court and families.
\nNOTICE: PLEASE SEE THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION BELOW REGARDING OUR TEMPORARY CONFIDENTIAL MEDIATION SERVICES WHILE THE COURT HAS SCALED DOWN ITS OPERATION DURING THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC.
\nFCS Readiness Calendar Remote Orientation and Mediation Instructions:
\nFamily Court Services Remote Mediation Instructions (English)
\nFamily Court Services Remote Mediation Instructions (Spanish)
\nFamily Court Services Remote Mediation Instructions (Chinese)
\nOrientation Handbook: A Guide to Family Court (English)
\nOrientation Handbook: A Guide to Family Court (Spanish)
\nOrientation Handbook: A Guide to Family Court (Chinese)
\nClick here to complete the Confidential Screening Form, which is available in English and Spanish. Click on the arrow in the form to open language choices:\u00a0https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SFUFCServicesForm\u00a0
\nConfidential Screening Form\u00a0(Chinese)\u00a0Email to\u00a0[email\u00a0protected]
\nADDITIONAL FAMILY COURT SERVICES RESOURCES AND HANDOUTS
\nThe following handouts may be useful during your mediation process:
\n\n\nFamily Code 3044 Sheet (Spanish)
\nOTHER SERVICES
\nSan Francisco Superior Court provides a list of private custody evaluators, counselors, and parenting coordinators who can assist litigants and their attorneys with treatment, assessment and clinical support involving custody and visitation disputes. The following list of custody evaluators and parenting coodinators are private practioners who have requested to be included on this list. The San Francisco Superior Court does not specifically endorse the services of any particular provider on this list.
\n\n\nAttorneys are invited to participate in mediation. The mediator retains discretion as to how to incorporate counsel into the session. Attorneys who decide not to participate in the mediation session are considered to have waived the ex parte communication rules governing mediator attorney communications.
\n\u00a0
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\n400 McAllister St. \u2013 Room 402
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
8:30 a.m. - 2\u00a0p.m., Monday - Friday (excluding Court holidays)
\nInformation about Mediation Services only:
\n(415) 551-5060 or (415) 238-3623
Information about case status or court hearings:
\n(415) 551-3900
Judge\u00a0Monica F. Wiley, Supervising Judge\u00a0
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\nDepartment 405
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 551-3747
Judge Maria E. Evangelista
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\nDepartment 403
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 551-3741
Judge Victor M. Hwang
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\nDepartment 404
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 551-3744
Judge Roger C. Chan
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\nDepartment 405
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 551-3747
Judge Newton J. Lam
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\nDepartment 406
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 551-3750
Judge Susan M. Breall
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\nDepartment 425
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 551-3759
Unified Family Court Services Staff
\nActing Court Manager
\nFelicia Fleming, LCSW
\n(415) 551-5983
Mediator
\nCatherine Gerace
\n(415) 551-5923
Mediator
\nVenecia Margartia
\n(415) 551-5906
Mediator
\nMichelle Miller
\n(415) 551-5984
Mediator
\nSonji Walker
\n(415) 551-4057
Mediator
\nMaya Ponce
\n(415) 551-3965
Mediator
\nCelia Wang
\n(415) 551-4010
Mediation is a confidential process. Mediators are highly trained neutrals who assist parties in creating plans that best serve the needs of their children. In family law cases, mediators assist parents in making their own plans for their children by keeping the focus on the children's needs, the safety of all involved and helping to establish better communication between the parents. These mediation sessions are generally two hours in length.
\nIn juvenile dependency cases, mediators assist the parties in working out a plan that best supports the child's needs. Parents, social workers, all involved attorneys, and other participants invited by the Court or the parties, participate in the mediation. Orientation takes place at the time of the mediation session, which is generally 2 \u00bd- to 3-hours long. At the end of the mediation session the parties report directly back to the Court and request that the Court make their agreement an order or set a date for a hearing if no agreement is reached. Please go to the Juvenile Dependency for more information on mediations in Juvenile cases.
\nAttendance at orientation is mandatory. It must be completed before your mediation date or the mediation cannot proceed. This is required by order of the Court. If you fail to attend orientation and/or mediation you can be fined by the Court for your failure to follow a court order. The Court also may make orders against your interests if you do not appear at the hearing.
\nIn most cases you will be automatically scheduled for mediation on the first day you are ordered to come to Court. If you have been to mediation in the past, you will generally be assigned to the same mediator.
\nIf you have not been to mediation in the last two years and both you and your child's other parent agree to return to mediation, you may fill out and sign a form called Stipulation for Voluntary Mediation. After both parents have signed the completed form, it should be brought to a window clerk in Room 402 or be faxed to the supervising mediator at (415) 551-4002. Once the completed form is received, a mediator will contact each party to schedule a Monday morning orientation and a mediation date. You should be sure to include contact information for yourself and your child's other parent so that the assigned mediator can contact you to set up the appointment.
\nChildren are not allowed in mediation or Court, unless specifically requested by the Court. Children should not be involved in the Court process. They should be shielded from the adult issues being discussed at Court and should be encouraged to participate in their normal activities; going to school, seeing their friends, and participating in fun activities.
\nDo whatever you can to separate your feelings about your child's well-being from what your child needs from that parent. Take into consideration the things discussed during orientation about what children need from their parents and others at different ages. Bring at least two different proposals about how your child can spend time with you and his or her other parent. Be prepared to listen to your child's other parent's ideas so that the two of you can have a discussion about what might work for everyone.
\nMake a list of any specific concerns about your child's other parent so that they can be addressed in putting together the plan for your child.
\nYou can call (415) 551-4007 for information about how to contact your mediator.
\nIf you need assistance from a mediator and your mediator is no longer available you should call the manager.
\nAnyone who has had a history of violence or intimidation with their child's other parent has the right to meet with the mediator without the other parent being present. You also have the right to bring a person with you who makes you feel more comfortable (a support person). The support person may sit with you in the mediation session but is not allowed to speak. The support person can be asked to leave if he or she causes a disruption or breaks the rules of the mediation session. In some situations, the mediator can meet with each parent on separate days or at different times of the day so that they are not both at the courthouse at the same time.
\nWhen you go to orientation everyone will fill out a form that asks questions about any violence between you and your child's other parent. Your mediator will get this form before your mediation session and will know about your situation.
\nEvery Wednesday the Court schedules hearings for only those people who are requesting restraining orders. Parents who have children in common are seen first at 9 a.m. After the Court calls all of the cases, parents will immediately be escorted to separate orientations.
\nAfter orientation the mediator will meet first with the parent requesting the restraining order and then meet separately with the other parent. The parents are never in the same room except for when they are in Court. The mediator assists parents in making arrangements for their children to spend time with both parents in a way that is safe for everyone. The mediation discussion is focused on the children and does not address the restraining order itself.
\nAs in any mediation, there is no pressure to agree. After mediation, both parents go back to Court so that the Court can make a decision about whether or not to grant the restraining order and to make parenting plan orders if the parents could not come up with their own plan.
\nThis is a personal and, often, a financial decision. Many people represent themselves. The Court's ACCESS Center can help with paperwork and the Bar Association of San Francisco Lawyer Referral line can help make referrals for low cost attorneys (415) 989-1616.
\nYes, your attorney may participate in the mediation session. However, the mediator generally meets first with the lawyers and then spends most of the mediation session meeting with only the parents. Your lawyer may wait for you to finish your discussion so that you can discuss any questions you might have or you and your attorney can decide that you call him or her with questions as they come up during the mediation.
\nThe Court may want more information before it makes final decisions about custody or visitation orders. The Court can order Family Court Services to get information from various sources and to write a report about the information obtained from these sources. A Tier 2 may include interviewing parents and/or children but generally involves talking with schools, therapists and other people involved in the child's life. Parents receive a copy of the Tier 2 report prior to the next Court hearing date.
\nWhen people die, their assets including personal belongings, bank accounts, stocks, and real estate need to be safeguarded and managed. Bills need to be paid. Because of the grief process and the effects on families when there is a death, it can be difficult to deal with the business of settling the deceased person's affairs.
\nThe process can be simple or complex depending on such factors as the size and nature of the deceased person's assets, whether assets are hard to locate, and whether the survivors can cooperate with one another. California law permits estates under $150,000 to be settled outside of the formal Probate Court process. Estates that exceed $150,000, and sometimes smaller estates for various reasons, are handled by the Probate Department.
\nThe person who died is called the decedent. If the decedent signed a will, the person who is designated in the will to handle the decedent's estate is called an executor. The executor files the will with the Court and files a petition for probate of the will and for appointment as the executor. If the decedent has not made a will, his or her affairs will still be settled through the Probate Court. In those cases, the person who the Court appoints to handle the estate is called an administrator. The term personal representative means either an executor or an administrator. Although the law does not require a person to have a lawyer in the Probate Court, the process is complicated and an experienced probate lawyer is most helpful.
\nAfter a petition for probate of a will and appointment of a personal representative is filed, it is set for hearing in the Probate Court. It is the responsibility of the Probate Court to determine whether the will is a valid will, who the decedent's heirs are, and whether family members and beneficiaries named in the will have been notified of the probate proceedings as required by law.\u00a0After being appointed by the Court, the executor or administrator, assisted by his or her attorney, must prepare a list of all the assets of the decedent. This is called an Inventory. The attorney then sends the Inventory to a neutral appraiser who is called a Probate Referee. The Probate Referee is a person who has been appointed by the California Controller. The Probate Referee values all\u00a0non-cash assets and returns the inventory to the attorney for filing with the Court.
\nThe executor or administrator must keep careful track of all the assets, income and expenses during the probate process and must file an accounting to the Court that is reviewed in detail by the probate examiners unless the accounting is waived by all beneficiaries or heirs. Settling the estate of a decedent can become complicated and lengthy if the estate is large or contains unusual assets, or if the Probate Court must resolve disputes. For example, the Court may have to decide which of several wills is the decedent's true wishes, or decide what the language of the will means, or decide the rights of different people to certain assets.
\nWhen all the assets have been collected and inventoried, property sold if necessary, all the bills and taxes paid, and any disputes resolved, the estate is ready to be closed. The executor or administrator files a petition with the Probate Court to report what he or she has done, to request a court order to distribute the assets remaining, and to request approval of fees for the executor or administrator and the attorney. State law sets the\u00a0ordinary fees for attorneys and executors or administrators according to a percentage of the value of the estate. If the executor or administrator or the attorney has done extra work, he or she can request\u00a0additional fees. The Probate Court reviews all fee requests to make sure the\u00a0ordinary fees are correctly calculated and any extra fees are reasonable. If the decedent had a will, the will specifies how the decedent wanted his or her property to be distributed. If the decedent did not make a will, the California Probate Code specifies how the estate will be distributed. The Probate Court examiners review the petition for distribution to be sure that the executor or administrator is abiding by the terms of the will if there is one, or the provision of the California Probate Code if there is no will. When all the assets have been distributed as the Court ordered, the probate proceedings are over and the executor or administrator can ask the Probate Court to be dicharged.
\nJudge Joseph M. Quinn, Presiding
\n400 McAllister St.
\nDepartment 204
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
Probate Department - Room 202
\nJudge, Examiners (415) 551-3650
Director, Investigators (415) 551-3657
\nCourtroom Clerk (415) 551-3702
\nCourt Supervisor of Probate Section Clerk's Office (415) 551-3673
\nRoom 103 Filing Windows 23, 24\u00a0and 25\u00a0(415) 551-3892
\nClerks Office- 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Court holidays.
\nDepartment Office, Room 202- \u00a0 Closed
\nA trust is a legal arrangement where someone, called a trustee, holds property for the benefit of someone else, called a beneficiary. The person who places his or her assets into the trust is called the trustor or settlor. The trust can be part of a decedent's will if the will provides that all or part of the estate is to be distributed to a trustee with directions to use the trust in specific ways.
\nThere are\u00a0various kinds of trusts, including\u00a0testamentary, special needs, and living. A trust that is part of a will is called a testamentary trust. Another kind of trust is called a special needs trust which is set up to assist a disabled person who is receiving public benefits. A special needs trust can be part of a decedent's will or can be created in other ways by court order. Perhaps the most common trust is the living trust. Settlors of living trusts put their property into the trust during their lifetime, with provisions for use of the property during their lifetime and after they die. A living trust can be a useful tool for managing assets during a person's lifetime and for distribution of assets without a\u00a0probate proceeding when a person dies.
\nIt is important that anyone considering a trust should talk to an attorney experienced in estate planning. Trusts are individual documents that only work well when they are correctly written to meet the specific needs of the individual trustor and his or her family. Sometimes people make trusts with unethical people who \u201ccold call\u201d them on the telephone or tell them that a trust will help avoid taxes which may not be true.
\nThere are organizations called \u201ctrust mills\u201d that telephone people, usually elders, and convince them to make trusts which may be expensive, poorly written, and not appropriate for their needs. \u201cTrust mill\u201d trusts are \u201cone size fits all\u201d documents. The elder deals with a person who says he or she is a \u201ctrust advisor.\u201d The attorney whose name is on the trust never meets the person and does not know the person\u2019s individual circumstances.
\nTrusts come under the Probate Court\u2019s supervision for a variety of reasons. For example, special needs trusts may come before the Probate Court for determination of whether a child or incapacitated adult qualifies for this type of trust and if so who should be appointed the trustee. The Probate Court reviews periodic accountings of the special needs trustee. Living trusts although advertised as a way to avoid the Probate Court, come to the Court if the language of the trust is not clear or if a beneficiary thinks the trustee is not acting properly and the beneficiary wants a new trustee. The beneficiary can file a petition with the Probate Court asking the Court to review the trust and require the trustee to submit an accounting of how the assets have been handled.
\nTrusts are legal arrangements created for the orderly administration of a person\u2019s assets, usually while they are still living. Consulting an experienced estate-planning attorney to prepare a trust is the safest way to be certain that this happens.
\nJudge Joseph M. Quinn, Presiding
\n400 McAllister St.
\nDepartment 204
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
Probate Department - Room 202
\nJudge, Examiners (415) 551-3650
Director, Investigators (415) 551-3657
\nCourtroom Clerk (415) 551-3702
\nCourt Supervisor of Probate Section Clerk's Office (415) 551-3673
\nRoom 103 Filing Windows 23, 24\u00a0and 25\u00a0(415) 551-3892
\nClerks Office- 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Court holidays.
\nDepartment Office, Room 202- Closed
\nPLEASE NOTE: The Probate Court only addresses Elder Abuse petitions related to an existing or pending Conservatorship case. Please see the Civil Harassment page on other Elder Abuse matters.\u00a0
\nLaws are in place to protect elders and dependent adults from being abused. \u201cElder\u201d means age 65 and older. \u201cDependent adult\u201d means anyone between the ages of 18 and 64 who has physical or mental limitations that restrict his or her ability to carry out normal activities or to protect his or her rights. The legal definition, found at Welfare and Institutions Code 15610.23 includes people with developmental disabilities or whose physical or mental abilities have diminished because of age as well as people in this age group who are inpatients in a 24-hour health facility as defined by the Health and Safety Code.
\nRequests for restraining orders of this type come to Court from different sources:
\nForms for elder or dependent adult abuse are mandatory. There is no filing fee.
\n\nPersons without an attorney should visit the ACCESS Center in The Civic Center Courthouse, Room 009, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco. After visiting the Family Law Self-Help Center, file elder abuse forms in the Civic Center Courthouse Room 103, at Windows 24, 25 or 26.
\nJudge Joseph M. Quinn,\u00a0Presiding
\n400 McAllister St.
\nDepartment 204
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
Probate Department - Room 202
\nJudge, Examiners (415) 551-3650
Director, Investigators (415) 551-3657
\nCourtroom Clerk (415) 551-3702
\nCourt Supervisor of Probate Section Clerk's Office (415) 551-3673
\nRoom 103 Filing Windows 23, 24\u00a0and 25\u00a0(415) 551-3892
\nClerks Office- 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Court holidays.
\nDepartment Office, Room 202- Closed
\nIn San Francisco, the Probate Court Judge oversees mental health conservatorships and related mental health proceedings. A mental health conservatorship is different from a probate conservatorship. It is used only for people who have a psychiatric disorder so severe that it prevents them from providing for their most basic personal needs such as food, clothing, and shelter. The legal term is\u00a0gravely disabled.
\nThe purpose of mental health conservatorships is to provide individualized treatment, supervision, and living arrangements for people who are seriously mentally ill while still protecting their individual rights. Mental health conservatorships, which are sometimes called LPS conservatorships because they are governed by the Lanterman-Petris-Short Act, can involve confinement in a locked psychiatric facility, which means the person is deprived of personal liberty. Therefore, there are strict legal procedures and laws that must be followed by doctors and hospitals and which involve review and monitoring by the Probate Court.
\nFamily members or other private parties cannot start a mental health conservatorship. Only the professional treatment staff at the hospital where the person is being treated can begin the process. The first step is to request an investigation by the Office of the Public Conservator, which is a division of the Department of Aging and Adult Services in San Francisco. If the investigation by the Public Conservator agrees with the professional staff of the psychiatric facility, the Public Conservator will formally request the Probate Court to establish a temporary mental health conservatorship and eventually, a general conservatorship. The formal request is called a petition. The person who is affected is legally called a proposed conservatee and must receive\u00a0written notice of the temporary conservatorship at least five days\u00a0before it takes place. The Probate Court also appoints an attorney, generally the Public Defender\u2019s Office, to represent the person.
\nA temporary conservatorship cannot last longer than 30 days. At the end of 30 days, the Probate Judge considers the petition for the general conservatorship.
\nDuring the 30-day period of temporary conservatorship, the Public Conservator is required to prepare a comprehensive written report to the Court. The report must contain all relevant aspects of the proposed conservatee\u2019s medical, psychological, financial, family, vocational and social condition, and information obtained from the person\u2019s family members, close friends, social worker or main mental health therapist. The Public Conservator also must investigate all possible alternatives to conservatorship. If the conservatorship investigation results in a recommendation for conservatorship, the Public Conservator also makes recommendations as to what specific powers should be denied to the person. The most important recommendation is whether or not the person can keep the right to give or withhold consent to psychiatric treatment, including medication. A copy of the investigator\u2019s report must be furnished to the person recommended for conservatorship.
\nAt the hearing on the petition for general conservatorship, evidence supporting the petition is presented by attorneys from the District Attorney\u2019s Office. If the person objects to the petition, a psychiatrist or psychologist must testify. The person is represented by counsel, and may testify or call others to testify. On the basis of the testimony, together with the report of the conservatorship investigator, the Judge will grant or deny the petition, or continue the proceeding to a later date. The hearings and all psychiatric records related to the proceedings are confidential.
\nIf the petition for general conservatorship is granted, the Judge will appoint a conservator and determine which, if any legal rights, will be removed from the person. The Probate Judge may order the conservator to place the conservatee in a specific setting to ensure that the placement is the least restrictive appropriate setting. In San Francisco, the powers granted to the mental health conservator are for the person only, not for assets such as bank accounts or property. A probate conservator can be appointed to handle any assets. A mental health conservatorship expires at the end of one year, but may be renewed year-by-year if the treating medical team makes a formal request to the Probate Court to continue the conservatorship and the Judge determines it is necessary. The conservatee is entitled to a full evidentiary hearing and legal representation on the renewal petition as well.
\nDuring the period of the general conservatorship, the conservatee may petition the Court at any time for a hearing to challenge the conservatorship, on the basis that he or she no longer meets the legal criteria for conservatorship. The conservatee also may petition the Court for a hearing to contest any rights denied or powers granted under the conservatorship. The Court maintains ongoing supervision over the conservatorship, and frequently makes decisions as to whether the conservatee is receiving appropriate treatment in ways that are least restrictive of the personal liberty of the conservatee. The Court also makes decisions as to whether the conservatee is capable of giving or withholding consent to various forms of medical and psychiatric treatment.
\nIn addition to mental health conservatorships, the Probate Court handles a range of other psychiatric proceedings, including writs of habeas corpus for persons who are civilly committed to a hospital but not on conservatorship. Other proceedings, which can be brought to the Probate Judge for a decision, include petitions to administer medical treatment to persons without a conservator, and petitions for the commitment of developmentally disabled persons to state hospitals.\u00a0The law provides that the person subject to the proceedings is provided with an attorney.
\nJudge Joseph M. Quinn, Presiding
\n400 McAllister St.
\nDepartment 204
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
Probate Department - Room 202
\nJudge, Examiners (415) 551-3650
Director, Investigators (415) 551-3657
\nCourtroom Clerk (415) 551-3702
\nCourt Supervisor of Probate Section Clerk's Office (415) 551-3673
\nRoom 103 Filing Windows 23, 24\u00a0and 25\u00a0(415) 551-3892
\nClerks Office- 8:30 a.m.-\u00a012:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Court holidays.
\nDepartment Office, Room 202- Closed
\nThe Title IV-D Child Support Commissioner in Department 416, pursuant to Family Code \u00a74251, presides over matters involving determinations of parentage, and conducts hearings to establish, modify, or enforce child support or spousal support.
\nCases heard in this department include those initially filed by the local child support agency, the San Francisco Department of Child Support Services (SF DCSS), as well as proceedings in which SF DCSS is providing support services \u2013 including, for example, enforcement of support orders rendered in a prior dissolution proceeding, or in a case filed under the Uniform Parentage Act \u2013 pursuant to Family Code \u00a717400.
\nThe following links provide more information regarding child support services on both the state and local level, including access to the public version of the Guideline Calculator used calculate support orders in Department 416.
\nDepartment of Child Support Services (State DCSS)
\n-provides free access to the public Guideline Calculator program
Child Support Services Informational Flyer
\nOpen a Child Support Case online here.\u00a0
\nOpen a case at the Civic Center Courthouse.\u00a0
\nCommissioner Rebecca L. Wightman
\nTitle IV-D Child Support Program
\n400 McAllister St.
\nDepartment 416
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\nCourt Clerk (415) 551-3756
Wayne Parinas
\nCourt Supervisor
\nAngelique Andreozzi
\n(415) 551-3962
Filing Window
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\nClerk\u2019s Office
\nRoom 402
\n(415) 551-3900
8:30 a.m. - 2\u00a0p.m., Monday - Friday,
\nexcluding Court holidays.
Calendar Clerk
\n(415) 551-3906
The San Francisco Superior Court Probate Pro Bono Mediation Panels were created to provide litigants an opportunity to resolve disputes in a timely and cost effective manner. More information about the program can be found in the Probate Pro Bono Mediation Program FAQs. Those individuals interested in applying to serve on the Probate Pro Bono Mediation Panel, see below for application..
\n\nThe Probate Court's current panel of mediators can be found below.
\n\nForms for use in Mediation:
\n\nSearch for Case Calendars by Case Type and Date. Information is available up to 120 calendar days from today.
\n\nThe Real Property Court\u00a0is located in the Civic Center Courthouse, 5th Floor, Department 501.\u00a0
\nNOTICE TO THE PUBLIC:
\n* Pursuant to LRSF 2.7(B)(2) courtesy copies of all filed papers for motions heard in Department 501 (Real Property Court) must be delivered to Department 501.
\n* Limited Unlawful Detainer Cases - As of April 20, 2020, remote access to the Court Index, Register of Actions, or other records after the complaint is filed can be obtained via the San Francisco Superior Court website:\u00a0https://ud.sftc.org \u00a0by entering the access code provided on the Notice to Defendants or your payment receipt or by entering the name of at least one plaintiff and one defendant and the address of the premises, including the apartment or unit number, exactly as it appears on the complaint.
\n* Pursuant to LRSF 2.11, effective July 1, 2020, the San Francisco Superior Court expanded its mandatory e-filing program to include Limited Unlawful Detainer Cases. For more information regarding E-Filing, please refer to the E-FILING FOR CIVIL\u00a0webpage.
\nCORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) UPDATE:
\nApply to get help with your rent.
\nYou can get up to 18 months of rental assistance, including prospective rental assistance and utility assistance.\u00a0 To learn more, visit sf.gov/renthelp.
\nGet free help with your application: call 833-687-0967 to make an appointment or visit housingiskey.com to apply online.\u00a0 If you have applied and need assistance, call the California COVID-19 Rent Relief Program Call Center at 833-430-2122.
\nPlease refer to the Information Regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Court Operations page (https://www.sfsuperiorcourt.org/general-info/Information-Regarding-Coronavirus-And-Court-Operations) for the most current information in light of the COVID-19 public health crisis.
\nVIDEOCONFERENCE HEARINGS IN REAL PROPERTY COURT
\n\u623f\u5730\u4ea7\u6cd5\u5ead\u4e4b\u89c6\u9891\u4f1a\u8bae\u542c\u8bc1\u4f1a
\n\u623f\u5730\u7522\u6cd5\u5ead\u4e4b\u8996\u8a0a\u6703\u8b70\u807d\u8b49\u6703
\nMGA PAGDINIG SA REAL PROPERTY COURT SA PAMAMAGITAN NG VIDEO CONFERENCE
\n\nAUDIENCIAS POR VIDEOCONFERENCIA EN LA CORTE DE BIENES INMUEBLES
\n\nEffective Monday, March 1, 2021, the Real Property Court will be holding hearings by videoconference and the public can view and/or listen to hearings, by clicking on the appropriate link below:
\nReal Property Court Department 501 Daily at
\n\u00a0(https://sfsuperiorcourt-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_GddZiBrxR62vLWy46L-wjQ)
\nIf unable to join using the links above, the hearings may be joined by telephone by dialing
\n\u00a0+1 415 762 9988 and entering the meeting ID and password below.\u00a0
\nDepartment 501: Meeting ID: 836 2280 0051\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Password: 613303
\nReal Property Court hears all matters pertaining to real property including but not limited to:
\nUNLAWFUL DETAINER CASES
\nAll unlawful/forcible detainer matters including mandatory settlement conferences, calling of the UD trial calendar, motions to continue UD trials, UD discovery,\u00a0and requests for posting and mailing.
\nCIVIL MATTERS
\nMotions to continue trial and calling of the trial calendar in non unlawful/forcible detainer matters are heard in Department 206.
\nMotions
\nAll motions (including discovery not handled via pro tempore system and motions to continue UD trials) are heard at 9:30 a.m., Monday - Friday, excluding Court holidays.
\nCourtesy copies must be delivered to Department 501 on the date of filing by the moving party and not later than one day before the hearing by the opposing party. Failure to deliver courtesy copies may result in the matter being taken off calendar.\u00a0\u00a0
\nEx-Parte applications
\n\u00a0 \u00a0Ex parte applications are heard \u00a0Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday at 9\u00a0a.m.; and Tuesday at 10 a.m. as follows:\u00a0
\nUnlawful Detainer pre-trial and date-of-trial MANDATORY SETTLEMENT CONFERENCES
\nStarting June 1, 2021, the Court will gradually resume its pre-trial Mandatory Settlement Conferences (\u201cMSCs\u201d) in Unlawful Detainer Cases. Until further notice pre-trial MSCs in Unlawful Detainer cases will be set for remote appearances on Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays afternoons the week before trial call. Information regarding the date, time and login for remote appearance will be provided in the\u00a0Notice of Time and Place of Trial and Settlement Hearing. While initially not all cases will be assigned a pre-trial Mandatory Settlement Conference, all cases may be assigned to a day-of-trial MSC. Please read your\u00a0Notice of Time and Place of Trial and Settlement Hearing\u00a0carefully as information for remote appearance is unique for each case. Attendance at the settlement conference by the attorney who will try the case, and each party is mandatory (See LRSF 5.0 B, E). Parties will be afforded an opportunity, and will be required to participate in a Mandatory Settlement Conference on the date of their trial assignment
\n\nCourtesy Copies\u00a0
\nAll e-mail addresses provided by the department in this posting or via the tentative rulings may be used SOLELY for the designated purposes
\nMotions\u00a0- Hard copies of all filings in support of and in opposition to noticed motions must be delivered in accordance with the Local Rule 2.7B.
\nEx-Parte Applications\u00a0- Hard copies of all filings that exceed 10 pages (including the application, supporting documents and the proposed order) in support of and in opposition to ex-parte applications must be delivered by 8:30 a.m. on the date of the hearing. Filings that do not exceed 10 pages (including the application, supporting documents and the proposed order) may be submitted electronically to\u00a0[email\u00a0protected] .
\nOther Filings\u00a0- Hard copies of all other filings\u00a0for which a courtesy copy is required to be provided under the state and local rules must be delivered to the department within one business day of submission for filing.
\nUse of E-mail Addresses
\nAll e-mail addresses provided by the department in this posting or via the tentative rulings may be used SOLELY for the designated purposes. Communications sent to the wrong email address and those communications that are not specifically authorized will not be considered and will not be responded to. Unauthorized communications include, but are not limited to, e-mails addressing any other issues and e-mails submitted outside the specified time window. Parties and their representatives who repeatedly abuse the permission to use electronic communications with the Court may be disallowed to do so at the Court's discretion.
\n[email\u00a0protected]\u00a0may be used to submit courtesy copies of ex-parte filings that do not exceed 10 pages (including the application, supporting documents and the proposed order). This e-mail address shall not be used for any other purposes.
\n[email\u00a0protected]\u00a0shall be used only by the parties who intend to appear at the Law and Motions calendar hearing to contest a tentative ruling. Notice of contesting a tentative ruling shall be provided by sending an email to the court to [email\u00a0protected] with a copy to all other parties stating, without argument, the portion(s) of the tentative ruling that the party contests. The email must be sent between 3:00 p.m.amd 4:00 p.m.one court day before the calendared hearing. A party may not argue at the hearing if the opposing party is not so identified and the opposing party does not appear.\u00a0This e-mail address shall not be used for any other purposes.
\n[email\u00a0protected]\u00a0shall be used to provide proposed orders prepared in response to the posted tentative rulings and must be submitted after 3:00 p.m. on the court date before the scheduled hearing and before 8:00 a.m. on the date of the scheduled hearing. All orders after hearing must be submitted to the department by providing a hard copy and with proof of compliance with CRC 3.1312, if applicable. This e-mail address shall not be used for any other purposes
\nMotions Calendar and Ex-Parte Calendar
\nUntil further notice due to the\u00a0 COVID-19 pandemic, telephonic appearances are encouraged. If you intend to personally appear for a noticed motion or trial call, please notify the department pursuant to the instructions herein.
\nIf you appear in person for your case notify the department by 5:00 p.m. one day before the hearing @\u00a0[email\u00a0protected].\u00a0Advanced notification of personal appearance for matters on the\u00a0Ex-Parte calendar is encouraged, but not required.
\nUnlawful Detainer Trial Call
\nUntil further notice due to COVID-19 pandemic telephonic appearances are encouraged. If you personally appear for your case notify the department by 5:00 p.m. one court day before the hearing at [email\u00a0protected]. For trial call counsel and unrepresented parties shall appear by CourtCall (preferred) or in-person at 9 a.m. If parties for any reason are not able to appear by CourtCall or in-person, contact the Court at 415-551-3762 two court days before the hearing for alternative appearance arrangements. Represented parties are not required to appear for the trial call; all parties (represented and unrepresented) must be available to appear in-person on a one-hour telephonic standby upon assignment for trial, settlement conference, or other required appearance. The court will provide specific instructions for appearance for each case at the trial call.
\nCourt Reporters
\nA Court Reporter will not be available in the Law & Motion/Discovery Department. Parties may privately arrange to have a certified Official Pro Tempore Court reporter present for motion hearings. Pursuant to GC 69955, the notes of the Official Pro Tempore Reporter are the official records of the Court, and shall be maintained or delivered to the Clerk of the Court in the paper and/or electronic form after the hearing.
\nPresiding Judge Matters
\nThe Presiding Judge of the Court (or person designated by the Presiding Judge) hears all applications for Waiver of Court fees(\"In forma Pauperis\").
\nLunch Break
\nDepartment 501 is generally closed for lunch at Noon. If the morning calendar runs past Noon, the staff will recess thereafter. When this happens, a notice will be posted outside of the courtroom.
\nProposed Orders
\nWith the exception of proposed orders for motions for summary judgment/adjudication, it is recommended that parties appear at the hearing with proposed orders even if the hearing is uncontested to ensure timely processing of the order. Orders submitted after the session is over may experience a delay in processing. When submitting a proposed order after the session is over, submit an original, one copy, and a self-addressed stamped envelope. (Please refer to CRC 2.100 \u2013 2.11 for specific details.
\nIn view of the Jameson v. Desta decision
\nFee waiver recipients who desire a verbatim record of a trial court proceeding must notify the court in writing by filing a notice, a request or other form of written notification.\u00a0The notice/request must be received within the following time perimeters:
\nFailure to make the request within the time perimeters listed above may result in the courts inability to honor your request in a timely manner, on the day of your hearing. \u00a0
\nJudge Charles F. Haines
\nReal Property Court
\nDepartment 501
\n400 McAllister St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
Lead Clerk
\n(415) 551-3762
Calendar Clerk
\n(415) 551-3779
Department 304
\nJudge Ethan P. Schulman
\n400 McAllister St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\nClerk: (415) 551-3729/5948
\n
\nDepartment 613
\nJudge Andrew Y.S, Cheng
\n400 McAllister St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\nClerk: (415) 551-3840
\u00a0
\nDepartment 304 Court Procedures
\nDepartment 613\u00a0Court Procedures
\nChallenging Confidentiality Designations
\n\n\u00a0
\n\nA \u201ccomplex case\u201d is an action that requires exceptional judicial management to avoid placing unnecessary burdens on the Court or the litigants and to expedite the case, keep costs reasonable, and promote effective decision making by the court, the parties, and counsel.
\nSpecial Instructions for Electronic Filing
\nE-Filing Sealed Discovery Motion Documents:
\nE-Filing Sealed Papers Re: Non-Discovery Motions:
\nThe confidential portions of an unredacted document should be highlighted (e.g. grayscaled) to assist the judge in differentiating between what is considered confidential information and what is considered non-confidential information. For further information on e-filing, see the\u00a0E-Filing Special Instructions page.
\n\u00a0
\nIt is a court order that helps protect people from harassment. Civil Harassment Restraining Orders are different from Family Law Domestic Violence Restraining Orders in that the person harassing is not for people who have dated or who are closely related. A person may seek protection if you are worried about your safety because you are being:
\nby someone with whom you do not have an intimate or familial relationship with, such as a neighbor or roommate, great-grand parent, great-grand child, niece/nephew, aunt/uncle, cousin, classmate, etc.
\n\nComplete a\u00a0Request for Civil Harassment Restraining Orders\u00a0(CH-100)\u00a0and make three copies. \u00a0A\u00a0Confidential CLETS Information (CLETS-001)\u00a0form,\u00a0the\u00a0Notice of the Court Hearing (CH-109),\u00a0and the Temporary Restraining Order (CH-110) should also be completed, but you do not need to make copies of these completed forms before filing.\u00a0
\n\nPresent completed forms and copies to the new filings clerk\u00a0in Room 103 of the Civic Center Courthouse.
\n\nPresent a completed\u00a0Dept. 514 Zoom Appearance\u00a0form to the subsequent filing clerk in room 103 at 400 McAllister Street.
\n\u00a0
\nIf you will need an\u00a0interpreter at your Restraining Order Hearing, tell the clerk in Room 103 when you file your restraining order forms so that one may be arranged for you.\u00a0
\n\nIf you (Protected Person) allege no violence in the petition, there will be a filing fee (please see the Statewide fee schedule for current fees) or you may qualify for a fee waiver.
\nIf petitioner alleges violence in the petition, there will be no filing fee, however if your request is denied by the Judge, you will be expected to pay the filing fee upon pick up of your order.
\nJudicial Council Forms to apply for a fee waiver:
\n\nIf you file your petition before 10 a.m., you may pick-up your restraining order the same day between\u00a02:30\u00a0p.m.- 4:30 p.m.\u00a0at window #1 in the\u00a0Civil Filing Office, Room 103.
\nIf you file your petition after 10 a.m., you may pick-up your restraining order the next court day between\u00a02:30\u00a0p.m.- 4:30 p.m.\u00a0at window #1 in the\u00a0Civil Filing Office, Room 103.
\nPlease pick up your order promptly to allow enough time to have the defendant(s) served with the Temporary Restraining Order and Notice of Court Hearing.\u00a0
\n\nYou can choose one of\u00a0three ways to serve the defendant:
\nYou can go through the Sheriff\u2019s Department (located in City Hall, Room 456 on the 4th Floor), or any law enforcement officer.\u00a0
\nThere is a\u00a0fee unless you have a granted fee waiver to go through the Sheriff\u2019s Department.
\nAny person who is at least 18 years old and is not a party to the action can serve the defendant on your behalf. Make sure the person fills out the Proof or Personal Service (CH-200)
\nHire a process server. You can find one online by searching in a web brower for \"process server.\" Make sure you get the completed Proof of Service form from the process server.
\nA Proof of Service must be completed and signed by the person who serves the other party. You must file the Proof of Service in Room 103 and bring a copy to your court hearing.
\n\nThere are two ways you can continue your court date on your Civil Harassment case.
\nBoth methods extend your Temporary Restraining Order so you will be protected until the new hearing date.
\n\nThe ACCESS Center can show you how to fill out the forms you will need, explain the filing process, and help you prepare for Court.
\n\nCourt Administrator, Wayne Parinas
\n400 McAllister St., Room 103
\nSan Francisco, CA\u00a0 94102-4514
Office Hours:\u00a0 Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. \u2013 12:30\u00a0p.m.
\nInformation (415) 551-4000
\n\u00a0
Court Manager
\n400 McAllister St., Room 103
\nSan Francisco, CA\u00a0 94102
\n\u00a0
Supervisor, (415) 551-3876
\n[email\u00a0protected]\u00a0
\nSupervisor,\u00a0(415) 551-4030
\n[email\u00a0protected]\u00a0\u00a0
\nSupervisor,\u00a0(415) 551-3955
\nClerk, (415) 551-3872
\n\u00a0[email\u00a0protected]
\n\u00a0[email\u00a0protected]\u00a0
\nSupervisor, (415) 551-3802
\n\nSupervisor,\u00a0(415) 551-5795
\nProbate Clerk:\u00a0[email\u00a0protected]\u00a0\u00a0
\nAppeals Clerk:\u00a0[email\u00a0protected]\u00a0
\nProbate Department
\n400 McAllister St., Room 202
\nSan Francisco, CA\u00a0 94102
\n(415) 551-3650
\nProbate Investigation Unit, (415) 551-3657
\n\u00a0
The Civil Grand Jury scrutinizes the conduct of public business of County government. Its function is to investigate the operations of the various officers, departments and agencies of the government of the City and County of San Francisco. Each Civil Grand Jury determines which officers, departments and agencies it will investigate during its term of office.
\n(View\u00a0Prior Years' Reports)
\n\u00a0
\n![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/i_civil_grand_jury.jpg\")
400 McAllister St., Room 008
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\n(415) 551-3605
\n
\nDirections
\n
\n8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m., Monday - Friday, excluding Court holidays
\u00a0
\n![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/youtube%20logo.jpg\")
\u00a0\u00a0See CJC Anniversary Video\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0
\n\u00a0\u00a0Visit the Civil Grand Jury on YouTube\u00a0\u00a0Hours of Operation: 8:30 a.m. - 12:30\u00a0p.m., Monday through Friday (except Court holidays)\u00a0
\nCalendars that are heard in Department 610:
\nTUESDAYS at 10:30 a.m.
\nWEDNESDAYS at 10:30 a.m.
\nCivil Case Management Clerk: (415) 551-3872
\nCourt Supervisor, Civil Case Management: (415) 551-3870
\nPlease Note: Court staff can not give legal advice.
\nInitiating filings for all General Civil case types except:\u00a0 Small Claims, Civil Harassment, Name/Gender petitions,\u00a0Probate Conservatorships and Guardianships, and Unlawful Detainers.
\nSubsequent filings for all General Civil case types, including:\u00a0Asbestos, Probate Estate cases,\u00a0Probate Trust cases, Complex Litigation cases and Unlawful Detainers.
\nSmall Claims, Initiating Unlawful Detainers, Civil Harassment, Name/Gender petitions, Probate Conservatorships and Guardianships, Judgments related to Sister State, Confession, Labor, and Summary\u00a0cases are not subject to the mandate
\nApplications for waiver of court fees and costs are accepted electronically in cases that are electronically filed. Per CRC 2.252 (f) The court must permit electronic filing of an application for waiver of court fees and costs in any proceeding in which the court accepts electronic filings.\u00a0
\nNo. Currently the only Probate cases\u00a0designated for electronic filing are Trust and Decendent Estate cases. See LRSF 2.11. In addition, refer to LRSF 14.60\u00a0for the exceptions and additions specific to Probate.
\nYes, Initial filings for all General Civil case types except:\u00a0\u00a0Civil Harassment, Name/Gender petitions,\u00a0and Unlawful Detainers.
\nPursuant to CCP 1010.6 (b)(3), any document received electronically by the Court between 12:00 a.m. and 11:59:59 p.m. on a court day shall be deemed filed on that court day. Any document that is received electronically on a non-court day shall be deemed filed on the next court day. (Effective date: 1/1/18)
\nNo Asbestos, Complex litigation and Probate Trust and Decedent's\u00a0cases must be e-filed through File & ServeXpress.
\nNo, in Civil cases, they are encouraged to do so, but e-filing is not mandatory for self-represented litigants or non-parties. In Probate Trust cases, once a self-represented litigant chooses to e-file, such chosen filing method must be used exclusively in that case [see LRSF 14.100(B)].
\nE-filing rules are contained in San Francisco Superior Court local rule 2.11.
\nYes, pending cases under this mandate will be required to e-file subsequent filings.
\nDocuments issued by the Court, Summons for Unlawful Detainer Cases, Orders of Examination, Writs, Abstracts,\u00a0Bonds, and DMV Certifications, must be submitted conventionally in paper form. (see San Francisco Local Rule 2.10R).
\nNo.
\nFor questions about available vendors and how to e-file in the San Francisco Superior Court, visit the Court Approved Vendor List.
\nUsers must submit one courtesy paper copy of all filed documents requiring Court review, action, or signature directly to the assigned Judge's department. These courtesy copies must be delivered to the Court not later than 1:30 p.m. of the day following electronic filing, except all papers\u00a0related to motions brought on shortened time must be delivered to the Judge's department as early as practicable but at least before the time set for hearing. All courtesy copies must append the relevant vendor's transaction receipt.
\nCourtesy copies for the Probate Department must be endorsed filed, Copies must include the hearing date in the caption of the document and should be directed to the attention of specific staff members to the extent known, i.e.,\u00a0Director, Assistant Director, assigned Examiner, or assigned Investigator.
\nThe convenience fee will be $2.25\u00a0per transaction. You may submit more than one filing per transaction, provided it is the SAME case. The service fee is $10.80.
\nThe Court has selected six vendors that will provide e-filing services and has no plans to expand the list at this time.
\nCORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) UPDATE
\nIn light of the current public health crisis, all attorneys are encourage to appear telephonically. Telephone appearance must be arranged through Court Call by calling 1-888-88-COURT. No prior notice or permission is required.
\nOfficial tentative ruling phone line: (415) 551-4000
\nThe phone line is the only official posting of tentative rulings. Tentative rulings may also be viewed online by following these steps:
\nIn both Asbestos and CEQA actions, any party who wishes to contest a tentative ruling must send an e-mail to [email\u00a0protected] no later than 4:30 p.m. the court day before the hearing stating, without argument, their intention to contest. The e-mail must refer to the line number, case number, short case title and the party you represent. This notification to the court is in addition to rules dictating notice to all other parties. Failure to follow this procedure may result in the court adopting its tentative ruling or continuing the hearing.\u00a0
\nPlease note that this e-mail address is strictly for contesting tentative rulings only.\u00a0
\nAsbestos actions filed in this court are dictated by San Francisco Superior Court Local Rule 20.
\nLocal Rule 20 codifies many prior orders of the Asbestos Department, including the following:
\nSuperior Court of California, County of San Francisco Local Rules of Court: Rule 6.10
\nJudge\u00a0Cynthia Ming-mei Lee
\nAsbestos and CEQA Judge
\n400 McAllister St.
\nDept. 503
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
Hearing Officer:
\nPang V. Ly, Esq.
\n400 McAllister St., Room 603
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\nTelephone (415) 551-3791
\nEmail:\u00a0[email\u00a0protected]
Clerks:\u00a0
\nLead clerk: (415) 551-3716
\nCalendar clerk: (415) 551-3706
The Appellate Division Calendar is held on alternate Fridays at 2 p.m. in Department 622, Civic Center Courthouse, for appeals from Misdemeanor, Traffic and Limited Civil Jurisdiction cases.Members of the public may listen to these proceedings through the CourtCall access line: 415-796-6280, access code 12129863#.
\nSan Francisco Superior Court Appellate Case Inquiry\u00a0
\n\nSan Francisco Local Rules, Appellate Division 15.8
\nThese guidelines apply to appeals from a Limited Civil Jurisdiction case to the San Francisco Superior Court Appellate Division.
\nSan Francisco Superior Court Case Inquiry
\n\nThese guidelines apply to appeals from an Unlimited Civil Jurisdiction case to the California First District Court of Appeal.
\nCalifornia First District Court of Appeal\u00a0contact information.
\nUnlimited Jurisdiction Appeals: (415) 551-3671
\nLimited Jurisdiction and Small Claims Appeals: (415) 551-3675
\nJuvenile Appeals: (415) 551-3672
Civic Center Courthouse
\n400 McAllister St.
\nRoom 103, Window 28
\nSan Francisco, CA\u00a0 94102-4514
Appellate Division: (415) 551-3675
\nAttention All Users: Please be advised that users must have Adobe Acrobat Reader 7.0 or 8.0 to view case documents. If you do not have Reader, visit the Adobe site to download this free software. You also must be aware that your pop-up blocker must be OFF in order to view our PDF documents. If you encounter difficulties viewing court documents, please contact Adobe and your browser manufacturer to ensure you have the proper modules loaded on your computer.
\n* Adobe Reader 7.0 or 8.0 must be attached to Safari to view PDF documents. If the browser is not properly associated with Adobe Reader, you will not be able to view our documents.
\nPop-up blockers must be turned off. If not, our court documents, which are displayed as PDF documents, cannot be opened. You will need to turn off your browser's pop-up blocker and any other blockers installed on your computer. You may want to allow certain sites to be displayed. The IP address you will need is 207.15.212.22.
\nSince we display scanned court documents in PDF, the TIFF Viewer will no longer be used and is not available on this site.
\nAdobe Acrobat Reader is a requirement for viewing scanned documents. If this free program is not already installed on your computer, please visit the Adobe Web site to download Acrobat Reader. If you are using Safari please see the Adobe Reader statement above about properly attaching your browser to Acrobat Reader. At this time we only support Acrobat Reader 7.0 or 8.0.
\nFamily Court Services (FCS) is staffed by mental health practitioners who work with families with children when there are disputes. The FCS staff provides mediation services in both Family Law cases that involve either child custody and/or timeshare plans (visitations schedules) and in Juvenile Dependency cases. The main function of FCS is to provide mediation services\u2014although it also provides other services to the Court and families.
\nNOTICE: PLEASE SEE THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION BELOW REGARDING OUR TEMPORARY CONFIDENTIAL MEDIATION SERVICES WHILE THE COURT HAS SCALED DOWN ITS OPERATION DURING THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC.
\nFCS Readiness Calendar Remote Orientation and Mediation Instructions:
\nFamily Court Services Remote Mediation Instructions (English)
\nFamily Court Services Remote Mediation Instructions (Spanish)
\nFamily Court Services Remote Mediation Instructions (Chinese)
\nOrientation Handbook: A Guide to Family Court (English)
\nOrientation Handbook: A Guide to Family Court (Spanish)
\nOrientation Handbook: A Guide to Family Court (Chinese)
\nClick here to complete the Confidential Screening Form, which is available in English and Spanish. Click on the arrow in the form to open language choices:\u00a0https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SFUFCServicesForm\u00a0
\nConfidential Screening Form\u00a0(Chinese)\u00a0Email to\u00a0[email\u00a0protected]
\nADDITIONAL FAMILY COURT SERVICES RESOURCES AND HANDOUTS
\nThe following handouts may be useful during your mediation process:
\n\n\nFamily Code 3044 Sheet (Spanish)
\nOTHER SERVICES
\nSan Francisco Superior Court provides a list of private custody evaluators, counselors, and parenting coordinators who can assist litigants and their attorneys with treatment, assessment and clinical support involving custody and visitation disputes. The following list of custody evaluators and parenting coodinators are private practioners who have requested to be included on this list. The San Francisco Superior Court does not specifically endorse the services of any particular provider on this list.
\n\n\nAttorneys are invited to participate in mediation. The mediator retains discretion as to how to incorporate counsel into the session. Attorneys who decide not to participate in the mediation session are considered to have waived the ex parte communication rules governing mediator attorney communications.
\n\u00a0
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\n400 McAllister St. \u2013 Room 402
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
8:30 a.m. - 2\u00a0p.m., Monday - Friday (excluding Court holidays)
\nInformation about Mediation Services only:
\n(415) 551-5060 or (415) 238-3623
Information about case status or court hearings:
\n(415) 551-3900
Judge\u00a0Monica F. Wiley, Supervising Judge\u00a0
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\nDepartment 405
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 551-3747
Judge Maria E. Evangelista
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\nDepartment 403
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 551-3741
Judge Victor M. Hwang
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\nDepartment 404
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 551-3744
Judge Roger C. Chan
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\nDepartment 405
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 551-3747
Judge Newton J. Lam
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\nDepartment 406
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 551-3750
Judge Susan M. Breall
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\nDepartment 425
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\nCourt Clerk
\n(415) 551-3759
Unified Family Court Services Staff
\nActing Court Manager
\nFelicia Fleming, LCSW
\n(415) 551-5983
Mediator
\nCatherine Gerace
\n(415) 551-5923
Mediator
\nVenecia Margartia
\n(415) 551-5906
Mediator
\nMichelle Miller
\n(415) 551-5984
Mediator
\nSonji Walker
\n(415) 551-4057
Mediator
\nMaya Ponce
\n(415) 551-3965
Mediator
\nCelia Wang
\n(415) 551-4010
\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0
The Civic Center Courthouse is home to the popular Starchef Caf\u00e9. Hours of operation are Monday-Thursday 7:30 a.m.- 3:30 p.m. and Fridays 7:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
\nKnow Before You Go:
\nIf you do not have a case number, you should obtain a RAP sheet before requesting criminal records. Please visit the San Francisco Police Department, Indentification Bureau, Room 475 (4th floor), Hall of Justice, to request your local RAP sheet information.
\nRecords Request Form & Instructions
\nCriminal Clerk's Office:
\nRoom 101
\nHall of Justice\u00a0
\nDirections
Hours of Operation:\u00a0
\nMonday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 12:30\u00a0p.m.\u00a0(except Court holidays)
\nPhone Hours:\u00a0
\nCriminal Records Department Phone Number: (415) 551-0651
\n
\nMonday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 2:00\u00a0p.m.\u00a0(except Court holidays)
Certificate of the Record:
\nA Certificate of the Record\u00a0is a document that certifies conviction and sentencing disposition of the defendant's case. Certificates are $40\u00a0per court number.
\nMost civil disputes are resolved without filing a lawsuit, and most civil lawsuits are resolved without a trial.\u00a0 Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is a term used to describe various processes in which a neutral person helps people resolve their case without a trial.\u00a0
\nADR is designed to take place as early as possible in the life of a case, to provide an opportunity to settle all or part of the case and keep litigation expense to a minimum. ADR is typically faster, cheaper and less stressful than going to court. \u00a0ADR also lets people resolve their disputes in a more private environment.
\nParties in a civil case can use a mediator, arbitrator, or settlement conference neutral for assistance in resolving a case. \u00a0Click on the ADR Information Package for more information about our various ADR options.
\nThis comprehensive guide to Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR) provides information and resources to learn all about mediation and settling cases out of Court.
\n\nJudicial Mediation Program Information Sheet
\n\nElizabeth M. Kelber
\nADR Administrator
\n400 McAllister St. - Room 103-A
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
\n(415) 551-3970 FAX: (415) 551-5748
\nADR Clerk (415) 551-3869
Most cases go through the Family Law Facilitator and Self Help Center in Room 509 if you do not have an attorney. After your papers have been prepared and reviewed by the Facilitator's Office, they must be filed in Room 402. You will be assigned a Monday morning hearing date. This court date is called the Readiness Calendar. Your filed papers must be properly served on the other party in the timeframe required by law. The proof of service should be filed with the Court before the hearing date. You should always keep copies of all of your court paperwork.
\nCases that include a dispute over custody or visitation are set on the Monday morning Readiness Calendar. When cases are called, the Court orders the parties to orientation immediately following the calendar call (the orientation is from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.). You also will be given the dates for a mediation session and a court hearing date before you leave the courtroom for orientation.
\nCases that include a request for a restraining order, in addition to custody and visitation issues, are set on Wednesdays. The parties proceed from Court to separate 1-hour orientations. Immediately after the orientation, the parties meet with a mediator, one at a time, to work out a parenting plan. The mediation session does not address the restraining order request. That issue will be dealt with after the mediation when the parties return to Court for a short hearing. (See Family Court Services for more information related to mediation services).
\nYou should bring a list of all the things you want the Court to order. You should also bring any papers that will show the Court that it should order what you want. For example, if you don't want your child to spend the night before school with his or her other parent because your child is late to school on the days following overnights, bring in a signed paper from the school that shows your child's absence or tardiness on those days.
\nIf you do not have an attorney, the Court is counting on you to act as your own attorney. The Court needs you to say what you're requesting and why. This is why it's a good idea to write down your ideas so you don't forget anything. The Court will want you to describe your request and to present any evidence you have as quickly as possible. Always talk directly to the Judge. You should never talk directly to your child's other parent or his or her attorney.
\nRequests for Orders and Orders to Show Cause that do not include requests for custody and/or visitation are heard on the 9 a.m. short cause hearing calendar on Tuesdays and Thursdays in Departments 403 and 404. Parties are limited to a total of 20 minutes for their hearing. Requests for Restraining Orders when the parties have children together are heard on Wednesdays at 8:30 a.m. in Departments 403 and 404. Requests for Restraining Orders when the parties do not have children together are heard on Fridays at 9 a.m. in Department 404.
\nMandatory Settlement Conferences are scheduled every Friday morning.
\nStatus Conferences are on Monday mornings at 10 a.m. in Departments 403 and 404.
\nLaw and motion matters and orders to show cause may be put on the 9 a.m. calendar in the appropriate department on Tuesdays or Thursdays only. These are short cause hearing calendars and parties may not exceed a total of 20 minutes for their hearing. Please select one of these days and put the date on your order to show cause or notice of motion. The clerk will try to accommodate the date as court time allows.
\nIf you are interested in how crowded the court calendar is, or to find out if the Judge is available on a certain date, contact the calendar clerk at (415) 551-3906.
\nYou may file your Request for Order for both custody and financial issues together. The Court may hear the financial issues on the same day as the custody issue if time permits. Otherwise, the custody matters will be given priority.
\nAll adoptions are heard on Monday morning at 8:45 a.m. in Department 405. The calendar is maintained exclusively by the Adoptions Coordinator. No adoption will be calendared until copies of the decree of adoption, the consent and agreement, and the accounting report have been lodged with the Adoptions Coordinator. The Coordinator can be reached at (415) 551-3900.
\nDue to state budget cuts, Official Court Reporters will only be provided by the Unified Family Court at the following calendars: Family Law & Motion; Domestic Violence Calendars; Domestic Violence and Contempt Long Cause matters; Self-Represented Litigants Law & Motion calendar; All Child Support matters in department 416; and all Dependency matters. Official Court Reporters will not normally be provided by the Court for Family Law Long Cause hearings or trials. To obtain a transcript, call the Department in which the matter was heard and ask the Clerk who the Court Reporter was on a given date. The Clerk will put you in touch with the correct reporter. If the Clerk is unable to provide you with the Court Reporter's name, call (415) 551-3778. Requests for transcripts also may be made by email at [email\u00a0protected]
\nSuperior Court staff are not permitted, under state law, to give legal advice. You can call the Bar Association of San Francisco Lawyer Referral line at (415) 989-1616 for a possible referral. Please consult the Family Law Facilitator and the Family Law Self-Help Center for other services to help you.
\nThe Family Law Facilitator and Family Law Self-Help Center is located in Room 509 of the Civic Center Courthouse. They will help you put together your own paperwork and will tell you what you do after you've finished the paperwork. The Family Law Facilitator services are free and are available in English and Spanish. The Family Law Facilitator does not give legal advice but will help guide you through the paperwork necessary to get into Court. You can contact the Family Law Facilitator at (415) 551-3991 for information on when you can be seen by them.
\nIn many cases the Department of Child Support Services can help you bring a request for child support to Court. In all cases, the Department can help you recover child support payments once the Court has made an order for payment. The Department also can help file papers related to the paternity of a child. You can reach the Department at (415) 356-2700 at the Mission Office. If your zip code is 94124 or 94134, call (415) 550-3500 for the Bayview Office.
\nIf a child is in need of immediate help you should dial 911. If you want to make a child abuse report for investigation, call (415) 558-2650 or 1-800-856-5553. If the abuse is not in San Francisco, call that county's Child Emergency Services. You can get the phone number by calling information in that county.
\nCall the Clerk at (415) 551-3900 for information or use the link to Fees
\nMost guardianships are established through the Probate Department, not through the Unified Family Court. More information is available here.
\nPlease note: Some forms are available in other languages for information only. Answers must be written in English on the English version of the form.
\nRule 1.150
\nMedia Request to Photograph, Record, or Broadcast\u00a0(form MC-500)
Order on Media Request to Permit Coverage (form MC-510)
\nFact Sheet: Cameras in the Court
\nAttention Media:\u00a0Local Rule on Media Access in the Court (Effective Date January 1, 2016)
\nSection 5:31\u00a0 PUBLIC COMMENT ON CASE PENDING BEFORE THE JUDGE
\n\"Comment on a case pending before the judge or on appeal could affect the outcome in the case and display bias. The judge's need to comment is not as important as the need to maintain the appearance of fairness and impartiality during the pendency of proceedings.\"
\nHall of Justice Veteran to Retire After Serving 31 Years on the San Francisco Bench, 04-22-19
\nSan Francisco Superior Court Seeks Qualified Attorneys for Successful Case Settlement Program, 03-08-19
\nSan Francisco Superior Court Judges Seek Candidates for Civil Grand Jury, 02-05-19
\nPresiding Judge Garrett L. Wong Announces 2019 Judicial Assignments, 01-07-19
\u00a0
\n
Ken Garcia
\nCommunications Director
\n400 McAllister St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
\n(415) 551-5957 (Office)
\n(415) 551-4017 (FAX)
\n[email\u00a0protected]
You must have Acrobat Reader installed on your computer to read the files marked with a PDF icon. If you do not have Acrobat Reader, click on this link to download this free Adobe Software.
\n| How to Request Accomodations | \nDeaf or Hearing Impaired | \n
| Request for Accommodations Form | \n\n\n | \n
| Rule 1.100 | \n\n\n | \n
| ADA Coordinators | \n\n\n | \n
| \n\n | \n\u00a0 | \n
The Court recognizes that individuals who are deaf or hard-of-hearing are unable to participate in court proceedings and unable to benefit from court programs and services when they are not provided with appropriate auxiliary aids and services. Likewise, people who are blind or have low vision are unable to benefit from court services when printed materials are the only means of communication available.
\n
A TDD line has been installed for persons who are deaf or heaing impaired. The access number is (415) 551-4001.
\nQuestions related to all branches of the San Francisco Superior Court can be handled via this number.
\nAmerican Sign Language (ASL) interpreters are available through the Court at no charge to the requesting party.
\nAssistive listening devices are available and may be obtained by contacting the courtroom clerk IN EACH DEPARTMENT.
Accessible Telephones:
\n\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Civic Center Courthouse: \u00a0 \u00a0Every Floor
\n\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Hall of Justice: \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 To The Right of the Metal Detectors
\n\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Youth Guidance Center: \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a02nd and 3rd Floor Across from the Elevators\u00a0\u00a0
The Court will ensure that communications with individuals with disabilities are as effective as communications with others. The Court when possible, will provide appropriate auxiliary aids and services for people with disabilities (e.g., CART for deaf and hard-of-hearing persons, qualified interpreters, computer-aided transcription services, assistive listening systems, written materials, audio recordings, computer disks, large print, and Braille materials) to ensure that individuals with disabilities will be able to participate in the complete range of court services and programs. The Court will give primary consideration to the type of auxiliary aid or services that individual with disabilities request. The Court will make reasonable efforts to accommodate disability accommodation requests made less than five days before a hearing or other court appearance.
\n\u00a0The Court\u2019s list of certified CART providers is presented below:
\nKatherine Baca
\n110 Gardenside #502
\nSF, CA 94131
\n(415) 279-7195
\n[email\u00a0protected]
Jane James
\nCaptioning Agency Professionals (CAP)
\n6031 Girvin Drive
\nOakland, CA 94611
\n(510) 530-3989
\n[email\u00a0protected]
Laura Brewer
\nLaura Brewer & Associates
\n49 Lyell St.
\nLos Altos, CA 94022
\n(650) 949-1900
\n[email\u00a0protected]
Teri Darrenougue
\nLaura Brewer & Associates
\n49 Lyell St.
\nLos Altos, CA 94022
\n(650) 949-1900
\n[email\u00a0protected]
\n\u00a0
\nRichard A. Walker
\n(510) 525-3327
\n[email\u00a0protected]
Audrey Maloney\u00a0
\n(415) 531-4502
\n[email\u00a0protected]
Captioning Online
\n14895 14th St.
\nSan Leandro, CA 94577
\n(707) 476-8737
\n[email\u00a0protected]
CART\u00a0
\nP.O. BOX 20278
\nCastro Valley, CA 94546
\n(510) 888-9825\u00a0
| Civic Center Courthouse | \n\u00a0 | \n
| \n \u00a0Adrienne Williams | \n\n Website: http://www.sfsuperiorcourt.org Accessible telephones: Every floor \n | \n
| Hall of Justice | \n\u00a0 | \n
| \n Rose Gonzalez | \n\n Website: http://www.sfsuperiorcourt.org | \n
| Polk Street (Community Justice Center) | \n\u00a0 | \n
| \n Maria Batres | \n\n Website: http://www.sfsuperiorcourt.org \u00a0 \n | \n
| Youth Guidance Center | \n\u00a0 | \n
| \n Yvette King | \n\n Website: http://www.sfsuperiorcourt.org/ Accessible telephones: 2nd and 3rd floors across from the elevators \n | \n
Revised: December 2021
\nIt is the policy of the San Francisco County Superior Court to assure that qualified individuals with disabilities have equal and full access to the judicial system. Court staff shall make every effort to assist individuals requesting reasonable accommodations in accordance with Rule 1.100 of the California Rules of Court (CRC).
\nMost requests for accommodations will be oral and should be easily and expeditiously provided. Complicated or extraordinary requests for accommodation may necessitate completion of form MC 410, Request for Accommodations by Persons with Disabilities and Order. The Interactive Process is an ongoing dialogue between the individuals with disabilities requesting accommodation(s) and the appropriate ADA coordinator within the Court about possible options for reasonably accommodating an individual with a disability. This process includes ascertaining the individual\u2019s limitations and determining how they could be overcome with a reasonable accommodation, as well as identifying potential accommodations and assessing their effectiveness. Both the individual and the Court are required to participate in this process in good faith.
\n
\nThe Court will promptly inform the applicant of the determination to grant or deny an accommodation request. If the accommodation request is denied in whole or in part, the response will be in writing and the reason(s) will be provided in writing to the individual requesting the accommodation. Upon the request of the applicant, the Court may also provide an additional response in an alternative format. The response to the applicant will indicate whether the request for accommodation is granted or denied, in whole or in part, or an alternative accommodation is granted.
It shall be the responsibility of each court employee to familiarize themselves with CRC Rule 1.100, the use of Form MC 410 and established court procedures for processing request for accommodations.*
\nGrievances and Appeals:\u00a0If the Court denies your request for accommodation, you have 10 days from the date your request was denied to appeal the Court\u2019s decision. You must follow the procedures in California Rule of Court rule 1.100(g). If your request was denied by a Judge or Commissioner, you must file a petition for writ of mandate in the appropriate reviewing court under California Rules of Court rules 8.485-8.493 or 8.930-8.936. If your request was denied by any other Court staff, you must submit a written request for review under California Rules of Court rule 1.100(g). Please submit appeals to the ADA Coordinator. If you believe that the Court has otherwise discriminated against anyone on the basis of disability, you can follow the Court\u2019s Grievance Procedure for Disability Discrimination Complaints.
\n| Agency Name | \nPhone Number | \nServices For | \n
|---|---|---|
| \n Independent Living | \n\n (415) 543-6222 | \n\n All Disabilities \n
| \n
| \n Deaf Counseling, Advocacy & Referral Agency (DCARA), San Leandro \n | \n\n (510) 483-0753 \n | \n\n Deaf Persons \n
| \n
| \n Law Center for the Deaf \n | \n\n (510) 483-0922 \n | \n\n Deaf Persons \n
| \n
| \n AIDS Legal Referral Panel \n | \n\n (415) 701-1100 \n | \n\n Persons with HIV \n
| \n
| \n Family Caregiver Alliance \n | \n\n (415) 434-3388 \n | \n\n For families and caregivers of persons with disabilities \n
| \n
| \n Employment Law Center, Legal Aid Society \n | \n\n (415) 864-8848 \n | \n\n Employment Issues for persons with Mental Health Issues. Ask for Claudia Center \n
| \n
| \n Golden Gate Regional Center \n | \n\n (415) 546-9222 \n | \n\n Persons with Developmental Disabilities. Must be client or eligible for assessment with the center. \n
| \n
| \n Legal Assistance to the Elderly \n | \n\n (415) 538=3333 \n | \n\n Elderly Persons \n
| \n
| \n Legal Services \n | \n\n (415) 863-3762 \n | \n\n Family Law Issues \nLegal Services for: \n
| \n
| \n Bay Area Legal Aid \n | \n\n (415) 982-1300 \n | \n\n General Legal Questions \nCounseling & legal representation \n
| \n
To assure equal access, fair treatment, and the just and efficient resolution of disputes for all people asserting their rights under the law.
\nWe will be happy to help you if we can. However, we are allowed to help you only in certain ways since we want to be fair to everyone. This is a list of some things the court staff can and cannot do for you.
\n\n| \n We can \n | \n\n explain and answer the questions about how the court works. \n | \n\n We cannot \n | \n\n tell you whether or not you should bring your case to court. \n | \n
| \n We can \n | \n\n provide you the number of the local lawyer referral service, legal aid program and other services where you can get legal advice. \n | \n\n We cannot \n | \n\n tell what words to use in your court papers. However, we will check your papers for completeness. For example, we check for signatures, notarization, correct county name, correct case number and presence of attachments. \n | \n
| \n We can \n | \n\n give you general information about court rules, procedures and practices. \n | \n\n We cannot \n | \n\n tell you what to say in court. \n | \n
| \n We can \n | \n\n provide court schedules and information on how to get a case scheduled. \n | \n\n We cannot \n | \n\n give you an opinion about what will happen if you bring your case to court. \n | \n
| \n We can \n | \n\n give you information from your case file. \n | \n\n We cannot \n | \n\n talk to the Judge for you. \n | \n
| \n We can \n | \n\n provide you with court forms that are available, \n | \n\n We cannot \n | \n\n let you talk to the judge outside of Court. \n | \n
| \n We can \n | \n\n usually answer questions about court deadlines and how to compute them. \n | \n\n We cannot \n | \n\n change an order signed by a Judge. \n | \n
\u00a0
\n| Court staff do not know the answers to all questions about court rules, procedures and practices. We have been instructed not to answer questions if we do not know the correct answer. For additional information, please contact a lawyer or your local law library, or check the California Courts Self-Help Center. | \n
T. Michael Yuen, Chief Executive Officer
\nThe CEO is the chief executive of the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco, who is responsible for managing approximately\u00a0420 employees, overseeing a\u00a0$76.9 million budget and implementing Court policies and procedures.
Please contact Court Administration at 400 McAllister Street, Room 205 or 415-551-5737 as soon as possible if you have had an item misplaced at the Court. All unclaimed items placed in the Court's Lost and Found will be discarded after 30 days.\u00a0
\n
\nT. Michael Yuen
Administrative Offices
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\n400 McAllister St. Room 205
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\n(415) 551-5737
Family Court Services provides mediation services in juvenile dependency cases. Dependency mediation services are free and confidential. All parties are ordered, and non-parties may be encouraged, to attend the mediation so that everyone involved in the child's life can participate in making the best plan possible for that child. Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) are always invited to a mediation that involves the child with whom they are working. The parties are ordered to attend mediation on a specific day and time.
\nThe mediator meets everyone in the Civic Center Courthouse, Room 402. The mediator explains how mediation works before beginning the session. Sometimes the mediator meets with everyone together. Sometimes the mediator meets with smaller groups of people. Everyone is given the opportunity to talk. The focus of the discussion is what the child needs from everyone involved. How can we make things better for the future?
\nChildren should not be brought to mediation or to Court unless the Court has specifically ordered them to appear. If children do attend the mediation the mediator will meet first with the child and his or her attorney or other support person. The child may, or may not, participate in the rest of the mediation.
\nAt the end of the mediation session, the mediator will write up the parties' agreement so that it can be presented to the Court. The parties go directly from the mediation session to the courtroom. The parties will present their agreement to the Court and request that it be made a Court order. If there is no agreement, the Court will schedule a hearing date to deal with any issues not resolved during the mediation.
\nSupervising Judge\u00a0Monica F. Wiley
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\n400 McAllister St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\nDepartment 405
\nCourt Clerk (415) 551-3747
\nDirections
Court Administrator
\nWayne Parinas
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\nRoom 402
Manager
\nDonna Guillroy
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\nRoom 402
\n(415) 551-5910
General Information (415) 551-4007
\nCourt Manager
\n(415) 551-3908
Court Supervisor
\nAngelique Andreozzi
\n(415) 551-3900
Clerk's Office
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\nRoom 402
\n(415) 551-3900
8:30 a.m. - 2\u00a0p.m., Monday - Friday,\u00a0excluding Court holidays.
\nCalendar Clerk (Not applicable to Dependency)
\n(415) 551-3906
These guidelines are not Rules of Court and do not have the force and effect of Rules of Court. They are standards drafted to formalize the view of the members of the San Francisco Bar Association as to the level of professional conduct expected for the practice of law within the jurisdiction of the courts of the City and County of San Francisco. While litigation is largely an adversarial process and attorneys are ethically bound to zealously represent and advocate their clients' interests, certain guidelines of professional courtesy that should be observed and certain duties of professionalism that are owed by attorneys to their clients, opposing parties, opposing parties' counsel, the courts and the public as a whole.
\nThese guidelines are not meant as a substitute for other statutes and rules. None of these guidelines is intended to be a method to extend time limitations of statutes and rules including fast track time limitations without an appropriate court order. These guidelines are not meant to be exhaustive, but they are meant to set a tone or guide for conduct not specifically mentioned in these guidelines.
\nThese have been adopted by the Courts of the City and County of San Francisco as guidelines.
\nNo attorney shall engage in any bias or discrimination based on age, gender, sexual orientation, physical or mental impairment, religion or race while litigating.
\nConsistent with existing law and court orders, an attorney should grant a reasonable request by opposing counsel for an extension of time within which to respond to a pleading, discovery, and other matters, when such an extension will not prejudice his or her client or unduly delay a proceeding.
\nAn attorney should only initiate discovery requests that are reasonably related to the matter at issue. An attorney shall not use discovery (i) for the purpose of harassing, embarrassing or causing the adversary to incur unnecessary expenses, as a means of delaying the timely, efficient and cost-effective resolution of a dispute; or (ii) to obtain an unfair advantage. An attorney shall avoid repetitive or argumentative questions, questions asked solely for the purposes of harassment, or questions which are known to the questioner to be an invasion of the rights of privacy of third parties not present or represented.
\nSimilarly, an attorney should ensure that responses to reasonable discovery requests are timely, complete and responsive to the discovery request. An attorney responding to written discovery should not do so in an evasive or artificial manner designed to assure that answers and responses are not truly responsive or solely to attempt to avoid a disclosure.
\nMotions should be filed sparingly, in good faith and when the issue(s) cannot be otherwise resolved. An attorney should, whenever appropriate, stipulate to all facts and legal authority not reasonably in dispute. An attorney should not engage in conduct which forces opposing counsel to file a motion and then not oppose the motion, or provide information called for in the motion only after the motion is filed.
\nAn attorney should inform his or her client that conflicts with opposing counsel are professional and not personal, that vigorous advocacy is not inconsistent with professional courtesy, and that the conduct of counsel in litigation should not be influenced by ill feelings or anger between clients and their conduct, attitude or demeanor toward opposing attorneys. Further, an attorney should refrain from disparaging or denigrating the Court, opposing counsel, or, except in the course of appropriate examination or argument, parties, or witnesses before clients, the public, or the media.
\nTrials calendared in the Master Calendar Department (Department of the Presiding Judge, Room 206, Civic Center Courthouse) is called\u00a0as follows:
\nPlease remember the Court has no Motion Calendar or Ex Parte Calendar on Tuesday when Monday is a Court holiday.
\nThere are no tentative decisions in Department 206.
\n**Note About Electronic Equipment\u00a0in Trial Departments**
\nWith the exception of a 6-feet-by-6-feet white screen available in all trial departments, parties must provide ALL other electronic equipment, including extension cords, projectors, laptops, etc.
\nAll parties are ordered to call (415) 551-3685 or email the court at [email\u00a0protected]\u00a0seven to\u00a014\u00a0days before the trial date and provide the following information:\u00a0
\nParties must appear on the day of trial unless a Notice of Dismissal, Settlement, or Stay is filed with courtesy copies delivered to Department 206 by 4 p.m. on the Thursday before trial. If the trial date is continued, this requirement applies to the new trial date. Failure to comply may result in monetary sanctions, C.C.P. 177.5.
\nThe Court believes in supporting the development of our next generation of trial attorneys. To that end, the Court encourages parties and senior attorneys to allow\u00a0newer practitioners\u00a0in Civil actions the opportunity to participate in court, either by arguing motions or examining witnesses at trial.
\nIn view of the Jameson v. Desta decision:\u00a0
\nFee waiver recipients who desire a verbatim record of a trial court proceeding must notify the court in writing by filing a notice, a request or other form of written notification.\u00a0The notice/request must be received within the following time perimeters:
\nFailure to make the request within the time perimeters listed above may result in the courts inability to honor your request in a timely manner, on the day of your hearing. \u00a0
\n
Presiding Judge Samuel K. Feng
\nDepartment 206
\n400 McAllister St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
Civic Center Courthouse
\nRoom 208
\n(415) 551-3693
Civic Center Courthouse
\nRoom 206
\n(415) 551-3705
Civic Center Courthouse
\nRoom 208
\n(415) 551-3984
Local Rules of Court Effective January 1, 2022
\nFind Judges by Department; in alphabetical order; and by courthouse. Find staff members by Division in Support Staff Telephone list. Also consult Divisions for specific contact information.
\n\n375 Woodside Ave.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94127
MUNI Metro: K-L-M cars to Forrest Hill station. Exit the station; proceed to Woodside Avenue (4-minunte walk).
\nCall (415) 673-MUNI (6864) or visit www.sfmuni.com for more information.
\nMUNI Buses: 44 O\u2019Shaughnessy; 43 Masonic; 52 Excelsior; 48 Quintara
\nBART: All lines from the East, South and West stop at the Glen Park station.
\nDirections from the Glen Park Center BART/MUNI station:
\nExit the station and proceed upstairs to street level. Cross the street to the northeast corner of Bosworth Street and Diamond Street. Take the 44 O\u2019Shaughnessy Bus up the hill and get off on the northwest corner of Woodside Avenue and Portola Drive. The Youth Guidance Center Courthouse is located directly outside of the bus stop.
\nTake I-80 West. Continue on US-101 South. Take the I-280 South Exit toward Daly City. Take the Monterey Boulevard exit. Make a sharp right at Monterey Boulevard. At the \u201cY,\u201d make a left at the next split to stay on Monterey Boulevard. Turn left at Bosworth Street (traffic light, BART on the right). Bosworth Street becomes O\u2019Shaughnessy Boulevard. Continue on O\u2019Shaughnessy Boulevard as it winds up the hill. Stay in the right lane. After the light at Twin Peaks Gas Station, O\u2019Shaughnessy Boulevard becomes Woodside Avenue. Turn right into parking lot. The entrance to the facility is right after you pass the Twin Peaks Gas Station.
\nFollow the signs for San Francisco I-280 and merge onto I-280 North. Slight left at CA-1/Junipero Serra Boulevard (signs for 19th Avenue/State Hwy 1 North). Junipero Serra Boulevard turns slightly right and becomes Portola Drive. Turn left at O\u2019Shaughnessy Boulevard/Woodside Avenue. Turn right into parking lot, the entrance to the facility is right after you pass the Twin Peaks Gas Station.
\nTake US-101 South. Take the State Highway 1 exit toward 19th Avenue. Merge onto CA-1 (19th Avenue), drive through Golden Gate Park, etc. Turn left on Sloat Boulevard. Get in the middle lanes to turn left at Junipero Serra Boulevard/Portola Drive (far left lane makes sharp turn onto West Portal). Turn left at O\u2019Shaughnessy Boulevard/Woodside Avenue. Turn right into parking lot, the entrance to the facility is right after you pass the Twin Peaks Gas Station.
\nThe Juvenile Justice Center has a parking lot, with a 4-hour free parking time limit. Parking is available on a first-come, first-serve basis and visitors must park in the assigned visitor section of the parking lot. Parking tickets will be given to any unauthorized parking or to those who park for more than 4 hours.
\nThere also is limited street parking available when the parking lot is full.
\nThere are a few disabled parking spots available upon entering the facility.
\n850 Bryant St.
\nHall of Justice (HOJ)
\nSan Francisco, CA 94103
Information on public transportation options in and around the San Francisco area:
\nhttp://transit.511.org/accessible/tripplanner/index.aspx
\nThe Hall of Justice is located seven blocks from the Powell Street Station. Walk South on 5th Street for five blocks. Turn right at Bryant Street and walk one block to 6th Street. The Hall of Justice is next to McDonalds between 6th and 7th streets.
\nFrom 80 Westbound, cross the Bay Bridge into San Francisco. Take the 5th Street exit. Stay in the middle lanes to drive directly onto Harrison Street. Turn Left on 8th Street. Turn Left on Bryant Street. HOJ is located at 850 Bryant St. between 6th and 7th streets; it will be on your left.
\nCross the San Mateo Bridge into Foster City. Take the 101 North exit. Stay on 101 North and follow the directions for 101 \"From the Peninsula.\"
\n(280 North)
\nTake the 6th Street Exit. Turn Left on Harrison. Turn Left on 8th Street. Turn Left on Bryant Street. HOJ is located between 6th and 7th streets; it will be on your left.
Take the 7th Street exit. Stay in the right lanes to drive directly onto Bryant Street. HOJ will be on left.
\nTake 101 South into San Francisco across the Golden Gate Bridge. Follow the curve on Doyle Drive to Lombard Street. Take Lombard to Van Ness Avenue. Turn right on Van Ness Avenue. Turn left on Golden Gate Avenue. Turn right on Hyde Street. Cross Market Street and Hyde Street becomes 8th Street. Turn left on Bryant Street. HOJ is located between 6th and 7th streets; it will be on your left.
\n\nMetered parking is available on streets surrounding the Hall of Justice.
\nPARKING LOTS/GARAGES located near the Hall of Justice:
\n400 McAllister St.
\n(Between Polk Street and Van Ness Avenue, near City Hall)
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
MUNI Metro: J-K-L-M-N cars to Van Ness and/or Civic Center stations
\nCall (415) 673-MUNI (6864) or visit www.sfmuni.com for more information.
\nMUNI Buses: 19 Polk; 31 Balboa; 49 Van Ness, 5 Fulton
\nBART: All lines from the East, South and West stop at the Civic Center station.
Directions from the Civic Center BART/MUNI station:
\nExit the station by the Grove Street exit. Proceed upstairs to street level. Travel one block north on Hyde Street to Fulton Street. Make a left on Fulton. Walk one block West toward City Hall on Fulton to Larkin Street. Make a right on Larkin and proceed to the intersection of Larkin and McAllister streets. Take a Left on McAllister Street and go one block. The courthouse is located on the corner of Polk and McAllister streets.
Cross the Bay Bridge and take 9th Street/Civic Center exit. Follow 9th Street, which becomes Larkin Street. Go two blocks. Make a left on McAllister Street. Go one block. The Civic Center Courthouse is on the corner of Polk and McAllister streets.
\nTake 101 North. Exit at 9th Street/Civic Center exit. Follow 9th Street, which becomes Larkin Street. Go two blocks. Make a left on McAllister Street. Go one block. The Civic Center Courthouse is on the corner of Polk and McAllister streets.
\nFrom the Golden Gate Bridge, take Doyle Drive to Lombard Street. Turn right on Van Ness Avenue. Turn left at McAllister and go one block. The Civic Center Courthouse is one the corner of Polk and McAllister streets.
\n\nThe Civic Center Courthouse does not have a public parking facility. Parking is available close to the courthouse at these locations:
\nCivic Center Plaza Garage
\nEnter on McAllister, between Polk and Larkin streets
\nHastings Garage
\n376 Larkin St.
\nBetween McAllister Street and Golden Gate Avenue
\nFox Plaza
\n1390 Market St.
\nEnter on Hayes Street, between Larkin and Polk streets
\nPerforming Arts Center Garage (Juror Discount Available)
\nEnter on Grove Street, at Gough Street
\nOpera Plaza Garage
\nEnter on Golden Gate Avenue at Van Ness Avenue
Traffic Court deals with violations of traffic laws and other minor offenses of state and county ordinances. These violations are considered \u201cinfractions\u201d and include, for example, speeding, cell phone violations, expired registrations and automobile equipment needing repair. Infractions are enforced by the issuance of citations (\u201ctickets\u201d) by law enforcement. Punishment for infractions requires payment of fines and does not carry any potential jail or prison time. Failure to respond to a citation may lead to additional penalties including imposition of a $300 Civil Assessment and the notification to the Department of Motor Vehicles of your failure to appear, pursuant to Vehicle Code section 40509.5.
\nIf you Received a Ticket, please read this important Information Sheet.
\nDid you receive a ticket, can't afford to pay?\u00a0Learn more about your options.\u00a0
\nThe San Francisco Superior Court does not handle parking tickets, please contact the\u00a0San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency.
\nA Reminder Notice is mailed to the address listed on the citation. This notice is usually received within 21 days from the date the citation was issued. The notice contains information about the requirements and options available for resolving the ticket, such as:
\nIf a Reminder Notice has not been received, contact the Court. If you are unsure about your options, appear at the Court no later than the date listed at the bottom of the citation.
\nYou may not have received a Reminder Notice due to the following: \u00a0
\nFailure to receive a Reminder Notice does not relieve you of the obligation to appear by the date stated in the Notice to Appear. By signing the citation, in front of the Officer, you have agreed to appear and/or respond to the citation in lieu of being arrested.\u00a0
\nFailure to appear or resolve a citation on or before the due date, or failure to appear at a scheduled hearing may result in:
\nIf You Fail to Appear In Court
\nOr Fail To Pay Your Citation,
\nIt Could Cost You $300.
You will receive this Notice of Civil Assessment to the Address listed on the Citation.
\nA civil assessment of $300 will be added to any traffic/infraction fine if you fail to post bail,\u00a0appear for your scheduled court date, or pay any fine ordered by the Court.\u00a0All delinquent citations will be referred to Alliance One\u00a0for collection. If your citation has been referred to Alliance One and you can't afford to pay,\u00a0learn\u00a0more\u00a0about your options.
\nCalifornia law permits the Court to impose a civil assessment of\u00a0$300 against any individual who fails, after notice and without good cause, to appear in Court for any proceeding, or who fails to pay all or any portion of a fine ordered by the Court. The civil assessment is imposed in addition to, and separate from, any fine connected with a traffic citation.
\nEven if you later contest your citation and win, you may be required to pay the civil assessment.
\nThe Court has entered into an agreement with\u00a0Alliance One to collect unpaid fines and civil assessments. If you fail to appear or fail to pay your fine, the Court will refer your matter to\u00a0Alliance One for immediate collection. The Court and\u00a0Alliance One will use a number of methods to collect unpaid fees and the civil assessment, including:\u00a0notice to the Department of Motor Vehicles, the garnishment or attachment of your wages, and other various collection methods.
\nDon't neglect your obligation to the Court ... it could cost you $300.
\nIf you disagree with the Court's ruling after a traffic trial, you have the right to an appeal. The appeal must be filed within 30 days of the ruling. Go to Room 145, Hall of Justice, and request a\u00a0copy of our packet titled \"Instructions on Appeal Procedures for Infractions.\u201d\u00a0The packet covers non-parking traffic matters and contains the\u00a0forms you need to file your Appeal. Complete these forms and take them to the Appeals clerk in Room 101, Hall of Justice.\u00a0After your paperwork is processed, you will be notified\u00a0by mail of the next step in the appeal process and subsequent hearing date.\u00a0Be aware that the fine ordered by the Court must be paid in Room 145 by the due date.
\nIf you received a citation for a correctable violation, such as an expired registration or no proof of insurance, you must submit \u2013 by the date at the bottom of your citation or the due date on your Reminder Notice \u2013 the proof of correction to the Court by mail or in person, along with a $25 fee per correctable violation. (See Vehicle Code Section 40611)
\nIf you received a citation for a mechanical violation, such as a broken tail light, you must correct the violation and then contact any law enforcement agency to arrange for an officer to verify and sign off on the correction. You must then mail, or bring to the Court, the signed citation along with the $25 fee.
\nIf you were cited for a expired registration violation, mail a copy of your current registration or bring your current registration to the Court, along with the $25 fee.
\nIf you were cited for a driver's license violation, either bring to the Court or mail, a copy of your driver's license, the citation signed off by the DMV and the $25 fee.
\nIf you were cited for no proof of insurance, mail or bring to the Court, proof of insurance that you were insured on the date of the violation, along with the $25 fee. Valid proof of insurance must show the driver's name, vehicle information and the insurance effective and expiration dates.
\n\u00a0
\n
Hall of Justice
\n850 Bryant St., Room 145
\nSan Francisco, CA 94103
\n8:30 a.m. - 12:30\u00a0p.m. Monday - Friday\u00a0(except\u00a0Court holidays)
To pay your citation call (415)\u00a0551- 8550 or go to the online payment system. Phone payments are available Monday -\u00a0Friday 4 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Pacific Standard Time), and Saturday -\u00a0Sunday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Pacific Standard Time).\u00a0Hours may vary on major holidays.
\nThe following law enforcement agencies issue tickets for offenses within the City and County of San Francisco:
\nDisputes are resolved quickly and inexpensively in Small Claims Court, where the rules are simple and informal. Litigants may not be represented by an attorney. Generally, claims are limited to $5,000. The jurisdictional limit is 10,000 for individuals who are filing a claim in the Small Claims Division.\u00a0 Corporations, partnerships, governmental entities, and other legal entities cannot claim more than $5,000. Individuals may file unlimited claims for up to $2,500 each in a year. However, individuals may only file two claims a year that seek more than $2,500.
\nCORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) UPDATE\u00a0\u00a0
\n\u00a0Apply to get help with your rent. You can get up to 18 months of rental assistance, including prospective rental assistance and utility assistance.\u00a0 To learn more, visit sf.gov/renthelp. Get free help with your application: call 833-687-0967 to make an appointment or visit housingiskey.com to apply online.\u00a0 If you have applied and need assistance, call the California COVID-19 Rent Relief Program Call Center at 833-430-2122. Please refer to the Information Regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Court Operations page (https://www.sfsuperiorcourt.org/general-info/Information-Regarding-Coronavirus-And-Court-Operations) for the most current information in light of the COVID-19 public health crisis
\nCase information is available at\u00a0S.F. Superior Court Online Services. You must have the case number or party name for an inquiry.
\n\u00a0
\nVideoconference Hearings in Small Claims
\n\u5c0f\u989d\u7d22\u8d54\u4e4b\u89c6\u9891\u4f1a\u8bae\u542c\u8bc1\u4f1a
\n\u5c0f\u984d\u7d22\u8ce0\u4e4b\u8996\u8a0a\u6703\u8b70\u807d\u8b49\u6703
\nMga Pagdinig sa Small Claims sa Pamamagitan ng Video Conference
\n\nAudiencias por videoconferencia en Reclamos Menores
\n\nEffective Monday, February 22, 2021, the Small Claims Department will be holding hearings by videoconference, and the public can view and/or listen to hearings, by clicking on the appropriate link below. At least 10 calendar days\u00a0before the hearing the party requesting to appear by Zoom must obtain and submit the following forms:\u00a0 \u00a0
\nIf you have evidence such as documents or pictures, which support your case, send them to the opposing party, and\u00a0Department 506\u00a0at least 5 days before\u00a0the hearing.\u00a0
\nSmall Claims (Department 506) Zoom link:\u00a0(https://sfsuperiorcourt-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_pQ8VosaNRGa78-kGyiMABg)
\nIf unable to join using the links above, the hearings may be joined by telephone by dialing:\u00a01-415-762-9988\u00a0
\nDepartment 506: Meeting ID: 86113173445\u00a0 Passcode: 805364
\nhttps://www.sfsuperiorcourt.org/self-help/small-claims
\nTHE SMALL CLAIMS MEDIATION PROGRAM IS TEMPORARILY SUSPENDED.
\nCase information is available at S.F. Superior Court Online Services. You must have the case number or party name for an inquiry.
\nSee Small Claims Instructions for what you need to file your Small Claims case.
\nTo request a Small Claims Forms\u00a0by mail, please send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to the Small Claims Division, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102. The Small Claims Packet with envelope weighs 3 ounces.
\nSmall Claims Video Conference Appearance\u00a0Package
\nIf you are unable to speak or understand English, bring a friend or someone else to help you. Court interpreters are not provided free of charge unless you are eligible for a fee waiver. If you would like to hire an interpreter for your Small Claims hearing, you may refer to the\u00a0California Interpreter Program (CIP)
\n
\nDepartment 506
\n400 McAllister St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
Clerk\u2019s Office Filing Window
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\n400 McAllister St., Room 103
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
8:30 a.m. \u2013 12:30\u00a0p.m., Monday \u2013 Friday, except Court holidays\u00a0
\n| \n Case Query On this site, you can look up Unlimited/Limited Civil, Family Law, Probate, and Small Claims cases by case number or by case name for cases filed from 1987 to present. For all other cases contact those court departments directly. \u00a0MORE \u00bb \nCivil UD and Rental Debt\u00a0Case Query:\u00a0\u00a0https://ud.sftc.org\u00a0 \n | \n\n\n | \n
| \n\n Search for Case Calendars by Case Type and Date. Information is available up to 120 calendar days from today. \n | \n\n\n | \n
| Courtroom Live Stream | \n\n\n | \n
| \n Criminal\u00a0\u2014\u00a0Upcoming Cases Report \n | \n\n\n | \n
| \n Tentative Rulings\u00a0\u2014\u00a0Civil (Non-Family) \n
| \n\n |
| \n\n Pay Traffic and Citations \n | \n\n\n | \n
| Traffic School & Administrative Fees \nSign up and pay for traffic school | \n\n\n | \n
The Probate Court deals directly with the everyday personal and financial matters of San Franciscans. Most people think of probate courts as working exclusively with wills and the financial affairs of people who have died. However, the Probate Court also deals with guardianships of children, conservatorships of adults, mental health treatment, trusts, and dependent adult restraining orders when related to an existing conservatorship. The Judge and staff of the San Francisco Probate Court are committed to the administration of justice with thoughtfulness and concern for the citizens of San Francisco.
\nADMINISTRATIVE ORDER OF THE PROBATE AND MENTAL HEALTH DIVISION RE: COVID-19 PANDEMIC (JUNE 28, 2021)
\n\n\nADMINISTRAVE ORDER OF THE PROBATE AND MENTAL HEALTH DIVISION RE: COVID-19 PANDEMIC (OCTOBER 30,2020)
\nADMINISTRATIVE ORDER OF THE PROBATE AND MENTAL HEALTH DIVSION RE: COVID-19 PANDEMIC (JULY 21, 2020)
\n\n\n\n\nADMINISTRATIVE ORDER OF THE PROBATE AND MENTAL HEALTH DIVISION RE COVID-19 PANDEMIC\u00a0(April 2, 2020)
\n\nHearing dates for all appearance matters are assigned by the filing clerk at the time the petition is filed. Other hearing times are:
\nIn view of the Jameson v. Desta decision:\u00a0
\nFee waiver recipients who desire a verbatim record of a trial court proceeding must notify the court in writing by filing a notice, a request or other form of written notification.\u00a0The notice/request must be received within the following time perimeters:
\nFailure to make the request within the time perimeters listed above may result in the courts inability to honor your request in a timely manner, on the day of your hearing.
\nIf a Judge decides that an adult cannot safely handle personal or financial affairs or both, the Judge may appoint an individual or an agency to manage the adult\u2019s affairs under Court supervision.
\n\nIn California, there are two types of guardianships for children. The first type is connected with the Juvenile Dependency Court\u00a0 .https://www.sfsuperiorcourt.org/divisions/ufc/juvenile-dependency In those cases, a child has been removed from the home by a Child Protective Services social worker because there is information that the child is being neglected, abused, or is in danger. The other type of guardianship is handled by the Probate Court. In these guardianships, the child lives with the person who is the guardian.
\n\nThe Judge of the Probate Department hears cases in the courtroom and administers the policies and procedures for this specialized court in San Francisco. The Probate Judge appoints people and at times institutions and agencies, to act as administrators and executors of wills, as trustees, as guardians of children, and as conservators of adults who cannot handle their own affairs. The Court also supervises these matters and reviews and approves the fees that are charged. In each probate matter, the Judge must apply the law, taking into account the views of all the people involved, the evidence that has been offered and the reports prepared by staff. The Judge must consider what is fair and in the best interests of the people who are involved.
\nThe Judge is assisted by an administrative staff, examiners and investigators, a lawyer from the Court's attorney staff, courtroom clerks, clerks who receive and process the documents filed by attorneys and the public, and by a bailiff in the courtroom. Examiners review all the petitions in the estates of deceased people, trusts, conservatorships and guardianships. They make certain that the law has been followed and that the accountings are accurate. The investigators go out into the community to see how people are doing, to inform them of their rights, and to report their circumstances, wishes, and concerns to the Judge.
\nAll Probate Estate and Trust cases are subject to e-filing. These cases have either a PES or PTR prefix.
\nProbate cases must be filed through File & ServeXpress.
\nJudge\u00a0Joseph M. Quinn, Supervising Judge
\nJudge Ross C.Moody
\n400 McAllister St.
\nDepartment 204
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
Probate Department - Room 202
\nJudge, Examiners (415) 551-3650
Director, Investigators (415) 551-3657
\nCourtroom Clerk (415) 551-3702
\nCourt Supervisor of Probate Section Clerk's Office\u00a0(415) 551-3924
\n\u00a0
\nClerks Office- 8:30 a.m. - 12:30\u00a0p.m., Monday through Friday, except Court holidays.
\nDepartment Office, Room 202-\u00a0 CLOSED\u00a0
\nThe San Francisco Superior Court seeks to provide the most efficient and convenient jury service experience. Daily reporting instructions, frequently asked questions, maps, parking information, and directions to the courthouse locations are available to assist you with your service.
\nSan Francisco Superior Court has two jury assembly rooms: Civic Center Courthouse, 400 McAllister St., Room 007 and the Hall of Justice, 850 Bryant St., Room 307. You can reach us by phone on the Juror Information Line: (415) 551-3608.
\nYou have been randomly selected by computer to serve as a trial juror. The selection of persons for jury service is accomplished by randomly drawing names from the list of registered voters and the Department of Motor Vehicles driver's license and identification card list for San Francisco. The law requires a fair cross-section of each county's qualified residents to be available each day for jury duty. Random summoning enhances juror impartiality. There is no attempt to deliberately inconvenience anyone.
\nThere is no statutory exemption for any occupation except certain categories of peace officers. However, a juror may be disqualified for service for various reasons, such as citizenship, residency, or prior service within the past 12 months. A juror may also ask to be excused for various reasons, such as financial hardship or the need to provide care to another person. The postcard summons has a QR code or URL to submit a request to be excused, postponed, or disqualifed from jury service.
\nIn order to accommodate your schedule, you may postpone, or reschedule, the start of your jury service once to a more convenient time. The postponement cannot exceed 6 months. You may postpone your service over the phone by calling the Jury Office at (415) 551-3608, entering your badge number (located on the back of the postcard summons), and following the instructions for postponement.\u00a0You may also postpone your service by using the QR code or URL to submit a request for postponement.
\nExcuses from service may be granted in specific circumstances. If you want to request to be excused, you may submit a request online by using the QR code or URL on your postcard summons. Requests for excuse or disqualification must be received online\u00a0and cannot be accepted over the phone.\u00a0 To check on the status of your request, you may call the automated system at (415) 551-3608 and enter your badge number.
\nThe U.S. Constitution and the California State Constitution guarantee the right to trial by jury. A\u00a0Postcard Summons is mailed to you to determine if you are qualified to serve jury duty (See Code of Civil Procedure, Section 203(a).)
\nBoth the voter registration and motor vehicle records are used as source lists for prospective jurors. Names are randomly selected from the countywide population by computer. If your name and address do not match exactly in both the voter registration and motor vehicle records, you may have more than one record in the jury system. If this happens, you may receive more than one summons in a 1-year period. If you receive more than one summons in a 1-year period, please contact the Jury Office at 415-551-3608.
\nThe Court receives its data from these two sources each year in October. If you have moved out of the City recently, the Court may have still received your name from either the DMV or the Department of Elections. You must notify DMV within 10 days of your move. Registering to vote in another county does not necessarily remove your name from the SF Department of Elections rolls; you should also call the Department of Elections to tell them that you no longer live in the City.
\nYou may be required to appear anytime during the 5-day period of your jury service. You are required to obtain reporting instructions, by calling the Court at (415) 551-3608 or visiting the website, every day for the duration of the one week of jury service. You are required to follow your reporting instructions for every day of your service week.
\nIf you are not required to report during the 5-day period, your jury service is completed for one year.
\nIf you are asked to report and come in to the courthouse, but are not assigned to a courtroom for jury selection on the day you report, your jury service is completed for one year.
\nIf you are assigned to a courtroom for jury selection that is not completed by the end of that day, you are required to return to finish the selection for that trial.
\nIf you are selected to serve on a trial, your term of service will be the length of that trial.
\nYes. The Court realizes prospective jurors may be summoned at an inconvenient time and is willing to postpone service to a more convenient time. You may postpone your jury service by calling the automated system at (415) 551-3608 or by using the QR code or URL to submit a request for postponement. Jurors are entitled to a one-time postponement not to exceed 6 months from the summons date.
\n
Juror Information Line
\n(415) 551-3608
\n8:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
\nMonday through Friday, except Court holidays
\nCivic Center Jury Assembly Room
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\n400 McAllister St., Room 007
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
Jury Assembly Room Hours:
\n8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
\nMonday through Friday, except Court holidays
\nDirections
Hall of Justice Jury Assembly Room
\n850 Bryant St., Room 307
\nSan Francisco, CA 94103
Jury Assembly Room Hours:
\n8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
\nMonday through Friday, except Court holidays
\nDirections
New Procedures to Conduct Business Online\u00a0in the Criminal Division
\nThe Criminal Court has jurisdiction over infraction, misdemeanor and felony cases. The Criminal Court conducts trials, motions, arraignments, preliminary hearings, probation hearings, mental health proceedings, and other types of criminal proceedings. These cases are heard in the Hall of Justice Building, 850 Bryant St. (between 6th and 7th streets). However, some criminal cases are heard in the Civic Center Courthouse, 400 McAllister St., and the Community Justice Center, 575 Polk St.
\nTo find out which department your case is being heard in, please review the Daily Calendar for criminal and traffic hearings, which is\u00a0displayed\u00a0on an electronic wall monitor outside Room 101, Monday-Friday, or call the Clerk\u2019s Office.
\nA felony case is a criminal action in which the defendant is charged with violation of a felony. Misdemeanor or infraction violations may be included.
\nA misdemeanor case is a criminal action in which the defendant is charged with a misdemeanor and it may include an infraction charge. It does not include any felony violations. Misdemeanors include serious traffic violations, such as driving under the influence, which may result in fines up to $2,000 and possible jail time.
\n\nPlease note that the Court does NOT handle parking citations. For information on how to take care of these citations, please contact SFMTA.
\nThe San Francisco County Jail is operated by the Sheriff's Department, not the Court. For information regarding inmates and arrested persons, call (415) 553-1430.
\nFor information regarding inmates housed at San Bruno, call (415) 266-7501.
\nNOTE: SUBMITTING MULTIPLE REQUESTS FOR THE SAME CASE NUMBER WILL CAUSE UNDUE DELAYS IN PROCESSING YOUR RECORD REQUESTS. PLEASE ALLOW 30 DAYS BEFORE SUBMITTING A SECOND REQUEST.
\nRequest for Criminal Records Viewing here
\nCriminal Records Department Phone Number (415) 551-0651.
\nThis following information only deals with criminal convictions obtained in California and is intended to assist you with cleaning up your criminal record. We do not guarantee any results for a particular case, nor is the information intended as legal advice.
\nIf you have been convicted of a crime you may be eligible for relief. Some convictions can be modified on your record so that when you apply for most jobs, you can legally indicate that you were not convicted of that crime. Other convictions may be reduced from felony to misdemeanor status in certain situations. Also, if you have completed a term in prison you may be eligible for a Certificate of Rehabilitation and Pardon.
\nThe California Courts website has detailed information and the necessary forms needed for cleaning up your criminal record.
\nThe San Francisco Public Defender\u2019s Clean Slate Program\u00a0may\u00a0also be able to assist you in this process.\u00a0
\nCourt Administrator -\u00a0Mark Culkins\u00a0(415) 551-0350
\nActing Court Manager, Criminal Division -\u00a0Sherife Huseny (415) 551-0665
\nCourt Manager, Comprehensive Collections Unit - Jennifer Chan (415) 551-8576
\nCourt Manager, Criminal Courtroom Clerks -\u00a0Gina Guidi (415) 551-4004
\nActing Court Manager, Criminal Operations, Sherife Huseny (415) 551-0665
\nCourt Interpreter Supervisor -\u00a0Rose Gonzalez\u00a0(415) 551-0656
\nCourt Supervisor, Criminal Master Cal -\u00a0Wesley Ramirez\u00a0(415) 551-7572
\nCourt Supervisor, Criminal Courtroom Clerks -\u00a0Cynthia Karadi (415) 551-0352
\nActing Court Supervisor, Criminal Operations\u00a0- Sharon Menis (415) 551-0696
\nCourt Supervisor, Criminal Records - Bryan Wong (415) 551-0684
\nAppeals, Felony (415) 551-0354 or (415) 551-0693
\nAppeals, Misdemeanors and Traffic (415) 551-0657\u00a0
\nArchives\u00a0 (415) 551-0679
\nBond Desk (415) 551-0608 or (415) 551-0691
\nComprehensive Collections Unit (415) 551-0670
\nDMV (415) 551-0683
\nExhibits (415) 551-0671
\nFilings (415) 551-0651
\nRecords (415) 551-0651
\nSubpoenaed Records (415) 551-0653
\n\u00a0
\nJudge Christopher C. Hite
\nSupervising Judge, Master Calendar
\nDepartment 22, 3rd Floor
\nHall of Justice
\n850 Bryant St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94103
Department 22 Courtroom Clerk: (415) 551-0322
\nFor more information about the Criminal Division, call General Information at (415) 551-0651.
\nCriminal Clerk\u2019s Office
\nRoom 101
\nHall of Justice
Monday-Friday\u00a08:30 a.m -12:30\u00a0p.m.\u00a0
\nDropbox Hours 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
\nPhone service is available from\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. 415-551-0651
\nCourt Reporters, as guardians of the record, are not only employees of the Court, but purveyors of transcripts for all interested parties. Their professional responsibilities include providing appellate transcripts to the California Court of Appeal and the Superior Court of California, as well as legislated transcripts arising out of criminal proceedings. Court reporters who report in civil, family and juvenile matters also work with law firms and the public to provide requested transcripts.
\nOrder it directly from the Court Reporter who took the proceedings. Call the Department in which the matter was heard and ask the Clerk who the Court Reporter was on a given date. The Clerk will put you in touch with the correct reporter.
\nIf the Clerk is unable to provide you with the Court Reporter's name, call (415) 551-3778. Requests for transcripts also may be made by email at [email\u00a0protected]. Include the date of the proceedings,\u00a0the Department and the Court Reporter's name in your email request to obtain\u00a0a transcript.
\nPursuant to Rule 2.956 (b)(1), and effective immediately, the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco, will post the Departments in which the services of Official Court Reporters will not normally be available during regular Court hours. A notice shall be posted on the outside of each affected Department and in the Clerk's Office, Room 103, Civic Center Courthouse.
\nPursuant to Rule 2.956(c), if the services of an Official Court Reporter are not available for a hearing or trial in a civil case, a party may arrange for the presence of a certified shorthand reporter to serve as an official pro tempore reporter. It will be that party's responsibility to pay the reporter's fee for the attendance at the proceedings, but the expense may be recoverable as part of the costs, provided by law.
\nIf a party arranges and pays for the attendance of the certified shorthand reporter, none of the parties will be charged the reporter's attendance fee provided for in Government Codes 68086 (a)(1) or (b) (1).
\nIt is further noticed that the stenographic notes of the certified shorthand reporter are the official records of the Court and shall be secured by the Court in either paper and/or electronic format in accordance with CGC Section 69955 (a), (b), (c) and (d).
\nCounsel are encouraged to work with a Court Reporter that can provide an electronic transcript preferably through YesLaw.
\nFor hearings where the moving party must pay a fee for a court reporter provided by the court, the following procedures must be followed to ensure the court is able to access the fee.
\nFee waiver recipients who desire a verbatim record of a trial court proceeding must notify the court in writing by filing a notice, a request or other form of written notification.\u00a0The notice/request must be received within the following time perimeters:
\nFailure to make the request within the time perimeters listed above may result in the courts inability to honor your request in a timely manner, on the day of your hearing.
\n8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m., Monday - Friday, excluding Court holidays
\nWe are pioneers in the Justice Community contributing to a safe and just San Francisco for all. We change lives by demonstrating our Core Values in everything we do.
\nThe San Francisco Superior Court delivers high quality collaborative justice programs that address addiction, mental health, and other social service needs.
\nWe do this by:
\n\u2022\u00a0Behavioral Health Court (BHC): Works with individuals who have serious and persistent mental illness in their efforts toward community re-integration and greater self-sufficiency.
\u2022\u00a0Community Justice Center (CJC): Bridges the gap between communities and the Court and addresses issues that have led to a participant\u2019s criminal justice involvement through the use of restorative justice and treatment services for substance use, mental health, and other primary health issues; adjudicates clients\u2019 criminal cases from the Tenderloin, Civic Center, Union Square, and South of Market neighborhoods.
\n\u2022\u00a0Drug Court (DC): Links non-violent offenders who have substance use disorders to outpatient and/or residential treatment intended to support a life free from substance use.
\n\u2022\u00a0Family Treatment Court (FTC): Provides\u00a0comprehensive, highly coordinated services to families impacted by parental substance use to help them establish stability and prevent children\u2019s re-entry into foster care.
\n\u2022\u00a0Intensive Supervision Court (ISC): Provides high-risk high-needs probationers with a \u201clast chance\u201d at community supervision as an alternative to State prison.
\n\u2022\u00a0Juvenile Reentry Court (JRC): Enhances public safety and reduces recidivism of youth returning from long-term commitments by providing comprehensive case planning and aftercare services for high needs youth returning from out-of-home placement and Log Cabin Ranch.
\n\u2022\u00a0Veterans Justice Court (VJC): Addresses the specialized needs of veterans facing criminal charges by providing the social service, educational and vocational support they need to lead productive and independent lives.
\n\u2022\u00a0Young Adult Court (YAC): Young Adult Court works with transitional aged adult youth (ages 18-25) and includes a range of nonviolent and violent cases.
\nFind out more about our Collaborative Courts in San Francisco.\u00a0
\nHere is a current version of the Collaborative Court Eligibility Guidelines.\u00a0
\nThe Bureau of Justice Assistance and other funders strongly emphasize the use of substance abuse and mental health treatment practices that have a demonstrated evidence base and are appropriate for our target population. The San Francisco Superior Court developed STANDARDS\u00a0for our programs to ensure that the Court is following many of the suggested practices.
\nHere is a\u00a0\u00a0schedule of the Collaborative Courts currently operating in San Francisco. \u00a0
\nAllyson West, Director
\nSan Francisco Collaborative Courts
\nSuperior Court of California, County of San Francisco
\n400 McAllister St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\n(415) 551-5941
\n[email\u00a0protected]
Federal Grants
\n2018\u00a0Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP), Family Treatment Court, ($900,000)
\n2017 Bureau of Justice Assistance for Drug Court for transitional housing ($330,000)
\n2015 Bureau of Justice Assistance for Behavioral Health Court for transitional housing ($200,000)
\n2014 Bureau of Justice Assistance for Veterans Justice Court ($350,000)
\n2012 BJA Justice and Mental Health Collaboration Award for Supportive Employment and Housing for BHC clients ($250,000)
\n2011 BJA Grant Award for Transitional Housing and Clinical Support for Drug Court ($200,000)
\n2010 SAMHSA Grant for Principal Center Collaborative ($975,000)
\n2010 Cal EMA Grant for Parole Reentry Court ($1,315,961)
\nState Grants
\n2017\u00a0Judicial Council of California, Innovations Grant for Veterans Justice Court ($318,000)
\n2015 Judicial Council of California, Recidivism Reduction Grant for transitional housing ($600,000)
\n2015 California Corrections and Rehabilitation, Judicial Council of California for Parole Revocation Court ($350,000)
\nFoundation Grants
\n2018\u00a0Gilmore Foundation Grant for motivational incentives for Behavioral Health Court ($5000)
\n2014\u00a0Doris Duke Foundation's Prevention and Family Recovery grant for families in Dependency Drug Court ($225,000)
\n2013\u00a0Janssen, Division of Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. for housing stipends ($4,400)
\n2013\u00a0Janssen, Division of Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. for motivational incentives ($5,000)
\n2012\u00a0Janssen, Division of Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. for community stipends ($5,000)
\n2010 Margoes Foundation for services for Juvenile Wellness Court ($32,000)
\n2010 SF Foundation Grant for Drug Court Database ($20,000)
\nCORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) OPERATIONS UPDATE
\nPlease refer to the Court\u2019s website Home Page for the most current information regarding court operations in light of the COVID-19 public health crisis
\nThe Civil Division handles non-criminal lawsuits among individuals and/or corporations brought to enforce, redress, or protect private rights. The largest division in the San Francisco Superior Court, the Civil Division conducts civil trials and manages civil filings, records, small claims cases, appeals, probate matters, unlawful detainers, defaults, case management, dispute resolution, name changes, and civil restraining orders to prevent harassment and elder abuse.
\n| Alternative Dispute Resolution\n The Court\u2019s Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Program assists attorneys and litigants in selecting appropriate dispute resolution options prior to trial. The ADR program currently offers a voluntary civil mediation program, judicial arbitration program and, in cooperation with the San Francisco Bar Association, an \"early\" settlement program. \n | \n\n\n | \n
| Appeals \nFind out information about appeals. | \n\n\n | \n
| Asbestos Department \nThe San Francisco Superior Court carries the largest asbestos litigation caseload of any of California\u2019s 58 Superior Courts. In 2009, the Court created a single asbestos case management department to handle asbestos cases.\u00a0 | \n\n\n | \n
| Civil Case Management \nFind out more about civil case management. | \n\n\n | \n
| Civil Clerk\u2019s Office \nContact Information for key staff in the Civil clerk\u2019s office.\u00a0 | \n\n\n | \n
| Civil Grand Jury \nCalifornia state law requires that all 58 counties impanel a Civil Grand Jury to serve during each fiscal year. The function of the Civil Grand Jury is to investigate the operations of the various officers, departments and agencies of the City and County of San Francisco. The 19 members of the Civil Grand Jury serve for a period of one year, from July 1 through June 30 of the following year, and are selected at random from a pool of 30 prospective grand jurors. | \n\n\n | \n
| Civil Harassment Temporary Restraining Orders \nLearn who can obtain a Civil Harassment Restraining Order and how to obtain one. | \n\n\n | \n
| Civil Records \nLearn what information clerks may legally provide, how to obtain civil records in person or by mail, and other information about Civil Records. | \n\n\n | \n
| Complex Civil Litigation \n The San Francisco Superior Court is one of six California trial courts with Complex Civil Litigation departments. \n | \n\n\n | \n
| Court Reporters \nCourt Reporters, as guardians of the record, are not only employees of the Court, but purveyors of transcripts for all interested parties. Their professional responsibilities include providing appellate transcripts to the California Court of Appeal and the Superior Court of California, as well as legislated transcripts arising out of criminal proceedings. Court reporters who report in civil, family and juvenile matters also work with law firms and the public to provide requested transcripts. | \n\n\n | \n
| Law & Motion and Discovery \n Motion schedules, procedures and contact information. \n | \n\n\n | \n
| Probate Court \nThe Probate Court deals directly with the everyday personal and financial matters of San Franciscans. Most people think of probate courts as working exclusively with wills and the financial affairs of people who have died. However, the Probate Court also deals with guardianships of children, conservatorships of adults, mental health treatment, trusts, elder abuse and dependent adult restraining orders. The Judge and staff of the San Francisco Probate Court are committed to the administration of justice with thoughtfulness and concern for the citizens of San Francisco. | \n\n\n | \n
| Real Property Court\n Presiding Judge Katherine Feinstein created the Housing Court in November 2011 as a result of a budget-related reorganization. Most Unlawful Detainer matters are heard in Department 501, with the exception of calling of the trial calendar and requests for posting and mailing. The Court also hears all pre-trial motions involving foreclosures. \n | \n\n\n | \n
| Small Claims Division\n In the Small Claims court, disputes are resolved quickly and inexpensively, the rules are simple and informal.\u00a0Litigants may not be represented by an attorney. The Small Claims jurisdiction is limited to $10,000 for individuals. Corporations, partnerships, governmental entities and other legal entities cannot claim more than $5,000. Individuals may file unlimited claims for up to $2,500 each in a year. However, individuals may only file two claims a year that seek more than $2,500. \n | \n\n\n | \n
Civic Center Courthouse
\n400 McAllister St.
\n(between Polk and Van Ness)
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
Presiding Judge Samuel K. Feng
\nDepartment 206
\n400 McAllister St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
Civil Clerk's Office
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\n400 McAllister St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
\nDropbox Hours 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
Information (415) 551-4000
\nTTY/TDD (415) 551-4001
\u00a0
\nLanguage Access and Interpreter Services
\n\u00a0
\nThe Court provides multilingual interpretation and general language services in court proceedings to ensure meaningful participation in the judicial court process for individuals with limited English proficiency. In doing so, the Court promotes equal access to justice to ensure that court procedures are fair and understandable for court users from diverse cultural backgrounds.
\nThe Court provides bilingual staff at most Clerk\u2019s Offices. When bilingual staff is not available, the Court provides telephonic interpreter assistance using the services of an outside language provider. The Court assigns qualified court interpreters in court proceedings at no cost in all mandated case types. These mandated areas include:
\nCriminal
\nTraffic
\nJuvenile Delinquency
\nJuvenile Dependency
\nChild Support (AB1058)
\nMental Health
\nIn addition, the San Francisco Superior Court has recently expanded interpreter services to civil case types. We now provide a court interpreter at no cost as follows:
\nFamily Law Domestic Violence Cases
\nElder Abuse Cases
\nCivil Harassment Cases
\nUnlawful Detainer Cases
\nTermination of Parental Rights Cases, and cases that involve custody or visitation of children
\nConservatorship and Guardianship Cases
\nOther Civil Case Types
\nThe San Francisco Superior Court is committed to expanding language access to all case types and will accept requests for interpreters for other civil case types not listed above. However, interpreter services for these civil case types will be subject to interpreter availability. Because there is a shortage of certified/registered interpreters statewide, the Court may sometimes provide a provisionally qualified interpreter (non-certified, non-registered).
\nNeed an Interpreter?
\nCourt interpreters are experts in language and are assigned to accurately interpret court proceedings. They are not parties to a case, have no interest in any case, and remain completely neutral in all matters. A court interpreter works for the court and does not represent any party. A court interpreter's sole responsibility is to bridge the communication barrier in order to provide limited English proficient users with access to Justice.
\nIf you need an interpreter, please email [email\u00a0protected] and provide the case name, case number, language needed, date, location and your contact information.
\nParties involved in Criminal, Traffic, Juvenile, Civil or Family cases also may request the services of an interpreter from the Clerk\u2019s office or the courtroom clerk. If an interpreter is not available at the time of the hearing, the Court may continue the case until an interpreter can be assigned.
\nAll requests must be made in advance with as much notice as possible, and prior to the hearing (a minimum two-business day notice for Spanish and five (5) business days for all other languages).
\nNote: State law (EC \u00a7 756) http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=EVID§ionNum=756 has specified an order of priority for providing interpreters to civil litigants. We ask that you submit a request for interpreter services and allow us to make an effort to provide you with language assistance. If an interpreter cannot be provided by the Court, you may bring in your own certified, registered, or qualified interpreter. To search for an interpreter in the State Judicial Branch online directory, visit https://www.courts.ca.gov/35273.htm
\nCancel an Interpreter
\nThe Interpreter Services Division must be notified of any changes, continuances, or cancellations as soon as possible in order to avoid late-cancellation situations. To cancel an interpreter, please email [email\u00a0protected] or notify the clerk\u2019s office or courtroom clerk prior to the hearing date.
\nHow to become a Court Interpreter?
\nLearn more about California\u2019s Court Interpreter Program (CIP) and how to become an interpreter by visiting http://www.courts.ca.gov/programs-interpreters.htm
\nLanguage Access in Court-Ordered Services
\nUnder new California Rule of Court 1.300, the court is working to make sure litigants are not ordered to complete outside programs that are not offered in the language the litigants speak proficiently.
\nCommunity Partners:
\nIf you are a justice partner or community provider you can use form LA-350 \u00a0https://www.courts.ca.gov/documents/la350.pdf\u00a0 to inform the court of services provided, language available and types of language assistance. Complete the form and scan to our Language Access Coordinator at: [email\u00a0protected]
\nThese forms will be kept by the court to answer questions by court personnel regarding programs in our community and language capacity.
\nLitigant:
\nIf you have been ordered to complete a program outside of court such as parenting classes or anger management and you cannot comply because you cannot find a program that speaks your language you can complete form:
\nLA-400 (English), https://www.courts.ca.gov/documents/la400.pdf
\nLA-400 C \u00a0(Chinese), https://www.courts.ca.gov/documents/la400c.pdf\u00a0 \u00a0
\nLA-400 R (Russian), https://www.courts.ca.gov/documents/la400r.pdf\u00a0 \u00a0
\nLA-400 S (Spanish), https://www.courts.ca.gov/documents/la400s.pdf
\nLA-400 V (Vietnamese) https://www.courts.ca.gov/documents/la400v.pdf\u00a0
\nThis form will be filed in your case so the Judge can review it before your next court date.
\nInformation and materials on Language Access in Court-Ordered Services:
\nhttp://www.courts.ca.gov/languageaccess.htm
\nCourt forms:
\nhttp://www.courts.ca.gov/forms.htm
\nLanguage Access Complaints
\nThe Court wants all court users, including those who do not speak English well, to have access to the courts. If you would like to provide feedback or have a complaint about language access services at our Court, fill out and submit the complaint form. https://www.sfsuperiorcourt.org/sites/default/files/images/SF%20Language%20Access%20Form.pdf?1556663720936
\nPlease be aware that the Language Access Coordinator does not have the authority to change or modify any decision made by a judicial officer and that its review of the complaint does not, in any way, affect or extend any applicable deadlines or procedural requirements such as filing motions, appeals, modifications, etc.
\nYou may file a complaint with the Judicial Council of California regarding a specific California court interpreter if you believe a certified or registered interpreter:
\nTo file a complaint directly with the Judicial Council regarding a specific court interpreter, visit https://www.courts.ca.gov/42807.htm
\n![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/Interpreter.jpg\")
The Appellate Division Calendar is held on alternate Fridays at 2 p.m. in Department 622, Civic Center Courthouse, for appeals from Misdemeanor, Traffic and Limited Civil Jurisdiction cases.Members of the public may listen to these proceedings through the CourtCall access line: 415-796-6280, access code 12129863#.
\nSan Francisco Superior Court Appellate Case Inquiry\u00a0
\n\nSan Francisco Local Rules, Appellate Division 15.8
\nThese guidelines apply to appeals from a Limited Civil Jurisdiction case to the San Francisco Superior Court Appellate Division.
\nSan Francisco Superior Court Case Inquiry
\n\nThese guidelines apply to appeals from an Unlimited Civil Jurisdiction case to the California First District Court of Appeal.
\nCalifornia First District Court of Appeal\u00a0contact information.
\nUnlimited Jurisdiction Appeals: (415) 551-3671
\nLimited Jurisdiction and Small Claims Appeals: (415) 551-3675
\nJuvenile Appeals: (415) 551-3672
Civic Center Courthouse
\n400 McAllister St.
\nRoom 103, Window 28
\nSan Francisco, CA\u00a0 94102-4514
Appellate Division: (415) 551-3675
\nThe Civil Division handles non-criminal lawsuits among individuals and/or corporations brought to enforce, redress, or protect private rights. The largest division in the San Francisco Superior Court, the Civil Division conducts civil trials and manages civil filings, records, small claims cases, appeals, probate matters, unlawful detainers, defaults, case management, dispute resolution, name changes, and civil restraining orders to prevent harassment and elder abuse.
\nCalifornia state law requires that all 58 counties impanel a Civil Grand Jury to serve during each fiscal year. The function of the Civil Grand Jury is to investigate the operations of the various officers, departments and agencies of the City and County of San Francisco. The 19 members of the Civil Grand Jury serve for a period of one year, from July 1 through June 30 of the following year, and are selected at random from a pool of 30 prospective grand jurors.
\nThe San Francisco Superior Court is well-recognized nationally for its Collaborative Justice Courts, also known as \u201cproblem-solving\u201d courts. These courts work with individuals and families in the criminal justice, juvenile delinquency, and child welfare systems who are challenged by substance abuse, mental illness and other social welfare concerns.
\nCourt Reporters, as guardians of the record, are not only employees of the Court, but purveyors of transcripts for all interested parties. Their professional responsibilities include providing appellate transcripts to the California Court of Appeal and the Superior Court of California, as well as legislated transcripts arising out of criminal proceedings. Court reporters who report in civil, family and juvenile matters also work with law firms and the public to provide requested transcripts.
\nThe Criminal Court has jurisdiction over infraction, misdemeanor and felony cases. The Criminal Court conducts arraignments, preliminary hearings, trials, motions, probation hearings, mental health proceedings, and other types of criminal proceedings. These cases are heard in the Hall of Justice Building, 850 Bryant St. (between 6th and 7th streets). However, some criminal cases are heard in the Civic Center Courthouse, 400 McAllister St., and the Community Justice Center, 575 Polk St. Calendars are posted on the wall outside Room 101, Monday-Friday.
\nThe Human Resources Office staff administers programs for Court employees\u2019 pay and benefits; job classifications; recruitment, selection and hiring; labor relations, grievances and labor contract negotiations; employee relations and investigations; employee safety and disability programs; and disciplinary actions and appeals.
\nThe San Francisco Superior Court seeks to provide the most efficient and convenient jury service experience for criminal and civil trials. Daily reporting instructions, frequently asked questions, maps, parking information, and directions to the Courthouse locations are available to assist you with your service.
\nThe Probate Court deals directly with the everyday personal and financial matters of San Franciscans. Most people think of probate courts as working exclusively with wills and the financial affairs of people who have died. However, the Probate Court also deals with guardianships of children, conservatorships of adults, mental health treatment, trusts, elder abuse and dependent adult restraining orders.
\nIn the Small Claims Court disputes are resolved quickly and inexpensively, the rules are simple and informal. Litigants may not be represented by an attorney. The Small Claims Jurisdiction is limited to $7,500 for individual. Corporations, partnerships, governmental entities and other legal entities cannot claim more than $5,000. Individuals may file unlimited claims for up to $2,500 each in a year. However, individuals may only file two claims a year that seek more than $2,500.
\nTraffic Court deals with violations of traffic laws and other minor offenses of state and county ordinances. These violations are considered \u201cinfractions\u201d and include, for example, speeding, cell phone violations, expired registrations and automobile equipment needing repair. Infractions are enforced by the issuance of citations (\u201ctickets\u201d) by law enforcement.
\nUnified Family Court (UFC) is comprised of Juvenile Dependency, Juvenile Delinquency and Family Law. Its mission is to provide coordinated services to those who have family-related issues in the Court system; strengthen services to the community; and assist and promote healthy families and children. UFC handles divorce, legal separation and nullity; parentage; domestic abuse restraining orders; child, spousal and family support; child custody and visitation; mediation and self-help services; child abuse and neglect; and minors\u2019 violations of criminal law.
\nFor more information about Adoption, please visit the CA Courts website: https://www.courts.ca.gov/selfhelp-adoption.htm \u00a0
\nACCESS Center\u00a0
\nSan Francisco Superior Court
\n400 McAllister Street, Room 509
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
ACCESS Center Hours and Services, \u00a0effective January 2022
\nCentro ACCESS Horario\u00a0y Servicios
ONLINE SERVICES
\nComplete an intake form
CHILD SUPPORT INQUIRIES
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.\u00a0
\n(415) 551-0605*
ALL OTHER QUESTIONS
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:\u00a0
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.
\n(415) 551-0605*
*Your phone will need to be able to accept blocked calls and accept voicemails\u00a0in order to receive a return call from ACCESS staff.\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\nWhen a couple separates or divorces, the Court may order one spouse to pay the other a certain amount of support money each month. This is called \"spousal support.\"
\nThe Judge will take many things into consideration when deciding what spousal support should be ordered. Examples of some things the Judge may consider are:
\nEither spouse may ask the Judge later to change the support amount if the situation changes. These forms and instructions will help you change a support order.
\nA spouse can also ask the Judge for an order\u00a0to enforce\u00a0a support order. These forms and instructions will help you enforce a support order.
\nIf the local child support agency is currently helping you collect (enforce) a child support order for a child living with you in the same home from your spouse or former spouse, the local child support agency can help you collect (enforce) the spousal support order along with the child support order.
\n| \n \u00a0A filing fee will be charged to file a Request for Spousal Support.\u00a0 To find the current fee, please see our fee schedule. If you cannot afford the filing fee, you may complete an Application for Waiver of Fees. \n | \n
ACCESS Center\u00a0
\nSan Francisco Superior Court
\n400 McAllister Street, Room 509
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
ACCESS Center Hours and Services, \u00a0effective January 2022
\nCentro ACCESS Horario\u00a0y Servicios
ONLINE SERVICES
\nComplete an intake form
CHILD SUPPORT INQUIRIES
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.\u00a0
\n(415) 551-0605*
ALL OTHER QUESTIONS
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:\u00a0
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.
\n(415) 551-0605*
*Your phone will need to be able to accept blocked calls and accept voicemails\u00a0in order to receive a return call from ACCESS staff.\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\nSmall Claims is a special Court in which disputes are resolved quickly and inexpensively. The rules are simple and informal. Representation by lawyers is prohibited in the Small Claims Court.
\nYou cannot ask for more than $10,000 in a claim if you are filing as a \"natural person\" or $5,000 if you are filing as an entity (corporation, limited partnership, limited liability company, etc.) You can file as many claims as you want for up to $2,500 each in a calendar year. But you can only file two claims a year that demand more than $2,500.
\nThe ACCESS Center can show you how to fill out the forms through most of your\u00a0small claims case: preparing your claim, serving a defendant, and preparing for Court. We are not assisting with collecting your judgment a this time.
\nACCESS Center\u00a0
\nSan Francisco Superior Court
\n400 McAllister Street, Room 509
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
ACCESS Center Hours and Services, \u00a0effective January 2022
\nCentro ACCESS Horario\u00a0y Servicios
ONLINE SERVICES
\nComplete an intake form
CHILD SUPPORT INQUIRIES
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.\u00a0
\n(415) 551-0605*
ALL OTHER QUESTIONS
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:\u00a0
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.
\n(415) 551-0605*
*Your phone will need to be able to accept blocked calls and accept voicemails\u00a0in order to receive a return call from ACCESS staff.\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\nAll parties in a case are required to keep the court updated with any changes in your address and/or phone number so that you may receive important court notices.\u00a0
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Notice of Change of Address or Other Contact Information
\n\nThere are court fees and costs associated to file documents with the Court. Most case types require a filing fee and/or have other related costs (for example: court reporter fee, making and certifying copies, Sheriff\u2019s fee to give notice, etc.). The fee schedule is available\u00a0here. However, if you cannot afford to pay the filing fees and other costs, you may file a fee waiver to ask the court to waive the fees related to your case.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Things to Consider Before Filing a Fee Waiver
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Filing Your Fee Waiver: Forms and How to Fill It Out
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Steps After Filing a Fee Waiver
\u00a0
\nSelf-help services for family law matters and non-family law cases are available for in pro per (representing yourself) Court customers. \u00a0You do not have to pay anything to get assistance from the ACCESS Center, but you may need to pay for copies and Court filing fees.\u00a0The self-help center can only help with certain cases types. Make sure that the type of assistance you seek is within the\u00a0ACCESS Center\u2019s menu of services\u00a0before you remove your attorney of record.\u00a0There may be some complexities to the case you would like to file and an attorney will be better able to help you understand your rights and responsibilities.
\n
\n\u00a0
ACCESS Center\u00a0
\nSan Francisco Superior Court
\n400 McAllister Street, Room 509
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
ACCESS Center Hours and Services, \u00a0effective January 2022
\nCentro ACCESS Horario\u00a0y Servicios
ONLINE SERVICES
\nComplete an intake form
CHILD SUPPORT INQUIRIES
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.\u00a0
\n(415) 551-0605*
ALL OTHER QUESTIONS
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:\u00a0
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.
\n(415) 551-0605*
*Your phone will need to be able to accept blocked calls and accept voicemails\u00a0in order to receive a return call from ACCESS staff.\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\nThe\u00a0ACCESS Center\u00a0can show you how to fill out the forms you will need, explain the filing process, and help you prepare for Court.
\nPlease note: staff at the ACCESS Center are not able to assist with Private Postsecondary School Violence Restraining Orders.\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\n
\n\u00a0
\n\u00a0
ACCESS Center\u00a0
\nSan Francisco Superior Court
\n400 McAllister Street, Room 509
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
ACCESS Center Hours and Services, \u00a0effective January 2022
\nCentro ACCESS Horario\u00a0y Servicios
ONLINE SERVICES
\nComplete an intake form
CHILD SUPPORT INQUIRIES
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.\u00a0
\n(415) 551-0605*
ALL OTHER QUESTIONS
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:\u00a0
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.
\n(415) 551-0605*
*Your phone will need to be able to accept blocked calls and accept voicemails\u00a0in order to receive a return call from ACCESS staff.\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\nIn California, to legally change your name and/or\u00a0gender or to legally change a minor's name and/or gender you will need a court order.
\nVietnamese (Ti\u1ebfng Vi\u1ec7t)\u00a0
\nACCESS Center\u00a0
\nSan Francisco Superior Court
\n400 McAllister Street, Room 509
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
ACCESS Center Hours and Services, \u00a0effective January 2022
\nCentro ACCESS Horario\u00a0y Servicios
ONLINE SERVICES
\nComplete an intake form
CHILD SUPPORT INQUIRIES
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.\u00a0
\n(415) 551-0605*
ALL OTHER QUESTIONS
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:\u00a0
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.
\n(415) 551-0605*
*Your phone will need to be able to accept blocked calls and accept voicemails\u00a0in order to receive a return call from ACCESS staff.\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\nGuardianships of children can be ordered by judges in Juvenile Dependency Court and Probate Court. In Juvenile Dependency Court cases, the child may have been removed from the home by a Child Protective Services social worker because there is information that the child is being neglected, abused, or is in danger. The child then lives in a licensed home while several court actions take place. One such action is to try and reunify the child with his or her parents. If reunification is not successful, a guardian may be appointed for the child. Relatives or friends may be appointed to serve. If appropriate, the guardianship can continue until the child turns 18.
\nIn Probate Court guardianships, the child usually lives with the person who is the guardian. The proposed guardian or another person in the child\u2019s life may petition the Court to establish the guardianship for a variety of reasons. The parents of the child may be unable to care for the child due to serious illness, military duty in another country, drug or alcohol addiction, incarceration, or death. Unlike Juvenile Dependency Court, the Probate Court suspends, rather than terminates parental rights. A parent, a guardian, or another person can file a petition for termination of a probate guardianship, as can a child who is 12 years-old or older.
\nIf you want to ask the Court to establish the guardianship over the person of a child, you may wish to make an appointment with the ACCESS Center and ask for help.
\nIf you already filed for guardianship of the person and need assistance with next steps, the ACCESS Center may be able to help you figure out which relatives to serve (give notice), and the paperwork you are required to send.
\nIf you want to ask the Court to end a guardianship, the ACCESS Center may be able to show you how to fill out the required forms that must be filed.
\nWhen a petition for probate guardianship of the person, estate, or person and estate is filed, a court investigator personally interviews the child and other significant people in the child\u2019s life. Background screenings are conducted on the proposed guardian and all other adults who live with the child. Once the investigation is completed, the investigator will file a confidential report for the Judge. Sometimes, a Judge will also appoint an attorney to represent the child.
When a petition for guardianship is filed, the Court Clerk will provide a court date for the hearing. Guardianship appointment hearings are held on Tuesday afternoons. All petitions for the establishment of a guardianship of the person require the proposed guardian and the proposed ward to attend the court hearing. If the petition seeks to appoint a guardian over the child\u2019s estate only, the proposed guardian must attend and the child\u2019s appearance at the appointment hearing is not required
\nEven after a guardian has been appointed, the Probate Court continues to be concerned about the child. Every year, the Probate Court sends a blank Status Report form to the guardian along with a return envelope. Therefore, it is important for guardians to make sure the court has their current contact information. All guardians are required to fill out the annual Status Report with information about how the child is doing. When there is a guardianship of the estate, the guardian is required to account for the child\u2019s assets and is not allowed to spend any of the money in the estate without permission from the Judge.
\nAll children need care and attention. Fortunately, there are people in our community who are willing to step forward and serve as guardians when a child\u2019s parents are not available. The Probate Court participates in this process by appointing guardians for children, by helping make certain that children in guardianships are protected, and by helping guardians get the information they need.
\nJudge Joseph M. Quinn\u00a0Presiding
\n400 McAllister St.
\nDepartment 204
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
Probate Department - Room 202
\nJudge, Examiners (415) 551-3650
Director, Investigators (415) 551-3657
\nCourtroom Clerk (415) 551-3702
\nCourt Supervisor of Probate Section Clerk's Office (415) 551-3673
\nRoom 103 Filing Windows 23, 24\u00a0and 25\u00a0(415) 551-3892
\nClerks Office- 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Court holidays.
\nDepartment Office, Room 202- Closed
\nIn order to evict a tenant, a landlord must first get a court order giving him/her the right to have the apartment or house back from the tenant. The landlord will have to file an Unlawful Detainer case after first giving the tenant a written notice. Usually it is a 3-day, 30-day, 60-day or 90-day notice.
\nIf you need to evict a tenant, or if you are a tenant and your landlord is trying to evict you, the ACCESS Center can show you how to fill out the forms and understand the eviction process if you qualify for our services. Different counties have different rules, so it is important that you talk to an attorney in your county.
\nACCESS Center\u00a0
\nSan Francisco Superior Court
\n400 McAllister Street, Room 509
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
ACCESS Center Hours and Services, \u00a0effective January 2022
\nCentro ACCESS Horario\u00a0y Servicios
ONLINE SERVICES
\nComplete an intake form
CHILD SUPPORT INQUIRIES
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.\u00a0
\n(415) 551-0605*
ALL OTHER QUESTIONS
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:\u00a0
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.
\n(415) 551-0605*
*Your phone will need to be able to accept blocked calls and accept voicemails\u00a0in order to receive a return call from ACCESS staff.\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\nWhen you separate or divorce, you need to decide who will have \u201ccustody\u201d of your children and how they will be taken care of. You also need to decide on visitation, which means how each parent will spend time with the children.
\nThere are two kinds of \u201ccustody\u201d orders:
\n\u201cVisitation\u201d (also called time-share) is:
\nIn California, either parent can have custody, or the parents can share custody. The Judge makes the final decision about custody and visitation but usually will approve the arrangement both parents agree on.
\nIf the parents cannot agree, the Judge will make a decision at a court hearing. The Judge will usually not make a decision about custody/visitation until after the parents have met with a mediator from Family Court Services.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0How to Fill Out the Custody and Visitation Declaration
\n\u00a0
| \n A filing fee will be charged to file an Order to Show cause for Custody and/or Visitation. To find the current fee, please use our fee schedule. If you cannot affordthe filing fee, you may complete an Application for Waiver of Fees. \n | \n
\u00a0
\nACCESS Center\u00a0
\nSan Francisco Superior Court
\n400 McAllister Street, Room 509
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
ACCESS Center Hours and Services, \u00a0effective January 2022
\nCentro ACCESS Horario\u00a0y Servicios
ONLINE SERVICES
\nComplete an intake form
CHILD SUPPORT INQUIRIES
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.\u00a0
\n(415) 551-0605*
ALL OTHER QUESTIONS
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:\u00a0
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.
\n(415) 551-0605*
*Your phone will need to be able to accept blocked calls and accept voicemails\u00a0in order to receive a return call from ACCESS staff.\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\n\"Establishing parentage\" means establishing who the legal parents of a child are if the parents were not married when the child was born. If the parents were married when the child was born, the law usually considers the husband to be the father.
\nAfter January 1, 2005, if parents are registered domestic partners when a child is born, the law assumes that the domestic partners are parents. However, same sex parents should get legal advice to make sure that the parentage is clear.
\nParents who are not married when a child is born can sign a Voluntary Declaration of Paternity before they leave the hospital, or after. When people who are not married cannot agree about parentage, the Court can order genetic testing.
\nUsually a child's parentage must be established before you can get child support or custody and visitation orders. You can ask the Judge for child support or custody and visitation as part of a case that establishes the parentage of a child.
\nA filing fee will be charged to file a Petition to Establish Custody and Support for Minor Children or a Petition to Establish Parental Relationship. To find the current fee, please see our Fee Schedule .If you cannot afford the filing fee, you may complete an Application for Waiver of Fees.
\nACCESS Center\u00a0
\nSan Francisco Superior Court
\n400 McAllister Street, Room 509
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
ACCESS Center Hours and Services, \u00a0effective January 2022
\nCentro ACCESS Horario\u00a0y Servicios
ONLINE SERVICES
\nComplete an intake form
CHILD SUPPORT INQUIRIES
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.\u00a0
\n(415) 551-0605*
ALL OTHER QUESTIONS
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:\u00a0
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.
\n(415) 551-0605*
*Your phone will need to be able to accept blocked calls and accept voicemails\u00a0in order to receive a return call from ACCESS staff.\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\nIn California, there are three main ways to end a marriage and/or domestic partnership.
\n\u2022 Divorce
\n\u2022 Legal Separation
\n\u2022 Annulment
A divorce (also called \"dissolution of marriage\" or \"dissolution of domestic partnership\") is a legal proceeding that ends your marriage and/or domestic partnership. \u00a0After a divorce, you are single and can remarry or be in a domestic partnership again. You can ask the court to make orders on the following once you file your case:
\n\u2022 Custody and Visitation
\n\u2022 Child Support
\n\u2022 Spousal/Partner Support
\n\u2022 Property Division
\n\u2022 Domestic Violence Restraining Order
\n\u2022 Attorney's Fees\u00a0
A legal separation does not end your marriage and/or domestic partnership. You cannot remarry or enter into a domestic partnership with someone else at the end of a legal separation. However, you can still ask the court to make the same orders as in a divorce. You do not need to meet California's residency requirement to file for a legal separation. If you file for a legal separation, you may later be able to file an amended petition to ask the Court for a divorce, after you meet the residency requirements.
\nAn annulment (or \u201cnullity of marriage\u201d and/or \u201cnullity of domestic partnership\u201d) is when a court says your marriage and/or domestic partnership is NOT legally valid. It is difficult to prove and rarely granted. A marriage and/or domestic partnership that is incestuous or bigamous is never valid and therefore VOID. Other marriages and/or domestic partnerships are VOIDABLE based on:
\n\u2022 Petitioner\u2019s age at the time of marriage and/or domestic partnership\u00a0
\n\u2022 Prior existing marriage and/or domestic partnership
\n\u2022 Unsound mind
\n\u2022 Fraud
\n\u2022 Force
\n\u2022 Physical incapacity
A filing fee will be charged to file a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage/Domestic Partnership/Legal Separation/Nullity. \u00a0To find the current fee, please see our fee schedule. \u00a0If you cannot afford the filing fee, you may complete an Application for Waiver of Fees.
\nESPA\u00d1OL
\n\nFilipino/Tagalog
\n\nACCESS Center\u00a0
\nSan Francisco Superior Court
\n400 McAllister Street, Room 509
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
ACCESS Center Hours and Services, \u00a0effective January 2022
\nCentro ACCESS Horario\u00a0y Servicios
ONLINE SERVICES
\nComplete an intake form
CHILD SUPPORT INQUIRIES
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.\u00a0
\n(415) 551-0605*
ALL OTHER QUESTIONS
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:\u00a0
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.
\n(415) 551-0605*
*Your phone will need to be able to accept blocked calls and accept voicemails\u00a0in order to receive a return call from ACCESS staff.\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\nIn the United States, all adults are considered capable of handling their own affairs unless a Judge determines otherwise. In California, this legal arrangement is called a conservatorship.
\nConservatorships are established for impaired adults, most often older people. Adults who are developmentally disabled or the victims of a catastrophic illness or accident also may have a conservatorship.
\nFor help filling out the forms to file a conservatorship, please visit ACCESS.
\nEstablishing a conservatorship is a formal legal proceeding and involves several steps. Some adults who are concerned about possible future mental and physical incapacity decide to establish a power of attorney or a trust, in part so they can avoid the court action. They choose an individual or an institution to make decisions for them if they become impaired. These are private arrangements and must be made while the person has full mental capacity. In California, courts do not routinely monitor powers of attorney or trusts. Most people do not make these arrangements probably because it is difficult to think about becoming incapacitated mentally or physically. But it happens, especially to people over 75 years of age. For those who have not made prior arrangements, or if the person handling the power of attorney or trust is incapable or dishonest, a conservatorship may become necessary.
\n\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\nWhen a conservatorship is established, the Judge will require that a bond be obtained for the liquid assets and annual income in the person's estate. Liquid assets include bank accounts and stocks. A bond is like an insurance policy. If the conservator mishandles the money or takes it, the person in conservatorship can be reimbursed.
\nThe Judge also schedules the case for Court monitoring of the finances and property of the person in conservatorship as well as his or her welfare. The law requires that an Inventory and Appraisal of all assets be filed within 90 days of the appointment of the conservator. The conservator must also file a General Plan for the conservatorship. If the conservatee has any real property, the conservator must record evidence of the conservatorship with The Recorder of the City and County of San Francisco.
\nOne year after the appointment of the conservator and every two years thereafter, an accounting of the assets, including the income and the expenditures must be filed with the Court. The accounting is reviewed in detail by a probate examiner. An investigator personally interviews the individual in conservatorship periodically and determines if the conservator is acting properly.
\n\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\nThere are times when family members are unavailable or incapable of serving as conservators. Occasionally, the person who is thought to need a conservator does not want a family member to be the conservator. In those situations, there are agencies and individuals that can serve. The Public Guardian is an agency of the City and County of San Francisco and is the largest non-family conservator. There are also non-profit agencies that have complied with the law and can be appointed to serve as conservators. In addition there are individuals who are available to serve. They are called private professional conservators. As of July 1, 2008, they must be licensed by the State of California and meet ongoing educational requirements. All professional conservators are expected to keep a case and provide services even if the money runs out, especially if they have been appointed to serve as conservator of the person.
\nAll conservators and attorneys in a conservatorship case are entitled to request the Court for fees for their work. The fees are carefully reviewed and granted by the Probate Court only if they have been properly justified. Conservators and attorneys cannot take money without a formal court order.
\n\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\nConservatorships affect mainly older people, especially those over 85 years of age. Coincidentally, the fastest growing age group in the United States is the one over 85 years of age. In California, that age group will increase by 143 percent between 1990 and 2020. Some counties will experience even higher rates, up to 400 percent. The influence of the 85 and older age group will emerge most strongly between 2030 and 2040 as the first of the baby boomers reaches 85 years of age (http://www.aging.ca.gov). With the right genes, healthy living, and luck, most people will escape being incapacitated. However, many San Franciscans will have impairments and will need help with daily living. Most likely the number of conservatorships will increase over time. Fortunately, the California legislature has mandated many court safeguards for those who need conservatorships.
\nJudge Joseph M. Quinn, Presiding
\n400 McAllister St.
\nDepartment 204
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
Probate Department - Room 202
\nJudge, Examiners (415) 551-3650
Director, Investigators (415) 551-3657
\nCourtroom Clerk (415) 551-3702
\nCourt Supervisor of Probate Section Clerk's Office (415) 551-3673
\nRoom 103 Filing Windows 23, 24\u00a0and 25\u00a0(415) 551-3892
\nClerks Office- 8:30 a.m. - 12:30\u00a0p.m., Monday through Friday, except Court holidays.
\nDepartment Office, Room 202- Closed
\nChild support is the amount of money that the Court orders one parent to pay the other parent every month for the support of the child(ren). California has a formula (called a \"guideline\") for figuring out how much child support should be paid in all cases. Click here to learn more about how child support is calculated.
\nChild support payments are usually made until children turn 18, or 19, if they are still in high school full- time, living at home, and cannot support themselves. Parents may agree to support a child longer. The Court may also order that both parents continue to support a disabled adult child that is not self-supporting. Click here to learn more about when child support ends.
\nOpen a Child Support Case online by clicking\u00a0here. To learn about opening a case right here at Civic Center Courthouse, click here. \u00a0
\nYou can also find more information by visiting the Judicial Council of California website at\u00a0https://www.courts.ca.gov/selfhelp-family.htm.
\nACCESS Center\u00a0
\nSan Francisco Superior Court
\n400 McAllister Street, Room 509
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
ACCESS Center Hours and Services, \u00a0effective January 2022
\nCentro ACCESS Horario\u00a0y Servicios
ONLINE SERVICES
\nComplete an intake form
CHILD SUPPORT INQUIRIES
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.\u00a0
\n(415) 551-0605*
ALL OTHER QUESTIONS
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:\u00a0
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.
\n(415) 551-0605*
*Your phone will need to be able to accept blocked calls and accept voicemails\u00a0in order to receive a return call from ACCESS staff.\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\nINFORMATION REGARDING CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) AND COURT OPERATIONS
\nACCESS Center's updated hours of operation\u00a0is available here.\u00a0El Centro ACCESS servicios remotos solamente.
\nSelf-help services for family law matters and non-family law cases are available for self-represented Court customers.\u00a0The ACCESS Center can give you legal information\u00a0and/or referrals to other resources\u00a0to help you represent yourself. We cannot provide\u00a0you legal advice.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The ACCESS Center is available to help both parties to a case, which means we may also help the other side in your case.\u00a0
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 We do NOT represent you, will NOT act as your lawyer, and your meetings with us are not private. This means that what you tell the ACCESS Center is NOT confidential.\u00a0
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0We can help with general information and instructions with San Francisco cases only and when appropriate, we may give you referrals for other resources.\u00a0
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0We are not able to assist or answer questions for third parties or family members, including attorneys, law firms, document preparers and paralegal services.\u00a0
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Communications between you and the ACCESS Center are not confidential. You may want to consult with your own attorney if you want personalized advice or strategy, to have a confidential conversation, or to be represented by an attorney in court.\u00a0
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0ACCESS Staff cannot advise, strategize, go to court on your behalf, nor speak to a judge to discuss your case. Contact the (BASF) Bar Association of San Francisco\u2019s Lawyer Referral Service at (415) 989-1616 to hire an attorney, and/or to see if you qualify for a low fee or free attorney.\u00a0
\n\u00a0
ACCESS Center\u00a0
\nSan Francisco Superior Court
\n400 McAllister Street, Room 509
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
ACCESS Center Hours and Services, \u00a0effective January 2022
\nCentro ACCESS Horario\u00a0y Servicios
ONLINE SERVICES
\nComplete an intake form
CHILD SUPPORT INQUIRIES
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.\u00a0
\n(415) 551-0605*
ALL OTHER QUESTIONS
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:\u00a0
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.
\n(415) 551-0605*
*Your phone will need to be able to accept blocked calls and accept voicemails\u00a0in order to receive a return call from ACCESS staff.\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\n| Division | \nName | \nForm # | \nDate Rev | \n
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-Help | \n\n\n\n | \n\u00a0 | \n\u00a0 | \n
| Self-Help | \n\n\n | \n\u00a0 | \n\u00a0 | \n
| Self-Help | \n\n\n | \n\u00a0 | \n\u00a0 | \n
| How Do I... | \n\n Find out the amount of my civil filing fee? | \n\u00a0 | \n\u00a0 | \n
| How Do I... | \n\n Find out information about the 2019 Traffic Bail Schedule\u00a0-\u00a0Uniform Bail Penalty Schedule? \n | \n\u00a0 | \n\u00a0 | \n
| How Do I... | \n\n Find out the Felony-Misdemeanor Bail Index and Schedule\u00a0? \n | \n\u00a0 | \n\u00a0 | \n
| How Do I... | \n\n\n | \n\u00a0 | \n\u00a0 | \n
| How Do I... | \n\n\n | \n\u00a0 | \n\u00a0 | \n
| How Do I... | \n\n\n | \n\u00a0 | \n\u00a0 | \n
| Hall of Justice Livestreams | \n
|---|
| Department 16 | \n
| Department 19 | \n
| Department 25 | \n
| Department 27 | \n
| CCC Livestream Links | \n|
|---|---|
| \n\n | \n\u00a0 | \n
| \n Department 220 \n | \n|
| \n\n | \n|
| \n\n | \n|
| \n Department 303 \n | \n|
| \n\n | \n\u00a0 | \n
| \n Department 305 \n | \n|
| \n Department 306 \n | \n|
| \n Department 318 \n | \n|
| \n\n | \n|
| \n\n | \n|
| \n\n | \n|
| \n\n | \n|
| \n\n | \n|
| \n\n | \n|
| Department 502 | \n|
| \n Department 504 \n | \n|
| Department 505 | \n|
| \n\n | \n|
| Department 525 | \n|
| Department 606 | \n|
| \n Department 608 \n | \n|
| Department 611 | \n|
| Department 624 | \n
\u00a0
\n\n\nPlease refer to the notice entitled \u201cInformation Regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Court Operations\u201d on the court\u2019s home page for further detailed information.\u00a0
\nUse the following links to obtain tentative rulings or call (415) 551-4000 and follow the prompts.
\n\n
\n- Asbestos Discovery, Department 503
\n- Asbestos Law & Motion, Department 503
\n- Asbestos Motion Calendar, Department 503
\n- Law & Motion/Discovery Department 302
\n- Probate
\n- Real Property Housing Court Motions Department 210
\n- Real Property Housing Court Motions Department 501
\n\u00a0
\n\n
\n- Family Law Tentative Rulings\u00a0or call (415) 551-3637 to access Family Law tentative rulings by phone
\n\u00a0
\nHearings in Law & Motion and Discovery Departments
\n9:00 a.m. Discovery Hearings \u2013 Counsel and parties may appear in the Discovery Department only by videoconference using Zoom (see below).
\n9:30 a.m. Law & Motion Hearings \u2013 Effective Monday, January 3, 2022, all attorneys and parties may appear in Department 302 remotely. \u00a0Remote hearings will be conducted by videoconference using Zoom (see below).
\n11:00 a.m. Ex Parte Hearings \u2013 Appearances are by CourtCall only.\u00a0 Parties must contact CourtCall at 1-888-88-COURT in advance to schedule an appearance.
\nCounsel and parties can appear by videoconference and the public can view and/or listen to hearings, by clicking on the appropriate links below:
\nDiscovery, Department 301 Daily at 9:00 a.m.\u00a0
\nLaw & Motion,\u00a0Department 302\u00a0Daily at 9:30 a.m.
\n\u00a0
\nIf unable to join using the links above, the hearings may be joined by telephone by dialing +1 669 900 6833 and entering the meeting ID and password below.
\nDepartment 301: Meeting ID: 883 1747 5273\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Passcode: 421662
\nDepartment 302: Meeting ID: 862 4684 9687\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Passcode: 490158
\n
![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/Ashley%2C%20Alonso%2C%20and%20Judge%20Chan.JPG\")
![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/Chan%2C%20Bruce%20E..JPG\")
Judge Bruce E. Chan
\n![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/Judge%20Ross%20%26%20Judge%20Stewart%20with%20Grads_VJC%20Grad%2005272016.jpg\")
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Judge Michael I. Begert
\nCommunity Justice Center
\n575 Polk St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\u00a0
\n![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/directions.jpg\")
Judge Roger C. Chan\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 (Boys Program)
\nJudge Monica F. Wiley\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0(Girls Program)
\nThe San Francisco Family Treatment Court (FTC) is a court-supervised treatment and parenting program for people with children involved in the juvenile dependency system. \u00a0FTC promotes stable, long-term family reunification by helping parents address their substance abuse issues, improve their parenting skills, and access wraparound services.
\nFTC is a voluntary program that includes regular court appearances, intensive case management, substance abuse treatment, transitional housing, and evidence-based parenting classes, among other services. The typical length of participation is 12 to 18 months.
\nFTC supports parents to:
\nThrough a collaboration between the Superior Court, Human Services Agency, Department of Public Health, Homeless Prenatal Program, and other community partners, FTC strives to provide highly coordinated, family focused, and trauma informed care to parents and children that will result in fewer children entering foster care and more families experiencing long-term reunification.
\n![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/Kelly%2C%20Kathleen.jpg\")
Judge Kathleen Kelly
\nCivic Center Courthouse
\n400 McAllister St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\nDepartment 405
\n(415) 551-3747
Jennifer Pasinosky
\nFTC Coordinator
\n(415) 551-5767
\n(415) 551-5701 (Fax)
The mission of the Behavioral Health Court of the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco is to enhance public safety and reduce recidivism of criminal defendants who suffer from serious mental illness by connecting these defendants with community treatment services, and to find appropriate dispositions to the criminal charges by considering the defendant's mental illness and the seriousness of the offense.
\nBHC\u00a0provides wraparound services that support evidence-based practices for treating mentally ill offenders. The clinical team uses Forensic Assertive Community Treatment, Illness Management and Recovery, Trauma Informed Care, Integrated Dual Diagnosis Treatment, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. In 2008, BHC received the Council on Mentally Ill Offenders (COMIO) Best Practices Award.
\nIn 2008, the Court added Supported Employment to\u00a0its list of evidence-based practices. Behavioral Health Court\u2019s Supported Employment Program provides support to clients with major mental illness by helping them to find and maintain employment and eliminate barriers that forensic mental health consumers face. The goal is to provide competitive work in integrated work settings that match the capabilities and interests of clients for whom competitive employment has not traditionally occurred.
\nBHC provides a seamless continuum of care beginning with in-jail services, transitional care prior to release, and early release into the community. Jail Psychiatric Services (JPS) supports psychiatric treatment for inmates and is the first link to the continuum of care model. Jail Aftercare Services (JAS) is responsible for screening inmates for BHC eligibility, presenting the case to the BHC legal team, and providing transitional and linkage case management services as clients leave the jail and connect with community treatment providers. The continuum of care concept is one of the most innovative in the country and is responsible for enhancing a client's successful return to the community.
\nThe Behavioral Health Court was created in 2002 in response to the increasing numbers of mentally ill defendants cycling through the jails and courts. It is a collaboration among the Superior Court, Public Defender's Office, District Attorney's Office, Sheriff's Department, Haight Ashbury Free Clinic's Jail Psychiatric Services (JPS), UCSF's Citywide Case Management, and the Department of Public Health.
\nBHC strives to achieve the following goals: 1) connect criminal defendants who suffer from serious mental illness to treatment services in the community; 2) find appropriate dispositions to the criminal charges that consider the mental illness and the seriousness of the offense; and 3) ensure public safety by decreasing recidivism through appropriate mental health treatment and intensive supervision.
\nParticipation in BHC is voluntary, and in many instances, the defendant does not have to enter a guilty plea to criminal charges in order to enter. The Judge and lawyers work closely with the mental health providers who provide intensive case management to the clients with a focus on the person's diagnosis and psychosocial needs rather than criminal charges. Eligibility for BHC is based on: 1) diagnosis (must have an Axis I mental health disorder); 2) gravity of the criminal charges; and 3) suitability and amenability to treatment in the community mental health system.\u00a0 As a general rule, if the defendant's mental illness is a primary motivating factor in the criminal activity that brought the defendant into the criminal justice system, the case will be considered for BHC. In the interest of public safety, defendants who commit certain violent charges are not allowed in the program. On average 140 clients are being monitored in BHC.
\n![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/Crompton-Charles-6135.jpg\")
Judge Charles Crompton
\nJudge Charles Crompton
\n\u00a0Hall of Justice
\n850 Bryant St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94103
\nDepartment 15
\n(415) 551-0315
San Francisco\u2019s Adult Drug Court (SFDC) was established in 1995 as part of a citywide effort to reduce the impact of drug and alcohol use on the criminal justice system. Using a team approach, SFDC is an intensive rehabilitation program that integrates substance abuse disorder treatment and social services with judicial oversight to monitor client accountability and facilitate recovery. The Drug Court Team includes representatives from the San Francisco Superior Court, the Department of Public Health, the District Attorney's Office, the Public Defender's Office, and the Adult Probation Department and community based treatment providers.\u00a0
\nSan Francisco's Adult Drug Court Goals:
\nSFDC has its own treatment clinic called the Community Justice Service Center (CJSC) which is co-located with the Community Justice Center at 555 Polk St. After enrollment, a participant\u2019s treatment is monitored by the Court. A series of sanctions and incentives are used to encourage compliance with treatment. Those who are non-compliant receive graduated sanctions such as writing an essay, community service or jail time - to encourage behavioral change and adherence with treatment. Throughout their participation in Drug Court, clients attend regular judicial status hearings and undergo intensive case management, randomized urinalysis testing, counseling, and ancillary services including mental health treatment, vocational/education services, anger management counseling, and supportive housing. Upon successful program completion, generally after 10 to 24 months, probation is terminated or charges are dismissed.
\nThe San Francisco Drug Treatment Program seeks to connect criminal defendants who suffer from a substantial substance abuse treatment disorders \u00a0to \u00a0services in the community in order to enhance public safety, reduce recidivism, and to find appropriate dispositions to the criminal charges that take into consideration the individual\u2019s substance abuse disorders, mental and physical health, and the seriousness of the offense.
\n
Judge Michael I. Begert
\nCommunity Justice Center
\n575 Polk St.
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\n
\nDirections
The Community Justice Center (CJC) is a collaborative court program in partnership with city agencies and community groups. The CJC represents progressive reform to the current criminal justice system by addressing the primary issues facing the individual and not just their crime. The CJC includes both\u00a0a courtroom and social-service center. Social services include drug treatment, mental health programs, support groups, counseling, career development and job training. The CJC refers clients and community members to appropriate services located at the CJC and at other city-partner agencies. The CJC values the immediacy of intervention with the goal of preventing on-going cycles of recidivism while improving the lives of participants and residents in the community.
\nThe Community Justice Center of the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco, responds to the needs of participants and the central city community with a philosophy that CARES - Community, Accountability, Efficiency, and Support.\u00a0 The CJC reduces barriers for people with the goal of improving their lives.
\n\u00a0
\n
Judge Michael I. Begert
\n(415) 551-3837
Community Justice Center
\n555 Polk St. (Social Services)
\n575 Polk St. (Courtroom)
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102
\n(628) 217-6400\u00a0CJC Front Desk
Office hours: 8:30 a.m. to\u00a04:30 p.m. (Monday - Friday)
\nMaria Batres
\nCJC Coordinator
(415) 551-5939
\n\n\nSee CJC Anniversary Video\u00a0\u00a0
| \n If you have a Court\u00a0related e-filing inquiry please contact the E-filing Unit through email:\u00a0 \n\u00a0 \nCIVIL FILINGS:\u00a0[email\u00a0protected]\u00a0 \nFAMILY LAW FILINGS:\u00a0\u00a0[email\u00a0protected]\u00a0 \n\n | \n
Self-help services for family law matters and non-family law cases are available for in pro per (representing yourself) Court customers. \u00a0You do not have to pay anything to get assistance from the ACCESS Center, but you may need to pay for copies and Court filing fees. The self-help center can only help with certain cases types. Make sure that the type of assistance you seek is within the ACCESS Center\u2019s menu of services before you remove your attorney of record. There may be some complexities to the case you would like to file and an attorney will be better able to help you understand your rights and responsibilities.
\nACCESS Center\u00a0
\nSan Francisco Superior Court
\n400 McAllister Street, Room 509
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
ACCESS Center Hours and Services, \u00a0effective January 2022
\nCentro ACCESS Horario\u00a0y Servicios
ONLINE SERVICES
\nComplete an intake form
CHILD SUPPORT INQUIRIES
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.\u00a0
\n(415) 551-0605*
ALL OTHER QUESTIONS
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:\u00a0
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.
\n(415) 551-0605*
*Your phone will need to be able to accept blocked calls and accept voicemails\u00a0in order to receive a return call from ACCESS staff.\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\nThere are court fees and costs associated to file documents with the Court. Most case types require a filing fee and/or have other related costs (for example: court reporter fee, making and certifying copies, Sheriff\u2019s fee to give notice, etc.). The fee schedule is available\u00a0here. However, if you cannot afford to pay the filing fees and other costs, you may file a fee waiver to ask the court to waive the fees related to your case.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Things to Consider Before Filing a Fee Waiver
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Filing Your Fee Waiver: Forms and How to Fill It Out
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Steps After Filing a Fee Waiver
\n\u00a0
ACCESS Center\u00a0
\nSan Francisco Superior Court
\n400 McAllister Street, Room 509
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
ACCESS Center Hours and Services, \u00a0effective January 2022
\nCentro ACCESS Horario\u00a0y Servicios
ONLINE SERVICES
\nComplete an intake form
CHILD SUPPORT INQUIRIES
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.\u00a0
\n(415) 551-0605*
ALL OTHER QUESTIONS
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:\u00a0
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.
\n(415) 551-0605*
*Your phone will need to be able to accept blocked calls and accept voicemails\u00a0in order to receive a return call from ACCESS staff.\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\nAll parties in a case are required to keep the court updated with any changes in your address and/or phone number so that you may receive important court notices.\u00a0
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Notice of Change of Address or Other Contact Information
\nACCESS Center\u00a0
\nSan Francisco Superior Court
\n400 McAllister Street, Room 509
\nSan Francisco, CA 94102-4514
ACCESS Center Hours and Services, \u00a0effective January 2022
\nCentro ACCESS Horario\u00a0y Servicios
ONLINE SERVICES
\nComplete an intake form
CHILD SUPPORT INQUIRIES
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.\u00a0
\n(415) 551-0605*
ALL OTHER QUESTIONS
\nMonday, Tuesday, Thursday:\u00a0
\n8:00 a.m. \u2013 11:30 a.m.
\n(415) 551-0605*
*Your phone will need to be able to accept blocked calls and accept voicemails\u00a0in order to receive a return call from ACCESS staff.\u00a0
\n\u00a0
\n| \n Case Query On this site, you can look up Unlimited/Limited Civil, Family Law, Probate, and Small Claims cases by case number or by case name for cases filed from 1987 to present. For all other cases contact those court departments directly. \u00a0MORE \u00bb \nCivil UD and Rental Debt\u00a0Case Query:\u00a0\u00a0https://ud.sftc.org\u00a0 \n | \n\n\n | \n
| \n\n Search for Case Calendars by Case Type and Date. Information is available up to 120 calendar days from today. \n | \n\n\n | \n
| Courtroom Live Stream | \n\n\n | \n
| \n Criminal\u00a0\u2014\u00a0Upcoming Cases Report \n | \n\n\n | \n
| \n Tentative Rulings\u00a0\u2014\u00a0Civil (Non-Family) \n
| \n\n |
| \n\n Pay Traffic and Citations \n | \n\n\n | \n
| Traffic School & Administrative Fees \nSign up and pay for traffic school | \n\n\n | \n
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California Courts Self-Help Center![\"\"](\"/sites/default/files/images/08.jpg\")
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