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Title 3. Civil Rules

Division 1. General Provisions

Chapter 1. Preliminary Rules

Rule 3.1. Title

The rules in this title may be referred to as the Civil Rules.

Rule 3.1 adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Chapter 2. Scope of the Civil Rules

Rule 3.10. Application

Rule 3.20. Preemption of local rules

Rule 3.10. Application

The Civil Rules apply to all civil cases in the superior courts, including general civil, family,

juvenile, and probate cases, unless otherwise provided by a statute or rule in the California Rules

of Court.

Rule 3.10 adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.20. Preemption of local rules

(a) Fields occupied

The Judicial Council has preempted all local rules relating to pleadings, demurrers, ex

parte applications, motions, discovery, provisional remedies, and the form and format of

papers. No trial court, or any division or branch of a trial court, may enact or enforce any

local rule concerning these fields. All local rules concerning these fields are null and void

unless otherwise permitted or required by a statute or a rule in the California Rules of

Court.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as untitled subd effective July 1, 1997;

previously amended effective July 1, 2000.)

(b) Application

This rule applies to all matters identified in (a) except:

(1) Trial and post-trial proceedings including but not limited to motions in limine (see

rule 3.1112(f));

(2) Proceedings under Code of Civil Procedure sections 527.6, 527.7, and 527.8; the

Family Code; the Probate Code; the Welfare and Institutions Code; and the Penal

Code and all other criminal proceedings;

(3) Eminent domain proceedings; and

(4) Local court rules adopted under the Trial Court Delay Reduction Act.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2015; adopted effective July 1, 2000; previously amended

effective July 1, 2000, January 1, 2002, and January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.20 amended effective January 1, 2015; adopted as rule 302 effective July 1, 1997; previously

amended effective January 1, 2002; previously amended and renumbered as rule 981.1 effective July 1,

2000, and as rule 3.20 effective January 1, 2007.

Chapter 3. Attorneys

Rule 3.35. Definition of limited scope representation; application of rules

Rule 3.36. Notice of limited scope representation and application to be relieved as attorney

Rule 3.37. Nondisclosure of attorney assistance in preparation of court documents

Rule 3.35. Definition of limited scope representation; application of rules

(a) Definition

“Limited scope representation” is a relationship between an attorney and a person seeking

legal services in which they have agreed that the scope of the legal services will be limited

to specific tasks that the attorney will perform for the person.

(b) Application

Rules 3.35 through 3.37 apply to limited scope representation in civil cases, except in

family law cases. Rule 5.425 applies to limited scope representation in family law cases.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2016.)

These rules recognize two types of limited scope representation:

(1) Noticed representation

Rule 3.36 provides procedures for cases in which an attorney and a party notify the

court and other parties of the limited scope representation.

(2) Undisclosed representation

Rule 3.37 applies to cases in which the limited scope representation is not disclosed.

Rule 3.35 amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.36. Notice of limited scope representation and application to be relieved as attorney

(a) Notice of limited scope representation

A party and an attorney may provide notice of their agreement to limited scope

representation by serving and filing a Notice of Limited Scope Representation (form CIV-

150).

(Subd (a) amended effective September 1, 2018.)

(b) Notice and service of papers

After the notice in (a) is received and until either a substitution of attorney or an order to be

relieved as attorney is filed and served, papers in the case must be served on both the

attorney providing the limited scope representation and the client.

Notwithstanding rule 3.1362, an attorney who has completed the tasks specified in the

Notice of Limited Scope Representation (form CIV-150) may use the procedures in this

rule to request that he or she be relieved as attorney in cases in which the attorney has

appeared before the court as an attorney of record and the client has not signed a

Substitution of Attorney—Civil (form MC-050).

(Subd (c) amended effective September 1, 2018.

(d) Application

An application to be relieved as attorney on completion of limited scope representation

under Code of Civil Procedure section 284(2) must be directed to the client and made on

the Application to Be Relieved as Attorney on Completion of Limited Scope Representation

(form CIV-151).

(Subd (d) amended effective September 1, 2018.)

(e) Filing and service of application

The application to be relieved as attorney must be filed with the court and served on the

client and on all other parties or attorneys for parties in the case. The client must also be

served with a blank Objection to Application to Be Relieved as Attorney on Completion of

Limited Scope Representation (form CIV-152).

(Subd (e) amended effective September 1, 2018.)

(f) No objection

If no objection is served and filed with the court within 15 days from the date that the

Application to Be Relieved as Attorney on Completion of Limited Scope Representation

(form CIV-151) is served on the client, the attorney making the application must file an

updated form CIV-151 indicating the lack of objection, along with a proposed Order on

Application to Be Relieved as Attorney on Completion of Limited Scope Representation

(form CIV-153). The clerk must then forward the order for judicial signature.

(Subd (f) amended effective September 1, 2018.)

(g) Objection

If an objection to the application is served and filed within 15 days, the clerk must set a

hearing date on the Objection to Application to Be Relieved as Attorney on Completion of

Limited Scope Representation (form CIV-152). The hearing must be scheduled no later

than 25 days from the date the objection is filed. The clerk must send the notice of the

hearing to the parties and the attorney.

(Subd (g) amended effective September 1, 2018.)

(h) Service of the order

If no objection is served and filed and the proposed order is signed under (f), the attorney

who filed the Application to Be Relieved as Attorney on Completion of Limited Scope

Representation (form CIV-151) must serve a copy of the signed order on the client and on

all parties or the attorneys for all parties who have appeared in the case. The court may

delay the effective date of the order relieving the attorney until proof of service of a copy

of the signed order on the client has been filed with the court.

(Subd (h) amended effective September 1, 2018.)

Rule 3.36 amended effective September 1, 2018; adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.37. Nondisclosure of attorney assistance in preparation of court documents

(a) Nondisclosure

In a civil proceeding, an attorney who contracts with a client to draft or assist in drafting

legal documents, but not to make an appearance in the case, is not required to disclose

within the text of the documents that he or she was involved in preparing the documents.

(b) Attorney’s fees

If a litigant seeks a court order for attorney’s fees incurred as a result of document

preparation, the litigant must disclose to the court information required for a proper

determination of the attorney’s fees, including:

(1) The name of the attorney who assisted in the preparation of the documents;

(2) The time involved or other basis for billing;

(3) The tasks performed; and

(4) The amount billed.

This rule does not apply to an attorney who has made a general appearance in a case.

Rule 3.37 adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Division 2. Waiver of Fees and Costs

Rule 3.50. Application of rules

Rule 3.51. Method of application

Rule 3.52. Procedure for determining application

Rule 3.53. Application granted unless acted on by the court

Rule 3.54. Confidentiality

Rule 3.55. Court fees and costs included in all initial fee waivers

Rule 3.56. Additional court fees and costs waived

Rule 3.57. Amount of lien for waived fees and costs

Rule 3.58. Posting notice

Rule 3.50. Application of rules

(a) Application

The rules in this division govern applications in the trial court for an initial waiver of court

fees and costs because of the applicant’s financial condition. As provided in Government

Code sections 68631 and following, any waiver may later be ended, modified, or

retroactively withdrawn if the court determines that the applicant is not eligible for the

waiver. As provided in Government Code sections 68636 and 68637, the court may, at a

later time, determine that the previously waived fees and costs be paid.

(Subd (a) amended and lettered effective July 1, 2009; adopted as unlettered subd effective January

1, 2007.)

(b) Definitions

For purpose of the rules in this division, “initial fee waiver” means the initial waiver of

court fees and costs that may be granted at any stage of the proceedings and includes both

the fees and costs specified in rule 3.55 and any additional fees and costs specified in rule

3.56.

(Subd (b) adopted effective July 1, 2009.)

Initial fee waivers in decedents’ estate, probate conservatorship, and probate guardianship

proceedings or involving guardians or conservators as parties on behalf of their wards or

conservatees are governed by rule 7.5.

(Subd (c) adopted effective September 1, 2015.)

Rule 3.50 amended effective September 1, 2015; adopted effective January 1, 2007; previously amended

effective July 1, 2009.

Rule 3.51. Method of application

(a) An application for initial fee waiver under rule 3.55 must be made on Request to Waive

Court Fees (form FW-001). An application for initial fee waiver under rule 3.56 must be

made on Request to Waive Additional Court Fees (Superior Court) (form FW-002). The

clerk must provide the forms and the Information Sheet on Waiver of Superior Court Fees

and Costs (form FW-001-INFO) without charge to any person who requests any fee waiver

application or indicates that he or she is unable to pay any court fee or cost.

(Subd (a) lettered effective September 1, 2015; adopted as unlettered subd. effective January 1,

2007.)

(b) Applications involving (proposed) wards and conservatees

An application for initial fee waiver under rules 3.55 and 7.5 by a probate guardian or

probate conservator or a petitioner for the appointment of a probate guardian or probate

conservator for the benefit of a (proposed) ward or conservatee, in the guardianship or

conservatorship proceeding or in a civil action or proceeding in which the guardian or

conservator is a party on behalf of the ward or conservatee, must be made on Request to

Waive Court Fees (Ward or Conservatee) (form FW-001-GC). An application for initial

fee waiver under rule 3.56 by a guardian or conservator or a petitioner for the appointment

of a guardian or conservator for the benefit of a (proposed) ward or conservatee must be

made on Request to Waive Additional Court Fees (Superior Court) (Ward or Conservatee)

(form FW-002-GC).

(Subd (b) adopted effective September 1, 2015.)

Rule 3.51 amended effective September 1, 2015; adopted effective January 1, 2007; previously amended

effective January 1, 2007 and July 1, 2009.

Rule 3.52. Procedure for determining application

The procedure for determining an application is as follows:

(1) The trial court must consider and determine the application as required by Government

Code sections 68634 and 68635.

(2) An order determining an application for an initial fee waiver without a hearing must be

made on Order on Court Fee Waiver (Superior Court) (form FW-003) or, if the

application is made for the benefit of a (proposed) ward or conservatee, on Order on Court

Fee Waiver (Superior Court) (Ward or Conservatee) (form FW-003-GC), except as

provided in (6) below.

(3) An order determining an application for an initial fee waiver after a hearing in the trial

court must be made on Order on Court Fee Waiver After Hearing (Superior Court) (form

FW-008) or, if the application is made for the benefit of a (proposed) ward or conservatee,

on Order on Court Fee Waiver After Hearing (Superior Court) (Ward or Conservatee)

(form FW-008-GC).

(4) Any order granting a fee waiver must be accompanied by a blank Notice of Improved

Financial Situation or Settlement (form FW-010) or, if the application is made for the

benefit of a (proposed) ward or conservatee, a Notice to Court of Improved Financial

Situation or Settlement (Ward or Conservatee) (form FW-010(GC).

(5) Any order denying an application without a hearing on the ground that the information on

the application conclusively establishes that the applicant is not eligible for a waiver must

be accompanied by a blank Request for Hearing About Fee Waiver Order (Superior Court)

(form FW-006) or, if the application is made for the benefit of a (proposed) ward or

conservatee, a Request for Hearing About Court Fee Waiver Order (Superior Court)

(Ward or Conservatee) (form FW-006-GC).

(6) Until January 1, 2016, a court with a computerized case management system may produce

electronically generated court fee waiver orders as long as:

(A) The document is substantively identical to the mandatory Judicial Council form it is

replacing;

(B) Any electronically generated form is identical in both language and legally mandated

elements, including all notices and advisements, to the mandatory Judicial Council

form it is replacing; and

concerning orders not on Judicial Council mandatory forms.

Rule 3.52 amended effective September 1, 2015; adopted as rule 3.56 effective January 1, 2007;

previously amended and renumbered as rule 3.52 effective July 1, 2009; previously amended effective

January 1, 2007 and July 1, 2015.

Rule 3.53. Application granted unless acted on by the court

The application for initial fee waiver is deemed granted unless the court gives notice of action on

the application within five court days after it is filed. If the application is deemed granted under

this provision, the clerk must prepare and serve a Notice: Waiver of Court Fees (Superior Court)

(form FW-005) or, if the application is made for the benefit of a (proposed) ward or conservatee,

a Notice: Waiver of Court Fees (Superior Court) (Ward or Conservatee) (form FW-005-GC),

five court days after the application is filed.

Rule 3.53 amended effective September 1, 2015; adopted as rule 3.57 effective January 1, 2007;

previously amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended and renumbered as rule 3.53 effective

July 1, 2009.

Rule 3.54. Confidentiality

(a) Confidential records

No person may have access to an application for an initial fee waiver except the court and

authorized court personnel, any persons authorized by the applicant, and any persons

authorized by order of the court. No person may reveal any information contained in the

application except as authorized by law or order of the court.

(Subd (a) amended and lettered effective July 1, 2009; adopted as unlettered subd effective January

1, 2007.)

(b) Request for access to confidential records

Any person seeking access to an application or financial information provided to the court

by an applicant must make the request by noticed motion, supported by a declaration

showing good cause regarding why the confidential information should be released.

(Subd (b) adopted July 1, 2009.)

An order granting access to an application or financial information may include limitations

on who may access the information and on the use of the information after it has been

released.

(Subd (c) adopted July 1, 2009.)

Rule 3.54 amended and renumbered effective July 1, 2009; adopted as rule 3.60 effective January 1,

2007; previously amended effective January 1, 2008.

Rule 3.55. Court fees and costs included in all initial fee waivers

Court fees and costs that must be waived upon granting an application for an initial fee waiver

include:

(1) Clerk’s fees for filing papers;

(2) Clerk’s fees for reasonably necessary certification and copying;

(3) Clerk’s fees for issuance of process and certificates;

(4) Clerk’s fees for transmittal of papers;

(5) Sheriff’s and marshal’s fees under article 7 of chapter 2 of part 3 of division 2 of title 3 of

the Government Code (commencing with section 26720);

(6) Reporter’s fees for attendance at hearings and trials;

(7) The court fee for a telephone appearance;

(8) Clerk’s fees for preparing, copying, certifying, and transmitting the clerk’s transcript on

appeal to the reviewing court and the party. A party proceeding under an initial fee waiver

must specify with particularity the documents to be included in the clerk’s transcript on

appeal;

(9) The fee under rule 8.130(b) or rule 8.834(b) for the court to hold in trust the deposit for a

reporter’s transcript on appeal; and

(10) The clerk’s fee for preparing a transcript of an official electronic recording under rule

8.835 or a copy of such an electronic recording.

Rule 3.55 amended effective January 1, 2023; adopted as rule 3.61 effective January 1, 2007; previously

amended and renumbered as rule 3.55 effective July 1, 2009; previously amended effective January 1,

2009; July 1, 2015, and September 1, 2019.

Advisory Committee Comment

The inclusion of court reporter’s fees in the fees waived upon granting an application for an initial fee

waiver is intended to provide a fee waiver recipient with an official court reporter or other valid means to

create an official verbatim record, for purposes of appeal, on a request. (See Jameson v. Desta (2018) 5

Cal.5th 594.) It is intended to include within a waiver all fees mandated under the Government Code for

the cost of court reporting services provided by a court.

Rule 3.56. Additional court fees and costs that may be included in initial fee waiver

Necessary court fees and costs that may be waived upon granting an application for an initial fee

waiver, either at the outset or upon later application, include:

(1) Jury fees and expenses;

(2) Court-appointed interpreter’s fees for witnesses;

(3) Witness fees of peace officers whose attendance is reasonably necessary for prosecution or

defense of the case;

(4) Witness fees of court-appointed experts; and

(5) Other fees or expenses as itemized in the application.

Rule 3.56 amended effective July 1, 2015; adopted as rule 3.62 effective January 1, 2007; previously

amended and renumbered as rule 3.56 effective July 1, 2009.

Rule 3.57. Amount of lien for waived fees and costs

To determine the amount of the court lien for waived fees and costs, any party to a civil action in

which an initial fee waiver has been granted may ask the clerk to calculate the total amount of

court fees and costs that have been waived as of the date of the request.

Rule 3.57 adopted effective July 1, 2009.

Rule 3.58. Posting notice

Each trial court must post in a conspicuous place near the filing window or counter a notice, 8½

by 11 inches or larger, advising litigants in English and Spanish that they may ask the court to

waive court fees and costs. The notice must be substantially as follows:

“NOTICE: If you are unable to pay fees and costs, you may ask the court to permit you to

proceed without paying them. Ask the clerk for the Information Sheet on Waiver of Superior

Court Fees and Costs or Information Sheet on Waiver of Court Fees and Costs for Appeal or

Writ Proceedings and the Request to Waive Court Fees.”

Rule 3.58 amended and renumbered effective July 1, 2009; adopted as rule 3.63 effective January 1,

2007.

Division 3. Filing and Service

Chapter 1. Filing

Rule 3.100. Payment of filing fees by credit or debit card

A party may pay a filing fee by credit or debit card provided the court is authorized to accept

payment by this method under Government Code section 6159, rule 10.820, and other applicable

law.

Rule 3.100 adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Chapter 2. Time for Service

Rule 3.110. Time for service of complaint, cross-complaint, and response

(a) Application

This rule applies to the service of pleadings in civil cases except for collections cases under

rule 3.740(a), unlawful detainer actions, proceedings under the Family Code, and other

proceedings for which different service requirements are prescribed by law.

(Subd (a) amended effective July 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(b) Service of complaint

The complaint must be served on all named defendants and proofs of service on those

defendants must be filed with the court within 60 days after the filing of the complaint.

When the complaint is amended to add a defendant, the added defendant must be served

and proof of service must be filed within 30 days after the filing of the amended complaint.

A cross-complaint against a party who has appeared in the action must be accompanied by

proof of service of the cross-complaint at the time it is filed. If the cross-complaint adds

new parties, the cross-complaint must be served on all parties and proofs of service on the

new parties must be filed within 30 days of the filing of the cross-complaint.

(d) Timing of responsive pleadings

The parties may stipulate without leave of court to one 15-day extension beyond the 30-

day time period prescribed for the response after service of the initial complaint.

(e) Modification of timing; application for order extending time

The court, on its own motion or on the application of a party, may extend or otherwise

modify the times provided in (b)–(d). An application for a court order extending the time

to serve a pleading must be filed before the time for service has elapsed. The application

must be accompanied by a declaration showing why service has not been completed,

documenting the efforts that have been made to complete service, and specifying the date

by which service is proposed to be completed.

(Subd (e) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(f) Failure to serve

If a party fails to serve and file pleadings as required under this rule, and has not obtained

an order extending time to serve its pleadings, the court may issue an order to show cause

why sanctions shall not be imposed.

(Subd (f) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(g) Request for entry of default

If a responsive pleading is not served within the time limits specified in this rule and no

extension of time has been granted, the plaintiff must file a request for entry of default

within 10 days after the time for service has elapsed. The court may issue an order to show

cause why sanctions should not be imposed if the plaintiff fails to timely file the request

for the entry of default.

(Subd (g) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(h) Default judgment

When a default is entered, the party who requested the entry of default must obtain a

default judgment against the defaulting party within 45 days after the default was entered,

unless the court has granted an extension of time. The court may issue an order to show

cause why sanctions should not be imposed if that party fails to obtain entry of judgment

against a defaulting party or to request an extension of time to apply for a default judgment

within that time.

(Subd (h) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(i) Order to show cause

Responsive papers to an order to show cause issued under this rule must be filed and

served at least 5 calendar days before the hearing.

(Subd (i) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.110 amended effective July 1, 2007; adopted as rule 201.7 effective July 1, 2002; previously

amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007.

Chapter 3. Papers to Be Served

Rule 3.220. Case Cover Sheet

Rule 3.221. Information about alternative dispute resolution

Rule 3.222. Papers to be served on cross-defendants

Rule 3.220. Case cover sheet

(a) Cover sheet required

The first paper filed in an action or proceeding must be accompanied by a case cover sheet

as required in (b). The cover sheet must be on a form prescribed by the Judicial Council

and must be filed in addition to any cover sheet required by local court rule. If the plaintiff

indicates on the cover sheet that the case is complex under rule 3.400 et seq., or a

collections case under rule 3.740, the plaintiff must serve a copy of the cover sheet with the

complaint. In all other cases, the plaintiff is not required to serve the cover sheet. The

cover sheet is used for statistical purposes and may affect the assignment of a complex

case.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2009; previously amended effective January 1, 2000,

January 1, 2002, and January 1, 2007.)

(b) List of cover sheets

(1) Civil Case Cover Sheet (form CM-010) must be filed in each civil action or

proceeding, except those filed in small claims court or filed under the Probate Code,

Family Code, or Welfare and Institutions Code.

(2) [Note: Case cover sheets will be added for use in additional areas of the law as the

data collection program expands.]

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective July 1, 2002, and July

1, 2003.)

If a party that is required to provide a cover sheet under this rule or a similar local rule fails

to do so or provides a defective or incomplete cover sheet at the time the party’s first paper

is submitted for filing, the clerk of the court must file the paper. Failure of a party or a

party’s counsel to file a cover sheet as required by this rule may subject that party, its

counsel, or both, to sanctions under rule 2.30.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted effective January 1, 2002.)

Rule 3.220 amended effective January 1, 2009; adopted as rule 982.2 effective July 1, 1996; previously

amended and renumbered as rule 201.8 effective July 1, 2002, and as rule 3.220 effective January 1,

2007; previously amended effective January 1, 2000, January 1, 2002, and July 1, 2003.

Rule 3.221. Information about alternative dispute resolution

(a) Court to provide information package

Each court must make available to the plaintiff, at the time the complaint is filed in all

general civil cases, an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) information package that

includes, at a minimum, all of the following:

(1) General information about the potential advantages and disadvantages of ADR and

descriptions of the principal ADR processes. Judicial Council staff have prepared

model language that the courts may use to provide this information.

(2) Information about the ADR programs available in that court, including citations to

any applicable local court rules and directions for contacting any court staff

responsible for providing parties with assistance regarding ADR.

(3) In counties that are participating in the Dispute Resolution Programs Act (DRPA),

information about the availability of local dispute resolution programs funded under

the DRPA. This information may take the form of a list of the applicable programs

or directions for contacting the county’s DRPA coordinator.

(4) An ADR stipulation form that parties may use to stipulate to the use of an ADR

process.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2016; previously amended effective July 1, 2002, and

January 1, 2007.)

(b) Court may make package available on Web site

A court may make the ADR information package available on its Web site as long as paper

copies are also made available in the clerk’s office.

(Subd (b) adopted effective July 1, 2002.)

In all general civil cases, the plaintiff must serve a copy of the ADR information package

on each defendant together with the complaint. Cross-complainants must serve a copy of

the ADR information package on any new parties to the action together with the cross-

complaint.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (b) effective January 1, 2001;

previously amended and relettered effective July 1, 2002.)

Rule 3.221 amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as rule 1590.1 effective January 1, 2001;

previously amended and renumbered as rule 201.9 effective July 1, 2002, and as rule 3.221 effective

January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.222. Papers to be served on cross-defendants

A cross-complainant must serve a copy of the complaint or, if it has been amended, the most

recently amended complaint and any answers thereto on cross-defendants who have not

previously appeared.

Rule 3.222 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 202 effective January 1,

1985; previously amended effective January 1, 2003.

Chapter 4. Miscellaneous

Rule 3.250. Limitations on the filing of papers

Rule 3.252. Service of papers on the clerk when a party’s address is unknown

Rule 3.254. List of parties

Rule 3.250. Limitations on the filing of papers

(a) Papers not to be filed

The following papers, whether offered separately or as attachments to other documents,

may not be filed unless they are offered as relevant to the determination of an issue in a

law and motion proceeding or other hearing or are ordered filed for good cause:

(1) Subpoena;

(2) Subpoena duces tecum;

(3) Deposition notice, and response;

(4) Notice to consumer or employee, and objection;

(5) Notice of intention to record testimony by audio or video tape;

(6) Notice of intention to take an oral deposition by telephone, videoconference, or other

remote electronic means;

(7) Agreement to set or extend time for deposition, agreement to extend time for

response to discovery requests, and notice of these agreements;

(8) Interrogatories, and responses or objections to interrogatories;

(9) Demand for production or inspection of documents, things, and places, and

responses or objections to demand;

(10) Request for admissions, and responses or objections to request;

(11) Agreement for physical and mental examinations;

(12) Demand for delivery of medical reports, and response;

(13) Demand for exchange of expert witnesses;

(14) Demand for production of discoverable reports and writings of expert witnesses;

(15) List of expert witnesses whose opinion a party intends to offer in evidence at trial

and declaration;

(16) Statement that a party does not presently intend to offer the testimony of any expert

witness;

(17) Declaration for additional discovery;

(18) Stipulation to enlarge the scope of number of discovery requests from that specified

by statute, and notice of the stipulation;

(19) Demand for bill of particulars or an accounting, and response;

(20) Request for statement of damages, and response, unless it is accompanied by a

request to enter default and is the notice of special and general damages;

(21) Notice of deposit of jury fees;

(22) Notice to produce party, agent, or tangible things before a court, and response; and

(23) Offer to compromise, unless accompanied by an original proof of acceptance and a

written judgment for the court’s signature and entry of judgment.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2003; previously amended effective January 1, 2001.)

(b) Retaining originals of papers not filed

(1) Unless the paper served is a response, the party who serves a paper listed in (a) must

retain the original with the original proof of service affixed. If served electronically

under rule 2.251, the proof of electronic service must meet the requirements in rule

2.251(i).

(2) The original of a response must be served, and it must be retained by the person upon

whom it is served.

(3) An original must be retained under (1) or (2) in the paper or electronic form in which

it was created or received.

(4) All original papers must be retained until six months after final disposition of the

case, unless the court on motion of any party and for good cause shown orders the

original papers preserved for a longer period.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2017; amended effective January 1, 2003, and January 1,

2007.)

As used in this rule, papers include printed forms furnished by the clerk, but do not include

notices filed and served by the clerk.

Rule 3.250 amended effective January 1, 2017; adopted as rule 201.5 effective July 1, 1987; previously

amended effective January 1, 2001, and January 1, 2003; previously amended and renumbered as rule

3.250 effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.252. Service of papers on the clerk when a party’s address is unknown

(a) Service of papers

When service is made under Code of Civil Procedure section 1011(b) and a party’s

residence address is unknown, the notice or papers delivered to the clerk, or to the judge if

there is no clerk, must be enclosed in an envelope addressed to the party in care of the

clerk or the judge.

(Subd (a) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2003.)

(b) Information on the envelope

The back of the envelope delivered under (a) must bear the following information:

“Service is being made under Code of Civil Procedure section 1011(b) on a party whose

residence address is unknown.”

[Name of party whose residence address is unknown]

[Case name and number]

(Subd (b) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2003.)

Rule 3.252 renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 202.5 effective July 1, 1997;

previously amended effective January 1, 2003.

Rule 3.254. List of parties

(a) Duties of first-named plaintiff or petitioner

Except as provided under rule 2.251 for electronic service, if more than two parties have

appeared in a case and are represented by different counsel, the plaintiff or petitioner

named first in the complaint or petition must:

(1) Maintain a current list of the parties and their addresses for service of notice on each

party; and

(2) Furnish a copy of the list on request to any party or the court.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as part of unlettered subd effective July 1,

1984; previously amended and lettered as subd (a) effective January 1, 2007.)

(b) Duties of each party

Except as provided under rule 2.251 for electronic service, each party must:

(1) Furnish the first-named plaintiff or petitioner with its current address for service of

notice when it first appears in the action;

(2) Furnish the first-named plaintiff or petitioner with any changes in its address for

service of notice; and

(3) If it serves an order, notice, or pleading on a party who has not yet appeared in the

action, serve a copy of the list required under (a) at the same time as the order,

notice, or pleading is served.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as part of unlettered subd effective July 1,

1984; previously amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.254 amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as rule 387 effective July 1, 1984; previously

amended and renumbered as rule 202.7 effective January 1, 2003, and as rule 3.254 effective January 1,

2007.

Division 4. Parties and Actions

Chapter 1. [Reserved]

Chapter 2. Joinder of Parties [Reserved]

Chapter 3. Related Cases

Rule 3.300. Related cases

(a) Definition of “related case”

A pending civil case is related to another pending civil case, or to a civil case that was

dismissed with or without prejudice, or to a civil case that was disposed of by judgment, if

the cases:

(1) Involve the same parties and are based on the same or similar claims;

(2) Arise from the same or substantially identical transactions, incidents, or events

requiring the determination of the same or substantially identical questions of law or

fact;

(3) Involve claims against, title to, possession of, or damages to the same property; or

(4) Are likely for other reasons to require substantial duplication of judicial resources if

heard by different judges.

(Subd (a) adopted effective January 1, 2007.)

(b) Duty to provide notice

Whenever a party in a civil action knows or learns that the action or proceeding is related

to another action or proceeding pending, dismissed, or disposed of by judgment in any

state or federal court in California, the party must serve and file a Notice of Related Case.

(Subd (b) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of subd (a) effective

January 1, 1996; previously amended effective January 1, 2007.)

The Notice of Related Case must:

(1) List all civil cases that are related by court, case name, case number, and filing date;

(2) Identify the case that has the earliest filing date and the court and department in

which that case is pending; and

(3) Describe the manner in which the cases are related.

(Subd (c) adopted effective January 1, 2007.)

(d) Service and filing of notice

The Notice of Related Case must be filed in all pending cases listed in the notice and must

be served on all parties in those cases.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(e) Time for service

The Notice of Related Case must be served and filed as soon as possible, but no later than

15 days after the facts concerning the existence of related cases become known.

(Subd (e) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(f) Continuing duty to provide notice

The duty under (b)–(e) is a continuing duty that applies when a party files a case with

knowledge of a related action or proceeding, and that applies thereafter whenever a party

learns of a related action or proceeding.

(Subd (f) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of subd (a; previously

adopted as subd (b) effective January 1, 2007.)

(g) Response

Within 5 days after service on a party of a Notice of Related Case, the party may serve and

file a response supporting or opposing the notice. The response must state why one or

more of the cases listed in the notice are not related or why other good cause exists for the

court not to transfer the cases to or from a particular court or department. The response

must be filed in all pending cases listed in the notice and must be served on all parties in

those cases.

(Subd (g) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (c); previously

amended and relettered as subd (d) effective January 1, 2007.)

(h) Judicial action

(1) Related cases pending in one superior court

If all the related cases have been filed in one superior court, the court, on notice to all

parties, may order that the cases, including probate and family law cases, be related

and may assign them to a single judge or department. In a superior court where there

is a master calendar, the presiding judge may order the cases related. In a court in

which cases are assigned to a single judge or department, cases may be ordered

related as follows:

(A) Where all the cases listed in the notice are unlimited civil cases, or where all

the cases listed in the notice are limited civil cases, the judge who has the

earliest filed case must determine whether the cases must be ordered related

and assigned to his or her department;

(B) Where the cases listed in the notice include both unlimited and limited civil

cases, the judge who has the earliest filed unlimited civil case must determine

whether the cases should be ordered related and assigned to his or her

department;

presiding judge or a judge designated by the presiding judge must determine

whether the cases should be ordered related and, if so, to which judge or

department they should be assigned;

(D) In the event that any of the cases listed in the notice are not ordered related

under (A), (B), or (C), any party in any of the cases listed in the notice may file

a motion to have the cases related. The motion must be filed with the presiding

judge or the judge designated by the presiding judge; and

(E) If the procedures for relating pending cases under this rule do not apply, the

procedures under Code of Civil Procedure section 1048 and rule 3.350 must be

followed to consolidate cases pending in the same superior court.

(2) Related cases pending in different superior courts

(A) If the related cases are pending in more than one superior court on notice to all

parties, the judge to whom the earliest filed case is assigned may confer

informally with the parties and with the judges to whom each related case is

assigned, to determine the feasibility and desirability of joint discovery orders

and other informal or formal means of coordinating proceedings in the cases.

(B) If it is determined that related cases pending in different superior courts should

be formally coordinated, the procedures in Code of Civil Procedure section

403 and rule 3.500 must be followed for noncomplex cases, and the procedures

in Code of Civil Procedure section 404 et seq. and rules 3.501 et seq. must be

followed for complex cases.

(3) Complex cases

The provisions in (1) of this subdivision do not apply to cases that have been

designated as complex by the parties or determined to be complex by the court.

(Subd (h) amended effective January 1, 2008; adopted as subd (d); previously amended and

relettered as subd (e) effective January 1, 2007.)

(i) Ruling on related cases

The court, department, or judge issuing an order relating cases under this rule must either:

(1) File a notice of the order in all pending cases and serve a copy of the notice on all

parties listed in the Notice of Related Case; or

(2) Direct counsel for a party to file the notice in all pending cases and serve a copy on

all parties.

(Subd (i) adopted effective January 1, 2007.)

(j) Cases not ordered related

If for any reason a case is not ordered related under this rule, that case will remain assigned

to the court, judge, or department where it was pending at the time of the filing and service

of the Notice of Related Case.

(Subd (j) adopted effective January 1, 2007.)

(k) Exception

A party is not required to serve and file Notice of Related Case under this rule if another

party has already filed a notice and served all parties under this rule on the same case.

(Subd (k) adopted effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.300 amended effective January 1, 2008; adopted as rule 804 effective January 1, 1996; previously

amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007.

Chapter 4. Consolidated Cases

Rule 3.350. Consolidation of cases

(a) Requirements of motion

(1) A notice of motion to consolidate must:

(A) List all named parties in each case, the names of those who have appeared, and

the names of their respective attorneys of record;

(B) Contain the captions of all the cases sought to be consolidated, with the lowest

numbered case shown first; and

(2) The motion to consolidate:

(A) Is deemed a single motion for the purpose of determining the appropriate filing

fee, but memorandums, declarations, and other supporting papers must be filed

only in the lowest numbered case;

(B) Must be served on all attorneys of record and all nonrepresented parties in all

of the cases sought to be consolidated; and

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted effective July 1, 1999.)

(b) Lead case

Unless otherwise provided in the order granting the motion to consolidate, the lowest

numbered case in the consolidated case is the lead case.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted effective July 1, 1999.)

An order granting or denying all or part of a motion to consolidate must be filed in each

case sought to be consolidated. If the motion is granted for all purposes including trial, any

subsequent document must be filed only in the lead case.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted effective July 1, 1999.)

(d) Caption and case number

All documents filed in the consolidated case must include the caption and case number of

the lead case, followed by the case numbers of all of the other consolidated cases.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted effective July 1, 1999.)

Rule 3.350 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 367 effective January 1,

1984; previously amended effective July 1, 1999.

Chapter 5. Complex Cases

Rule 3.400. Definition

Rule 3.401. Complex case designation

Rule 3.402. Complex case counterdesignations

Rule 3.403. Action by court

Rule 3.400. Definition

(a) Definition

A “complex case” 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.

(b) Factors

In deciding whether an action is a complex case under (a), the court must consider, among

other things, whether the action is likely to involve:

(1) Numerous pretrial motions raising difficult or novel legal issues that will be time-

consuming to resolve;

(2) Management of a large number of witnesses or a substantial amount of documentary

evidence;

(3) Management of a large number of separately represented parties;

(4) Coordination with related actions pending in one or more courts in other counties,

states, or countries, or in a federal court; or

(5) Substantial postjudgment judicial supervision.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Except as provided in (d), an action is provisionally a complex case if it involves one or

more of the following types of claims:

(1) Antitrust or trade regulation claims;

(2) Construction defect claims involving many parties or structures;

(3) Securities claims or investment losses involving many parties;

(4) Environmental or toxic tort claims involving many parties;

(5) Claims involving mass torts;

(6) Claims involving class actions; or

(7) Insurance coverage claims arising out of any of the claims listed in (c)(1) through

(c)(6).

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(d) Court’s discretion

Notwithstanding (c), an action is not provisionally complex if the court has significant

experience in resolving like claims involving similar facts and the management of those

claims has become routine. A court may declare by local rule that certain types of cases are

or are not provisionally complex under this subdivision.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.400 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1800 effective January 1,

2000.

Rule 3.401. Complex case designation

A plaintiff may designate an action as a complex case by filing and serving with the initial

complaint the Civil Case Cover Sheet (form CM-010) marked to indicate that the action is a

complex case.

Rule 3.401 renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1810 effective January 1, 2000;

previously amended effective July 1, 2002, and July 1, 2004.

Rule 3.402. Complex case counterdesignations

(a) Noncomplex counterdesignation

If a Civil Case Cover Sheet (form CM-010) designating an action as a complex case has

been filed and served and the court has not previously declared the action to be a complex

case, a defendant may file and serve no later than its first appearance a counter Civil Case

Cover Sheet (form CM-010) designating the action as not a complex case. The court must

decide, with or without a hearing, whether the action is a complex case within 30 days after

the filing of the counterdesignation.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective July 1, 2004.)

(b) Complex counterdesignation

A defendant may file and serve no later than its first appearance a counter Civil Case

Cover Sheet (form CM-010) designating the action as a complex case. The court must

decide, with or without a hearing, whether the action is a complex case within 30 days after

the filing of the counterdesignation.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective July 1, 2004.)

A defendant may join the plaintiff in designating an action as a complex case.

Rule 3.402 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1811 effective January 1,

2000; previously amended effective July 1, 2004.

Rule 3.403. Action by court

(a) Decision on complex designation

Except as provided in rule 3.402, if a Civil Case Cover Sheet (form CM-010) that has been

filed and served designates an action as a complex case or checks a case type described as

provisionally complex civil litigation, the court must decide as soon as reasonably

practicable, with or without a hearing, whether the action is a complex case.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective July 1, 2004.)

(b) Court’s continuing power

With or without a hearing, the court may decide on its own motion, or on a noticed motion

by any party, that a civil action is a complex case or that an action previously declared to

be a complex case is not a complex case.

Rule 3.403 amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1812 effective January 1, 2000;

previously amended effective July 1, 2004; previously amended and renumbered effective January 1,

2007.

Chapter 6. Coordination of Noncomplex Actions

Rule 3.500. Transfer and consolidation of noncomplex common-issue actions filed in

different courts

Rule 3.500. Transfer and consolidation of noncomplex common-issue actions filed in

different courts

(a) Application

This rule applies when a motion under Code of Civil Procedure section 403 is filed

requesting transfer and consolidation of noncomplex cases involving a common issue of

fact or law filed in different courts.

(Subd (a) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as unlettered subd.)

(b) Preliminary step

A party that intends to file a motion under Code of Civil Procedure section 403 must first

make a good-faith effort to obtain agreement of all parties to each case to the proposed

transfer and consolidation.

(Subd (b) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (a).)

A motion to transfer an action under Code of Civil Procedure section 403 must conform to

the requirements generally applicable to motions, and must be supported by a declaration

stating facts showing that:

(1) The actions are not complex;

(2) The moving party has made a good-faith effort to obtain agreement to the transfer

and consolidation from all parties to the actions; and

(3) The moving party has notified all parties of their obligation to disclose to the court

any information they may have concerning any other motions requesting transfer of

any case that would be affected by the granting of the motion before the court.

(Subd (c) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (b).)

(d) Findings and order

If the court orders that the case or cases be transferred from another court, the order must

specify the reasons supporting a finding that the transfer will promote the ends of justice,

with reference to the following standards:

(1) The actions are not complex;

(2) Whether the common question of fact or law is predominating and significant to the

litigation;

(3) The convenience of the parties, witnesses, and counsel;

(4) The relative development of the actions and the work product of counsel;

(5) The efficient utilization of judicial facilities and staff resources;

(6) The calendar of the courts;

(7) The disadvantages of duplicative and inconsistent rulings, orders, or judgments; and

(8) The likelihood of settlement of the actions without further litigation should

coordination be denied.

(Subd (d) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (c).)

(e) Moving party to provide copies of order

If the court orders that the case or cases be transferred from another court, the moving

party must promptly serve the order on all parties to each case and send it to the Judicial

Council and to the presiding judge of the court from which each case is to be transferred.

(Subd (e) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (d).)

(f) Moving party to take necessary action to complete transfer and consolidation

If the court orders a case or cases transferred, the moving party must promptly take all

appropriate action necessary to assure that the transfer takes place and that proceedings are

initiated in the other court or courts to complete consolidation with the case pending in that

court.

(Subd (f) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (e).)

(g) Conflicting orders

The Judicial Council’s coordination staff must review all transfer orders submitted under

(e) and must promptly confer with the presiding judges of any courts that have issued

conflicting orders under Code of Civil Procedure section 403. The presiding judges of

those courts must confer with each other and with the judges who have issued the orders to

the extent necessary to resolve the conflict. If it is determined that any party to a case has

failed to disclose information concerning pending motions, the court may, after a duly

noticed hearing, find that the party’s failure to disclose is an unlawful interference with the

processes of the court.

(Subd (g) amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as subd (f); previously amended and

relettered as subd (g) effective January 1, 2007.)

(h) Alternative disposition of motion

If after considering the motion the judge determines that the action or actions pending in

another court should not be transferred to the judge’s court but instead all the actions that

are subject to the motion to transfer should be transferred and consolidated in another

court, the judge may order the parties to prepare, serve, and file a motion to have the

actions transferred to the appropriate court.

(Subd (h) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (g).)

Rule 3.500 amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as rule 1500 effective September 21, 1996;

previously amended and renumbered as rule 3.500 effective January 1, 2007.

Chapter 7. Coordination of Complex Actions

Article 1. General Provisions

Rule 3.501. Definitions

Rule 3.502. Complex case—determination

Rule 3.503. Requests for extensions of time or to shorten time

Rule 3.504. General law applicable

Rule 3.505. Appellate review

Rule 3.506. Liaison counsel

Rule 3.501. Definitions

As used in this chapter, unless the context or subject matter otherwise requires:

(1) “Action” means any civil action or proceeding that is subject to coordination or that affects

an action subject to coordination.

(2) “Add-on case” means an action that is proposed for coordination, under Code of Civil

Procedure section 404.4, with actions previously ordered coordinated.

(3) “Assigned judge” means any judge assigned by the Chair of the Judicial Council or by a

presiding judge authorized by the Chair of the Judicial Council to assign a judge under

Code of Civil Procedure section 404 or 404.3, including a “coordination motion judge” and

a “coordination trial judge.”

(4) “Clerk,” unless otherwise indicated, means any person designated by an assigned judge to

perform any clerical duties required by the rules in this chapter.

(5) “Coordinated action” means any action that has been ordered coordinated with one or more

other actions under chapter 3 (commencing with section 404) of title 4 of part 2 of the

Code of Civil Procedure and the rules in this chapter.

(6) “Coordination attorney” means an attorney with the Judicial Council staff appointed by the

Chair of the Judicial Council to perform such administrative functions as may be

appropriate under the rules in this chapter, including but not limited to the functions

described in rules 3.524 and 3.550.

(7) “Coordination motion judge” means an assigned judge designated under Code of Civil

Procedure section 404 to determine whether coordination is appropriate.

(8) “Coordination proceeding” means any procedure authorized by chapter 3 (commencing

with section 404) of title 4 of part 2 of the Code of Civil Procedure and by the rules in this

chapter.

(9) “Coordination trial judge” means an assigned judge designated under Code of Civil

Procedure section 404.3 to hear and determine coordinated actions.

(10) “Expenses” means all necessary costs that are reimbursable under Code of Civil Procedure

section 404.8, including the compensation of the assigned judge and other necessary

judicial officers and employees, the costs of any necessary travel and subsistence

determined under rules of the State Board of Control, and all necessarily incurred costs of

facilities, supplies, materials, and telephone and mailing expenses.

(11) “Included action” means any action or proceeding included in a petition for coordination.

(12) “Liaison counsel” means an attorney of record for a party to an included action or a

coordinated action who has been appointed by an assigned judge to serve as representative

of all parties on a side with the following powers and duties, as appropriate:

(A) To receive on behalf of and promptly distribute to the parties for whom he or

she acts all notices and other documents from the court;

(B) To act as spokesperson for the side that he or she represents at all proceedings

set on notice before trial, subject to the right of each party to present individual

or divergent positions; and

(13) “Party” includes all parties to all included actions or coordinated actions, and the word

“party,” “petitioner,” or any other designation of a party includes that party’s attorney of

record. When a notice or other paper is required to be given or served on a party, the notice

or paper must be given to or served on the party’s attorney of record, if any.

(14) “Petition for coordination” means any petition, motion, application, or request for

coordination of actions submitted to the Chair of the Judicial Council or to a coordination

trial judge under rule 3.544.

(15) “Remand” means to return a coordinated action or a severable claim or issue in a

coordinated action from a coordination proceeding to the court in which the action was

pending at the time the coordination of that action was ordered. If a remanded action or

claim had been transferred by the coordination trial judge under rule 3.543 from the court

in which the remanded action or claim was pending, the remand must include the retransfer

of that action or claim to that court.

(16) “Serve and file” means that a paper filed in a court must be accompanied by proof of prior

service of a copy of the paper on each party required to be served under the rules in this

chapter.

(17) “Serve and submit” means that a paper to be submitted to an assigned judge under the rules

in this chapter must be submitted to that judge at a designated court address. Every paper

so submitted must be accompanied by proof of prior service on each party required to be

served under the rules in this chapter. If there is no assigned judge or if the paper is of a

type included in rule 3.511(a), the paper must be submitted to the Chair of the Judicial

Council.

(18) “Side” means all parties to an included or a coordinated action who have a common or

substantially similar interest in the issues, as determined by the assigned judge for the

purpose of appointing liaison counsel or of allotting peremptory challenges in jury

selection, or for any other appropriate purpose. Except as defined in rule 3.515, a side may

include less than all plaintiffs or all defendants.

(19) “Transfer” means to remove a coordinated action or severable claim in that action from the

court in which it is pending to any other court under rule 3.543, without removing the

action or claim from the coordination proceeding. “Transfer” includes “retransfer.”

Rule 3.501 amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as rule 1501 effective January 1, 1974;

previously amended effective July 1, 1974, and January 1, 2005; previously amended and renumbered as

rule 3.501 effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.502. Complex case—determination

The court must consider rule 3.400 et seq. in determining whether a case is or is not a complex

case within the meaning of Code of Civil Procedure sections 403 and 404.

Rule 3.502 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1501.1 effective

September 21, 1996; previously amended effective January 1, 2000; previously amended and renumbered

as rule 1502 effective January 1, 2005.

Rule 3.503. Requests for extensions of time or to shorten time

(a) Assigned judge may grant request

The assigned judge, on terms that are just, may shorten or extend the time within which

any act is permitted or required to be done by a party. Unless otherwise ordered, any

motion or application for an extension of time to perform an act required by these rules

must be served and submitted in accordance with rule 3.501(17).

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of unlettered subd effective January

1, 1974; previously amended and lettered effective January 1, 2005.)

(b) Stipulation requires consent of assigned judge

A stipulation for an extension of time for the filing and service of documents required by

the rules in this chapter requires approval of the assigned judge.

(Subd (b) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2005; adopted as part of unlettered subd

effective January 1, 1974.)

Nothing in this rule extends the time within which a party must bring an action to trial

under Code of Civil Procedure section 583.310.

(Subd (c) adopted effective January 1, 2005.)

Rule 3.503 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1503 effective January 1,

1974; previously amended effective January 1, 2005.

Rule 3.504. General law applicable

(a) General law applicable

Except as otherwise provided in the rules in this chapter, all provisions of law applicable to

civil actions generally apply to an action included in a coordination proceeding.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2005.)

(b) Rules prevail over conflicting general provisions of law

To the extent that the rules in this chapter conflict with provisions of law applicable to civil

actions generally, the rules in this chapter prevail, as provided by Code of Civil Procedure

section 404.7.

(Subd (b) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2005; adopted as part of subd (a).)

If the manner of proceeding is not prescribed by chapter 3 (commencing with section 404)

of title 4 of part 2 of the Code of Civil Procedure or by the rules in this chapter, or if the

prescribed manner of proceeding cannot, with reasonable diligence, be followed in a

particular coordination proceeding, the assigned judge may prescribe any suitable manner

of proceeding that appears most consistent with those statutes and rules.

(Subd (c) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2005; adopted as subd (b).)

(d) Specification of applicable local rules

At the beginning of a coordination proceeding, the assigned judge must specify, subject to

rule 3.20, any local court rules to be followed in that proceeding, and thereafter all parties

must comply with those rules. Except as otherwise provided in the rules in this chapter or

as directed by the assigned judge, the local rules of the court designated in the order

appointing the assigned judge apply in all respects if they would otherwise apply without

reference to the rules in this chapter.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (c); previously amended and

relettered effective January 1, 2005.)

Rule 3.504 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1504 effective January 1,

1974; previously amended effective January 1, 2005.

Rule 3.505. Appellate review

(a) Coordination order to specify reviewing court

If the actions to be coordinated are within the jurisdiction of more than one reviewing

court, the coordination motion judge must select and the order granting a petition for

coordination must specify, in accordance with Code of Civil Procedure section 404.2, the

court having appellate jurisdiction of the coordinated actions.

(Subd (a) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2005; adopted as part of unlettered subd

effective January 1, 1974.)

(b) Court for review of order granting or denying coordination

A petition for a writ relating to an order granting or denying coordination may be filed,

subject to the provisions of rule 10.1000, in any reviewing court having jurisdiction under

the rules applicable to civil actions generally.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of unlettered subd effective January

1, 1974; previously amended and lettered effective January 1, 2005.)

Rule 3.505 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1505 effective January 1,

1974; previously amended effective January 1, 2005.

Rule 3.506. Liaison counsel

(a) Selection and appointment

An assigned judge may at any time request that the parties on each side of the included or

coordinated actions select one or more of the attorneys of record on that side for

appointment as liaison counsel, and may appoint liaison counsel if the parties are unable to

agree.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2005.)

(b) Duration of appointment by coordination motion judge

Unless otherwise stipulated to or directed by an assigned judge, the appointment of a

liaison counsel by a coordination motion judge terminates on the final determination of the

issue whether coordination is appropriate. For good cause shown, the coordination motion

judge, on the court’s own motion or on the motion of any party, may remove previously

appointed counsel as liaison counsel.

(Subd (b) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2005; adopted as part of subd (a) effective

January 1, 1974.)

Except as otherwise directed by the assigned judge, any party that has made a written

request for special notice must be served with a copy of any document thereafter served on

the party’s liaison counsel.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (b); previously amended and

relettered effective January 1, 2005.)

Rule 3.506 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1506 effective January 1,

1974; previously amended effective January 1, 2005.)

Article 2. Procedural Rules Applicable to All Complex Coordination Proceedings

Rule 3.510. Service of papers

Rule 3.511. Papers to be submitted to the Chair of the Judicial Council

Rule 3.512. Electronic submission of documents to the Chair of the Judicial Council

Rule 3.513. Service of memorandums and declarations

Rule 3.514. Evidence presented at court hearings

Rule 3.515. Motions and orders for a stay

Rule 3.516. Motions under Code of Civil Procedure section 170.6

Rule 3.510. Service of papers

(a) Proof of service

Except as otherwise provided in the rules in this chapter, all papers filed or submitted must

be accompanied by proof of prior service on all other parties to the coordination

proceeding, including all parties appearing in all included actions and coordinated actions.

Service and proof of such service must be made as provided for in civil actions generally.

(Subd (a) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2005; adopted as part of unlettered subd

effective January 1, 1974.)

(b) Service on liaison counsel

Except as provided in rule 3.506(c), any party for whom liaison counsel has been

designated may be served by serving the liaison counsel.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of unlettered subd effective January

1, 1974; previously amended and lettered effective January 1, 2005.)

Failure to serve any defendant with a copy of the summons and of the complaint, or failure

to serve any party with any other paper or order as required by the rules in this chapter,

will not preclude the coordination of the actions, but the unserved defendant or party may

assert the failure to serve as a basis for appropriate relief.

(Subd (c) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2005; adopted as part of unlettered subd

effective January 1, 1974.)

Rule 3.510 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1510 effective January 1,

1974; previously amended effective January 1, 2005.)

Rule 3.511. Papers to be submitted to the Chair of the Judicial Council

(a) Types of papers

A copy of the following papers must be submitted to the Chair of the Judicial Council at

the Judicial Council’s San Francisco office:

(1) Petition for coordination, including a petition for coordination of add-on cases;

(2) Notice of submission of petition for coordination, along with the caption page of the

original action;

(3) Order assigning coordination motion judge, if made by a presiding judge;

(4) Order assigning coordination trial judge, if made by a presiding judge;

(5) Notice of opposition;

(6) Response in opposition to or in support of a petition for coordination;

(7) Motion for a stay order;

(8) Notice of hearing on petition;

(9) Order granting or denying coordination, including coordination of add-on cases;

(10) Order of remand;

(11) Order of transfer;

(12) Order terminating a coordination proceeding in whole or in part;

(13) Order dismissing an included or coordinated action;

(14) Notice of appeal; and

(15) Notice of disposition of appeal.

(Subd (a) adopted effective January 1, 2005.)

(b) Obligation of party

The papers listed in (a) are to be submitted by the party that filed or submitted and served

the papers or that was directed to give notice of entry of the order. Notice of submission

must be filed with the court as part of the proof of service.

(Subd (b) adopted effective January 1, 2005.)

Rule 3.511 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1511 effective January 1,

1974; previously amended effective January 1, 2005.

Rule 3.512. Electronic submission of documents to the Chair of the Judicial Council

(a) Documents that may be submitted electronically

Any paper listed in rule 3.511(a) may be submitted electronically to

[email protected].

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2008; previously amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(b) Responsibilities of party submitting documents electronically

A party submitting a document electronically must:

(1) Take all reasonable steps to ensure that the submission does not contain computer

code, including viruses, that might be harmful to the Judicial Council’s electronic

system and to other users of that system; and

(2) Furnish one or more electronic notification addresses and immediately provide any

change to his or her electronic notification addresses.

A document that is submitted electronically must meet the following requirements:

(1) The software for creating and reading the document must be in the public domain or

generally available at a reasonable cost; and

(2) The printing of documents must not result in the loss of document text, format, or

appearance.

(d) Signature on documents under penalty of perjury

(1) When a document to be submitted electronically requires a signature under penalty

of perjury, the document is deemed signed by the declarant if, before submission, the

declarant has signed a printed form of the document.

(2) By electronically submitting the document, the party submitting it indicates that he

or she has complied with subdivision (d)(1) of this rule and that the original, signed

document is available for review and copying at the request of the court or any party.

(3) At any time after the document is submitted, any other party may serve a demand for

production of the original signed document. The demand must be served on all other

parties but need not be filed with the court.

(4) Within five days of service of the demand, the party on whom the demand is made

must make the original signed document available for review and copying by all

other parties.

(e) Signature on documents not under penalty of perjury

If a document does not require a signature under penalty of perjury, the document is

deemed signed by the party if the document is submitted electronically.

(f) Digital signature

A party is not required to use a digital signature on an electronically submitted document.

Rule 3.512 amended effective January 1, 2008; adopted as rule 1511.5 effective July 1, 2005; previously

amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.513. Service of memorandums and declarations

Unless otherwise provided in the rules in this chapter or directed by the assigned judge, all

memorandums and declarations in support of or opposition to any petition, motion, or

application must be served and submitted at least nine court days before any hearing on the

matter at issue.

Rule 3.513 amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1512 effective January 1, 1974;

previously amended effective January 1, 2005; previously amended and renumbered effective January 1,

2007.

Rule 3.514. Evidence presented at court hearings

All factual matters to be heard on any petition for coordination, or on any other petition, motion,

or application under the rules in this chapter, must be initially presented and heard on

declarations, answers to interrogatories or requests for admissions, depositions, or matters

judicially noticed. Oral testimony will not be permitted at a hearing except as the assigned judge

may permit to resolve factual issues shown by the declarations, responses to discovery, or

matters judicially noticed to be in dispute. Only parties that have submitted a petition or motion,

or a written response or opposition to a petition or motion, will be permitted to appear at the

hearing, except the assigned judge may permit other parties to appear, on a showing of good

cause.

Rule 3.514 renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1513 effective January 1, 1974;

previously amended effective January 1, 2005.

Rule 3.515. Motions and orders for a stay

(a) Motion for stay

Any party may file a motion for an order under Code of Civil Procedure section 404.5

staying the proceedings in any action being considered for, or affecting an action being

considered for, coordination, or the court may stay the proceedings on its own motion. The

motion for a stay may be included with a petition for coordination or may be served and

submitted to the Chair of the Judicial Council and the coordination motion judge by any

party at any time prior to the determination of the petition.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2005.)

(b) Contents of motion

A motion for a stay order must:

(1) List all known pending related cases;

(2) State whether the stay order should extend to any such related case; and

(3) Be supported by a memorandum and by declarations establishing the facts relied on

to show that a stay order is necessary and appropriate to effectuate the purposes of

coordination.

(Subd (b) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2005; adopted as part of subd (a).)

If the action to be stayed is not included in the petition for coordination or any response to

that petition, the motion for a stay order and all supporting documents must be served on

each party to the action to be stayed and any such party may serve and submit opposition

to the motion for a stay order.

(Subd (c) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2005; adopted as part of subd (a).)

(d) Opposition to motion for stay order

Any memorandums and declarations in opposition to a motion for a stay order must be

served and submitted within 10 days after service of the motion.

(Subd (d) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2005; adopted as part of subd (a).)

(e) Hearing on motion for stay order

A stay order may be issued with or without a hearing. A party filing a motion for a stay

order or opposition thereto may request a hearing to determine whether the stay order

should be granted. A request for hearing should be made at the time the requesting party

files the motion or opposition. If the coordination motion judge grants the request for a

hearing, the requesting party must provide notice.

(Subd (e) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2005; adopted as part of subd (a).)

(f) Determination of motion for stay order

In ruling on a motion for a stay order, the assigned judge must determine whether the stay

will promote the ends of justice, considering the imminence of any trial or other

proceeding that might materially affect the status of the action to be stayed, and whether a

final judgment in that action would have a res judicata or collateral estoppel effect with

regard to any common issue of the included actions.

(Subd (f) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2005; adopted as subd (e).)

(g) Issuance of stay order and termination of stay

If a stay order is issued, the party that requested the stay must serve and file a copy of the

order in each included action that is stayed. Thirty or more days following issuance of the

stay order, any party that is subject to the stay order may move to terminate the stay.

(Subd (g) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2005; adopted as subd (b).)

(h) Effect of stay order

Unless otherwise specified in the order, a stay order suspends all proceedings in the action

to which it applies. A stay order may be limited by its terms to specified proceedings,

orders, motions, or other phases of the action to which the order applies.

(Subd (h) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2005; adopted as subd (c).)

(i) Effect of absence of stay order

In the absence of a stay order, a court receiving an order assigning a coordination motion

judge may continue to exercise jurisdiction over the included action for purposes of all

pretrial and discovery proceedings, but no trial may be commenced and no judgment may

be entered in that action unless trial of the action had commenced before the assignment of

the coordination motion judge.

(Subd (i) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2005; adopted as subd (d); previously

amended effective July 1, 1974.)

(j) Effect of stay order on dismissal for lack of prosecution

The time during which any stay of proceedings is in effect under the rules in this chapter

must not be included in determining whether the action stayed should be dismissed for lack

of prosecution under chapter 1.5 (§ 583.110 et seq.) of title 8 of part 2 of the Code of Civil

Procedure.

(Subd (j) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2005; adopted as subd (f); previously

amended effective January 1, 1986.)

Rule 3.515 renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1514 effective January 1, 1974;

previously amended effective July 1, 1974, January 1, 1986, and January 1, 2005.

Rule 3.516. Motions under Code of Civil Procedure section 170.6

A party making a peremptory challenge by motion or affidavit of prejudice regarding an assigned

judge must submit it in writing to the assigned judge within 20 days after service of the order

assigning the judge to the coordination proceeding. All plaintiffs or similar parties in the

included or coordinated actions constitute a side and all defendants or similar parties in such

actions constitute a side for purposes of applying Code of Civil Procedure section 170.6.

Rule 3.516 renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1515 effective January 1, 1974;

previously amended effective June 19, 1982, and January 1, 2005.

Article 3. Petitions and Proceedings for Coordination of Complex Actions

Rule 3.520. Motions filed in the trial court

Rule 3.521. Petition for coordination

Rule 3.522. Notice of submission of petition for coordination

Rule 3.523. Service of notice of submission on party

Rule 3.524. Order assigning coordination motion judge

Rule 3.525. Response in opposition to petition for coordination

Rule 3.526. Response in support of petition for coordination

Rule 3.527. Notice of hearing on petition for coordination

Rule 3.528. Separate hearing on certain coordination issues

Rule 3.529. Order granting or denying coordination

Rule 3.530. Site of coordination proceedings

Rule 3.531. Potential add-on case

Rule 3.532. Petition for coordination when cases already ordered coordinated

Rule 3.520. Motions filed in the trial court

(a) General requirements

A motion filed in the trial court under this rule must specify the matters required by rule

3.521(a) and must be made in the manner provided by law for motions in civil actions

generally.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 1983, and

January 1, 2005.)

(b) Permission to submit a petition for coordination

(1) Request for permission to submit coordination petition

If a direct petition is not authorized by Code of Civil Procedure section 404, a party

may request permission from the presiding judge of the court in which one of the

included actions is pending to submit a petition for coordination to the Chair of the

Judicial Council. The request must be made by noticed motion accompanied by a

proposed order. The proposed order must state that the moving party has permission

to submit a petition for coordination to the Chair of the Judicial Council under rules

3.521–3.523.

(2) Order to be prepared

If permission to submit a petition is granted, the moving party must serve and file the

signed order and submit it to the Chair of the Judicial Council.

(3) Stay permitted pending preparation of petition

To provide sufficient time for a party to submit a petition, the presiding judge may

stay all related actions pending in that court for a reasonable time not to exceed 30

calendar days.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 1983,

January 1, 2005, and July 1, 2006.)

Rule 3.520 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1520 effective January 1,

1974; previously amended effective January 1, 1983, January 1, 2005, and July 1, 2006.

Rule 3.521. Petition for coordination

(a) Contents of petition

A request submitted to the Chair of the Judicial Council for the assignment of a judge to

determine whether the coordination of certain actions is appropriate, or a request that a

coordination trial judge make such a determination concerning an add-on case, must be

designated a “Petition for Coordination” and may be made at any time after filing of the

complaint. The petition must state whether a hearing is requested and must be supported by

a memorandum and declarations showing:

(1) The name of each petitioner or, when the petition is submitted by a presiding or sole

judge, the name of each real party in interest, and the name and address of each

party’s attorney of record, if any;

(2) The names of the parties to all included actions, and the name and address of each

party’s attorney of record, if any;

(3) If the party seeking to submit a petition for coordination is a plaintiff, whether the

party’s attorney has served the summons and complaint on all parties in all included

actions in which the attorney has appeared;

(4) For each included action, the complete title and case number, the date the complaint

was filed, and the title of the court in which the action is pending;

(5) The complete title and case number of any other action known to the petitioner to be

pending in a court of this state that shares a common question of fact or law with the

included actions, and a statement of the reasons for not including the other action in

the petition for coordination or a statement that the petitioner knows of no other

actions sharing a common question of fact or law;

(6) The status of each included action, including the status of any pretrial or discovery

motions or orders in that action, if known to petitioner;

(7) The facts relied on to show that each included action meets the coordination

standards specified in Code of Civil Procedure section 404.1; and

(8) The facts relied on in support of a request that a particular site or sites be selected for

a hearing on the petition for coordination.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2005.)

(b) Submit proof of filing and service

Within five court days of submitting the petition for coordination, the petitioner must

submit to the Chair of the Judicial Council proof of filing of the notice of submission of

petition required by rule 3.522, and proof of service of the notice of submission of petition

and of the petition required by rule 3.523.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 2005, and

January 1, 2007.)

In lieu of proof by declaration of any fact required by (a)(2), (4), (7), and (8), a certified or

endorsed copy of the respective pleadings may be attached to the petition for coordination,

provided that the petitioner specifies with particularity the portions of the pleadings that

are relied on to show the fact.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2005.)

(d) Effect of imminent trial date

The imminence of a trial in any action otherwise appropriate for coordination may be a

ground for summary denial of a petition for coordination, in whole or in part.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2005.)

Rule 3.521 amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1521 effective January 1, 1974;

previously amended effective January 1, 2005; previously amended and renumbered effective January 1,

2007.

Rule 3.522. Notice of submission of petition for coordination

(a) Contents of notice of submission

In each included action, the petitioner must file a “Notice of Submission of Petition for

Coordination” and the petition for coordination. Each notice must bear the title of the court

in which the notice is to be filed and the title and case number of each included action that

is pending in that court. Each notice must include:

(1) The date that the petition for coordination was submitted to the Chair of the Judicial

Council;

(2) The name and address of the petitioner’s attorney of record;

(3) The title and case number of each included action to which the petitioner is a party

and the title of the court in which each action is pending; and

(4) The statement that any written opposition to the petition must be submitted and

served at least nine court days before the hearing date.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of unlettered subd effective January

1, 1974; previously amended and lettered effective January 1, 2005; previously amended effective

January 1, 2006.)

(b) Copies of notice

The petitioner must submit the notice and proof of filing in each included action to the

Chair of the Judicial Council within five court days of submitting the petition for

coordination.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of unlettered subd effective January

1, 1974; previously.)

Rule 3.522 renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1522 effective January 1, 1974;

previously amended effective January 1, 2005, and January 1, 2006.

Rule 3.523. Service of notice of submission on party

The petitioner must serve the notice of submission of petition for coordination that was filed in

each included action, the petition for coordination, and supporting documents on each party

appearing in each included action and submit the notice to the Chair of the Judicial Council

within five court days of submitting the petition for coordination.

Rule 3.523 amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1523 effective January 1, 1974;

previously amended effective January 1, 2005; previously amended and renumbered effective January 1,

2007.

Rule 3.524. Order assigning coordination motion judge

(a) Contents of order

An order by the Chair of the Judicial Council assigning a coordination motion judge to

determine whether coordination is appropriate, or authorizing the presiding judge of a

court to assign the matter to judicial officers of the court to make the determination in the

same manner as assignments are made in other civil cases, must include the following:

(1) The special title and number assigned to the coordination proceeding; and

(2) The court’s address or electronic service address for submitting all subsequent

documents to be considered by the coordination motion judge.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as part of unlettered subd effective January

1, 1974; previously amended and lettered subd (a) effective January 1, 2005.)

(b) Service of order

The petitioner must serve the order described in (a) on each party appearing in an included

action and send it to each court in which an included action is pending with directions to

the clerk to file the order in the included action.

(Subd (b) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2005; adopted as part of unlettered subd

effective January 1, 1974.)

Rule 3.524 amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as rule 1524 effective January 1, 1974;

previously amended effective January 1, 2005; previously renumbered as rule 3.524 effective January 1,

2007.

Rule 3.525. Response in opposition to petition for coordination

Any party to an included action that opposes coordination may serve and submit a memorandum

and declarations in opposition to the petition. Any response in opposition must be served and

filed at least nine court days before the date set for hearing.

Rule 3.525 amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1525 effective January 1, 1974;

previously amended effective January 1, 2005; previously amended and renumbered effective January 1,

2007.

Rule 3.526. Response in support of petition for coordination

Any party to an included action that supports coordination may serve and submit a written

statement in support of the petition. Any response in support must be served and filed at least

nine court days before the date set for hearing. If a party that supports coordination does not

support the particular site or sites requested by the petitioner for the hearing on the petition for

coordination, that party may request that a different site or sites be selected and include in his or

her response the facts relied on in support thereof.

Rule 3.526 amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1526 effective January 1, 1974;

previously amended effective January 1, 2005; previously amended and renumbered effective January 1,

2007.

Rule 3.527. Notice of hearing on petition for coordination

(a) Timing and notice of hearing

The coordination motion judge must set a hearing date on a petition for coordination

within 30 days of the date of the order assigning the coordination motion judge. When a

coordination motion judge is assigned to decide a petition for coordination that lists

additional included actions sharing a common question of law or fact with included actions

in a petition for coordination already pending before the judge, the judge may continue the

hearing date on the first petition no more than 30 calendar days in order to hear both

petitions at the same time. The petitioner must provide notice of the hearing to each party

appearing in an included action. If the coordination motion judge determines that a party

that should be served with notice of the petition for coordination has not been served with

notice, the coordination motion judge must order the petitioner to promptly serve that

party. If the coordination motion judge determines that a hearing is not required under (b),

the hearing date must be vacated and notice provided to the parties.

(Subd (a) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2005; adopted as subd (b).)

(b) Circumstances in which hearing required

A hearing must be held to decide a petition for coordination if a party opposes

coordination. A petition for coordination may not be denied unless a hearing has been held.

(Subd (b) adopted effective January 1, 2005.)

If the petition for coordination has not been decided within 30 calendar days after the

hearing, the coordination motion judge must promptly submit to the Chair of the Judicial

Council a written report describing:

(1) The present status of the petition for coordination proceeding;

(2) Any factors or circumstances that may have caused undue or unanticipated delay in

the decision on the petition for coordination; and

(3) Any stay orders that are in effect.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2005.)

Rule 3.527 renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1527 effective January 1, 1974;

previously amended effective January 1, 2005.

Rule 3.528. Separate hearing on certain coordination issues

When a petition for coordination may be disposed of on the determination of a specified issue or

issues, without a hearing on all issues raised by the petition and any opposition, the assigned

judge may order that the specified issue or issues be heard and determined before a hearing on

the remaining issues.

Rule 3.528 renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1528 effective January 1, 1974;

previously amended effective January 1, 2005.

Rule 3.529. Order granting or denying coordination

(a) Filing, service, and submittal

When a petition for coordination is granted or denied, the petitioner must promptly file the

order in each included action, serve it on each party appearing in an included action, and

submit it to the Chair of the Judicial Council.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 2005.)

(b) Stay of further proceedings

When an order granting coordination is filed in an included action, all further proceedings

in that action are automatically stayed, except as directed by the coordination trial judge or

by the coordination motion judge under (c). The stay does not preclude the court in which

the included action is pending from accepting and filing papers with proof of submission

of a copy to the assigned judge or from exercising jurisdiction over any severable claim

that has not been ordered coordinated.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2005.)

judge

After a petition for coordination has been granted and before a coordination trial judge has

been assigned, the coordination motion judge may for good cause make any appropriate

order as the ends of justice may require but may not commence a trial or enter judgment in

any included action. Good cause includes a showing of an urgent need for judicial action to

preserve the rights of a party pending assignment of a coordination trial judge.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2005.)

(d) Order denying coordination

The authority of a coordination motion judge over an included action terminates when an

order denying a petition for coordination is filed in the included action and served on the

parties to the action. A stay ordered by the coordination motion judge terminates 10 days

after the order denying coordination is filed.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2005.)

Rule 3.529 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1529 effective January 1,

1974; previously amended effective June 19, 1982, and January 1, 2005.

Rule 3.530. Site of coordination proceedings

(a) Recommendation by coordination motion judge

If a petition for coordination is granted, the coordination motion judge must, in the order

granting coordination, recommend to the Chair of the Judicial Council a particular superior

court for the site of the coordination proceedings.

(b) Factors to consider

The coordination motion judge may consider any relevant factors in making a

recommendation for the site of the coordination proceedings, including the following:

(1) The number of included actions in particular locations;

(2) Whether the litigation is at an advanced stage in a particular court;

(3) The efficient use of court facilities and judicial resources;

(4) The locations of witnesses and evidence;

(5) The convenience of the parties and witnesses;

(6) The parties’ principal places of business;

(7) The office locations of counsel for the parties; and

(8) The ease of travel to and availability of accommodations in particular locations.

Rule 3.530 renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1530 effective January 1, 2005.

Rule 3.531. Potential add-on case

(a) Notice

Any party to an included action in a pending petition for coordination must promptly

provide notice of any potential add-on cases in which that party is also named or in which

that party’s attorney has appeared. The party must submit notice to the coordination

motion judge and the Chair of the Judicial Council and serve it on each party appearing in

the included actions in the pending petition and each party appearing in the potential add-

on cases.

(b) Stipulation or order

By stipulation of all parties or order of the coordination motion judge, each potential add-

on case will be deemed an included action for purposes of the hearing on the petition for

coordination.

Rule 3.531 renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1531 effective January 1, 2005.

Rule 3.532. Petition for coordination when cases already ordered coordinated

(a) Assignment of coordination trial judge

If it appears that included actions in a petition for coordination share a common question of

law or fact with cases already ordered coordinated, the Chair of the Judicial Council may

assign the petition to the coordination trial judge for the existing coordinated cases to

decide the petition as a request to coordinate an add-on case under rule 3.544.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(b) Order

The coordination trial judge’s order must specify that the request to coordinate an add-on

case is either granted or denied.

The petitioner must promptly file the order in each included action, serve it on each party

appearing in an included action, and submit a copy to the Chair of the Judicial Council.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(d) Cases added on and right to peremptory challenge

If the coordination trial judge grants the petition, the included actions will be coordinated

as add-on cases and the right to file a peremptory challenge under Code of Civil Procedure

section 170.6 will be limited by rule 3.516.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(e) Assignment of coordination motion judge if cases not added on

If the coordination trial judge denies the petition as a request to coordinate an add-on case

under rule 3.544, the Chair of the Judicial Council must assign a coordination motion

judge to determine whether coordination is appropriate under rule 3.524.

(Subd (e) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.532 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1532 effective January 1,

2005.

Article 4. Pretrial and Trial Rules for Complex Coordinated Actions

Rule 3.540. Order assigning coordination trial judge

Rule 3.541. Duties of the coordination trial judge

Rule 3.542. Remand of action or claim

Rule 3.543. Transfer of action or claim

Rule 3.544. Add-on cases

Rule 3.545. Termination of coordinated action

Rule 3.540. Order assigning coordination trial judge

(a) Assignment by the Chair of the Judicial Council

When a petition for coordination is granted, the Chair of the Judicial Council must either

assign a coordination trial judge to hear and determine the coordinated actions or authorize

the presiding judge of a court to assign the matter to judicial officers of the court in the

same manner as assignments are made in other civil cases, under Code of Civil Procedure

section 404.3. The order assigning a coordination trial judge must designate an address for

submission of papers to that judge.

(Subd (a) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2005; adopted as part of unlettered subd

effective January 1, 1974.)

(b) Powers of coordination trial judge

Immediately on assignment, the coordination trial judge may exercise all the powers over

each coordinated action that are available to a judge of the court in which that action is

pending.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of unlettered subd effective January

1, 1974; previously amended and lettered effective January 1, 2005.)

The petitioner must file the assignment order in each coordinated action and serve it on

each party appearing in each action, and, if the assignment was made by the presiding

judge, submit it to the Chair of the Judicial Council. Every paper filed in a coordinated

action must be accompanied by proof of submission of a copy of the paper to the

coordination trial judge at the designated address. A copy of the assignment order must be

included in any subsequent service of process on any defendant in the action.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2011; adopted as part of unlettered subd; previously

amended and lettered effective January 1, 2005.)

Rule 3.540 amended effective January 1, 2011; adopted as rule 1540 effective January 1, 1974;

previously amended effective January 1, 2005; previously amended and renumbered effective January 1,

2007.

Rule 3.541. Duties of the coordination trial judge

(a) Initial case management conference

The coordination trial judge must hold a case management conference within 45 days after

issuance of the assignment order. Counsel and all self-represented persons must attend the

conference and be prepared to discuss all matters specified in the order setting the

conference. At any time following the assignment of the coordination trial judge, a party

may serve and submit a proposed agenda for the conference and a proposed form of order

covering such matters of procedure and discovery as may be appropriate. At the

conference, the judge may:

(1) Appoint liaison counsel under rule 3.506;

(2) Establish a timetable for filing motions other than discovery motions;

(3) Establish a schedule for discovery;

(4) Provide a method and schedule for the submission of preliminary legal questions that

might serve to expedite the disposition of the coordinated actions;

(5) In class actions, establish a schedule, if practicable, for the prompt determination of

matters pertinent to the class action issue;

(6) Establish a central depository or depositories to receive and maintain for inspection

by the parties evidentiary material and specified documents that are not required by

the rules in this chapter to be served on all parties; and

(7) Schedule further conferences if appropriate.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 2005.)

(b) Management of proceedings by coordination trial judge

The coordination trial judge must assume an active role in managing all steps of the

pretrial, discovery, and trial proceedings to expedite the just determination of the

coordinated actions without delay. The judge may, for the purpose of coordination and to

serve the ends of justice:

(1) Order any coordinated action transferred to another court under rule 3.543;

(2) Schedule and conduct hearings, conferences, and a trial or trials at any site within

this state that the judge deems appropriate with due consideration to the convenience

of parties, witnesses, and counsel; to the relative development of the actions and the

work product of counsel; to the efficient use of judicial facilities and resources; and

to the calendar of the courts; and

(3) Order any issue or defense to be tried separately and before trial of the remaining

issues when it appears that the disposition of any of the coordinated actions might

thereby be expedited.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 2005.)

Rule 3.541 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1541 effective January 1,

1974; previously amended effective January 1, 2005.

Rule 3.542. Remand of action or claim

The coordination trial judge may at any time remand a coordinated action or any severable claim

or issue in that action to the court in which the action was pending at the time the coordination of

that action was ordered. Remand may be made on the stipulation of all parties or on the basis of

evidence received at a hearing on the court’s own motion or on the motion of any party to any

coordinated action. No action or severable claim or issue in that action may be remanded over

the objection of any party unless the evidence demonstrates a material change in the

circumstances that are relevant to the criteria for coordination under Code of Civil Procedure

section 404.1. If the order of remand requires that the action be transferred, the provisions of rule

3.543(c)–(e) are applicable to the transfer. A remanded action is no longer part of the

coordination proceedings for purposes of the rules in this chapter.

Rule 3.542 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1542 effective January 1,

1974; previously amended effective January 1, 2005, and July 1, 2006.

Rule 3.543. Transfer of action or claim

(a) Court may transfer coordinated action

The coordination trial judge may order any coordinated action or severable claim in that

action transferred from the court in which it is pending to another court for a specified

purpose or for all purposes. Transfer may be made by the court on its own motion or on the

motion of any party to any coordinated action.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2005.)

(b) Hearing on motion to transfer

If a party objects to the transfer, the court must hold a hearing on at least 10 days’ written

notice served on all parties to that action. At any hearing to determine whether an action or

claim should be transferred, the court must consider the convenience of parties, witnesses,

and counsel; the relative development of the actions and the work product of counsel; the

efficient use of judicial facilities and resources; the calendar of the courts; and any other

relevant matter.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of subd (a) effective January 1,

1974; previously amended and lettered effective January 1, 2005.)

The order transferring the action or claim must designate the court to which the action is

transferred and must direct that a copy of the order of transfer be filed in each coordinated

action. The order must indicate whether the action remains part of the coordination

proceedings for purposes of the rules in this chapter.

(Subd (c) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2005; adopted as part of subd (b) effective

January 1, 1974.)

(d) Duties of transferor and transferee courts

(1) Duty of transferor court

The clerk of the court in which the action was pending must immediately prepare

and transmit to the court to which the action is transferred a certified copy of the

order of transfer and of the pleadings and proceedings in the transferred action and

must serve a copy of the order of transfer on each party appearing in that action.

(2) Duty of transferee court

The court to which the action is transferred must file the action as if the action had

been commenced in that court. No fees may be required for such transfer by either

court.

(3) Transmission of papers

If it is necessary to have any of the original pleadings or other papers in the

transferred action before the coordination trial judge, the clerk of the court from

which the action was transferred must, on written request of a party to that action or

of the coordination trial judge, transmit such papers or pleadings to the court to

which the action is transferred and must retain a certified copy.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of subd (b) effective January 1,

1974; previously amended and lettered effective January 1, 2005.)

(e) Transferee court to exercise jurisdiction

On receipt of a transfer order, the court to which the action is transferred may exercise

jurisdiction over the action in accordance with the orders and directions of the coordination

trial judge, and no other court may exercise jurisdiction over that action except as provided

in this rule.

(Subd (e) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2005; adopted as part of subd (b) effective

January 1, 1974.)

Rule 3.543 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1543 effective January 1,

1974; previously amended effective January 1, 2005.

Rule 3.544. Add-on cases

(a) Request to coordinate add-on case

A request to coordinate an add-on case must comply with the requirements of rules 3.520

through 3.523, except that the request must be submitted to the coordination trial judge

under Code of Civil Procedure section 404.4, with proof of service of one copy on the

Chair of the Judicial Council and proof of service as required by rule 3.510.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2016; previously amended effective January 1, 2005, and

January 1, 2007.)

(b) Opposition to request to coordinate an add-on case

Within 10 days after the service of a request, any party may serve and submit a notice of

opposition to the request. Thereafter, within 15 days after submitting a notice of

opposition, the party must serve and submit a memorandum and declarations in opposition

to the request. Failure to serve and submit a memorandum and declarations in opposition

may be a ground for granting the request to coordinate an add-on case.

(Subd (b) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2005; adopted as part of subd (a).)

The coordination trial judge may order a hearing on a request to coordinate an add-on case

under rules 3.527 and 3.528 and may allow the parties to serve and submit additional

written materials in support of or opposition to the request. In deciding the request to

coordinate, the court must consider the relative development of the actions and the work

product of counsel, in addition to any other relevant matter. An application for an order

staying the add-on case must be made to the coordination trial judge under rule 3.515.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (b); previously amended and

relettered effective January 1, 2005.)

(d) Order on request to coordinate an add-on case

If no party has filed a notice of opposition within the time required under (b), the

coordination trial judge may enter an order granting or denying the request without a

hearing. An order granting or denying a request to coordinate an add-on case must be

prepared and served under rule 3.529, and an order granting such request automatically

stays all further proceedings in the add-on case under rule 3.529.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (c); previously amended and

relettered effective January 1, 2005.)

Rule 3.544 amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as rule 1544 effective January 1, 1974;

previously amended effective January 1, 2005; previously amended and renumbered as rule 3.544

effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.545. Termination of coordinated action

(a) Coordination trial judge may terminate action

The coordination trial judge may terminate any coordinated action by settlement or final

dismissal, summary judgment, or judgment, or may transfer the action so that it may be

dismissed or otherwise terminated in the court where it was pending when coordination

was ordered.

(Subd (a) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2005; adopted as part of unlettered subd.)

(b) Copies of order dismissing or terminating action and judgment

A certified copy of the order dismissing or terminating the action and of any judgment

must be transmitted to:

(1) The clerk of the court in which the action was pending when coordination was

ordered, who shall promptly enter any judgment and serve notice of entry of the

judgment on all parties to the action and on the Chair of the Judicial Council; and

(2) The appropriate clerks for filing in each pending coordinated action.

(Subd (b) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2005; adopted as part of unlettered subd.)

The judgment entered in each coordinated action must bear the title and case number

assigned to the action at the time it was filed.

(Subd (c) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2005; adopted as part of unlettered subd.)

(d) Proceedings in trial court after judgment

Until the judgment in a coordinated action becomes final or until a coordinated action is

remanded, all further proceedings in that action to be determined by the trial court must be

determined by the coordination trial judge. Thereafter, unless otherwise ordered by the

coordination trial judge, all such proceedings must be conducted in the court where the

action was pending when coordination was ordered. The coordination trial judge must also

specify the court in which any ancillary proceedings will be heard and determined. For

purposes of this rule, a judgment is final when it is no longer subject to appeal.

(Subd (d) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2005; adopted as part of unlettered subd.)

Rule 3.545 renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1545 effective January 1, 1974;

previously amended effective January 1, 2005.

Article 5. Administration of Coordinated Complex Actions

Rule 3.550. General administration by Judicial Council staff

(a) Coordination attorney

Except as otherwise provided in the rules in this chapter, all necessary administrative

functions under this chapter will be performed at the direction of the Chair of the Judicial

Council by a coordination attorney.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2016; previously amended effective January 1, 2005, and

January 1, 2007.)

(b) Duties of coordination attorney

The coordination attorney must at all times maintain:

(1) A list of active and retired judges who are qualified and currently available to

conduct coordination proceedings; and

(2) A register of all coordination proceedings and a file for each proceeding, for public

inspection during regular business hours at the San Francisco office of the Judicial

Council.

(Subd (b) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2005; previously adopted as part of subd (a)

effective January 1, 2005.)

The coordination attorney must assign each coordination proceeding a special title and

coordination proceeding number. Thereafter all papers in that proceeding must bear that

title and number.

(Subd (c) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2005; adopted as subd (b).)

Rule 3.550 amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as rule 1550 effective January 1, 1974;

previously amended effective January 1, 2005; previously amended and renumbered as rule 3.550

effective January 1, 2007.

Division 5. Venue [Reserved]

Division 6. Proceedings

Chapter 1. General Provisions [Reserved]

Chapter 2. Stay of Proceedings

Rule 3.650. Duty to notify court and others of stay

(a) Notice of stay

The party who requested or caused a stay of a proceeding must immediately serve and file

a notice of the stay and attach a copy of the order or other document showing that the

proceeding is stayed. If the person who requested or caused the stay has not appeared, or is

not subject to the jurisdiction of the court, the plaintiff must immediately file a notice of

the stay and attach a copy of the order or other document showing that the proceeding is

stayed. The notice of stay must be served on all parties who have appeared in the case.

(b) When notice must be provided

The party responsible for giving notice under (a) must provide notice if the case is stayed

for any of the following reasons:

(1) An order of a federal court or a higher state court;

(2) Contractual arbitration under Code of Civil Procedure section 1281.4;

(3) Arbitration of attorney fees and costs under Business and Professions Code section

6201; or

(4) Automatic stay caused by a filing in another court, including a federal bankruptcy

court.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

The notice must state whether the case is stayed with regard to all parties or only certain

parties. If it is stayed with regard to only certain parties, the notice must specifically

identify those parties. The notice must also state the reason that the case is stayed.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2006.)

(d) Notice that stay is terminated or modified

When a stay is vacated, is no longer in effect, or is modified, the party who filed the notice

of the stay must immediately serve and file a notice of termination or modification of stay.

If that party fails to do so, any other party in the action who has knowledge of the

termination or modification of the stay must serve and file a notice of termination or

modification of stay. Once one party in the action has served and filed a notice of

termination or modification of stay, other parties in the action are not required to do so.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2006.)

Rule 3.650 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 224 effective January 1,

2004; previously amended effective January 1, 2006.

Chapter 3. Hearings, Conferences, and Proceedings

Chapter 3 amended effective July 1, 2008.

Rule 3.670. Telephone appearance

Rule 3.672. Remote proceedings

Rule 3.670. Telephone appearance

(a) Policy favoring telephone appearances

The intent of this rule is to promote uniformity in the practices and procedures relating to

telephone appearances in civil cases. To improve access to the courts and reduce litigation

costs, courts should permit parties, to the extent feasible, to appear by telephone at

appropriate conferences, hearings, and proceedings in civil cases.

(Subd (a) adopted effective January 1, 2008.)

(b) Application

Subdivisions (c) through (i) of this rule are suspended from January 1, 2022, to January 1,

2026, during which time the provisions in rule 3.672 apply in their place. This rule applies

to all general civil cases as defined in rule 1.6 and to unlawful detainer and probate

proceedings.

(Subd (b) amended effective August 4, 2023; previously repealed and adopted as subd (a) effective

July 1, 1998; previously relettered effective January 1, 2008; previously amended effective January

1, 1999, January 1, 2001, January 1, 2003, January 1, 2007, and January 1, 2022.)

Except as ordered by the court under (f)(2) and subject to (d) (regarding ex parte

applications) and (h) (regarding notice), all parties, including moving parties, may appear

by telephone at all conferences, hearings, and proceedings other than those where personal

appearances are required under (e).

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2014; previously repealed and adopted as subd (b) effective

July 1, 1998; previously amended effective July 1, 1999, and January 1, 2003; previously amended

and relettered as subd (c) effective January 1, 2008.)

(d) Provisions regarding ex parte applications

(1) Applicants

Except as ordered by the court under (f)(2) and subject to (h), applicants seeking an

ex parte order may appear by telephone provided that the moving papers have been

filed and a proposed order submitted by at least 10:00 a.m. two court days before the

ex parte appearance and, if required by local rule, copies have been provided directly

to the department in which the matter is to be considered.

(2) Opposing Parties

Even if the applicant has not complied with (1), except as ordered by the court under

(f)(2) and subject to the provisions in (h), parties opposing an ex parte order may

appear by telephone.

(Subd (d) adopted effective January 1, 2014.)

(e) Required personal appearances

(1) Except as permitted by the court under (f)(3), a personal appearance is required for

the following hearings, conferences, and proceedings:

(A) Trials, hearings, and proceedings at which witnesses are expected to testify;

(B) Hearings on temporary restraining orders;

(D) Trial management conferences;

(E) Hearings on motions in limine; and

(F) Hearings on petitions to confirm the sale of property under the Probate

Code.

(2) In addition, except as permitted by the court under (f)(3), a personal appearance is

required for the following persons:

(A) Persons ordered to appear to show cause why sanctions should not be imposed

for violation of a court order or a rule; or

(B) Persons ordered to appear in an order or citation issued under the Probate

Code.

At the proceedings described under (2), parties who are not required to appear in person

under this rule may appear by telephone.

(Subd (e) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2014; adopted as subd (c) effective July 1,

1998; previously amended effective July 1, 2002, and January 1, 2003; previously amended and

relettered as subd (d) effective January 1, 2008.)

(f) Court discretion to modify rule

(1) Policy favoring telephone appearances in civil cases

In exercising its discretion under this provision, the court should consider the general

policy favoring telephone appearances in civil cases.

(2) Court may require personal appearances

The court may require a party to appear in person at a hearing, conference, or

proceeding listed in (c) or (d) if the court determines on a hearing-by-hearing basis

that a personal appearance would materially assist in the determination of the

proceedings or in the effective management or resolution of the particular case.

(3) Court may permit appearances by telephone

The court may permit a party to appear by telephone at a hearing, conference, or

proceeding under (e) if the court determines that a telephone appearance is

appropriate.

(Subd (f) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2014; adopted as subd (e) effective January

1, 2008.)

(g) Need for personal appearance

If, at any time during a hearing, conference, or proceeding conducted by telephone, the

court determines that a personal appearance is necessary, the court may continue the matter

and require a personal appearance.

(Subd (g) relettered effective January 1, 2014; adopted as subd (f) effective January 1, 2008.)

(h) Notice by party

(1) Except as provided in (6), a party choosing to appear by telephone at a hearing,

conference, or proceeding, other than on an ex parte application, under this rule must

either:

(A) Place the phrase "Telephone Appearance" below the title of the moving,

opposing, or reply papers; or

(B) At least two court days before the appearance, notify the court and all other

parties of the party’s intent to appear by telephone. If the notice is oral, it must

be given either in person or by telephone. If the notice is in writing, it must be

given by filing a “Notice of Intent to Appear by Telephone” with the court at

least two court days before the appearance and by serving the notice by any

means authorized by law and reasonably calculated to ensure delivery to the

parties at least two court days before the appearance.

(2) If after receiving notice from another party as provided under (1) a party that has not

given notice also decides to appear by telephone, the party may do so by notifying

the court and all other parties that have appeared in the action, no later than noon on

the court day before the appearance, of its intent to appear by telephone.

(3) An applicant choosing to appear by telephone at an ex parte appearance under this

rule must:

(A) Place the phrase “Telephone Appearance” below the title of the application

papers;

(B) File and serve the papers in such a way that they will be received by the court

and all parties by no later than 10:00 a.m. two court days before the ex parte

appearance; and

department in which the matter is to be considered.

(4) Any party other than an applicant choosing to appear by telephone at an ex parte

appearance under this rule must notify the court and all other parties that have

appeared in the action, no later than 2:00 p.m. or the “close of business” (as that term

is defined in rule 2.250(b)(10)), whichever is earlier, on the court day before the

appearance, of its intent to appear by telephone. If the notice is oral, it must be given

either in person or by telephone. If the notice is in writing, it must be given by filing

a “Notice of Intent to Appear by Telephone” with the court and by serving the notice

on all other parties by any means authorized by law reasonably calculated to ensure

delivery to the parties no later than 2:00 p.m. or “the close of business” (as that term

is defined in rule 2.250(b)(10)), whichever is earlier, on the court day before the

appearance.

(5) If a party that has given notice that it intends to appear by telephone under (1)

subsequently chooses to appear in person, the party may appear in person.

(6) A party may ask the court for leave to appear by telephone without the notice

provided for under (1)–(4). The court should permit the party to appear by telephone

upon a showing of good cause or unforeseen circumstances.

(Subd (h) amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as subd (d) effective July 1, 1998;

previously amended effective January 1, 1999, July 1, 1999, January 1, 2003, and January 1,

2007; previously amended and relettered subd (g) effective January 1, 2008, and subd (h) effective

January 1, 2014.)

(i) Notice by court

After a party has requested a telephone appearance under (h), if the court requires the

personal appearance of the party, the court must give reasonable notice to all parties before

the hearing and may continue the hearing if necessary to accommodate the personal

appearance. The court may direct the court clerk, a court-appointed vendor, a party, or an

attorney to provide the notification. In courts using a telephonic tentative ruling system for

law and motion matters, court notification that parties must appear in person may be given

as part of the court’s tentative ruling on a specific law and motion matter if that notification

is given one court day before the hearing.

(Subd (i) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2014; adopted as subd (e) effective July 1,

1998; previously amended effective January 1, 1999, and January 1, 2003; previously amended

and relettered as subd (h) effective January 1, 2008.)

(j) Fee waivers

(1) Effect of fee waiver

A party that has received a fee waiver must not be charged the fees for telephone

appearances.

(2) Responsibility of requesting party

To obtain telephone services without payment of a telephone appearance fee from a

vendor or a court that provides telephone appearance services, a party must advise

the vendor or the court that he or she has received a fee waiver from the court. If a

vendor requests, the party must transmit a copy of the order granting the fee waiver

to the vendor.

(3) Lien on judgment

If a party based on a fee waiver receives telephone appearance services under this

rule without payment of a fee, the vendor or court that provides the telephone

appearance services has a lien on any judgment, including a judgment for costs, that

the party may receive, in the amount of the fee that the party would have paid for the

telephone appearance. There is no charge for filing the lien.

(Subd (j) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2023; adopted as subd (k) effective July 1,

2011; previously amended and relettered as subd (l) effective January 1, 2014.)

(k) Title IV-D proceedings

(1) Court-provided telephone appearance services

If a court provides telephone appearance services in a proceeding for child or family

support under Title IV-D of the Social Security Act brought by or otherwise

involving a local child support agency, the court must not charge a fee for those

services.

(2) Responsibility of requesting party

When a party in a Title IV-D proceeding requests telephone appearance services

from a court or a vendor, the party requesting the services must advise the court or

the vendor that the requester is a party in a proceeding for child or family support

under Title IV-D brought by or otherwise involving a local child support agency.

(3) Fee waivers applicable

The fee waiver provisions in (j) apply to a request by a party in a Title IV-D

proceeding for telephone appearance services from a vendor.

(Subd (k) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2023; adopted as subd (l) effective July 1,

2011; previously amended effective July 1, 2013, and January 1, 2019; previously amended and

relettered as subd (m) effective January 1, 2014.)

(l) Audibility and procedure

The court must ensure that the statements of participants are audible to all other

participants and the court staff and that the statements made by a participant are identified

as being made by that participant.

(Subd (l) relettered effective January 1, 2023; adopted as subd (f); previously amended effective

January 1, 2003, and January 1, 2007; previously amended and relettered as subd (j) effective

January 1, 2008; previously relettered as subd (c) effective January 1, 1989, as subd (g) effective

July 1, 1998, as subd (m) effective July 1, 2011; and as subd (n) effective January 1, 2014.)

(m) Reporting

All proceedings involving telephone appearances must be reported to the same extent and

in the same manner as if the participants had appeared in person.

(Subd (m) relettered effective January 1, 2023; adopted as subd (h) effective July 1, 1998;

previously amended effective January 1, 2003; previously relettered as subd (k) effective January

1, 2008, as subd (n) effective July 1, 2011; as subd (o) effective January 1, 2014.)

(n) Conference call vendor or vendors

A court, by local rule, may designate the conference call vendor or vendors that must be

used for telephone appearances.

(Subd (n) relettered effective January 1, 2023; adopted as subd (i) effective July 1, 1998;

previously amended effective January 1, 1999, and January 1, 2003; previously relettered as subd

(l) effective January 1, 2008; and as subd (p) effective January 1, 2014; previously amended and

relettered as subd (o) effective July 1, 2011.)

(o) Information on telephone appearances

The court must publish notice providing parties with the particular information necessary

for them to appear by telephone at conferences, hearings, and proceedings in that court

under this rule.

(Subd (o) relettered effective January 1, 2023; adopted as subd (j); previously amended effective

January 1, 2003, and January 1, 2007; previously amended and relettered as subd (m) effective

January 1, 2008; previously relettered as subd (p) effective July 1, 2011; and as subd (q) effective

January 1, 2014.)

Rule 3.670 amended effective August 4, 2023; adopted as rule 298 effective March 1, 1988; previously

amended and renumbered as rule 3.670 effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January

1, 1989, July 1, 1998, January 1, 1999, July 1, 1999, January 1, 2001, July 1, 2002, January 1, 2003,

January 1, 2008, July 1, 2011, July 1, 2013, January 1, 2014, January 1, 2016, January 1, 2019, January

1, 2022, January 1, 2023.

Advisory Committee Comment

This rule does not apply to criminal or juvenile matters, and it also does not apply to family law matters,

except in certain respects as provided in rule 5.324 relating to telephone appearances in proceedings for

child or family support under Title IV-D of the Social Security Act. (See Cal. Rules of Court, rule

3.670(b) [rule applies to general civil cases and unlawful detainer and probate proceedings]; rule 5.324(j)

[subdivisions (j)–(q) of rule 3.670 apply to telephone appearances in Title IV-D proceedings].)

Subdivision (d). The inclusion of ex parte applications in this rule is intended to address only the way

parties may appear and is not intended to alter the way courts handle ex parte applications.

Subdivision (h). Under subdivision (h)(6), good cause should be construed consistent with the policy in

(a) and in Code of Civil Procedure section 367.5(a) favoring telephone appearances. Some examples of

good cause to appear by telephone without notice include personal or family illness, death in the family,

natural disasters, and unexpected transportation delays or interruption.

Rule 3.672. Remote proceedings

(a) Purpose

The intent of this rule is to promote greater consistency in the practices and procedures

relating to remote appearances and proceedings in civil cases subject to Code of Civil

Procedure section 367.75. To improve access to the courts and reduce litigation costs, to

the extent feasible courts should permit parties to appear remotely at conferences, hearings,

and proceedings in civil cases consistent with Code of Civil Procedure section 367.75.

(Subd (a) amended effective August 4, 2023.)

(b) Application

(1) This rule applies to all civil cases subject to Code of Civil Procedure section 367.75.

Provisions that apply specifically to juvenile dependency proceedings are set out in

(i). This rule does not apply to proceedings in matters subject to Code of Civil

Procedure section 367.76 or Welfare and Institutions Code section 679.5.

(2) Nothing in this rule limits a requirement or right established by statute or case law to

an appearance in one manner, either remote or in person, to the exclusion of the

other.

(3) Nothing in this rule modifies current rules, statutes, or case law regarding

confidentiality or access to confidential proceedings.

(Subd (b) amended effective August 4, 2023.)

As used in this rule:

(1) “Civil case” any case subject to Code of Civil Procedure section 367.75.

(2) “Evidentiary hearing or trial” is any proceeding at which oral testimony may be

provided.

(3) “Oral testimony” is a spoken statement provided under oath and subject to

examination.

(4) “Party” is, except in (i), as defined in rule 1.6(15), meaning any person appearing in

an action and that person’s counsel, as well as any nonparty who is subject to

discovery in the action.

(5) “Proceeding” means a conference, hearing, or any other matter before the court,

including an evidentiary hearing or trial.

(6) “Remote appearance” or “appear remotely” means the appearance of a party at a

proceeding through the use of remote technology.

(7) “Remote proceeding” means a proceeding conducted in whole or in part through the

use of remote technology.

(8) “Remote technology” means technology that provides for the transmission of video

and audio signals or audio signals alone. This phrase is meant to be interpreted

broadly and includes a computer, tablet, telephone, cellphone, or other electronic or

communications device.

(Subd (c) amended effective August 4, 2023.)

(d) Court discretion to require in-person appearance

Notwithstanding the other provisions of this rule and except as otherwise required by law,

the court may require a party to appear in person at a proceeding subject to this rule in any

of the following circumstances:

(1) If the court determines on a hearing-by-hearing basis that an in-person appearance

would materially assist in the determination of the proceeding or in the effective

management or resolution of the case.

(2) If the court does not have the technology to conduct the proceeding remotely, or if

the quality of the technology prevents the effective management or resolution of the

proceeding.

(3) If, at any time during a remote proceeding, the court determines that an in-person

appearance is necessary, the court may continue the matter and require such an

appearance. Such determination may be based on the factors listed in Code of Civil

Procedure section 367.75(b).

(Subd (d) amended effective August 4, 2023.)

(e) Local court rules for remote proceedings

(1) Except for juvenile dependency cases, a court may by local rule prescribe procedures

for remote proceedings subject to this rule, so long as the procedures are consistent

with the requirements of Code of Civil Procedure section 367.75, posted on the

court’s website, and include the following provisions:

(A) A requirement that notice of intent to appear remotely be given to the court and

to all parties or persons entitled to receive notice of the proceedings;

(B) A clear description of the amount of notice required; and

remote proceedings.

(2) If local procedures include written notice, any mandatory Judicial Council forms

must be used.

(3) For juvenile dependency cases, a court may by local rule prescribe procedures for

remote proceedings as long as the procedures are posted on the court’s website and

consistent with Code of Civil Procedure section 367.75 and subdivision (i).

(4) Notwithstanding the requirements of rule 10.613, courts may adopt or amend a local

rule under this subdivision for an effective date other than January 1 or July 1 and

without a 45-day comment period if the court:

(A) Posts notice of the adoption of the new or amended rule prominently on the

court’s website, along with a copy of the rule and the effective date of the new

or amended rule;

(B) Distributes the rule to the organizations identified in rule 10.613(g)(2) on or

before the effective date of the new rule or amendment; and

No litigant’s substantive rights may be prejudiced for failing to comply with a rule

adopted or amended under this paragraph until at least 20 days after the rule change

has been posted and distributed.

(5) Notwithstanding (1) and rule 10.613, any local court procedures consistent with

Code of Civil Procedure section 367.75 and posted on the court’s website may

continue in effect until March 31, 2022, or until such earlier date by which a court

has adopted a local rule under (1)–(3).

(Subd (e) amended effective August 4, 2023.)

(f) Notice and waiver for duration of case

(1) Notice for remote appearances for duration of case

At any time during a case subject to this rule, a party may provide notice to the court

and all other parties or persons who are entitled to receive notice of the proceedings

that the party intends to appear remotely for the duration of a case. Such notice must

be provided with at least as much advance notice as required in (g), (h), or (i), or by

local court rules or procedures.

(A) Notice process

Notice must be given either orally during a court proceeding or by

service on all other parties or persons who are entitled to receive notice of the

proceedings and filing with the court a Notice of Remote Appearance (form

RA-010). If any party appears in the case after this notice has been given, form

RA-010 must be served on that party. Service may be by any means authorized

by law.

(B) Court’s local procedures

This notice does not exempt a party from following a court’s local

procedures, as posted on its website, for providing notice of intent to appear

remotely at a particular proceeding, if the court has such a procedure.

(2) Waiver of Notice

At any time during a case, all parties to an action may stipulate to waive notice of

any other participants’ remote appearance. This stipulation may be made orally

during a court proceeding or in writing filed with the court.

(Subd (f) amended effective August 4, 2023.)

(g) Remote proceedings other than an evidentiary hearing or trial

(1) Applicable rules

This subdivision applies to any proceeding subject to this rule other than an

evidentiary hearing or trial, unless one of the following applies:

(A) The court has applicable local procedures or local rules under (e);

(B) The proceeding is a juvenile dependency proceeding governed by (i);

appearances for the duration of the case or all parties have stipulated to a

waiver of notice under (f);

(D) The court permits a party to appear remotely under (j)(2).

(2) Required notice

(A) Hearing with at least three court days’ notice

(i) Notice to appear remotely

A party choosing to appear remotely in a proceeding under this

subdivision for which a party gives or receives notice of the proceeding

at least three court days before the hearing date, must provide notice of

the party’s intent to appear remotely at least two court days before the

proceeding.

(ii) Notice process

Notice to the court must be given by filing a Notice of Remote

Appearance (form RA-010). Notice to the other parties may be provided

in writing, electronically, or orally in a way reasonably calculated to

ensure notice is received no later than two court days before the

proceeding.

(B) Hearing with less than three court days’ notice

(i) Notice by moving party

a. Notice to appear remotely

A moving party or applicant choosing to appear remotely in a

proceeding under this subdivision for which a party gives or

receives notice of less than three court days must provide notice of

the party’s intent to appear remotely at the same time as providing

notice of the application or other moving papers.

b. Notice process

Notice to the court must be given by filing a Notice of Remote

Appearance (form RA-010). Notice to the other parties may be

provided in writing, electronically, or orally in a way reasonably

calculated to ensure notice is received with notice of the moving

papers.

(ii) Notice by other parties

a. Notice to appear remotely

Any party choosing to appear remotely at a hearing governed by

(B), other than an applicant or moving party, must provide notice

of their intent to appear remotely to the court and all other parties

that have appeared in the action, no later than 2:00 p.m. on the

court day before the proceeding.

b. Notice process

The notice to the court may be given orally or in writing by filing

Notice of Remote Appearance (form RA-010). Notice to the other

parties may be in writing, electronically, or orally in a way

reasonably calculated to ensure notice is received no later than

2:00 p.m. on the court day before the proceeding.

A party may use Notice of Remote Appearance (form RA-010) to provide

proof to the court that notice to other parties was given.

(D) Delivery to courtroom

If required by local rule, a party must ensure a copy of any written notice filed

under (A) or (B) is received in the department in which the proceeding is to be

held.

(Subd (g) amended effective August 4, 2023.)

(h) Remote proceedings for an evidentiary hearing or trial

(1) Court notice of remote proceeding

A court intending to conduct an evidentiary hearing or trial remotely in a case

subject to this rule must provide notice by one of the following means:

(A) By providing notice to all parties who have appeared in the action or who are

entitled to receive notice of the proceedings, at least 10 court days before the

hearing or trial date, unless the hearing or trial is on less than 10 court days’

notice, in which case at least two court days’ notice of remote proceedings is

required; or

(B) By local rule providing that certain evidentiary hearings or trials are to be held

remotely, so long as the court procedure includes a process for self-represented

parties to agree to their remote appearance and for parties to show why remote

appearances or testimony should not be allowed.

(2) Party notice of remote proceeding

(A) Applicable rules

This subdivision applies to all evidentiary hearings and trials in a case subject

to this rule unless one of the following applies:

(i) The court has applicable local procedures or local rules under (e);

(ii) The proceeding is a juvenile dependency proceeding governed by (i);

(iii) The person intending to appear remotely has provided a notice for

remote appearances for the duration of the case or all parties have

stipulated to a waiver of notice under (f);

(iv) The court permits a party to appear remotely under (j)(2).

(B) Motion

The notice described in this subdivision serves as the motion by a party under

Code of Civil Procedure section 367.75(d).

(i) Time of notice

A party choosing to appear remotely at a small claims trial or an

evidentiary hearing or trial for which a party gives or receives notice of

the proceeding at least 15 court days before the hearing or trial date must

provide notice of the party’s intent to appear remotely at least 10 court

days before the hearing or trial.

(ii) Notice process

Notice to the court must be given by filing a Notice of Remote

Appearance (form RA-010). Notice to the other parties may be in

writing, electronically, or orally in a way reasonably calculated to ensure

notice is received at least 10 court days before the proceeding. A party

may use Notice of Remote Appearance (form RA-010) to provide proof

to the court that notice to other parties was given.

(D) Hearings or trials held on less than 15 court days’ notice

A party choosing to appear remotely in an evidentiary hearing or trial for

which a party gives or receives notice of the proceeding less than 15 court days

before the hearing or trial date, including hearings on restraining orders or

protective orders, must provide notice of the party’s intent to appear remotely

in one of the following ways:

(i) As provided in (g)(2)(B); or

(ii) By filing a Notice of Remote Appearance (form RA-010) and providing

notice to the other parties in writing, electronically, or orally in a way

reasonably calculated to ensure notice is received at least five court days

before the proceeding.

(3) Opposition to remote proceedings

(A) Filing and serving opposition

In response to notice of a remote proceeding for an evidentiary hearing or trial

in a case subject to this rule, whether set by local rule or otherwise noticed

under (h)(1) or (2), or to obtain a court order for in-person appearance, a party

may make a showing to the court as to why a remote appearance or remote

testimony should not be allowed, by serving and filing an Opposition to

Remote Proceedings at Evidentiary Hearing or Trial (form RA-015) by:

(i) At least five court days before the proceeding if for an evidentiary

hearing or trial for which a party gives or receives at least 15 court days’

notice; or

(ii) At least noon the court day before the proceeding if for an evidentiary

hearing or trial for which a party gives or receives less than 15 court

days’ notice.

(iii) If required by local rule, a party must ensure a copy of any opposition is

received in the department in which the proceeding is to be held.

(B) Court determination on opposition

In determining whether to conduct an evidentiary hearing or trial in whole or in

part through the use of remote technology over opposition, the court must

consider the factors in section 367.75(b) and (f), and any limited access to

technology or transportation asserted by a party. The court may not require a

party to appear through remote technology.

(Subd (h) was amended effective August 4, 2023.)

(i) Remote proceedings in juvenile dependency

(1) General provisions

(A) This subdivision applies to any juvenile dependency proceeding. A court may

adopt local rules as provided in (e) to prescribe procedures for remote juvenile

dependency proceedings.

(B) The definitions in (c) apply, except that, for purposes of this subdivision, a

“party” is any of the following persons and that person’s counsel:

(i) A child or nonminor dependent subject to the proceeding;

(ii) Any parent, Indian custodian, or guardian of a child subject to the

proceeding;

(iii) The social worker who filed the petition to commence the juvenile

dependency proceedings on behalf of the county child welfare

department;

(iv) The tribe of an Indian child subject to the proceeding if the tribe has

intervened; and

(v) A de facto parent of a child subject to the proceeding to whom the court

has granted party status.

provisions in Welfare and Institutions Code section 679.5 and any rules

implementing that statute govern a remote appearance in a juvenile justice

proceeding.

(2) Conducting a remote proceeding

Any juvenile dependency proceeding may be conducted as a remote proceeding, as

long as the following conditions are met:

(A) The court provides an opportunity for any person authorized to be present to

request to appear remotely;

(B) All statutory confidentiality requirements applicable to a juvenile dependency

proceeding held in person apply equally to a remote proceeding.

(3) Option to appear remotely

(A) If a proceeding is conducted as a remote proceeding, any person entitled to be

present under rule 5.530(b) may appear remotely without submitting a request.

(B) Except as provided in (ii), any person entitled under rule 5.530(b) or

authorized by court order to be present at a proceeding may request to appear

remotely using any means, oral or written, that is reasonably calculated to

ensure receipt by the court no later than the time the case is called for hearing.

(i) If the request is in writing, Request to Appear Remotely—Juvenile

Dependency (form RA-025) may be used.

(ii) A request for a remote appearance by a witness must be made in writing

by counsel for the party calling the witness or, if the party does not have

counsel, by the party, by filing the request with the court and serving a

copy of the request on counsel for all other parties or, if a party does not

have counsel, on the party, by any means authorized by law reasonably

calculated to ensure receipt no later than close of business three court

days before the proceeding.

(4) Request to compel physical presence

Any party may ask the court to compel the physical presence of a witness or a party

by filing the request in writing with the court and serving a copy of the request on

counsel for each party by any means authorized by law reasonably calculated to

ensure receipt no later than close of business two court days before the proceeding.

Request to Compel Physical Presence—Juvenile Dependency (form RA-030) may be

used for this purpose.

(5) Determination of request

(A) The court must require a witness to appear in person unless all parties to the

proceeding have consented to the witness’s remote appearance.

(B) The court may require any person to appear in person if the court determines

that:

(i) One or more of the factors listed in Code of Civil Procedure section

367.75(b) or (f) or in this rule, including the person’s limited access to

technology, requires the person’s physical presence;

(ii) The court cannot ensure that the person’s remote appearance will have

the privacy and security necessary to preserve the confidentiality of the

proceeding; or

(iii) A remote appearance by the person is likely to cause undue prejudice to

a party.

including any limits to the person’s access to transportation, before ordering

the person to appear in person.

(Subd (i) amended effective August 4, 2023.)

(j) Other rules regarding notice

(1) Any party, including a party that has given notice that it intends to appear remotely

under (f)–(h) or a person authorized to appear remotely under (i), may choose to

appear in person.

(2) Notwithstanding the other provisions of this rule, a party may ask the court for leave

to appear remotely without the notice provided for under (f)–(h). The court may

permit the party to appear remotely upon a finding of good cause, unforeseen

circumstances, or that the remote appearance would promote access to justice.

(k) Remote appearance fees

(1) Parties not charged fees

Parties who, by statute, are not charged filing fees or fees for court services may not

be charged a videoconference fee under Government Code section 70630.

(2) Parties with fee waiver

(A) When a party has received a fee waiver, that party may not be charged fees for

remote appearances.

(B) To obtain remote appearance services without payment of a fee from a vendor

or a court that provides such services, a party must advise the vendor or the

court that they have received a fee waiver from the court. If a vendor requests,

the party must transmit a copy of the order granting the fee waiver to the

vendor.

this rule without payment of a fee, the vendor or court that provides the remote

appearance services has a lien on any judgment, including a judgment for

costs, that the party may receive, in the amount of the fee that the party would

have paid for the remote appearance. There is no charge for filing the lien.

(l) Vendor or platform

A court, by local rule, may designate the vendors or platforms that must be used for remote

appearances or the location on its website where such information may be found.

(m) Court information on remote appearances

The court must publish notice online providing parties with the information necessary to

appear remotely at proceedings in that court under this rule. The notice should include

information regarding in which departments, types of proceedings, or types of cases the

court has the technological capability to allow remote appearances, and the vendors or

platforms that must be used, including whether there are limitations to using them

concurrently.

Rule 3.672 amended effective August 4, 2023; adopted effective January 1, 2022.

Advisory Committee Comment

Subdivision (h). Nothing in this rule, including time frames provided in subdivision (h), is intended to

preclude a court or party from discussing the use of remote appearances and testimony at any time during

an action, including at case management conferences and status conferences.

Subdivision (k). Statutes currently provide that courts are not to charge fees to certain types of parties,

such as governmental entities; representatives of tribes in cases covered by the Indian Child Welfare Act;

and parties in certain types of cases, such as juvenile cases or actions to prevent domestic violence. This

rule would preclude courts from charging videoconference fees to such parties as well.

Chapter 4. Special Proceedings on Construction-Related Accessibility Claims

Title 3, Civil Rules—Division 6, Proceedings—Chapter 4, Special Proceedings on Construction-Related

Accessibility Claims; adopted effective July 1, 2013.

Rule 3.680. Service of Notice of Stay and Early Evaluation Conference

Rule 3.682. Notice of Mandatory Evaluation Conferences

Rule 3.680. Service of Notice of Stay and Early Evaluation Conference

(a) Service of Application and Notice

The defendant who requested a stay and early evaluation conference on a construction-

related claim under Civil Code section 55.54 must, within 10 days of issuance of the

notice, serve on all other parties the application for stay and any Notice of Stay of

Proceedings and Early Evaluation Conference (form DAL-010) issued by the court.

(b) Filing Proof of Service

A proof of service must be filed with the court 15 days before the date set for the early

evaluation conference. Proof of Service–Disability Access Litigation (form DAL-012) may

be used to show service of the documents.

Rule 3.680 adopted effective July 1, 2013.

Rule 3.682. Notice of Mandatory Evaluation Conferences

(a) Service of Application and Notice

The party who requested a mandatory evaluation conference on a construction-related

accessibility claim under Civil Code section 55.545 must, within 10 days of issuance of the

notice, serve on all other parties the application and any Notice of Mandatory Evaluation

Conference (form DAL-020) issued by the court.

(b) Filing Proof of Service

A proof of service must be filed with the court 15 days before the date set for the early

evaluation conference. Proof of Service–Disability Access Litigation (form DAL-012) may

be used to show service of the documents.

Rule 3.682 adopted effective July 1, 2013.

Division 7. Civil Case Management

Chapter 1. General Provisions

Rule 3.700. Scope and purpose of the case management rules

The rules in this division are to be construed and administered to secure the fair, timely, and

efficient disposition of every civil case. The rules are to be applied in a fair, practical, and

flexible manner so as to achieve the ends of justice.

Rule 3.700 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 204 effective January 1,

2004.

Chapter 2. Differential Case Management

Rule 3.710. Authority

Rule 3.711. Local court rules

Rule 3.712. Application and exceptions

Rule 3.713. Delay reduction goals

Rule 3.714. Differentiation of cases to achieve goals

Rule 3.715. Case evaluation factors

Rule 3.710. Authority

The rules in this chapter implement Government Code section 68603(c) under the Trial Court

Delay Reduction Act of 1990.

Rule 3.710 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 2101 effective July 1,

1991; previously amended and renumbered as rule 205 effective July 1, 2002.

Rule 3.711. Local court rules

Each court must adopt local rules on differential case management as provided in this chapter

consistent with the rules on case management in chapter 3 of this division and standard 2.1 of the

California Standards of Judicial Administration.

Rule 3.711 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 2102 effective July 1,

1991; previously amended effective January 1, 1994, and January 1, 2000; previously amended and

renumbered as rule 206 effective July 1, 2002.

Rule 3.712. Application and exceptions

(a) General application

The rules in this chapter apply to all general civil cases filed in the trial courts except those

specified in (b), (c), and (d) and except those specified types or categories of general civil

cases that have been exempted from the case management rules under rule 3.720(b).

(Subd (a) amended effective February 26, 2013; previously amended effective January 1, 1994,

July 1, 2002, January 1, 2007, and July 1, 2007.)

(b) Uninsured motorist cases

To allow for arbitration of the plaintiff’s claim, the rules in this chapter do not apply to a

case designated by the court as “uninsured motorist” until 180 days after the designation.

(Subd (b) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (c); previously

amended effective July 1, 2002.)

The rules in this chapter do not apply to any case included in a petition for coordination. If

the petition is granted, the coordination trial judge may establish a case progression plan

for the cases, which may be assigned for review under the case management rules in

chapter 3 of this division or, after appropriate findings, for treatment as an exceptional

case.

(Subd (c) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (d); previously

amended effective July 1, 2002.)

(d) Collections cases

The rules in this chapter do not apply to a collections case, as defined in rule 3.740(a),

unless a defendant files a responsive pleading.

(Subd (d) adopted effective July 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.712 amended effective February 26, 2013; adopted as rule 2103 effective July 1, 1991; previously

amended and renumbered as rule 207 effective July 1, 2002, and amended and renumbered effective

January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 1994, and July 1, 2007.

Rule 3.713. Delay reduction goals

(a) Case management goals

The rules in this chapter are adopted to advance the goals of Government Code section

68607 and standard 2.1 of the California Standards of Judicial Administration.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective July 1, 2002.)

(b) Case disposition time goals

The goal of the court is to manage general civil cases from filing to disposition as provided

under standard 2.2 of the California Standards of Judicial Administration.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 1994, July

1, 2002, and January 1, 2004.)

It is the responsibility of judges to achieve a just and effective resolution of each general

civil case through active management and supervision of the pace of litigation from the

date of filing to disposition.

(Subd (c) amended effective July 1, 2002.)

Rule 3.713 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 2104 effective July 1,

1991; previously amended and renumbered as rule 208 effective July 1, 2003; previously amended

effective January 1, 1994, and January 1, 2004.

Rule 3.714. Differentiation of cases to achieve goals

(a) Evaluation and assignment

The court must evaluate each case on its own merits as provided in rule 3.715, under

procedures adopted by local court rules. After evaluation, the court must:

(1) Assign the case to the case management program for review under the case

management rules in chapter 3 of this division for disposition under the case

disposition time goals in (b) of this rule;

(2) Exempt the case as an exceptional case under (c) of this rule from the case

disposition time goals specified in rule 3.713(b) and monitor it with the goal of

disposing of it within three years; or

(3) Assign the case under (d) of this rule to a local case management plan for disposition

within six to nine months after filing.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective July 1, 2002, and

January 1, 2004.)

(b) Civil case disposition time goals

Civil cases assigned for review under the case management rules in chapter 3 of this

division should be managed so as to achieve the following goals:

(1) Unlimited civil cases

The goal of each trial court should be to manage unlimited civil cases from filing so

that:

(A) 75 percent are disposed of within 12 months;

(B) 85 percent are disposed of within 18 months; and

(2) Limited civil cases

The goal of each trial court should be to manage limited civil cases from filing so

that:

(A) 90 percent are disposed of within 12 months;

(B) 98 percent are disposed of within 18 months; and

(3) Individualized case management

The goals in (1) and (2) are guidelines for the court’s disposition of all unlimited and

limited civil cases filed in that court. In managing individual civil cases, the court

must consider each case on its merits. To enable the fair and efficient resolution of

civil cases, each case should be set for trial as soon as appropriate for that individual

case consistent with rule 3.729.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective July 1, 2002, and

January 1, 2004.)

(1) The court may in the interest of justice exempt a general civil case from the case

disposition time goals under rule 3.713(b) if it finds the case involves exceptional

circumstances that will prevent the court and the parties from meeting the goals and

deadlines imposed by the program. In making the determination, the court is guided

by rules 3.715 and 3.400.

(2) If the court exempts the case from the case disposition time goals, the court must

establish a case progression plan and monitor the case to ensure timely disposition

consistent with the exceptional circumstances, with the goal of disposing of the case

within three years.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (d); previously amended effective

January 1, 2000, and July 1, 2002; previously amended and relettered as subd (c) effective

January 1, 2004.)

(d) Local case management plan for expedited case disposition

(1) For expedited case disposition, the court may by local rule adopt a case management

plan that establishes a goal for disposing of appropriate cases within six to nine

months after filing. The plan must establish a procedure to identify the cases to be

assigned to the plan.

(2) The plan must be used only for uncomplicated cases amenable to early disposition

that do not need a case management conference or review or similar event to guide

the case to early resolution.

(Subd (d) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2004; adopted as subd (e); previously

amended effective January 1, 1994, and July 1, 2002.)

Rule 3.714 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 2105 effective July 1,

1991; amended and renumbered as rule 209 effective July 1, 2002; previously amended effective January

1, 1994, January 1, 200, and January 1, 2004.

Rule 3.715. Case evaluation factors

(a) Time estimate

In applying rule 3.714, the court must estimate the maximum time that will reasonably be

required to dispose of each case in a just and effective manner. The court must consider the

following factors and any other information the court deems relevant, understanding that

no one factor or set of factors will be controlling and that cases may have unique

characteristics incapable of precise definition:

(1) Type and subject matter of the action;

(2) Number of causes of action or affirmative defenses alleged;

(3) Number of parties with separate interests;

(4) Number of cross-complaints and the subject matter;

(5) Complexity of issues, including issues of first impression;

(6) Difficulty in identifying, locating, and serving parties;

(7) Nature and extent of discovery anticipated;

(8) Number and location of percipient and expert witnesses;

(9) Estimated length of trial;

(10) Whether some or all issues can be arbitrated or resolved through other alternative

dispute resolution processes;

(11) Statutory priority for the issues;

(12) Likelihood of review by writ or appeal;

(13) Amount in controversy and the type of remedy sought, including measures of

damages;

(14) Pendency of other actions or proceedings that may affect the case;

(15) Nature and extent of law and motion proceedings anticipated;

(16) Nature and extent of the injuries and damages;

(17) Pendency of underinsured claims; and

(18) Any other factor that would affect the time for disposition of the case.

(Subd (a) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as untitled subd effective July 1,

1991.)

Rule 3.715 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 2106 effective July 1,

1991; previously amended and renumbered as rule 210 effective July 1, 2002.

Chapter 3. Case Management

Rule 3.720. Application

Rule 3.721. Case management review

Rule 3.722. Case management conference

Rule 3.723. Additional case management conferences

Rule 3.724. Duty to meet and confer

Rule 3.725. Case Management Statement

Rule 3.726. Stipulation to alternative dispute resolution

Rule 3.727. Subjects to be considered at the case management conference

Rule 3.728. Case management order

Rule 3.729. Setting the trial date

Rule 3.730. Case management order controls

Rule 3.734. Assignment to one judge for all or limited purposes

Rule 3.735. Management of short cause cases

Rule 3.720. Application

(a) General application

The rules in this chapter prescribe the procedures for the management of all applicable

court cases. These rules may be referred to as “the case management rules.”

(Subd (a) amended and lettered effective February 26, 2013; adopted as unlettered subd.)

(b) Suspension of rules

A court by local rule may exempt specified types or categories of general civil cases from

the case management rules in this chapter, provided that the court has in place alternative

procedures for case processing and trial setting for such actions, including, without

limitation, compliance with Code of Civil Procedure sections 1141.10 et seq. and 1775 et

seq. The court must include the alternative procedures in its local rules.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2020; adopted effective February 26, 2013; previously amended

effective January 1, 2016.)

In any case in which a court sets an initial case management conference, the rules in this

chapter apply.

(Subd (c) adopted effective February 26, 2013.)

Rule 3.720 amended effective January 1, 2020; adopted effective January 1, 2007; previously amended

effective February 26, 2013, and January 1. 2016.

Rule 3.721. Case management review

In every general civil case except complex cases and cases exempted under rules 3.712(b)–(d),

3.714(c)–(d), 3.735(b), 2.573(e), and 3.740(c), the court must review the case no later than 180

days after the filing of the initial complaint

Rule 3.721 amended effective July 1, 2007; adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.722. Case management conference

(a) The initial conference

In each case, the court must set an initial case management conference to review the case.

At the conference, the court must review the case comprehensively and decide whether to

assign the case to an alternative dispute resolution process, whether to set the case for trial,

and whether to take action regarding any of the other matters identified in rules 3.727 and

3.728. The initial case management conference should generally be the first case

management event conducted by court order in each case, except for orders to show cause.

(b) Notice of the initial conference

Notice of the date of the initial case management conference must be given to all parties no

later than 45 days before the conference, unless otherwise ordered by the court. The court

may provide by local rule for the time and manner of giving notice to the parties.

At the conference, counsel for each party and each self-represented party must appear in

person or remotely as provided in rule 3.672; must be familiar with the case; and must be

prepared to discuss and commit to the party’s position on the issues listed in rules 3.724

and 3.727.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 21, 2022; previously amended effective January 1, 2008.)

(d) Case management order without appearance

If, based on its review of the written submissions of the parties and such other information

as is available, the court determines that appearances at the conference are not necessary,

the court may issue a case management order and notify the parties that no appearance is

required.

(e) Option to excuse attendance at initial conferences in limited civil cases

By local rule the court may provide that counsel and self-represented parties are not to

attend an initial case management conference in limited civil cases unless ordered to do so

by the court.

Rule 3.722 amended effective January 21, 2022; adopted effective January 1, 2007; previously amended

effective January 1, 2008.

Rule 3.723. Additional case management conferences

The court on its own motion may order, or a party or parties may request, that an additional case

management conference be held at any time. A party should be required to appear at an

additional conference only if an appearance is necessary for the effective management of the

case. In determining whether to hold an additional conference, the court must consider each case

individually on its own merits.

Rule 3.723 adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Advisory Committee Comment

Regarding additional case management conferences, in many civil cases one initial conference and one

other conference before trial will be sufficient. But in other cases, including complicated or difficult

cases, the court may order an additional case management conference or conferences if that would

promote the fair and efficient administration of the case.

Rule 3.724. Duty to meet and confer

Unless the court orders another time period, no later than 30 calendar days before the date set for

the initial case management conference, the parties must meet and confer, in person or by

telephone, to consider each of the issues identified in rule 3.727 and, in addition, to consider the

following:

(1) Resolving any discovery disputes and setting a discovery schedule;

(2) Identifying and, if possible, informally resolving any anticipated motions;

(3) Identifying the facts and issues in the case that are uncontested and may be the subject of

stipulation;

(4) Identifying the facts and issues in the case that are in dispute;

(5) Determining whether the issues in the case can be narrowed by eliminating any claims or

defenses by means of a motion or otherwise;

(6) Determining whether settlement is possible;

(7) Identifying the dates on which all parties and their attorneys are available or not available

for trial, including the reasons for unavailability;

(8) Any issues relating to the discovery of electronically stored information, including:

(A) Issues relating to the preservation of discoverable electronically stored information;

(B) The form or forms in which information will be produced;

(D) The scope of discovery of the information;

(E) The method for asserting or preserving claims of privilege or attorney work product,

including whether such claims may be asserted after production;

(F) The method for asserting or preserving the confidentiality, privacy, trade secrets, or

proprietary status of information relating to a party or person not a party to the civil

proceedings;

(G) How the cost of production of electronically stored information is to be allocated

among the parties;

(H) Any other issues relating to the discovery of electronically stored information,

including developing a proposed plan relating to the discovery of the information;

and

(9) Other relevant matters.

Rule 3.724 amended effective August 14, 2009; adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.725. Case Management Statement

(a) Timing of statement

No later than 15 calendar days before the date set for the case management conference or

review, each party must file a case management statement and serve it on all other parties

in the case.

(b) Joint statement

In lieu of each party’s filing a separate case management statement, any two or more

parties may file a joint statement.

Parties must use the mandatory Case Management Statement (form CM-110). All

applicable items on the form must be completed.

Rule 3.725 adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.726. Stipulation to alternative dispute resolution

If all parties agree to use an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) process, they must jointly

complete the ADR stipulation form provided for under rule 3.221 and file it with the court.

Rule 3.726 adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.727. Subjects to be considered at the case management conference

In any case management conference or review conducted under this chapter, the parties must

address, if applicable, and the court may take appropriate action with respect to, the following:

(1) Whether there are any related cases;

(2) Whether all parties named in the complaint or cross-complaint have been served, have

appeared, or have been dismissed;

(3) Whether any additional parties may be added or the pleadings may be amended;

(4) Whether, if the case is a limited civil case, the economic litigation procedures under Code

of Civil Procedure section 90 et seq. will apply to it or the party intends to bring a motion

to exempt the case from these procedures;

(5) Whether any other matters (e.g., the bankruptcy of a party) may affect the court’s

jurisdiction or processing of the case;

(6) Whether the parties have stipulated to, or the case should be referred to, judicial arbitration

in courts having a judicial arbitration program or to any other form of alternative dispute

resolution (ADR) process and, if so, the date by which the judicial arbitration or other

ADR process must be completed;

(7) Whether an early settlement conference should be scheduled and, if so, on what date;

(8) Whether discovery has been completed and, if not, the date by which it will be completed;

(9) What discovery issues are anticipated;

(10) Whether the case should be bifurcated or a hearing should be set for a motion to bifurcate

under Code of Civil Procedure section 598;

(11) Whether there are any cross-complaints that are not ready to be set for trial and, if so,

whether they should be severed;

(12) Whether the case is entitled to any statutory preference and, if so, the statute granting the

preference;

(13) Whether a jury trial is demanded, and, if so, the identity of each party requesting a jury

trial;

(14) If the trial date has not been previously set, the date by which the case will be ready for

trial and the available trial dates;

(15) The estimated length of trial;

(16) The nature of the injuries;

(17) The amount of damages, including any special or punitive damages;

(18) Any additional relief sought;

(19) Whether there are any insurance coverage issues that may affect the resolution of the case;

and

(20) Any other matters that should be considered by the court or addressed in its case

management order.

Rule 3.727 adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.728. Case management order

The case management conference must be conducted in the manner provided by local rule. The

court must enter a case management order setting a schedule for subsequent proceedings and

otherwise providing for the management of the case. The order may include appropriate

provisions, such as:

(1) Referral of the case to judicial arbitration or other alternative dispute resolution process;

(2) A date for completion of the judicial arbitration process or other alternative dispute

resolution process if the case has been referred to such a process;

(3) In the event that a trial date has not previously been set, a date certain for trial if the case is

ready to be set for trial;

(4) Whether the trial will be a jury trial or a nonjury trial;

(5) The identity of each party demanding a jury trial;

(6) The estimated length of trial;

(7) Whether all parties necessary to the disposition of the case have been served or have

appeared;

(8) The dismissal or severance of unserved or not-appearing defendants from the action;

(9) The names and addresses of the attorneys who will try the case;

(10) The date, time, and place for a mandatory settlement conference as provided in rule

3.1380;

(11) The date, time, and place for the final case management conference before trial if such a

conference is required by the court or the judge assigned to the case;

(12) The date, time, and place of any further case management conferences or review; and

(13) Any additional orders that may be appropriate, including orders on matters listed in rules

3.724 and 3.727.

Rule 3.728 adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.729. Setting the trial date

In setting a case for trial, the court, at the initial case management conference or at any other

proceeding at which the case is set for trial, must consider all the facts and circumstances that are

relevant. These may include:

(1) The type and subject matter of the action to be tried;

(2) Whether the case has statutory priority;

(3) The number of causes of action, cross-actions, and affirmative defenses that will be tried;

(4) Whether any significant amendments to the pleadings have been made recently or are

likely to be made before trial;

(5) Whether the plaintiff intends to bring a motion to amend the complaint to seek punitive

damages under Code of Civil Procedure section 425.13;

(6) The number of parties with separate interests who will be involved in the trial;

(7) The complexity of the issues to be tried, including issues of first impression;

(8) Any difficulties in identifying, locating, or serving parties;

(9) Whether all parties have been served and, if so, the date by which they were served;

(10) Whether all parties have appeared in the action and, if so, the date by which they appeared;

(11) How long the attorneys who will try the case have been involved in the action;

(12) The trial date or dates proposed by the parties and their attorneys;

(13) The professional and personal schedules of the parties and their attorneys, including any

conflicts with previously assigned trial dates or other significant events;

(14) The amount of discovery, if any, that remains to be conducted in the case;

(15) The nature and extent of law and motion proceedings anticipated, including whether any

motions for summary judgment will be filed;

(16) Whether any other actions or proceedings that are pending may affect the case;

(17) The amount in controversy and the type of remedy sought;

(18) The nature and extent of the injuries or damages, including whether these are ready for

determination;

(19) The court’s trial calendar, including the pendency of other trial dates;

(20) Whether the trial will be a jury or a nonjury trial;

(21) The anticipated length of trial;

(22) The number, availability, and locations of witnesses, including witnesses who reside

outside the county, state, or country;

(23) Whether there have been any previous continuances of the trial or delays in setting the case

for trial;

(24) The achievement of a fair, timely, and efficient disposition of the case; and

(25) Any other factor that would significantly affect the determination of the appropriate date of

trial.

Rule 3.729 adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.730. Case management order controls

The order issued after the case management conference or review controls the subsequent course

of the action or proceeding unless it is modified by a subsequent order.

Rule 3.730 adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.734. Assignment to one judge for all or limited purposes

The presiding judge may, on the noticed motion of a party or on the court’s own motion, order

the assignment of any case to one judge for all or such limited purposes as will promote the

efficient administration of justice.

Rule 3.734 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 213 effective January 1,

1985; previously amended effective July 1, 2002.

Rule 3.735. Management of short cause cases

(a) Short cause case defined

A short cause case is a civil case in which the time estimated for trial by all parties or the

court is five hours or less. All other civil cases are long cause cases.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(b) Exemption for short cause case and setting of case for trial

The court may order, upon the stipulation of all parties or the court’s own motion, that a

case is a short cause case exempted from the requirements of case management review and

set the case for trial.

If a short cause case is not completely tried within five hours, the judge may declare a

mistrial or, in the judge’s discretion, may complete the trial. In the event of a mistrial, the

case will be treated as a long cause case and must promptly be set either for a new trial or

for a case management conference.

Rule 3.735 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 214 effective July 1,

2002.

Chapter 4. Management of Collections Cases

Chapter 4 adopted effective July 1, 2008.

Rule 3.740. Collections cases

Rule 3.741. Settlement of collections cases

Rule 3.740. Collections cases

(a) Definition

“Collections case” means an action for recovery of money owed in a sum stated to be

certain that is not more than $25,000, exclusive of interest and attorney fees, arising from a

transaction in which property, services, or money was acquired on credit. A collections

case does not include an action seeking any of the following:

(1) Tort damages;

(2) Punitive damages;

(3) Recovery of real property;

(4) Recovery of personal property; or

(5) A prejudgment writ of attachment.

(b) Civil Case Cover Sheet

If a case meets the definition in (a), a plaintiff must check the case type box on the Civil

Case Cover Sheet (form CM-010) to indicate that the case is a collections case under rule

3.740 and serve the Civil Case Cover Sheet (form CM-010) with the initial complaint.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2009.)

A collections case is exempt from:

(1) The time-for-service requirement of rule 3.110(b); and

(2) The case management rules that apply to all general civil cases under rules 3.712–

3.715 and 3.721–3.730, unless a defendant files a responsive pleading.

(d) Time for service

The complaint in a collections case must be served on all named defendants, and proofs of

service on those defendants must be filed, or the plaintiff must obtain an order for

publication of the summons, within 180 days after the filing of the complaint.

(e) Effect of failure to serve within required time

If proofs of service on all defendants are not filed or the plaintiff has not obtained an order

for publication of the summons within 180 days after the filing of the complaint, the court

may issue an order to show cause why reasonable monetary sanctions should not be

imposed. If proofs of service on all defendants are filed or an order for publication of the

summons is filed at least 10 court days before the order to show cause hearing, the court

must continue the hearing to 360 days after the filing of the complaint.

(f) Effect of failure to obtain default judgment within required time

If proofs of service of the complaint are filed or service by publication is made and

defendants do not file responsive pleadings, the plaintiff must obtain a default judgment

within 360 days after the filing of the complaint. If the plaintiff has not obtained a default

judgment by that time, the court must issue an order to show cause why reasonable

monetary sanctions should not be imposed. The order to show cause must be vacated if the

plaintiff obtains a default judgment at least 10 court days before the order to show cause

hearing.

Rule 3.740 amended effective January 1, 2009; adopted effective July 1, 2007.

Rule 3.741. Settlement of collections case

If the plaintiff or other party seeking affirmative relief in a case meeting the definition of

“collections case” in rule 3.740(a) files a notice of settlement under rule 3.1385, including a

conditional settlement, the court must vacate all hearing, case management conference, and trial

dates.

Rule 3.741 adopted effective July 1, 2007.

Chapter 5. Management of Complex Cases

Chapter 5 renumbered effective July 1, 2008; adopted as chapter 4 effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.750. Initial case management conference

Rule 3.751. Electronic service

Rule 3.750. Initial case management conference

(a) Timing of conference

The court in a complex case should hold an initial case management conference with all

parties represented at the earliest practical date.

(b) Subjects for consideration

At the conference, the court should consider the following subjects:

(1) Whether all parties named in the complaint or cross-complaint have been served,

have appeared, or have been dismissed;

(2) Whether any additional parties may be added or the pleadings may be amended;

(3) The deadline for the filing of any remaining pleadings and service of any additional

parties;

(4) Whether severance, consolidation, or coordination with other actions is desirable;

(5) The schedule for discovery proceedings to avoid duplication and whether discovery

should be stayed until all parties have been brought into the case;

(6) The schedule for settlement conferences or alternative dispute resolution;

(7) Whether to appoint liaison or lead counsel;

(8) The date for the filing of any dispositive motions;

(9) The creation of preliminary and updated lists of the persons to be deposed and the

subjects to be addressed in each deposition;

(10) The exchange of documents and whether to establish an electronic document

depository;

(11) Whether a special master should be appointed and the purposes for such

appointment;

(12) Whether to establish a case-based Web site and other means to provide a current

master list of addresses and telephone numbers of counsel; and

(13) The schedule for further conferences.

Principal objects of the initial case management conference are to expose at an early date

the essential issues in the litigation and to avoid unnecessary and burdensome discovery

procedures in the course of preparing for trial of those issues.

(d) Meet and confer requirement

The court may order counsel to meet privately before the initial case management

conference to discuss the items specified in (a) and to prepare a joint statement of matters

agreed upon, matters on which the court must rule at the conference, and a description of

the major legal and factual issues involved in the litigation.

Rule 3.750 adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.751. Electronic service

Parties may consent to electronic service, or the court may require electronic service by local rule

or court order, under rule 2.251. The court may provide in a case management order that

documents filed electronically in a central electronic depository available to all parties are

deemed served on all parties.

Rule 3.751 amended effective January 1, 2017; adopted as rule 1830 effective January 1, 2000;

renumbered as rule 3.751 effective January 1, 2007.

Chapter 6. Management of Class Actions

Chapter 6 renumbered effective July 1, 2008; adopted as chapter 5 effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.760. Application

Rule 3.761. Form of complaint

Rule 3.762. Case conference

Rule 3.763. Conference order

Rule 3.764. Motion to certify or decertify a class or amend or modify an order certifying a

class

Rule 3.765. Class action order

Rule 3.766. Notice to class members

Rule 3.767. Orders in the conduct of class actions

Rule 3.768. Discovery from unnamed class members

Rule 3.769. Settlement of class actions

Rule 3.770. Dismissal of class actions

Rule 3.771. Judgment

Rule 3.760. Application

(a) Class actions

The rules in this chapter apply to each class action brought under Civil Code section 1750

et seq. or Code of Civil Procedure section 382 until the court finds the action is not

maintainable as a class action or revokes a prior class certification.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(b) Relief from compliance with rules

The court, on its own motion or on motion of any named party, may grant relief from

compliance with the rules in this chapter in an appropriate case.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.760 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1850 effective January 1,

2002.

Rule 3.761. Form of complaint

(a) Caption of pleadings

A complaint for or against a class party must include in the caption the designation

“CLASS ACTION.” This designation must be in capital letters on the first page of the

complaint, immediately below the case number but above the description of the nature of

the complaint.

(b) Heading and class action allegations

The complaint in a class action must contain a separate heading entitled “CLASS ACTION

ALLEGATIONS,” under which the plaintiff describes how the requirements for class

certification are met.

Rule 3.761 renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1851 effective January 1, 2002.

Rule 3.762. Case conference

(a) Purpose

One or more conferences between the court and counsel for the parties may be held to

discuss class issues, conduct and scheduling of discovery, scheduling of hearings, and

other matters. No evidence may be presented at the conference, but counsel must be fully

prepared to discuss class issues and must possess authority to enter into stipulations.

(b) Notice by the parties

Notice of the conference may be given by any party. If notice is given by a named plaintiff,

notice must be served on all named parties to the action. If notice is given by a defendant,

notice must be served only on the parties who have appeared. Within 10 calendar days

after receipt of the notice, the plaintiff must serve a copy on each named party who has not

appeared in the action and must file a declaration of service. If the plaintiff is unable to

serve any party, the plaintiff must file a declaration stating the reasons for failure of

service.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

The court may give notice of the conference to the plaintiff. Within 10 calendar days after

receipt of the notice given by the court, the plaintiff must serve a copy of the notice on all

parties who have been served in the action, whether they have appeared or not, and must

file a declaration of service. If the plaintiff is unable to serve any party, the plaintiff must

file a declaration stating the reasons for failure of service.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(d) Timing of notice

The notice must be filed and served on the parties at least 20 calendar days before the

scheduled date of the conference.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(e) Timing of conference

A conference may be held at any time after the first defendant has appeared. Before

selecting a conference date, the party noticing the conference must:

(1) Obtain prior approval from the clerk of the department assigned to hear the class

action; and

(2) Make reasonable efforts to accommodate the schedules of all parties entitled to

receive notice under (b).

(Subd (e) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.762 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1852 effective January 1,

2002.

Rule 3.763. Conference order

At the conclusion of the conference, the court may make an order:

(1) Approving any stipulations of the parties;

(2) Establishing a schedule for discovery;

(3) Setting the date for the hearing on class certification;

(4) Setting the dates for any subsequent conferences; and

(5) Addressing any other matters related to management of the case.

Rule 3.763 renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1853 effective January 1, 2002.

Rule 3.764. Motion to certify or decertify a class or amend or modify an order certifying a

class

(a) Purpose

Any party may file a motion to:

(1) Certify a class;

(2) Determine the existence of and certify subclasses;

(3) Amend or modify an order certifying a class; or

(4) Decertify a class.

(b) Timing of motion, hearing, extension, deferral

A motion for class certification should be filed when practicable. In its discretion, the court

may establish a deadline for the filing of the motion, as part of the case conference or as

part of other case management proceedings. Any such deadline must take into account

discovery proceedings that may be necessary to the filing of the motion.

(1) Time for service of papers

Notice of a motion to certify or decertify a class or to amend or modify a

certification order must be filed and served on all parties to the action at least 28

calendar days before the date appointed for hearing. Any opposition to the motion

must be served and filed at least 14 calendar days before the noticed or continued

hearing, unless the court for good cause orders otherwise. Any reply to the

opposition must be served and filed at least 5 calendar days before the noticed or

continued date of the hearing, unless the court for good cause orders otherwise. The

provisions of Code of Civil Procedure section 1005 otherwise apply.

(2) Length of papers

An opening or responding memorandum filed in support of or in opposition to a

motion for class certification must not exceed 20 pages. A reply memorandum must

not exceed 15 pages. The provisions of rule 3.1113 otherwise apply.

(3) Documents in support

The documents in support of a motion for class certification consist of the notice of

motion; a memorandum; evidence in support of the motion in the form of

declarations of counsel, class representatives, or other appropriate declarants; and

any requests for judicial notice.

(4) Documents in opposition

The documents in opposition to the motion consist of the opposing party’s

memorandum; the opposing party’s evidence in opposition to the motion, including

any declarations of counsel or other appropriate declarants; and any requests for

judicial notice.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(d) Presentation of evidence

Evidence to be considered at the hearing must be presented in accordance with rule 3.1306.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(e) Stipulations

The parties should endeavor to resolve any uncontroverted issues by written stipulation

before the hearing. If all class issues are resolved by stipulation of the named parties and

approved by the court before the hearing, no hearing on class certification is necessary.

Rule 3.764 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1854 effective January 1,

2002.

Rule 3.765. Class action order

(a) Class described

An order certifying, amending, or modifying a class must contain a description of the class

and any subclasses.

(b) Limited issues and subclasses

When appropriate, an action may be maintained as a class action limited to particular

issues. A class may be divided into subclasses.

Rule 3.765 renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1855 effective January 1, 2002.

Rule 3.766. Notice to class members

(a) Party to provide notice

If the class is certified, the court may require either party to notify the class of the action in

the manner specified by the court.

(b) Statement regarding class notice

The class proponent must submit a statement regarding class notice and a proposed notice

to class members. The statement must include the following items:

(1) Whether notice is necessary;

(2) Whether class members may exclude themselves from the action;

(3) The time and manner in which notice should be given;

(4) A proposal for which parties should bear the costs of notice; and,

(5) If cost shifting or sharing is proposed under subdivision (4), an estimate of the cost

involved in giving notice.

Upon certification of a class, or as soon thereafter as practicable, the court must make an

order determining:

(1) Whether notice to class members is necessary;

(2) Whether class members may exclude themselves from the action;

(3) The time and manner of notice;

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(4) The content of the notice; and

(5) The parties responsible for the cost of notice.

(d) Content of class notice

The content of the class notice is subject to court approval. If class members are to be

given the right to request exclusion from the class, the notice must include the following:

(1) A brief explanation of the case, including the basic contentions or denials of the

parties;

(2) A statement that the court will exclude the member from the class if the member so

requests by a specified date;

(3) A procedure for the member to follow in requesting exclusion from the class;

(4) A statement that the judgment, whether favorable or not, will bind all members who

do not request exclusion; and

(5) A statement that any member who does not request exclusion may, if the member so

desires, enter an appearance through counsel.

(e) Manner of giving notice

In determining the manner of the notice, the court must consider:

(1) The interests of the class;

(2) The type of relief requested;

(3) The stake of the individual class members;

(4) The cost of notifying class members;

(5) The resources of the parties;

(6) The possible prejudice to class members who do not receive notice; and

(7) The res judicata effect on class members.

(f) Court may order means of notice

If personal notification is unreasonably expensive or the stake of individual class members

is insubstantial, or if it appears that all members of the class cannot be notified personally,

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the court may order a means of notice reasonably calculated to apprise the class members

of the pendency of the action—for example, publication in a newspaper or magazine;

broadcasting on television, radio, or the Internet; or posting or distribution through a trade

or professional association, union, or public interest group.

(Subd (f) lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of subd (e) effective January 1, 2002.)

Rule 3.766 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1856 effective January 1,

2002.

Rule 3.767. Orders in the conduct of class actions

(a) Court orders

In the conduct of a class action, the court may make orders that:

(1) Require that some or all of the members of the class be given notice in such manner

as the court may direct of any action in the proceeding, or of their opportunity to

seek to appear and indicate whether they consider the representation fair and

adequate, or of the proposed extent of the judgment;

(2) Impose conditions on the representative parties or on intervenors;

(3) Require that the pleadings be amended to eliminate allegations as to representation

of absent persons, and that the action proceed accordingly;

(4) Facilitate the management of class actions through consolidation, severance,

coordination, bifurcation, intervention, or joinder; and

(5) Address similar procedural matters.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(b) Altered or amended orders

The orders may be altered or amended as necessary.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.767 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1857 effective January 1,

2002.

Rule 3.768. Discovery from unnamed class members

(a) Types of discovery permitted

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The following types of discovery may be sought, through service of a subpoena and

without a court order, from a member of a class who is not a party representative or who

has not appeared:

(1) An oral deposition;

(2) A written deposition; and

(3) A deposition for production of business records and things.

(b) Motion for protective order

A party representative, deponent, or other affected person may move for a protective order

to preclude or limit the discovery.

A party may not serve interrogatories on a member of a class who is not a party

representative or who has not appeared, without a court order.

(d) Determination by court

In deciding whether to allow the discovery requested under (a) or (c), the court must

consider, among other relevant factors:

(1) The timing of the request;

(2) The subject matter to be covered;

(3) The materiality of the information being sought;

(4) The likelihood that class members have such information;

(5) The possibility of reaching factual stipulations that eliminate the need for such

discovery;

(6) Whether class representatives are seeking discovery on the subject to be covered;

and

(7) Whether discovery will result in annoyance, oppression, or undue burden or expense

for the members of the class.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.768 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1858 effective January 1,

2002.

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Rule 3.769. Settlement of class actions

(a) Court approval after hearing

A settlement or compromise of an entire class action, or of a cause of action in a class

action, or as to a party, requires the approval of the court after hearing.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(b) Attorney’s fees

Any agreement, express or implied, that has been entered into with respect to the payment

of attorney’s fees or the submission of an application for the approval of attorney’s fees

must be set forth in full in any application for approval of the dismissal or settlement of an

action that has been certified as a class action.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Any party to a settlement agreement may serve and file a written notice of motion for

preliminary approval of the settlement. The settlement agreement and proposed notice to

class members must be filed with the motion, and the proposed order must be lodged with

the motion.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(d) Order certifying provisional settlement class

The court may make an order approving or denying certification of a provisional

settlement class after the preliminary settlement hearing.

(e) Order for final approval hearing

If the court grants preliminary approval, its order must include the time, date, and place of

the final approval hearing; the notice to be given to the class; and any other matters

deemed necessary for the proper conduct of a settlement hearing.

(f) Notice to class of final approval hearing

If the court has certified the action as a class action, notice of the final approval hearing

must be given to the class members in the manner specified by the court. The notice must

contain an explanation of the proposed settlement and procedures for class members to

follow in filing written objections to it and in arranging to appear at the settlement hearing

and state any objections to the proposed settlement.

(Subd (f) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

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(g) Conduct of final approval hearing

Before final approval, the court must conduct an inquiry into the fairness of the proposed

settlement.

(h) Judgment and retention of jurisdiction to enforce

If the court approves the settlement agreement after the final approval hearing, the court

must make and enter judgment. The judgment must include a provision for the retention of

the court’s jurisdiction over the parties to enforce the terms of the judgment. The court may

not enter an order dismissing the action at the same time as, or after, entry of judgment.

(Subd (h) amended effective January 1, 2009.)

Rule 3.769 amended effective January 1, 2009; adopted as rule 1859 effective January 1, 2002;

previously amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.770. Dismissal of class actions

(a) Court approval of dismissal

A dismissal of an entire class action, or of any party or cause of action in a class action,

requires court approval. The court may not grant a request to dismiss a class action if the

court has entered judgment following final approval of a settlement. Requests for dismissal

must be accompanied by a declaration setting forth the facts on which the party relies. The

declaration must clearly state whether consideration, direct or indirect, is being given for

the dismissal and must describe the consideration in detail.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2009; adopted as untitled subd effective January 1, 1984;

previously amended and lettered as subd (a) effective January 1, 2002; previously amended

effective January 1, 2007.)

(b) Hearing on request for dismissal

The court may grant the request without a hearing. If the request is disapproved, notice of

tentative disapproval must be sent to the attorneys of record. Any party may seek, within

15 calendar days of the service of the notice of tentative disapproval, a hearing on the

request. If no hearing is sought within that period, the request for dismissal will be deemed

denied.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as untitled subd effective January 1, 1984;

previously amended and lettered as subd (b) effective January 1, 2002.)

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If the court has certified the class, and notice of the pendency of the action has been

provided to class members, notice of the dismissal must be given to the class in the manner

specified by the court. If the court has not ruled on class certification, or if notice of the

pendency of the action has not been provided to class members in a case in which such

notice was required, notice of the proposed dismissal may be given in the manner and to

those class members specified by the court, or the action may be dismissed without notice

to the class members if the court finds that the dismissal will not prejudice them.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted effective January 1, 2002.)

Rule 3.770 amended effective January 1, 2009; adopted as rule 365 effective January 1, 1984; previously

amended and renumbered as rule 1860 effective January 1, 2002, and as rule 3.770 effective January 1,

2007.

Rule 3.771. Judgment

(a) Class members to be included in judgment

The judgment in an action maintained as a class action must include and describe those

whom the court finds to be members of the class.

(Subd (a) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as unlettered subd effective

January 1, 2002.)

(b) Notice of judgment to class

Notice of the judgment must be given to the class in the manner specified by the court.

(Subd (b) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as unlettered subd effective

January 1, 2002.)

Rule 3.771 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1861 effective January 1,

2002.

Division 8. Alternative Dispute Resolution

Chapter 1. General Provisions

Rule 3.800. Definitions

As used in this division:

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(1) “Alternative dispute resolution process” or “ADR process” means a process, other than

formal litigation, in which a neutral person or persons resolve a dispute or assist parties in

resolving their dispute.

(2) “Mediation” means a process in which a neutral person or persons facilitate

communication between disputants to assist them in reaching a mutually acceptable

agreement. As used in this division, mediation does not include a settlement conference

under rule 3.1380.

Rule 3.800 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1580 effective January 1,

2001; previously amended effective July 1, 2002.

Chapter 2. Judicial Arbitration

Rule 3.810. Application

Rule 3.811. Cases subject to and exempt from arbitration

Rule 3.812. Assignment to arbitration

Rule 3.813. Arbitration program administration

Rule 3.814. Panels of arbitrators

Rule 3.815. Selection of the arbitrator

Rule 3.816. Disqualification for conflict of interest

Rule 3.817. Arbitration hearings; notice; when and where held

Rule 3.818. Continuances

Rule 3.819. Arbitrator’s fees

Rule 3.820. Communication with the arbitrator

Rule 3.821. Representation by counsel; proceedings when party absent

Rule 3.822. Discovery

Rule 3.823. Rules of evidence at arbitration hearing

Rule 3.824. Conduct of the hearing

Rule 3.825. The award

Rule 3.826. Trial after arbitration

Rule 3.827. Entry of award as judgment

Rule 3.828. Vacating judgment on award

Rule 3.829. Settlement of case

Rule 3.830. Arbitration not pursuant to rules

Rule 3.810. Application

The rules in this chapter (commencing with this rule) apply if Code of Civil Procedure, part 3,

title 3, chapter 2.5 (commencing with section 1141.10) is in effect.

Rule 3.810 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1600.1 effective January

1, 1988; previously amended effective July 1, 1999, and January 1, 2000; previously amended and

renumbered as rule 1600 effective January 1, 2004.

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Rule 3.811. Cases subject to and exempt from arbitration

(a) Cases subject to arbitration

Except as provided in (b), the following cases must be arbitrated:

(1) In each superior court with 18 or more authorized judges, all unlimited civil cases

where the amount in controversy does not exceed $50,000 as to any plaintiff;

(2) In each superior court with fewer than 18 authorized judges that so provides by local

rule, all unlimited civil cases where the amount in controversy does not exceed

$50,000 as to any plaintiff;

(3) All limited civil cases in courts that so provide by local rule;

(4) Upon stipulation, any limited or unlimited civil case in any court, regardless of the

amount in controversy; and

(5) Upon filing of an election by all plaintiffs, any limited or unlimited civil case in any

court in which each plaintiff agrees that the arbitration award will not exceed

$50,000 as to that plaintiff.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2004.)

(b) Cases exempt from arbitration

The following cases are exempt from arbitration:

(1) Cases that include a prayer for equitable relief that is not frivolous or insubstantial;

(2) Class actions;

(3) Small claims cases or trials de novo on appeal from the small claims court;

(4) Unlawful detainer proceedings;

(5) Family Law Act proceedings except as provided in Family Code section 2554;

(6) Any case otherwise subject to arbitration that is found by the court not to be

amenable to arbitration on the ground that arbitration would not reduce the probable

time and expense necessary to resolve the litigation;

(7) Any category of cases otherwise subject to arbitration but excluded by local rule as

not amenable to arbitration on the ground that, under the circumstances relating to

the particular court, arbitration of such cases would not reduce the probable time and

expense necessary to resolve the litigation; and

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(8) Cases involving multiple causes of action or a cross-complaint if the court

determines that the amount in controversy as to any given cause of action or cross-

complaint exceeds $50,000.

(Subd (b) adopted effective January 1, 2004.)

Rule 3.811 renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1600 effective July 1, 1979; previously

amended effective January 1, 1982, January 1, 1986, January 1, 1988, and July 1, 1999; previously

amended and renumbered as rule 1601 effective January 1, 2004.

Rule 3.812. Assignment to arbitration

(a) Stipulations to arbitration

When the parties stipulate to arbitration, the case must be set for arbitration forthwith. The

stipulation must be filed no later than the time the initial case management statement is

filed, unless the court orders otherwise.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2004; previously amended effective July 1, 1979, January

1, 1999, and January 1, 2003.)

(b) Plaintiff election for arbitration

Upon written election of all plaintiffs to submit a case to arbitration, the case must be set

for arbitration forthwith, subject to a motion by defendant for good cause to delay the

arbitration hearing. The election must be filed no later than the time the initial case

management statement is filed, unless the court orders otherwise.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2004; adopted effective July 1, 1979; previously amended

effective January 1, 1982, January 1, 1986, January 1, 1988, and January 1, 2003.)

A case involving a cross-complaint where all plaintiffs have elected to arbitrate must be

removed from the list of cases assigned to arbitration if, upon motion of the cross-

complainant made within 15 days after notice of the election to arbitrate, the court

determines that the amount in controversy relating to the cross-complaint exceeds $50,000.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2004; adopted as part of subd (b) effective July 1, 1979;

amended and lettered effective January 1, 2003.)

(d) Case management conference

Absent a stipulation or an election by all plaintiffs to submit to arbitration, cases must be

set for arbitration when the court determines that the amount in controversy does not

exceed $50,000. The amount in controversy must be determined at the first case

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management conference or review under the rules on case management in division 7 of this

title that takes place after all named parties have appeared or defaulted.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (c); previously amended effective

July 1, 1979, January 1, 1982, and January 1, 2004; previously amended and relettered effective

January 1, 2003.

Rule 3.812 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1601 effective; July 1,

1976; previously amended effective July 1, 1979, January 1, 1982, January 1, 1985, January 1, 1986,

January 1, 1988, January 1, 1991, and January 1, 2003; previously amended and renumbered as rule

1602 effective January 1, 2004.

Rule 3.813. Arbitration program administration

(a) Arbitration administrator

The presiding judge must designate the ADR administrator selected under rule 10.783 to

serve as arbitration administrator. The arbitration administrator must supervise the

selection of arbitrators for the cases on the arbitration hearing list, generally supervise the

operation of the arbitration program, and perform any additional duties delegated by the

presiding judge.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 2004.)

(b) Responsibilities of ADR committee

The ADR committee established under rule 10.783 is responsible for:

(1) Appointing the panels of arbitrators provided for in rule 3.814;

(2) Removing a person from a panel of arbitrators;

(3) Establishing procedures for selecting an arbitrator not inconsistent with these rules or

local court rules; and

(4) Reviewing the administration and operation of the arbitration program periodically

and making recommendations to the Judicial Council as the committee deems

appropriate to improve the program, promote the ends of justice, and serve the needs

of the community.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (d); previously amended and

relettered as subd (b) effective January 1, 2004.)

Rule 3.813 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1603 effective July 1,

1976; previously amended July 1, 1979, July 1, 1999, and January 1, 2004.

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Rule 3.814. Panels of arbitrators

(a) Creation of panels

Every court must have a panel of arbitrators for personal injury cases, and such additional

panels as the presiding judge may, from time to time, determine are needed.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2004; previously amended effective July 1, 1979, and July

1, 2001.)

(b) Composition of panels

The panels of arbitrators must be composed of active or inactive members of the State Bar,

retired court commissioners who were licensed to practice law before their appointment as

commissioners, and retired judges. A former California judicial officer is not eligible for

the panel of arbitrators unless he or she is an active or inactive member of the State Bar.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective July 1, 1979, January

1, 1996, July 1, 2001, and January 1, 2004.)

The ADR committee is responsible for determining the size and composition of each panel

of arbitrators. The personal injury panel, to the extent feasible, must contain an equal

number of those who usually represent plaintiffs and those who usually represent

defendants.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2004; previously amended effective July 1, 2001.)

(d) Service on panel

Each person appointed serves as a member of a panel of arbitrators at the pleasure of the

ADR committee. A person may be on arbitration panels in more than one county. An

appointment to a panel is effective when the person appointed:

(1) Agrees to serve;

(2) Certifies that he or she is aware of and will comply with applicable provisions of

canon 6 of the Code of Judicial Ethics and these rules; and

(3) Files an oath or affirmation to justly try all matters submitted to him or her.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2004; previously amended effective January 1, 1996, and

July 1, 2001.)

(e) Panel lists

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Lists showing the names of panel arbitrators available to hear cases must be available for

public inspection in the ADR administrator’s office.

(Subd (e) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective July 1, 2001, and

January 1, 2004.)

Rule 3.814 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1604 effective July 1,

1976; previously amended effective July 1, 1979, January 1, 1996, July 1, 2001, and January 1, 2004.

Rule 3.815. Selection of the arbitrator

(a) Selection by stipulation

By stipulation, the parties may select any person to serve as arbitrator. If the parties select a

person who is not on the court’s arbitration panel to serve as the arbitrator, the stipulation

will be effective only if:

(1) The selected person completes a written consent to serve and the oath required of

panel arbitrators under these rules; and

(2) Both the consent and the oath are attached to the stipulation.

A stipulation may specify the maximum amount of the arbitrator’s award. The stipulation

to an arbitrator must be served and filed no later than 10 days after the case has been set for

arbitration under rule 3.812.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted effective January 1, 2004.)

(b) Selection absent stipulation or local procedures

If the arbitrator has not been selected by stipulation and the court has not adopted local

rules or procedures for the selection of the arbitrator as permitted under (c), the arbitrator

will be selected as follows:

(1) Within 15 days after a case is set for arbitration under rule 3.812, the administrator

must determine the number of clearly adverse sides in the case; in the absence of a

cross-complaint bringing in a new party, the administrator may assume there are two

sides. A dispute as to the number or identity of sides must be decided by the

presiding judge in the same manner as disputes in determining sides entitled to

peremptory challenges of jurors.

(2) The administrator must select at random a number of names equal to the number of

sides, plus one, and send the list of randomly selected names to counsel for the

parties.

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(3) Each side has 10 days from the date on which the list was sent to file a rejection, in

writing, of no more than one name on the list; if there are two or more parties on a

side, they must join in the rejection of a single name.

(4) Promptly on the expiration of the 10-day period, the administrator must appoint, at

random, one of the persons on the list whose name was not rejected, if more than one

name remains.

(5) The administrator must assign the case to the arbitrator appointed and must give

notice of the appointment to the arbitrator and to all parties.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as subd (a); previously amended and

relettered as subd (b) effective January 1, 2004; previously amended effective July 1, 1979,

January 1, 1982, January 1, 1984, and January 1, 2007.)

Instead of the procedure in (b), a court that has an arbitration program may, by local rule or

by procedures adopted by its ADR committee, establish any fair method of selecting an

arbitrator that:

(1) Affords each side an opportunity to challenge at least one listed arbitrator

peremptorily; and

(2) Ensures that an arbitrator is appointed within 30 days from the submission of a case

to arbitration.

The local rule or procedure may require that all steps leading to the selection of the

arbitrator take place during or immediately following the case management conference or

review under the rules on case management in division 7 of this title at which the court

determines the amount in controversy and the suitability of the case for arbitration.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted effective January 1, 2004.)

(d) Procedure if first arbitrator declines to serve

If the first arbitrator selected declines to serve, the administrator must vacate the

appointment of the arbitrator and may either:

(1) Return the case to the top of the arbitration hearing list, restore the arbitrator’s name

to the list of those available for selection to hear cases, and appoint a new arbitrator;

(2) Certify the case to the court.

(Subd (d) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2004; adopted as subd (b); previously

amended effective January 1, 1991, and January 1, 1994.)

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(e) Procedure if second arbitrator declines to serve or hearing is not timely held

If the second arbitrator selected declines to serve or if the arbitrator does not complete the

hearing within 90 days after the date of the assignment of the case to him or her, including

any time due to continuances granted under rule 3.818, the administrator must certify the

case to the court.

(Subd (e) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (c); previously amended effective

January 1, 1991; previously amended and relettered effective January 1, 2004.)

(f) Cases certified to court

If a case is certified to the court under either (d) or (e), the court must hold a case

management conference. If the inability to hold an arbitration hearing is due to the neglect

or lack of cooperation of a party who elected or stipulated to arbitration, the court may set

the case for trial and may make any other appropriate orders. In all other circumstances,

the court may reassign the case to arbitration or make any other appropriate orders to

expedite disposition of the case.

(Subd (f) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of subd (c); previously amended and

relettered as subd (f) effective January 1, 2004.)

Rule 3.815 amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as rule 1605 effective July 1, 1976; previously

amended effective July 1, 1979, January 1, 1982; January 1, 1984, January 1, 1991, January 1, 1994,

and January 1, 2004; previously amended and renumbered as rule 3.815 effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.816. Disqualification for conflict of interest

(a) Arbitrator’s duty to disqualify himself or herself

The arbitrator must determine whether any cause exists for disqualification upon any of the

grounds set forth in Code of Civil Procedure section 170.1 governing the disqualification

of judges. If any member of the arbitrator’s law firm would be disqualified under

subdivision (a)(2) of section 170.1, the arbitrator is disqualified. Unless the ground for

disqualification is disclosed to the parties in writing and is expressly waived by all parties

in writing, the arbitrator must promptly notify the administrator of any known ground for

disqualification and another arbitrator must be selected as provided in rule 3.815.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective July 1, 1979, July 1,

1990, July 1, 2001, January 1, 2004, and July 1, 2004.)

(b) Disclosures by arbitrator

In addition to any other disclosure required by law, no later than five days before the

deadline for parties to file a motion for disqualification of the arbitrator under Code of

Civil Procedure section 170.6 or, if the arbitrator is not aware of his or her appointment or

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of a matter subject to disclosure at that time, as soon as practicable thereafter, an arbitrator

must disclose to the parties:

(1) Any matter subject to disclosure under subdivisions (D)(5)(a) and (D)(5)(b) of canon

6 of the Code of Judicial Ethics; and

(2) Any significant personal or professional relationship the arbitrator has or has had

with a party, attorney, or law firm in the instant case, including the number and

nature of any other proceedings in the past 24 months in which the arbitrator has

been privately compensated by a party, attorney, law firm, or insurance company in

the instant case for any services, including service as an attorney, expert witness, or

consultant or as a judge, referee, arbitrator, mediator, settlement facilitator, or other

alternative dispute resolution neutral.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2008; adopted effective July 1, 2001; previously amended

effective January 1, 2007.)

A copy of any request by a party for the disqualification of an arbitrator under Code of

Civil Procedure section 170.1 or 170.6 must be sent to the ADR administrator.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (b), previously amended and

relettered effective July 1, 2001; previously amended effective July 1, 1979, July 1, 1990, and

January 1, 2004.)

(d) Arbitrator’s failure to disqualify himself or herself

On motion of any party, made as promptly as possible under Code of Civil Procedure

sections 170.l and 1141.18(d) and before the conclusion of arbitration proceedings, the

appointment of an arbitrator to a case must be vacated if the court finds that:

(1) The party has demanded that the arbitrator disqualify himself or herself;

(2) The arbitrator has failed to do so; and

(3) Any of the grounds specified in section 170.1 exists.

The ADR administrator must return the case to the top of the arbitration hearing list and

appoint a new arbitrator. The disqualified arbitrator’s name must be returned to the list of

those available for selection to hear cases, unless the court orders that the circumstances of

the disqualification be reviewed by the ADR administrator, the ADR committee, or the

presiding judge for appropriate action.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (c) effective January 1, 1994;

previously amended and relettered effective July 1, 2001; previously amended effective January 1,

2004.)

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Rule 3.816 amended effective January 1, 2008; adopted as rule 1606 effective July 1, 1976; previously

amended effective July 1, 1979, July 1, 1990, January 1, 1994, July 1, 2001, January 1, 2004, and July 1,

2004; previously amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.817. Arbitration hearings; notice; when and where held

(a) Setting hearing; notice

Within 15 days after the appointment of the arbitrator, the arbitrator must set the time, date,

and place of the arbitration hearing and notify each party and the administrator in writing

of the time, date, and place set.

(Subd (a) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2004; adopted as part of unlettered subd.)

(b) Date of hearing; limitations

Except upon the agreement of all parties and the arbitrator, the arbitration hearing date

must not be set:

(1) Earlier than 30 days after the date the arbitrator sends the notice of the hearing under

(a); or

(2) On Saturdays, Sundays, or legal holidays.

(Subd (b) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2004; adopted as part of unlettered subd.)

The hearing must be scheduled so as to be completed no later than 90 days from the date of

the assignment of the case to the arbitrator, including any time due to continuances granted

under rule 3.818.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of unlettered subd; previously

amended and relettered effective January 1, 2004.)

(d) Hearing location

The hearing must take place in appropriate facilities provided by the court or selected by

the arbitrator.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2004.)

Rule 3.817 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1611 effective July 1,

1976; previously amended effective July 1, 1979, and January 1, 1992; previously amended and

renumbered as rule 1607 effective January 1, 2004.

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Rule 3.818. Continuances

(a) Stipulation to continuance; consent of arbitrator

Except as provided in (c), the parties may stipulate to a continuance in the case, with the

consent of the assigned arbitrator. An arbitrator must consent to a request for a continuance

if it appears that good cause exists. Notice of the continuance must be sent to the ADR

administrator.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2004; previously amended effective January 1, 1984, and

January 1, 1992.)

(b) Court grant of continuance

If the arbitrator declines to give consent to a continuance, upon the motion of a party and

for good cause shown, the court may grant a continuance of the arbitration hearing. In the

event the court grants the motion, the party who requested the continuance must notify the

arbitrator and the arbitrator must reschedule the hearing, giving notice to all parties to the

arbitration proceeding.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective July 1, 1979, and

January 1, 2004.)

An arbitration hearing must not be continued to a date later than 90 days after the

assignment of the case to the arbitrator, including any time due to continuances granted

under this rule, except by order of the court upon the motion of a party as provided in (b).

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2004; previously amended effective January 1, 1991 and

January 1, 1994.)

Rule 3.818 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1607 effective July 1,

1976; previously amended effective July 1, 1979, January 1, 1984, January 1, 1991, January 1, 1992, and

January 1, 1994; previously amended and renumbered as rule 1608 effective January 1, 2004;

Rule 3.819. Arbitrator’s fees

(a) Filing of award required

Except as provided in (b), the arbitrator’s award must be timely filed with the clerk of the

court under rule 3.825(b) before a fee may be paid to the arbitrator.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2013; previously amended effective July 1, 1979, January

1, 2004, and January 1, 2007.)

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(b) Exceptions for good cause

On the arbitrator’s verified ex parte application, the court may for good cause authorize

payment of a fee:

(1) If the arbitrator devoted a substantial amount of time to a case that was settled

without a hearing or without an award being filed. For this purpose, a case is

considered settled when one of the following is filed:

(A) A notice of settlement of the entire case, under rule 3.1385; or

(B) A Request for Dismissal (form CIV-110) of the entire case or as to all parties

to the arbitration is filed; or

(2) If the award was not timely filed.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2013; previously amended effective July 1, 1979, January

1, 1987, and January 1, 2004.)

The arbitrator’s fee statement must be submitted to the administrator promptly upon the

completion of the arbitrator’s duties and must set forth the title and number of the cause

arbitrated, the date of any arbitration hearing, and the date the award, notice of settlement,

or request for dismissal was filed.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2013; previously amended effective July 1, 1979, January

1, 2004, and January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.819 amended effective January 1, 2013; adopted as rule 1608 effective July 1, 1976; previously

amended effective July 1, 1979, and January 1, 1987; previously amended and renumbered as rule 1609

effective January 1, 2004, and as rule 3.819 effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.820. Communication with the arbitrator

(a) Disclosure of settlement offers prohibited

No disclosure of any offers of settlement made by any party may be made to the arbitrator

prior to the filing of the award.

(Subd (a) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2004; adopted as part of unlettered subd.)

(b) Ex parte communication prohibited

An arbitrator must not initiate, permit, or consider any ex parte communications or

consider other communications made to the arbitrator outside the presence of all of the

parties concerning a pending arbitration, except as follows:

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(1) An arbitrator may communicate with a party in the absence of other parties about

administrative matters, such as setting the time and place of hearings or making other

arrangements for the conduct of the proceedings, as long as the arbitrator reasonably

believes that the communication will not result in a procedural or tactical advantage

for any party. When such a discussion occurs, the arbitrator must promptly inform

the other parties of the communication and must give the other parties an opportunity

to respond before making any final determination concerning the matter discussed.

(2) An arbitrator may initiate or consider any ex parte communication when expressly

authorized by law to do so.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of unlettered subd; previously

amended and lettered effective January 1, 2004.)

Rule 3.820 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1609 effective July 1,

1976; previously amended and renumbered as rule 1610 effective January 1, 2004.

Rule 3.821. Representation by counsel; proceedings when party absent

(a) Representation by counsel

A party to the arbitration has a right to be represented by an attorney at any proceeding or

hearing in arbitration, but this right may be waived. A waiver of this right may be revoked,

but if revoked, the other party is entitled to a reasonable continuance for the purpose of

obtaining counsel.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2004.)

(b) Proceedings when party absent

The arbitration may proceed in the absence of any party who, after due notice, fails to be

present and to obtain a continuance. An award must not be based solely on the absence of a

party. In the event of a default by defendant, the arbitrator must require the plaintiff to

submit such evidence as may be appropriate for the making of an award.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 2004.)

Rule 3.821 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1610 effective July 1,

1976; previously amended and renumbered as rule 1611 effective January 1, 2004.

Rule 3.822. Discovery

(a) Right to discovery

The parties to the arbitration have the right to take depositions and to obtain discovery, and

to that end may exercise all of the same rights, remedies, and procedures, and are subject to

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all of the same duties, liabilities, and obligations as provided in part 4, title 3, chapter 3 of

the Code of Civil Procedure, except as provided in (b).

(Subd (a) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of unlettered subd

effective July 1, 1976.)

(b) Completion of discovery

All discovery must be completed not later than 15 days before the date set for the

arbitration hearing unless the court, upon a showing of good cause, makes an order

granting an extension of the time within which discovery must be completed.

(Subd (b) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of unlettered subd

effective July 1, 1976.)

Rule 3.822 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1612 effective July 1,

1976; previously amended effective July 1, 1979, and January 1, 2004.

Rule 3.823. Rules of evidence at arbitration hearing

(a) Presence of arbitrator and parties

All evidence must be taken in the presence of the arbitrator and all parties, except where

any of the parties has waived the right to be present or is absent after due notice of the

hearing.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2004.)

(b) Application of civil rules of evidence

The rules of evidence governing civil cases apply to the conduct of the arbitration hearing,

except:

(1) Written reports and other documents

Any party may offer written reports of any expert witness, medical records and bills

(including physiotherapy, nursing, and prescription bills), documentary evidence of

loss of income, property damage repair bills or estimates, police reports concerning

an accident that gave rise to the case, other bills and invoices, purchase orders,

checks, written contracts, and similar documents prepared and maintained in the

ordinary course of business.

(A) The arbitrator must receive them in evidence if copies have been delivered to

all opposing parties at least 20 days before the hearing.

(B) Any other party may subpoena the author or custodian of the document as a

witness and examine the witness as if under cross-examination.

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parties, must be accompanied by:

(i) A statement indicating whether or not the property was repaired, and, if

it was, whether the estimated repairs were made in full or in part; and

(ii) A copy of the receipted bill showing the items of repair made and the

amount paid.

(D) The arbitrator must not consider any opinion as to ultimate fault expressed in a

police report.

(2) Witness statements

The written statements of any other witness may be offered and must be received in

evidence if:

(A) They are made by declaration under penalty of perjury;

(B) Copies have been delivered to all opposing parties at least 20 days before the

hearing; and

proponent of the evidence a written demand that the witness be produced in

person to testify at the hearing. The arbitrator must disregard any portion of a

statement received under this rule that would be inadmissible if the witness

were testifying in person, but the inclusion of inadmissible matter does not

render the entire statement inadmissible.

(3) Depositions

(A) The deposition of any witness may be offered by any party and must be

received in evidence, subject to objections available under Code of Civil

Procedure section 2025.410, notwithstanding that the deponent is not

“unavailable as a witness” within the meaning of Evidence Code section 240

and no exceptional circumstances exist, if:

(i) The deposition was taken in the manner provided for by law or by

stipulation of the parties and within the time provided for in these rules;

and

(ii) Not less than 20 days before the hearing the proponent of the deposition

delivered to all opposing parties notice of intention to offer the

deposition in evidence.

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(B) The opposing party, upon receiving the notice, may subpoena the deponent

and, at the discretion of the arbitrator, either the deposition may be excluded

from evidence or the deposition may be admitted and the deponent may be

further cross-examined by the subpoenaing party. These limitations are not

applicable to a deposition admissible under the terms of Code of Civil

Procedure section 2025.620.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2008; previously amended effective July 1, 1979, January

1, 1984, January 1, 1988, July 1, 1990, January 1, 2004, and January 1, 2007.)

(1) Compelling witnesses to appear

The attendance of witnesses at arbitration hearings may be compelled through the

issuance of subpoenas as provided in the Code of Civil Procedure, in section 1985

and elsewhere in part 4, title 3, chapters 2 and 3. It is the duty of the party requesting

the subpoena to modify the form of subpoena so as to show that the appearance is

before an arbitrator and to give the time and place set for the arbitration hearing.

(2) Adjournment or continuances

At the discretion of the arbitrator, nonappearance of a properly subpoenaed witness

may be a ground for an adjournment or continuance of the hearing.

(3) Contempt

If any witness properly served with a subpoena fails to appear at the arbitration

hearing or, having appeared, refuses to be sworn or to answer, proceedings to compel

compliance with the subpoena on penalty of contempt may be had before the

superior court as provided in Code of Civil Procedure section 1991 for other

instances of refusal to appear and answer before an officer or commissioner out of

court.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective July 1, 1979, and

January 1, 2004.)

(d) Delivery of documents

For purposes of this rule, “delivery” of a document or notice may be accomplished

manually, by electronic means under Code of Civil Procedure section 1010.6 and rule

2.251, or in the manner provided by Code of Civil Procedure section 1013. If service is by

electronic means, the times prescribed in this rule for delivery of documents, notices, and

demands are increased as provided by Code of Civil Procedure section 1010.6. If service is

in the manner provided by Code of Civil Procedure section 1013, the times prescribed in

this rule are increased as provided by that section.

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(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2017; adopted effective January 1, 1988; previously

amended effective January 1, 2004, and January 1, 2016.)

Rule 3.823 amended effective January 1, 2017; adopted as rule 1613 effective July 1, 1976; previously

amended and renumbered as rule 3.823 effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective July 1,

1979, January 1, 1984, January 1, 1988, July 1, 1990, January 1, 2004, January 1, 2008, and January 1,

2016.

Rule 3.824. Conduct of the hearing

(a) Arbitrator’s powers

The arbitrator has the following powers; all other questions arising out of the case are

reserved to the court:

(1) To administer oaths or affirmations to witnesses;

(2) To take adjournments upon the request of a party or upon his or her own initiative

when deemed necessary;

(3) To permit testimony to be offered by deposition;

(4) To permit evidence to be offered and introduced as provided in these rules;

(5) To rule upon the admissibility and relevancy of evidence offered;

(6) To invite the parties, on reasonable notice, to submit arbitration briefs;

(7) To decide the law and facts of the case and make an award accordingly;

(8) To award costs, not to exceed the statutory costs of the suit; and

(9) To examine any site or object relevant to the case.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 2004.)

(b) Record of proceedings

(1) Arbitrator’s record

The arbitrator may, but is not required to, make a record of the proceedings.

(2) Record not subject to discovery

Any records of the proceedings made by or at the direction of the arbitrator are

deemed the arbitrator’s personal notes and are not subject to discovery, and the

arbitrator must not deliver them to any party to the case or to any other person,

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except to an employee using the records under the arbitrator’s supervision or

pursuant to a subpoena issued in a criminal investigation or prosecution for perjury.

(3) No other record

No other record may be made, and the arbitrator must not permit the presence of a

stenographer or court reporter or the use of any recording device at the hearing,

except as expressly permitted by (1).

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 2004.)

Rule 3.824 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1614 effective July 1,

1976; previously amended effective January 1, 2004.

Rule 3.825. The award

(a) Form and content of the award

(1) Award in writing

The award must be in writing and signed by the arbitrator. It must determine all

issues properly raised by the pleadings, including a determination of any damages

and an award of costs if appropriate.

(2) No findings or conclusions required

The arbitrator is not required to make findings of fact or conclusions of law.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 2004.)

(b) Filing the award or amended award

(1) Time for filing the award

Within 10 days after the conclusion of the arbitration hearing, the arbitrator must file

the award with the clerk, with proof of service on each party to the arbitration. On

the arbitrator’s application in cases of unusual length or complexity, the court may

allow up to 20 additional days for the filing and service of the award.

(2) Amended award

Within the time for filing the award, the arbitrator may file and serve an amended

award.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 1995, and

January 1, 2004.)

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Rule 3.825 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1615 effective July 1,

1976; previously amended effective January 1, 1983, January 1, 1985, January 1, 1995, January 1, 2003,

and January 1, 2004.

Rule 3.826. Trial after arbitration

(a) Request for trial; deadline

Within 60 days after the arbitration award is filed with the clerk of the court, a party may

request a trial by filing with the clerk a request for trial, with proof of service of a copy

upon all other parties appearing in the case. A request for trial filed after the parties have

been served with a copy of the award by the arbitrator, but before the award has been filed

with the clerk, is valid and timely filed. The 60-day period within which to request trial

may not be extended.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2012; previously amended effective January 1, 1985, July

1, 1990, January 1, 2004, and January 1, 2007.)

(b) Prosecution of the case

If a party makes a timely request for a trial, the case must proceed as provided under an

applicable case management order. If no pending order provides for the prosecution of the

case after a request for a trial after arbitration, the court must promptly schedule a case

management conference.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 2004.)

The case must be tried as though no arbitration proceedings had occurred. No reference

may be made during the trial to the arbitration award, to the fact that there had been

arbitration proceedings, to the evidence adduced at the arbitration hearing, or to any other

aspect of the arbitration proceedings, and none of the foregoing may be used as affirmative

evidence, or by way of impeachment, or for any other purpose at the trial.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2004.)

(d) Costs after trial

In assessing costs after the trial, the court must apply the standards specified in Code of

Civil Procedure section 1141.21.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective July 1, 1979, and

January 1, 2004.)

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Rule 3.826 amended effective January 1, 2012; adopted as rule 1616 effective July 1, 1976; previously

amended effective July 1, 1979, July 1, 1990, and January 1, 2004; previously amended and renumbered

effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.827. Entry of award as judgment

(a) Entry of award as judgment by clerk

The clerk must enter the award as a judgment immediately upon the expiration of 60 days

after the award is filed if no party has, during that period, served and filed either:

(1) A request for trial as provided in these rules; or

(2) A Request for Dismissal (form CIV-110) of the entire case or as to all parties to the

arbitration. The Request for Dismissal must be fully completed. If the request is for

dismissal of the entire case, it must include the signatures of all parties. If the request

is for dismissal as to all parties to the arbitration, it must include the signatures of all

those parties.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2013; previously amended effective January 1, 2012.)

(b) Notice of entry of judgment

Promptly upon entry of the award as a judgment, the clerk must serve notice of entry of

judgment on all parties who have appeared in the case and must execute a certificate of

service and place it in the court’s file in the case.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2016.)

The judgment so entered has the same force and effect in all respects as, and is subject to

all provisions of law relating to, a judgment in a civil case or proceeding, except that it is

not subject to appeal and it may not be attacked or set aside except as provided in rule

3.828. The judgment so entered may be enforced as if it had been rendered by the court in

which it is entered.

Rule 3.827 amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted effective January 1, 2007; previously amended

effective January 1, 2012, and January 1, 2013.

Rule 3.828. Vacating judgment on award

(a) Motion to vacate

A party against whom a judgment is entered under an arbitration award may, within six

months after its entry, move to vacate the judgment on the ground that the arbitrator was

subject to a disqualification not disclosed before the hearing and of which the arbitrator

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was then aware, or upon one of the grounds set forth in Code of Civil Procedure sections

473 or 1286.2(a)(1), (2), and (3), and on no other grounds.

(b) Notice and grounds for granting motion

The motion must be heard upon notice to the adverse parties and to the arbitrator, and may

be granted only upon clear and convincing evidence that the grounds alleged are true, and

that the motion was made as soon as practicable after the moving party learned of the

existence of those grounds.

Rule 3.828 adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.829. Settlement of case

If a case is settled, each plaintiff or other party seeking affirmative relief must notify the

arbitrator and the court as required in rule 3.1385.

Rule 3.829 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1618 effective January 1,

1992; previously amended effective January 1, 2004.

Rule 3.830. Arbitration not pursuant to rules

These rules do not prohibit the parties to any civil case or proceeding from entering into

arbitration agreements under part 3, title 9 of the Code of Civil Procedure. Neither the ADR

committee nor the ADR administrator may take any part in the conduct of an arbitration under an

agreement not in conformity with these rules except that the administrator may, upon joint

request of the parties, furnish the parties to the agreement with a randomly selected list of at least

three names of members of the appropriate panel of arbitrators.

Rule 3.830 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1617 effective July 1,

1976; previously amended effective January 1, 2004.

Chapter 3. General Rules Relating to Mediation of Civil Cases

Article 1. Procedures for All Court Mediation Programs

Rule 3.835. Application

Rule 3.845. Form of mediator statements and report

Division 8, Alternative Dispute Resolution—Chapter 3, General Rules Relating to Mediation of Civil

Cases—Article 1, Procedures for All Court Mediation Programs; adopted effective July 1, 2011.

Rule 3.835. Application

The rules in this article apply to all court mediation programs for general civil cases, as defined

in rule 1.6, unless otherwise specified.

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Rule 3.835 adopted effective July 1, 2012.

Rule 3.845. Form of mediator statements and reports

If a mediator is required to submit a statement or report to the court concerning the status or

result of the mediation, the statement or report must be submitted on the Judicial Council

Statement of Agreement or Nonagreement (form ADR-100). The mediator’s completed form

ADR-100 must not disclose the terms of any agreement or any other communications or conduct

that occurred in the course of the mediation, except as allowed in Evidence Code sections 1115–

1128.

Rule 3.845 adopted effective July 1, 2012.

Advisory Committee Comment

This rule does not preclude courts from asking mediators to provide other information about court-

program mediations on separate forms or surveys that do not request any information that will allow

identification of a specific case or mediation participant and that will not become part of the court’s case

file.

Article 2. Rules of Conduct for Mediators in Court-Connected Mediation Programs for

Civil Cases

Rule 3.850. Purpose and function

Rule 3.851. Application

Rule 3.852. Definitions

Rule 3.853. Voluntary participation and self-determination

Rule 3.854. Confidentiality

Rule 3.855. Impartiality, conflicts of interest, disclosure, and withdrawal

Rule 3.856. Competence

Rule 3.857. Quality of mediation process

Rule 3.858. Marketing

Rule 3.859. Compensation and gifts

Rule 3.860. Attendance sheet and agreement to disclosure

Rule 3.850. Purpose and function

(a) Standards of conduct

The rules in this article establish the minimum standards of conduct for mediators in court-

connected mediation programs for general civil cases. These rules are intended to guide the

conduct of mediators in these programs, to inform and protect participants in these

mediation programs, and to promote public confidence in the mediation process and the

courts. For mediation to be effective, there must be broad public confidence in the integrity

and fairness of the process. Mediators in court-connected programs are responsible to the

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parties, the public, and the courts for conducting themselves in a manner that merits that

confidence.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(b) Scope and limitations

These rules are not intended to:

(1) Establish a ceiling on what is considered good practice in mediation or discourage

efforts by courts, mediators, or others to educate mediators about best practices;

(2) Create a basis for challenging a settlement agreement reached in connection with

mediation; or

(3) Create a basis for a civil cause of action against a mediator.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.850 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1620 effective January 1,

2003.

Rule 3.851. Application

(a) Circumstances applicable

The rules in this article apply to mediations in which a mediator:

(1) Has agreed to be included on a superior court’s list or panel of mediators for general

civil cases and is notified by the court or the parties that he or she has been selected

to mediate a case within that court’s mediation program; or

(2) Has agreed to mediate a general civil case pending in a superior court after being

notified by the court or the parties that he or she was recommended, selected, or

appointed by that court or will be compensated by that court to mediate a case within

that court’s mediation program. A mediator who is not on a superior court list or

panel and who is selected by the parties is not “recommended, selected, or

appointed” by the court within the meaning of this subdivision simply because the

court approves the parties’ agreement to use this mediator or memorializes the

parties’ selection in a court order.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2010; previously amended effective January 1, 2007, and

January 1, 2009.)

(b) Application to listed firms

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If a court’s panel or list includes firms that provide mediation services, all mediators

affiliated with a listed firm are required to comply with the rules in this article when they

are notified by the court or the parties that the firm was selected from the court list to

mediate a general civil case within that court’s mediation program.

(Subd (b) amended effective July 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Except as otherwise provided in these rules, the rules in this article apply from the time the

mediator agrees to mediate a case until the end of the mediation in that case.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(d) Inapplicability to judges

The rules in this article do not apply to judges or other judicial officers while they are

serving in a capacity in which they are governed by the Code of Judicial Ethics.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(e) Inapplicability to settlement conferences

The rules in this article do not apply to settlement conferences conducted under rule

3.1380.

(Subd (e) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.851 amended effective January 1, 2010; adopted as rule 1620.1 effective January 1, 2003;

previously amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective July 1,

2007, and January 1, 2009.

Advisory Committee Comment

Subdivision (d). Although these rules do not apply to them, judicial officers who serve as mediators in

their courts’ mediation programs are nevertheless encouraged to be familiar with and observe these rules

when mediating, particularly the rules concerning subjects not covered in the Code of Judicial Ethics such

as voluntary participation and self-determination.

Rule 3.852. Definitions

As used in this article, unless the context or subject matter requires otherwise:

(1) “Mediation” means a process in which a neutral person or persons facilitate

communication between the disputants to assist them in reaching a mutually acceptable

agreement.

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(2) “Mediator” means a neutral person who conducts a mediation.

(3) “Participant” means any individual, entity, or group, other than the mediator taking part in

a mediation, including but not limited to attorneys for the parties.

(4) “Party” means any individual, entity, or group taking part in a mediation that is a plaintiff,

a defendant, a cross-complainant, a cross-defendant, a petitioner, a respondent, or an

intervenor in the case.

Rule 3.852 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1620.2 effective January

1, 2003.

Advisory Committee Comment

The definition of “mediator” in this rule departs from the definition in Evidence Code section 1115(b) in

that it does not include persons designated by the mediator to assist in the mediation or to communicate

with a participant in preparation for the mediation. However, these definitions are applicable only to these

rules of conduct and do not limit or expand mediation confidentiality under the Evidence Code or other

law.

The definition of “participant” includes insurance adjusters, experts, and consultants as well as the parties

and their attorneys.

Rule 3.853. Voluntary participation and self-determination

A mediator must conduct the mediation in a manner that supports the principles of voluntary

participation and self-determination by the parties. For this purpose a mediator must:

(1) Inform the parties, at or before the outset of the first mediation session, that any resolution

of the dispute in mediation requires a voluntary agreement of the parties;

(2) Respect the right of each participant to decide the extent of his or her participation in the

mediation, including the right to withdraw from the mediation at any time; and

(3) Refrain from coercing any party to make a decision or to continue to participate in the

mediation.

Rule 3.853 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1620.3 effective January

1, 2003.

Advisory Committee Comment

Voluntary participation and self-determination are fundamental principles of mediation that apply both to

mediations in which the parties voluntarily elect to mediate and to those in which the parties are required

to go to mediation in a mandatory court mediation program or by court order. Although the court may

order participants to attend mediation, a mediator may not mandate the extent of their participation in the

mediation process or coerce any party to settle the case.

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After informing the parties of their choices and the consequences of those choices, a mediator can invoke

a broad range of approaches to assist the parties in reaching an agreement without offending the principles

of voluntary participation and self-determination, including (1) encouraging the parties to continue

participating in the mediation when it reasonably appears to the mediator that the possibility of reaching

an uncoerced, consensual agreement has not been exhausted and (2) suggesting that a party consider

obtaining professional advice (for example, informing an unrepresented party that he or she may consider

obtaining legal advice). Conversely, examples of conduct that violate the principles of voluntary

participation and self-determination include coercing a party to continue participating in the mediation

after the party has told the mediator that he or she wishes to terminate the mediation, providing an opinion

or evaluation of the dispute in a coercive manner or over the objection of the parties, using abusive

language, and threatening to make a report to the court about a party’s conduct at the mediation.

Rule 3.854. Confidentiality

(a) Compliance with confidentiality law

A mediator must, at all times, comply with the applicable law concerning confidentiality.

(b) Informing participants of confidentiality

At or before the outset of the first mediation session, a mediator must provide the

participants with a general explanation of the confidentiality of mediation proceedings.

If, after all the parties have agreed to participate in the mediation process and the mediator

has agreed to mediate the case, a mediator speaks separately with one or more participants

out of the presence of the other participants, the mediator must first discuss with all

participants the mediator’s practice regarding confidentiality for separate communications

with the participants. Except as required by law, a mediator must not disclose information

revealed in confidence during such separate communications unless authorized to do so by

the participant or participants who revealed the information.

(d) Use of confidential information

A mediator must not use information that is acquired in confidence in the course of a

mediation outside the mediation or for personal gain.

Rule 3.854 renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1620.4 effective January 1, 2003.

Advisory Committee Comment

Subdivision (a). The general law concerning mediation confidentiality is found in Evidence Code

sections 703.5 and 1115–1128 and in cases interpreting those sections. (See, e.g., Foxgate Homeowners’

Association, Inc. v. Bramalea California, Inc. (2001) 26 Cal.4th 1; Rinaker v. Superior Court (1998) 62

Cal.App.4th 155; and Gilbert v. National Corp. for Housing Partnerships (1999) 71 Cal.App.4th 1240.)

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Rule 3.855. Impartiality, conflicts of interest, disclosure, and withdrawal

(a) Impartiality

A mediator must maintain impartiality toward all participants in the mediation process at

all times.

(b) Disclosure of matters potentially affecting impartiality

(1) A mediator must make reasonable efforts to keep informed about matters that

reasonably could raise a question about his or her ability to conduct the proceedings

impartially, and must disclose these matters to the parties. These matters include:

(A) Past, present, and currently expected interests, relationships, and affiliations of

a personal, professional, or financial nature; and

(B) The existence of any grounds for disqualification of a judge specified in Code

of Civil Procedure section 170.1.

(2) A mediator’s duty to disclose is a continuing obligation, from the inception of the

mediation process through its completion. Disclosures required by this rule must be

made as soon as practicable after a mediator becomes aware of a matter that must be

disclosed. To the extent possible, such disclosures should be made before the first

mediation session, but in any event they must be made within the time required by

applicable court rules or statutes.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Except as provided in (f), if, after a mediator makes disclosures, no party objects to the

mediator and no participant raises any question or concern about the mediator’s ability to

conduct the mediation impartially, the mediator may proceed.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(d) Responding to questions or concerns concerning impartiality

If, after a mediator makes disclosures or at any other point in the mediation process, a

participant raises a question or concern about the mediator’s ability to conduct the

mediation impartially, the mediator must address the question or concern with the

participants. Except as provided in (f), if, after the question or concern is addressed, no

party objects to the mediator, the mediator may proceed.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

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(e) Withdrawal or continuation upon party objection concerning impartiality

In a two-party mediation, if any party objects to the mediator after the mediator makes

disclosures or discusses a participant’s question or concern regarding the mediator’s ability

to conduct the mediation impartially, the mediator must withdraw. In a mediation in which

there are more than two parties, the mediator may continue the mediation with the

nonobjecting parties, provided that doing so would not violate any other provision of these

rules, any law, or any local court rule or program guideline.

(f) Circumstances requiring mediator recusal despite party consent

Regardless of the consent of the parties, a mediator either must decline to serve as mediator

or, if already serving, must withdraw from the mediation if:

(1) The mediator cannot maintain impartiality toward all participants in the mediation

process; or

(2) Proceeding with the mediation would jeopardize the integrity of the court or of the

mediation process.

Rule 3.855 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1620.5 effective January

1, 2003.

Advisory Committee Comment

Subdivision (b). This subdivision is intended to provide parties with information they need to help them

determine whether a mediator can conduct the mediation impartially. A mediator’s overarching duty

under this subdivision is to make a “reasonable effort” to identify matters that, in the eyes of a reasonable

person, could raise a question about the mediator’s ability to conduct the mediation impartially, and to

inform the parties about those matters. What constitutes a “reasonable effort” to identify such matters

varies depending on the circumstances, including whether the case is scheduled in advance or received on

the spot, and the information about the participants and the subject matter that is provided to the mediator

by the court and the parties.

The interests, relationships, and affiliations that a mediator may need to disclose under (b)(1)(A) include:

(1) prior, current, or currently expected service as a mediator in another mediation involving any of the

participants in the present mediation; (2) prior, current, or currently expected business relationships or

transactions between the mediator and any of the participants; and (3) the mediator’s ownership of stock

or any other significant financial interest involving any participant in the mediation. Currently expected

interests, relationships, and affiliations may include, for example, an intention to form a partnership or to

enter into a future business relationship with one of the participants in the mediation.

Although (b)(1) specifies interests, relationships, affiliations, and matters that are grounds for

disqualification of a judge under Code of Civil Procedure section 170.1, these are only examples of

common matters that reasonably could raise a question about a mediator’s ability to conduct the

mediation impartially and, thus, must be disclosed. The absence of particular interests, relationships,

affiliations, and section 170.1 matters does not necessarily mean that there is no matter that could

reasonably raise a question about the mediator’s ability to conduct the mediation impartially. A mediator

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must make determinations concerning disclosure on a case-by-case basis, applying the general criteria for

disclosure under (b)(1).

Attorney mediators should be aware that under the section 170.1 standard, they may need to make

disclosures when an attorney in their firm is serving or has served as a lawyer for any of the parties in the

mediation. Section 170.1 does not specifically address whether a mediator must disclose when another

member of the mediator’s dispute resolution services firm is providing or has provided services to any of

the parties in the mediation. Therefore, a mediator must evaluate such circumstances under the general

criteria for disclosure under (b)(1)—that is, is it a matter that, in the eyes of a reasonable person, could

raise a question about the mediator’s ability to conduct the mediation impartially?

If there is a conflict between the mediator’s obligation to maintain confidentiality and the mediator’s

obligation to make a disclosure, the mediator must determine whether he or she can make a general

disclosure of the circumstance without revealing any confidential information, or must decline to serve.

Rule 3.856. Competence

(a) Compliance with court qualifications

A mediator must comply with experience, training, educational, and other requirements

established by the court for appointment and retention.

(b) Truthful representation of background

A mediator has a continuing obligation to truthfully represent his or her background to the

court and participants. Upon a request by any party, a mediator must provide truthful

information regarding his or her experience, training, and education.

A mediator must also inform the court if:

(1) Public discipline has been imposed on the mediator by any public disciplinary or

professional licensing agency;

(2) The mediator has resigned his or her membership in the State Bar or another

professional licensing agency while disciplinary or criminal charges were pending;

(3) A felony charge is pending against the mediator;

(4) The mediator has been convicted of a felony or of a misdemeanor involving moral

turpitude; or

(5) There has been an entry of judgment against the mediator in any civil action for

actual fraud or punitive damages.

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(d) Assessment of skills; withdrawal

A mediator has a continuing obligation to assess whether or not his or her level of skill,

knowledge, and ability is sufficient to conduct the mediation effectively. A mediator must

decline to serve or withdraw from the mediation if the mediator determines that he or she

does not have the level of skill, knowledge, or ability necessary to conduct the mediation

effectively.

Rule 3.856 renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1620.6 effective January 1, 2003.

Advisory Committee Comment

Subdivision (d). No particular advanced academic degree or technical or professional experience is a

prerequisite for competence as a mediator. Core mediation skills include communicating clearly, listening

effectively, facilitating communication among all participants, promoting exploration of mutually

acceptable settlement options, and conducting oneself in a neutral manner.

A mediator must consider and weigh a variety of issues in order to assess whether his or her level of skill,

knowledge, and ability is sufficient to make him or her effective in a particular mediation. Issues include

whether the parties (1) were involved or had input in the selection of the mediator; (2) had access to

information about the mediator’s background or level of skill, knowledge, and ability; (3) have a specific

expectation or perception regarding the mediator’s level of skill, knowledge, and ability; (4) have

expressed a preference regarding the style of mediation they would like or expect; or (5) have expressed a

desire to discuss legal or other professional information, to hear a personal evaluation of or opinion on a

set of facts as presented, or to be made aware of the interests of persons who are not represented in

mediation.

Rule 3.857. Quality of mediation process

(a) Diligence

A mediator must make reasonable efforts to advance the mediation in a timely manner. If a

mediator schedules a mediation for a specific time period, he or she must keep that time

period free of other commitments.

(b) Procedural fairness

A mediator must conduct the mediation proceedings in a procedurally fair manner.

“Procedural fairness” means a balanced process in which each party is given an

opportunity to participate and make uncoerced decisions. A mediator is not obligated to

ensure the substantive fairness of an agreement reached by the parties.

In addition to the requirements of rule 3.853 (voluntary participation and self-

determination), rule 3.854(a) (confidentiality), and (d) of this rule (representation and other

professional services), at or before the outset of the mediation the mediator must provide

all participants with a general explanation of:

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(1) The nature of the mediation process;

(2) The procedures to be used; and

(3) The roles of the mediator, the parties, and the other participants.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(d) Representation and other professional services

A mediator must inform all participants, at or before the outset of the first mediation

session, that during the mediation he or she will not represent any participant as a lawyer

or perform professional services in any capacity other than as an impartial mediator.

Subject to the principles of impartiality and self-determination, a mediator may provide

information or opinions that he or she is qualified by training or experience to provide.

(e) Recommending other services

A mediator may recommend the use of other services in connection with a mediation and

may recommend particular providers of other services. However, a mediator must disclose

any related personal or financial interests if recommending the services of specific

individuals or organizations.

(f) Nonparticipants’ interests

A mediator may bring to the attention of the parties the interests of others who are not

participating in the mediation but who may be affected by agreements reached as a result

of the mediation.

(g) Combining mediation with other ADR processes

A mediator must exercise caution in combining mediation with other alternative dispute

resolution (ADR) processes and may do so only with the informed consent of the parties

and in a manner consistent with any applicable law or court order. The mediator must

inform the parties of the general natures of the different processes and the consequences of

revealing information during any one process that might be used for decision making in

another process, and must give the parties the opportunity to select another neutral for the

subsequent process. If the parties consent to a combination of processes, the mediator must

clearly inform the participants when the transition from one process to another is

occurring.

(h) Settlement agreements

Consistent with (d), a mediator may present possible settlement options and terms for

discussion. A mediator may also assist the parties in preparing a written settlement

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agreement, provided that in doing so the mediator confines the assistance to stating the

settlement as determined by the parties.

(Subd (h) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(i) Discretionary termination and withdrawal

A mediator may suspend or terminate the mediation or withdraw as mediator when he or

she reasonably believes the circumstances require it, including when he or she suspects

that:

(1) The mediation is being used to further illegal conduct;

(2) A participant is unable to participate meaningfully in negotiations; or

(3) Continuation of the process would cause significant harm to any participant or a third

party.

(j) Manner of withdrawal

When a mediator determines that it is necessary to suspend or terminate a mediation or to

withdraw, the mediator must do so without violating the obligation of confidentiality and

in a manner that will cause the least possible harm to the participants.

Rule 3.857 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1620.7 effective January

1, 2003.

Advisory Committee Comment

Subdivision (c). The explanation of the mediation process should include a description of the mediator’s

style of mediation.

Subdivision (d). Subject to the principles of impartiality and self-determination, and if qualified to do so,

a mediator may (1) discuss a party’s options, including a range of possible outcomes in an adjudicative

process; (2) offer a personal evaluation of or opinion on a set of facts as presented, which should be

clearly identified as a personal evaluation or opinion; or (3) communicate the mediator’s opinion or view

of what the law is or how it applies to the subject of the mediation, provided that the mediator does not

also advise any participant about how to adhere to the law or on what position the participant should take

in light of that opinion.

One question that frequently arises is whether a mediator’s assessment of claims, defenses, or possible

litigation outcomes constitutes legal advice or the practice of law. Similar questions may arise when

accounting, architecture, construction, counseling, medicine, real estate, or other licensed professions are

relevant to a mediation. This rule does not determine what constitutes the practice of law or any other

licensed profession. A mediator should be cautious when providing any information or opinion related to

any field for which a professional license is required, in order to avoid doing so in a manner that may

constitute the practice of a profession for which the mediator is not licensed, or in a manner that may

violate the regulations of a profession that the mediator is licensed to practice. A mediator should exercise

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particular caution when discussing the law with unrepresented parties and should inform such parties that

they may seek independent advice from a lawyer.

Subdivision (i). Subdivision (i)(2) is not intended to establish any new responsibility or diminish any

existing responsibilities that a mediator may have, under the Americans With Disabilities Act or other

similar law, to attempt to accommodate physical or mental disabilities of a participant in mediation.

Rule 3.858. Marketing

(a) Truthfulness

A mediator must be truthful and accurate in marketing his or her mediation services. A

mediator is responsible for ensuring that both his or her own marketing activities and any

marketing activities carried out on his or her behalf by others comply with this rule.

(b) Representations concerning court approval

A mediator may indicate in his or her marketing materials that he or she is a member of a

particular court’s panel or list but, unless specifically permitted by the court, must not

indicate that he or she is approved, endorsed, certified, or licensed by the court.

In marketing his or her mediation services, a mediator must not:

(1) Promise or guarantee results; or

(2) Make any statement that directly or indirectly implies bias in favor of one party or

participant over another.

(d) Solicitation of business

A mediator must not solicit business from a participant in a mediation proceeding while

that mediation is pending.

Rule 3.858 renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1620.8 effective January 1, 2003.

Advisory Committee Comment

Subdivision (d). This rule is not intended to prohibit a mediator from accepting other employment from a

participant while a mediation is pending, provided that there was no express solicitation of this business

by the mediator and that accepting that employment does not contravene any other provision of these

rules, including the obligations to maintain impartiality, confidentiality, and the integrity of the process. If

other employment is accepted from a participant while a mediation is pending, however, the mediator

may be required to disclose this to the parties under rule 3.855.

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This rule also is not intended to prohibit a mediator from engaging in general marketing activities.

General marketing activities include, but are not limited to, running an advertisement in a newspaper and

sending out a general mailing (either of which may be directed to a particular industry or market).

Rule 3.859. Compensation and gifts

(a) Compliance with law

A mediator must comply with any applicable requirements concerning compensation

established by statute or the court.

(b) Disclosure of and compliance with compensation terms

Before commencing the mediation, the mediator must disclose to the parties in writing any

fees, costs, or charges to be paid to the mediator by the parties. A mediator must abide by

any agreement that is reached concerning compensation.

The amount or nature of a mediator’s fee must not be made contingent on the outcome of

the mediation.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(d) Gifts and favors

A mediator must not at any time solicit or accept from or give to any participant or affiliate

of a participant any gift, bequest, or favor that might reasonably raise a question

concerning the mediator’s impartiality.

Rule 3.859 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1620.9 effective January

1, 2003.

Advisory Committee Comment

Subdivision (b). It is good practice to put mediation fee agreements in writing, and mediators are

strongly encouraged to do so; however, nothing in this rule is intended to preclude enforcement of a

compensation agreement for mediation services that is not in writing.

Subdivision (d). Whether a gift, bequest, or favor “might reasonably raise a question concerning the

mediator’s impartiality” must be determined on a case-by-case basis. This subdivision is not intended to

prohibit a mediator from accepting other employment from any of the participants, consistent with rule

3.858(d).

Rule 3.860. Attendance sheet and agreement to disclosure

(a) Attendance sheet

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In each mediation to which these rules apply under rule 3.851(a), the mediator must

request that all participants in the mediation complete an attendance sheet stating their

names, mailing addresses, and telephone numbers; retain the attendance sheet for at least

two years; and submit it to the court on request.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(b) Agreement to disclosure

The mediator must agree, in each mediation to which these rules apply under rule 3.851(a),

that if an inquiry or a complaint is made about the conduct of the mediator, mediation

communications may be disclosed solely for purposes of a complaint procedure conducted

pursuant to rule 3.865 to address that complaint or inquiry.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2011; previously amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.860 amended effective January 1, 2011; adopted as rule 1621 effective January 1, 2006;

previously amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007.

Article 3. Requirements for Addressing Complaints About Court-Program Mediators

Division 8, Alternative Dispute Resolution—Chapter 3, General Rules Relating to Mediation of Civil

Cases—Article 3, Requirements for Addressing Complaints About Court-Program Mediators; adopted

effective July 1, 2009, effective date extended to January 1, 2010.

Rule 3.865. Application and purpose

Rule 3.866. Definitions

Rule 3.867. Complaint coordinator

Rule 3.868. Complaint procedure required

Rule 3.869. General requirements for complaint procedures and complaint proceedings

Rule 3.870. Permissible court actions on complaints

Rule 3.871. Confidentiality of complaint proceedings, information, and records

Rule 3.872. Disqualification from subsequently serving as an adjudicator

Rule 3.865. Application and purpose

(a) Application

The rules in this article apply to each superior court that makes a list of mediators available

to litigants in general civil cases or that recommends, selects, appoints, or compensates a

mediator to mediate any general civil case pending in that court. A court that approves the

parties’ agreement to use a mediator who is selected by the parties and who is not on the

court’s list of mediators or that memorializes the parties’ agreement in a court order has

not thereby recommended, selected, or appointed that mediator within the meaning of this

rule.

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(Subd (a) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2010; previously adopted as part of unlettered

subd effective July 1, 2009; effective date extended to January 1, 2010.)

(b) Purpose

These rules are intended to promote the resolution of complaints that mediators in court-

connected mediation programs for civil cases may have violated a provision of the rules of

conduct for such mediators in article 2. They are intended to help courts promptly resolve

any such complaints in a manner that is respectful and fair to the complainant and the

mediator and consistent with the California mediation confidentiality statutes.

(Subd (b) lettered effective January 1, 2010; previously adopted as part of unlettered subd effective

July 1, 2009; effective date extended to January 1, 2010.)

Rule 3.865 amended effective January 1, 2010; adopted effective July 1, 2009, effective date extended to

January 1, 2010.

Advisory Committee Comment

As used in this article, complaint means a written communication presented to a court’s complaint

coordinator indicating that a mediator may have violated a provision of the rules of conduct for mediators

in article 2.

Complaints about mediators are relatively rare. To ensure the quality of court mediation panels and public

confidence in the mediation process and the courts, it is, nevertheless, important to ensure that any

complaints that do arise are resolved through procedures that are consistent with California mediation

confidentiality statutes (Evid. Code, §§ 703.5 and 1115 et seq.), as well as fair and respectful to the

interested parties.

The requirements and procedures in this article do not abrogate or limit a court’s inherent or other

authority, in its sole and absolute discretion, to determine who may be included on or removed from a

court list of mediators; to approve or revoke a mediator’s eligibility to be recommended, selected,

appointed, or compensated by the court; or to follow other procedures or take other actions to ensure the

quality of mediators who serve in the court’s mediation program in contexts other than when addressing a

complaint. The failure to follow a requirement or procedure in this article will not invalidate any action

taken by the court in addressing a complaint.

Rule 3.866. Definitions

As used in this article, unless the context or subject matter requires otherwise:

(1) “The rules of conduct” means rules 3.850–3.860 of the California Rules of Court in article

(2) “Court-program mediator” means a person subject to the rules of conduct under rule 3.851.

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(3) “Inquiry” means an unwritten communication presented to the court’s complaint

coordinator indicating that a mediator may have violated a provision of the rules of

conduct.

(4) “Complaint” means a written communication presented to the court’s complaint

coordinator indicating that a mediator may have violated a provision of the rules of

conduct.

(5) “Complainant” means the person who makes or presents a complaint.

(6) “Complaint coordinator” means the person designated by the presiding judge under rule

3.867(a) to receive complaints and inquiries about the conduct of mediators.

(7) “Complaint committee” means a committee designated or appointed to investigate and

make recommendations concerning complaints under rule 3.869(d)(2).

(8) “Complaint procedure” means a procedure for presenting, receiving, reviewing, responding

to, investigating, and acting on any inquiry or complaint.

(9) “Complaint proceeding” means all of the proceedings that take place as part of a complaint

procedure concerning a specific inquiry or complaint.

(10) “Mediation communication” means any statement that is made or any writing that is

prepared for the purpose of, in the course of, or pursuant to a mediation or a mediation

consultation, as defined in Evidence Code section 1115, and includes any communications,

negotiations, and settlement discussions between participants in the course of a mediation

or a mediation consultation.

Rule 3.866 adopted effective July 1, 2009, effective date extended to January 1, 2010.

Advisory Committee Comment

Paragraph (2). Under rule 3.851, the rules of conduct apply when a mediator, or a firm with which a

mediator is affiliated, has agreed to be included on a superior court’s list or panel of mediators for general

civil cases and is notified by the court or the parties that he or she has been selected to mediate a case

within that court’s mediation program or when a mediator has agreed to mediate a general civil case after

being notified that he or she was recommended, selected, or appointed by a court, or will be compensated

by a court, to mediate a case within a court’s mediation program.

Paragraphs (3) and (4). The distinction between “inquiries” and “complaints” is significant because

some provisions of this article apply only to complaints (i.e., written communications presented to the

court’s complaint coordinator indicating that a mediator may have violated a provision of the rules of

conduct) and not to inquiries.

Rule 3.867. Complaint coordinator

(a) Designation of the complaint coordinator

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The presiding judge must designate a person who is knowledgeable about mediation to

serve as the complaint coordinator.

(Subd (a) amended and lettered effective July 1, 2009, effective date extended to January 1, 2010;

adopted as unlettered subd effective January 1, 2006.)

(b) Identification of the complaint coordinator

The court must make the complaint coordinator’s identity and contact information readily

accessible to litigants and the public.

(Subd (b) adopted effective July 1, 2009, effective date extended to January 1, 2010.)

Rule 3.867 amended and renumbered effective July 1, 2009, effective date extended to January 1, 2010;

adopted as rule 1622.1 effective January 1, 2006; previously amended and renumbered as rule 3.866

effective January 1, 2007.

Advisory Committee Comment

The alternative dispute resolution program administrator appointed under rule 10.783(a) may also be

appointed as the complaint coordinator if that person is knowledgeable about mediation.

Rule 3.868. Complaint procedure required

Each court to which this article applies under rule 3.865 must establish a complaint procedure by

local rule of court that is consistent with this article.

Rule 3.868 amended and renumbered effective July 1, 2009, effective date extended to January 1, 2010;

adopted as rule 1622 effective January 1, 2003; previously amended effective January 1, 2006; previously

amended and renumbered as rule 3.865 effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.869. General requirements for complaint procedures and complaint proceedings

(a) Submission and referral of inquiries and complaints to the complaint coordinator

All inquiries and complaints should be submitted or referred to the complaint coordinator.

(b) Acknowledgment of complaint

The complaint coordinator must send the complainant a written acknowledgment that the

court has received the complaint.

The complaint coordinator must conduct a preliminary review of all complaints to

determine whether the complaint can be informally resolved or closed, or whether the

complaint warrants investigation.

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(d) Procedure for complaints not resolved through the preliminary review

The following procedures are required only if a complaint is not resolved or closed through

the preliminary review.

(1) Mediator’s notice and opportunity to respond

The mediator must be given notice of the complaint and an opportunity to respond.

(2) Investigation and recommendation

(A) Except as provided in (B), the complaint must be investigated and a

recommendation concerning court action on the complaint must be made by

either an individual who has experience as a mediator and who is familiar with

the rules of conduct stated in article 2 or a complaint committee that has at

least one such individual as a member.

(B) A court with eight or fewer authorized judges may waive the requirement in

(A) for participation by an individual who has experience as a mediator in

conducting the investigation and making the recommendation if the court

cannot find a suitable qualified individual to perform the functions described in

(A) or for other grounds of hardship.

(3) Final decision

The final decision on the complaint must be made by the presiding judge or his or

her designee, who must not be the complaint coordinator or an individual who

investigated the complaint before its submission for final decision.

(e) Notice of final action

(1) The court must send the complainant notice of the final action taken by the court on

the complaint.

(2) If the complaint was not closed during the preliminary review, the court must send

notice of the final action to the mediator.

(f) Promptness

The court must process complaints promptly at all stages.

(g) Records of complaints

The court should maintain sufficient information about each complaint and its disposition

to identify any history or patterns of complaints submitted under these rules.

Rule 3.869 adopted effective July 1, 2009, effective date extended to January 1, 2010.

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Advisory Committee Comment

Judicial Council staff have developed model local rules that satisfy the requirements of this rule. These

model local rules were developed with input from judicial officers, court administrators, alternative

dispute resolution (ADR) program administrators, court-program mediators, and public commentators and

are designed so that they can be readily adapted to the circumstances of individual courts and specific

complaints. Courts are encouraged to adopt rules that follow the model rules, to the extent feasible.

Courts can obtain copies of these model rules from the Judicial Council’s civil ADR program staff.

Subdivision (a). Coordination of inquiries and complaints by a person knowledgeable about mediation is

important to help ensure that the requirements of this article are followed and that mediation

confidentiality is preserved.

Subdivision (c). Courts are encouraged to resolve inquiries and complaints about mediators using the

simplest, least formal procedures that are appropriate under the circumstances, provided that they meet

the requirements stated in this article.

Most complaints can be appropriately resolved during the preliminary review stage of the complaint

process, through informal discussions between or among the complaint coordinator, the complainant, and

the mediator. Although complaint coordinators are not required to communicate with the mediator during

the preliminary review, they are encouraged to consider doing so. For example, some complaints may

arise from a misunderstanding of the mediator’s role or from behavior that would not violate the standards

of conduct. These types of complaints might appropriately be addressed by providing the complainant

with additional information or by informing the mediator that certain behavior was upsetting to a

mediation participant.

The circumstances under which a complaint coordinator might informally resolve or close a complaint

include, for example, when (1) the complaint is withdrawn; (2) no violation of the rules of conduct

appears to have occurred; (3) the alleged violation of the rules of conduct is very minor and the mediator

has provided an acceptable explanation or response; and (4) the complainant, the mediator, and the

complaint coordinator have agreed on a resolution. In determining whether to close a complaint, the

complaint coordinator might also consider whether there are or have been other complaints about the

mediator.

Subdivision (d). At the investigation and recommendation stage, all courts are encouraged to consider

using a complaint committee comprised of members with a variety of backgrounds, including at least one

person with experience as a mediator, to investigate and make recommendations concerning those rare

complaints that are not resolved during the preliminary review.

Courts are also encouraged to have a judicial officer who is knowledgeable about mediation, or a

committee that includes another person who is knowledgeable about mediation, make the final decision

on complaints that are not resolved through the preliminary review.

Rule 3.870. Permissible court actions on complaints

After an investigation has been conducted, the presiding judge or his or her designee may do one

or more of the following:

(1) Direct that no action be taken on the complaint;

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(2) Counsel, admonish, or reprimand the mediator;

(3) Impose additional training requirements as a condition of the mediator remaining on the

court’s panel or list;

(4) Suspend the mediator from the court’s panel or list or otherwise temporarily prohibit the

mediator from receiving future mediation referrals from the court; or

(5) Remove the mediator from the court’s panel or list or otherwise prohibit the mediator from

receiving future mediation referrals from the court.

Rule 3.870 adopted effective July 1, 2009, effective date extended to January 1, 2010.

Advisory Committee Comment

This rule does not abrogate or limit any existing legal right or duty of the court to take other actions,

including interim suspension of a mediator pending final action by the court on a complaint.

Rule 3.871. Confidentiality of complaint proceedings, information, and records

(a) Intent

This rule is intended to:

(1) Preserve the confidentiality of mediation communications as required by Evidence

Code sections 1115–1128;

(2) Promote cooperation in the reporting, investigation, and resolution of complaints

about court-program mediators; and

(3) Protect mediators against damage to their reputations that might result from the

disclosure of unfounded complaints against them.

(Subd (a) amended effective July 1, 2009, effective date extended to January 1, 2010; previously

amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(b) Preserving the confidentiality of mediation communications

All complaint procedures and complaint proceedings must be designed and conducted in a

manner that preserves the confidentiality of mediation communications, including but not

limited to the confidentiality of any communications between the mediator and individual

mediation participants or subgroups of mediation participants.

(Subd (b) amended effective July 1, 2009, effective date extended to January 1, 2010.)

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All complaint proceedings must occur in private and must be kept confidential. No

information or records concerning the receipt, investigation, or resolution of an inquiry or a

complaint may be open to the public or disclosed outside the course of the complaint

proceeding except as provided in (d) or as otherwise required by law.

(Subd (c) amended effective July 1, 2009, effective date extended to January 1, 2010; previously

amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(d) Authorized disclosures

After the decision on a complaint, the presiding judge, or a person whom the presiding

judge designates to do so, may authorize the public disclosure of information or records

concerning the complaint proceeding that do not reveal any mediation communications.

The disclosures that may be authorized under this subdivision include the name of a

mediator against whom action has been taken under rule 3.870, the action taken, and the

general basis on which the action was taken. In determining whether to authorize the

disclosure of information or records under this subdivision, the presiding judge or the

designee should consider the purposes of the confidentiality of complaint proceedings

stated in (a)(2) and (a)(3).

(Subd (d) amended effective July 1, 2009, effective date extended to January 1, 2010; previously

amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(e) Disclosures required by law

In determining whether the disclosure of information or records concerning a complaint

proceeding is required by law, courts should consider the purposes of the confidentiality of

complaint proceedings stated in (a). If it appears that the disclosure of information or

records concerning a complaint proceeding that would reveal mediation communications is

required by law, before the information or records are disclosed, notice should be given to

any person whose mediation communications may thereby be revealed.

(Subd (e) amended effective July 1, 2009, effective date extended to January 1, 2010; previously

amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.871 amended and renumbered effective July 1, 2009, effective date extended to January 1, 2010;

adopted as rule 1622.2 effective January 1, 2006; previously amended and renumbered as rule 3.867

effective January 1, 2007.

Advisory Committee Comment

Under rule 3.866(9), the complaint proceedings covered by this rule include proceedings to address

inquiries as well as complaints (i.e., to unwritten as well as written communications indicating that a

mediator may have violated a provision of the rules of conduct).

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Subdivision (a). See Evidence Code sections 1115 and 1119 concerning the scope and types of mediation

communications protected by mediation confidentiality. Rule 3.871 is intended to supplement the

confidentiality of mediation communications established by the Evidence Code by ensuring that

disclosure of information or records about a complaint proceeding does not reveal confidential mediation

communications. Rule 3.871 is not intended to supersede or abrogate the confidentiality of mediation

communications established by the Evidence Code.

Subdivision (b). Private meetings, or “caucuses,” between a mediator and subgroups of participants are

common in court-connected mediations, and it is frequently understood that these communications will

not be disclosed to other participants in the mediation. (See Cal. Rules of Court, rule 3.854(c).) It is

important to protect the confidentiality of these communications in complaint proceedings so that one

participant in the mediation does not learn what another participant discussed in confidence with the

mediator without the consent of the participants in the caucus communication.

Subdivisions (c)–(e). The provisions of (c)–(e) that authorize the disclosure of information and records

related to complaint proceedings do not create any new exceptions to mediation confidentiality. Although

public disclosure of information and records about complaint proceedings that do not reveal mediation

communications may be authorized under (d), information and records that would reveal mediation

communications may be publicly disclosed only as required by law (e.g., in response to a subpoena or

court order) and consistent with the statutes and case law governing mediation confidentiality. A person

who is knowledgeable about California’s mediation confidentiality laws should determine whether the

disclosure of mediation communications is required by law.

Evidence Code sections 915 and 1040 establish procedures and criteria for deciding whether information

acquired in confidence by a public employee in the course of his or her duty is subject to disclosure.

These sections may be applicable or helpful in determining whether the disclosure of information or

records acquired by judicial officers, court staff, and other persons in the course of a complaint

proceeding is required by law or should be authorized in the discretion of the presiding judge.

Rule 3.872. Disqualification from subsequently serving as an adjudicator

A person who has participated in a complaint proceeding or otherwise received information

about the substance of a complaint, other than information that is publicly disclosed under rule

3.871(d), must not subsequently hear or determine any contested issue of law, fact, or procedure

concerning the dispute that was the subject of the underlying mediation or any other dispute that

arises from the mediation as a judge, an arbitrator, a referee, or a juror, or in any other

adjudicative capacity, in any court action or proceeding.

Rule 3.872 amended and renumbered effective July 1, 2009, effective date extended to January 1, 2010;

adopted as rule 1622.3 effective January 1, 2006; previously amended and renumbered as rule 3.868

effective January 1, 2007.

Advisory Committee Comment

Persons who participated in a complaint proceeding are prohibited from subsequently adjudicating the

dispute that was the subject of the underlying mediation or any other dispute that arises from the

mediation because they may have learned of confidential mediation communications that were disclosed

in the complaint proceeding or may have been influenced by what transpired in that proceeding. Because

the information that can be disclosed publicly under rule 3.871(d) is limited and excludes mediation

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communications, it is unnecessary to disqualify persons who received only publicly disclosed information

from subsequently adjudicating the dispute.

Chapter 4. Civil Action Mediation Program Rules

Rule 3.890. Application

Rule 3.891. Actions subject to mediation

Rule 3.892. Panels of mediators

Rule 3.893. Selection of mediators

Rule 3.894. Attendance, participant lists, and mediation statements

Rule 3.895. Filing of Statement of Agreement or Nonagreement by mediator

Rule 3.896. Coordination with Trial Court Delay Reduction Act

Rule 3.898. Educational material

Rule 3.890. Application

The rules in this chapter implement the Civil Action Mediation Act, Code of Civil Procedure

section 1775 et seq. Under section 1775.2, they apply in the Superior Court of California, County

of Los Angeles and in other courts that elect to apply the act.

Rule 3.890 renumbered effective July 1, 2009; adopted as rule 1630 effective March 1, 1994; previously

amended and renumbered as rule 3.870 effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.891. Actions subject to mediation

(a) Actions that may be submitted to mediation

The following actions may be submitted to mediation under these provisions:

(1) By court order

Any action in which the amount in controversy, independent of the merits of

liability, defenses, or comparative negligence, does not exceed $50,000 for each

plaintiff. The court must determine the amount in controversy under Code of Civil

Procedure section 1775.5. Determinations to send a case to mediation must be made

by the court after consideration of the expressed views of the parties on the

amenability of the case to mediation. The court must not require the parties or their

counsel to personally appear in court for a conference held solely to determine

whether to send their case to mediation.

(2) By stipulation

Any other action, regardless of the amount of controversy, in which all parties

stipulate to such mediation. The stipulation must be filed not later than 90 days

before trial unless the court permits a later time.

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(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(b) Case-by-case determination

Amenability of a particular action for mediation must be determined on a case-by-case

basis, rather than categorically.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.891 renumbered effective July 1, 2009; adopted as rule 1631 effective March 1, 1994; previously

amended and renumbered as rule 3.871 effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.892. Panels of mediators

Each court, in consultation with local bar associations, ADR providers, and associations of

providers, must identify persons who may be appointed as mediators. The court must consider

the criteria in standard 10.72 of the Standards of Judicial Administration and California Code of

Regulations, title 16, section 3622, relating to the Dispute Resolution Program Act.

Rule 3.892 renumbered effective July 1, 2009; adopted as rule 1632 effective March 1, 1994; previously

amended and renumbered as rule 3.872 effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.893. Selection of mediators

The parties may stipulate to any mediator, whether or not the person selected is among those

identified under rule 3.892, within 15 days of the date an action is submitted to mediation. If the

parties do not stipulate to a mediator, the court must promptly assign a mediator to the action

from those identified under rule 3.892.

Rule 3.893 amended effective January 1, 2011; adopted as rule 1633 effective March 1, 1994; previously

amended and renumbered as rule 3.873 effective January 1, 2007; previously renumbered effective July

1, 2009.

Rule 3.894. Attendance, participant lists, and mediation statements

(a) Attendance

(1) All parties and attorneys of record must attend all mediation sessions in person

unless excused or permitted to attend by telephone as provided in (3). If a party is not

a natural person, a representative of that party with authority to resolve the dispute

or, in the case of a governmental entity that requires an agreement to be approved by

an elected official or a legislative body, a representative with authority to

recommend such agreement, must attend all mediation sessions in person, unless

excused or permitted to attend by telephone as provided in (3).

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(2) If any party is insured under a policy of insurance that provides or may provide

coverage for a claim that is a subject of the action, a representative of the insurer

with authority to settle or recommend settlement of the claim must attend all

mediation sessions in person, unless excused or permitted to attend by telephone as

provided in (3).

(3) The mediator may excuse a party, attorney, or representative from the requirement to

attend a mediation session under (1) or (2) or permit attendance by telephone. The

party, attorney, or representative who is excused or permitted to attend by telephone

must promptly send a letter or an electronic communication to the mediator and to all

parties confirming the excuse or permission.

(4) Each party may have counsel present at all mediation sessions that concern the party.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as untitled subd effective March 1, 1994.)

(b) Participant lists and mediation statements

(1) At least five court days before the first mediation session, each party must serve a list

of its mediation participants on the mediator and all other parties. The list must

include the names of all parties, attorneys, representatives of a party that is not a

natural person, insurance representatives, and other persons who will attend the

mediation with or on behalf of that party. A party must promptly serve a

supplemental list if the party subsequently determines that other persons will attend

the mediation with or on behalf of the party.

(2) The mediator may request that each party submit a short mediation statement

providing information about the issues in dispute and possible resolutions of those

issues and other information or documents that may appear helpful to resolve the

dispute.

(Subd (b) adopted effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.894 renumbered effective July 1, 2009; adopted as rule 1634 effective March 1, 1994; previously

amended and renumbered as rule 3.874 effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January

1, 2007.

Rule 3.895. Filing of Statement of Agreement or Nonagreement by mediator

Within 10 days after conclusion of the mediation, or by another date set by the court, the

mediator must complete, serve on all parties, and file a Statement of Agreement or Nonagreement

(form ADR-100). If the mediation has not ended when the report is filed, the mediator must file a

supplemental form ADR-100 within 10 days after the mediation is concluded or by another date

set by the court. The completed form ADR-100 must not disclose the terms of any agreement or

any other communications or conduct that occurred in the course of the mediation, except as

allowed in Evidence Code sections 1115–1128.

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Rule 3.895 amended effective July 1, 2012; adopted as rule 1635 effective March 1, 1994; previously

amended and renumbered as rule 3.875 effective January 1, 2007; previously renumbered effective July

1, 2009.

Rule 3.896. Coordination with Trial Court Delay Reduction Act

(a) Effect of mediation on time standards

Submission of an action to mediation under the rules in this chapter does not affect time

periods specified in the Trial Court Delay Reduction Act (Gov. Code, § 68600 et seq.),

except as provided in this rule.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(b) Exception to delay reduction time standards

On written stipulation of the parties filed with the court, the court may order an exception

of up to 90 days to the delay reduction time standards to permit mediation of an action.

The court must coordinate the timing of the exception period with its delay reduction

calendar.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Mediation must be completed within 60 days of a reference to a mediator, but that period

may be extended by the court for up to 30 days on a showing of good cause.

(Subd (c) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of subd (b) effective

March 1, 1994.)

(d) Restraint in discovery

The parties should exercise restraint in discovery while a case is in mediation. In

appropriate cases to accommodate that objective, the court may issue a protective order

under Code of Civil Procedure section 2017(c) and related provisions.

(Subd (d) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of subd (b) effective

March 1, 1994.)

Rule 3.896 renumbered effective July 1, 2009; adopted as rule 1637 effective March 1, 1994; previously

amended and renumbered as rule 3.876 effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.898. Educational material

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Each court must make available educational material, adopted by the Judicial Council, or from

other sources, describing available ADR processes in the community.

Rule 3.898 renumbered effective July 1, 2009; adopted as rule 1639 effective March 1, 1994; previously

amended and renumbered as rule 3.878 effective January 1, 2007.

Division 9. References

Chapter 1. Reference by Agreement of the Parties Under Code of Civil Procedure Section

638

Rule 3.900. Purposes of reference

Rule 3.901. Application for order appointing referee

Rule 3.902. Order appointing referee

Rule 3.903. Selection and qualifications of referee

Rule 3.904. Certification and disclosure by referee

Rule 3.905. Objections to the appointment

Rule 3.906. Motion to withdraw stipulation

Rule 3.907. Use of court facilities and court personnel

Rule 3.900. Purposes of reference

A court must not use the reference procedure under Code of Civil Procedure section 638 to

appoint a person to conduct a mediation.

Rule 3.900 adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Advisory Committee Comment

Rule 3.900 is not intended to prohibit a court from appointing a referee to conduct a mandatory settlement

conference or, following the conclusion of a reference, from appointing a person who previously served

as a referee to conduct a mediation.

Rule 3.901. Application for order appointing referee

(a) Stipulation or motion for appointment

A written stipulation or motion for an order appointing a referee under Code of Civil

Procedure section 638 must be presented to the judge to whom the case is assigned, or to

the presiding judge or law and motion department if the case has not been assigned.

(b) Contents of application

The stipulation or motion for the appointment of a referee under section 638 must:

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(1) Clearly state whether the scope of the requested reference includes all issues or is

limited to specified issues;

(2) State whether the referee will be privately compensated;

(3) If authorization to use court facilities or court personnel is requested, describe the

use requested and state the reasons that this would further the interests of justice;

(4) If the applicant is requesting or the parties have stipulated to the appointment of a

particular referee, be accompanied by the proposed referee’s certification as required

by rule 3.904(a); and

(5) Be accompanied by a proposed order that includes the matters specified in rule

3.902.

Rule 3.901 adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.902. Order appointing referee

An order appointing a referee under Code of Civil Procedure section 638 must be filed with the

clerk or entered in the minutes and must specify:

(1) The name, business address, and telephone number of the referee and, if he or she is a

member of the State Bar, the referee’s State Bar number;

(2) Whether the scope of the reference covers all issues or is limited to specified issues;

(3) Whether the referee will be privately compensated; and

(4) Whether the use of court facilities and court personnel is authorized.

Rule 3.902 amended effective January 1, 2010; adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.903. Selection and qualifications of referee

The court must appoint the referee or referees as provided in the Code of Civil Procedure section

640. If the proposed referee is a former judicial officer, he or she must be an active or an inactive

member of the State Bar.

Rule 3.903 adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.904. Certification and disclosure by referee

(a) Certification by referee

Before a referee begins to serve:

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(1) The referee must certify in writing that he or she consents to serve as provided in the

order of appointment and is aware of and will comply with applicable provisions of

canon 6 of the Code of Judicial Ethics and with the California Rules of Court; and

(2) The referee’s certification must be filed with the court.

(b) Disclosure by referee

In addition to any other disclosure required by law, no later than five days before the

deadline for parties to file a motion for disqualification of the referee under Code of Civil

Procedure section 170.6 or, if the referee is not aware of his or her appointment or of a

matter subject to disclosure at that time, as soon as practicable thereafter, a referee must

disclose to the parties:

(1) Any matter subject to disclosure under either canon 6D(5)(a) or 6D(5)(b) of the Code

of Judicial Ethics; and

(2) Any significant personal or professional relationship the referee has or has had with a

party, attorney, or law firm in the current case, including the number and nature of

any other proceedings in the past 24 months in which the referee has been privately

compensated by a party, attorney, law firm, or insurance company in the current case

for any services. The disclosure must include privately compensated service as an

attorney, expert witness, or consultant or as a judge, referee, arbitrator, mediator,

settlement facilitator, or other alternative dispute resolution neutral.

Rule 3.904 adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.905. Objections to the appointment

A stipulation or an agreement for an order appointing a referee does not constitute a waiver of

grounds for objection to the appointment of a particular person as referee under Code of Civil

Procedure section 641. Any objection to the appointment of a person as a referee must be made

with reasonable diligence and in writing. The objection must be served on all parties and the

referee and filed with the court. The objection must be heard by the judge to whom the case is

assigned or by the presiding judge or law and motion judge if the case has not been assigned.

Rule 3.905 adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.906. Motion to withdraw stipulation

(a) Good cause requirement

A motion to withdraw a stipulation for the appointment of a referee must be supported by a

declaration of facts establishing good cause for permitting the party to withdraw the

stipulation. The following do not constitute good cause for withdrawing a stipulation:

(1) A declaration that a ruling is based on an error of fact or law.

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(2) The issuance of an order for an appropriate hearing site under rule 3.910.

(b) Service, filing and hearing of motion

Notice of the motion must be served on all parties and the referee and filed with the court.

The motion must be heard by the judge to whom the case is assigned or by the presiding

judge or law and motion judge. If the motion is granted, the case must be transferred to the

trial court docket.

Rule 3.906 adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.907. Use of court facilities and court personnel

A party who has elected to use the services of a referee appointed under Code of Civil Procedure

section 638 is deemed to have elected to proceed outside court facilities. Court facilities, court

personnel, and summoned jurors may not be used in proceedings pending before such a referee

except on a finding by the presiding judge or his or her designee that their use would further the

interests of justice.

Rule 3.907 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2010; adopted as rule 3.909 effective January

1, 2007.

Chapter 2. Court-Ordered Reference Under Code of Civil Procedure

Section 639

Rule 3.920. Purposes and conditions for appointment of referee

Rule 3.921. Motion for appointment of a referee

Rule 3.922. Form and contents of order appointing referee

Rule 3.923. Selection and qualification of referee

Rule 3.924. Certification and disclosure by referee

Rule 3.925. Objection to reference

Rule 3.926. Use of court facilities

Rule 3.920. Purposes and conditions for appointment of referee

(a) Purposes prescribed by statute

A court may order the appointment of a referee under Code of Civil Procedure section 639

only for the purposes specified in that section.

(b) No references for mediation

A court must not use the reference procedure under Code of Civil Procedure section 639 to

appoint a person to conduct a mediation.

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A discovery referee must not be appointed under Code of Civil Procedure section

639(a)(5) unless the exceptional circumstances of the particular case require the

appointment.

Rule 3.920 adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Advisory Committee Comment

Rule 3.920(b) is not intended to prohibit a court from appointing a referee to conduct a mandatory

settlement conference in a complex case or, following the conclusion of a reference, from appointing a

person who previously served as a referee to conduct a mediation.

Rule 3.921. Motion for appointment of a referee

(a) Filing and contents

A motion by a party for the appointment of a referee under Code of Civil Procedure section

639 must be served and filed. The motion must specify the matter or matters to be included

in the requested reference. If the applicant is requesting the appointment of a particular

referee, the motion must be accompanied by the proposed referee’s certification as

required by rule 3.924(a).

(b) Hearing

The motion must be heard by the judge to whom the case is assigned, or by the presiding

judge or law and motion judge if the case has not been assigned.

Rule 3.921 adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.922. Form and contents of order appointing referee

(a) Written order required

An order appointing a referee under Code of Civil Procedure section 639, on the motion of

a party or on the court’s own motion, must be in writing and must address the matters set

forth in (b) through (g).

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2010.)

(b) Referee information

The order must state the name, business address, and telephone number of the referee and,

if he or she is a member of the State Bar, the referee’s State Bar number.

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The order must specify whether the referee is appointed under paragraph (1), (2), (3), (4),

or (5) of subdivision (a) of section 639 and:

(1) If the referee is appointed under section 639(a)(1)–(a)(4), the order must state the

reason the referee is being appointed.

(2) If the referee is appointed under section 639(a)(5) to hear and determine discovery

motions and disputes relevant to discovery, the order must state the exceptional

circumstances of the particular case that require the reference.

(d) Subject matter and scope of reference

(1) The order must specify the subject matter or matters included in the reference.

(2) If the referee is appointed under section 639(a)(5) to hear and determine discovery

motions and disputes relevant to discovery, the order must state whether the

discovery referee is appointed for all purposes or only for limited purposes.

(e) Authority of discovery referee

If the referee is appointed under section 639(a)(5) to hear and determine discovery motions

and disputes relevant to discovery, the order must state that the referee is authorized to set

the date, time, and place for all hearings determined by the referee to be necessary; direct

the issuance of subpoenas; preside over hearings; take evidence; and rule on objections,

motions, and other requests made during the course of the hearing.

(f) Referee fees; apportionment

If the referee will be appointed at a cost to the parties, the order must:

(1) Specify the maximum hourly rate the referee may charge and, if any party so

requests, the maximum number of hours for which the referee may charge;

(2) Include a finding that either:

(A) No party has established an economic inability to pay a pro rata share of the

referee’s fee; or

(B) One or more parties has established an economic inability to pay a pro rata

share of the referee’s fees and another party has agreed voluntarily to pay that

additional share of the referee’s fees.

(3) When the issue of economic hardship is raised before the referee begins performing

services, the court must determine a fair and reasonable apportionment of reference

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costs. The court may modify its apportionment order and may consider a

recommendation by the referee as a factor in determining any modification.

(g) Use of court facilities and court personnel

The order must specify the extent, if any, to which court facilities and court personnel may

be used in connection with the reference.

Rule 3.922 amended effective January 1, 2010; adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.923. Selection and qualification of referee

The court must appoint the referee or referees as provided in Code of Civil Procedure section

640. If the referee is a former California judicial officer, he or she must be an active or inactive

member of the State Bar.

Rule 3.923 adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.924. Certification and disclosure by referee

(a) Certification by referee

Before a referee begins to serve:

(1) The referee must certify in writing that he or she consents to serve as provided in the

order of appointment and is aware of and will comply with applicable provisions of

canon 6 of the Code of Judicial Ethics and with the California Rules of Court; and

(2) The referee’s certification must be filed with the court.

(b) Disclosure by referee

In addition to any other disclosure required by law, no later than five days before the

deadline for parties to file a motion for disqualification of the referee under Code of Civil

Procedure section 170.6 or, if the referee is not aware of his or her appointment or of a

matter subject to disclosure at that time, as soon as practicable thereafter, a referee must

disclose to the parties:

(1) Any matter subject to disclosure under subdivisions (D)(5)(a) and (D)(5)(b) of canon

6 of the Code of Judicial Ethics; and

(2) Any significant personal or professional relationship the referee has or has had with a

party, attorney, or law firm in the current case, including the number and nature of

any other proceedings in the past 24 months in which the referee has been privately

compensated by a party, attorney, law firm, or insurance company in the current case

for any services. The disclosure must include privately compensated service as an

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attorney, expert witness, or consultant or as a judge, referee, arbitrator, mediator,

settlement facilitator, or other alternative dispute resolution neutral.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2008.)

Rule 3.924 amended effective January 1, 2008; adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.925. Objection to reference

The filing of a motion for an order appointing a referee does not constitute a waiver of grounds

for objection to the appointment of a particular person as referee under Code of Civil Procedure

section 641, or objection to the rate or apportionment of compensation of the referee. Any

objection to the appointment of a particular person as a referee must be made with reasonable

diligence and in writing. The objection must be heard by the judge to whom the case is assigned,

or by the presiding judge or the law and motion judge.

Rule 3.925 adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.926. Use of court facilities

A reference ordered under Code of Civil Procedure section 639 entitles the parties to the use of

court facilities and court personnel to the extent provided in the order of reference. The

proceedings may be held in a private facility, but, if so, the private facility must be open to the

public as provided in rule 3.931.

Rule 3.926 amended effective January 1, 2010; adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Chapter 3. Rules Applicable to References Under Code of Civil Procedure Section 638 or

639

Title 3, Civil Rules—Division 9, References—Chapter 3, Rules Applicable to References Under Code of

Civil Procedure Section 638 or 639; adopted effective January 1, 2010.

Rule 3.930. Documents and exhibits

Rule 3.931. Open proceedings, notice of proceedings, and order for hearing site

Rule 3.932. Motions or applications to be heard by the court

Rule 3.930. Documents and exhibits

All referees and parties in proceedings before a referee appointed under Code of Civil Procedure

section 638 or 639 must comply with the applicable requirements of rule 2.400 concerning the

filing and handling of documents and exhibits.

Rule 3.930 adopted effective January 1, 2010.

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Rule 3.931. Open proceedings, notice of proceedings, and order for hearing site

(a) Open proceedings

All proceedings before a referee that would be open to the public if held before a judge

must be open to the public, regardless of whether they are held in a court facility or in

another location.

(b) Notice regarding proceedings before referee

(1) In each case in which he or she is appointed, a referee must file a statement that

provides the name, telephone number, e-mail address, and mailing address of a

person who may be contacted to obtain information about the date, time, location,

and general nature of all hearings scheduled in matters pending before the referee

that would be open to the public if held before a judge. This statement must be filed

at the same time as the referee’s certification under rule 3.904(a) or 3.924(a). If there

is any change in this contact information, the referee must promptly file a revised

statement with the court.

(2) In addition to providing the information required under (1), the statement filed by a

referee may also provide the address of a publicly accessible website at which the

referee will maintain a current calendar setting forth the date, time, location, and

general nature of any hearings scheduled in the matter that would be open to the

public if held before a judge.

(3) The clerk must post the information from the statement filed by the referee in the

court facility.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2016.)

(1) The presiding judge or his or her designee, on application of any person or on the

judge’s own motion, may order that a case before a referee must be heard at a site

easily accessible to the public and appropriate for seating those who have made

known their plan to attend hearings. The application must state facts showing good

cause for granting the application, must be served on all parties and the referee, and

filed with the court. The proceedings are not stayed while the application is pending

unless the presiding judge or his or her designee orders that they be stayed. The

issuance of an order for an accessible and appropriate hearing site is not grounds for

withdrawal of a stipulation for the appointment of a referee.

(2) If a court staff mediator or evaluator is required to attend a hearing before a referee,

unless otherwise ordered by the presiding judge or his or her designee, that hearing

must take place at a location requiring no more than 15 minutes’ travel time from the

mediator’s or evaluator’s work site.

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Rule 3.931 amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted effective January 1, 2010.

Rule 3.932. Motions or applications to be heard by the court

(a) Motion or application to seal records

A motion or application to seal records in a case pending before a referee must be filed

with the court and served on all parties that have appeared in the case and the referee. The

motion or application must be heard by the trial court judge to whom the case is assigned

or, if the case has not been assigned, by the presiding judge or his or her designee. Rules

2.550 and 2.551 apply to the motion or application to seal the records.

(b) Motion for leave to file complaint for intervention

A motion for leave to file a complaint for intervention in a case pending before a referee

must be filed with the court and served on all parties and the referee. The motion must be

heard by the trial court judge to whom the case is assigned or, if the case has not been

assigned, by the presiding judge or his or her designee. If intervention is allowed, the case

must be returned to the trial court docket unless all parties stipulate in the manner

prescribed in rule 3.901 to proceed before the referee.

Rule 3.932 adopted effective January 1, 2010.

Division 10. Discovery

Chapter 1. Format of Discovery

Rule 3.1000. Format of supplemental and further discovery

(a) Supplemental interrogatories and responses, etc.

In each set of supplemental interrogatories, supplemental responses to interrogatories,

amended answers to interrogatories, and further responses to interrogatories, inspection

demands, and admission requests, the following must appear in the first paragraph

immediately below the title of the case:

(1) The identity of the propounding, demanding, or requesting party;

(2) The identity of the responding party;

(3) The set number being propounded or responded to; and

(4) The nature of the paper.

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(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 1986, and

July 1, 1987.)

(b) Identification of responses

Each supplemental or further response and each amended answer must be identified by the

same number or letter and be in the same sequence as the corresponding interrogatory,

inspection demand, or admission request, but the text of the interrogatory, demand, or

request need not be repeated.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 1986, and

July 1, 1987.)

Rule 3.1000 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 331 effective January 1,

1984; previously amended effective January 1, 1986, and January 1, 1987.

Chapter 2. Conduct of Discovery

Rule 3.1010. Oral depositions by telephone, videoconference, or other remote electronic

means

Rule 3.1010. Oral depositions by telephone, videoconference, or other remote electronic

means

(a) Taking depositions

Any party may take an oral deposition by telephone, videoconference, or other remote

electronic means, provided:

(1) Notice is served with the notice of deposition or the subpoena;

(2) That party makes all arrangements for any other party to participate in the deposition

in an equivalent manner. However, each party so appearing must pay all expenses

incurred by it or properly allocated to it;

(3) Any party or attorney of record may be physically present at the deposition at the

location of the deponent with written notice of such appearance served by personal

delivery, email, or fax, at least five court days before the deposition, and subject to

Code of Civil Procedure section 2025.420. An attorney for the deponent may be

physically present with the deponent without notice.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2022.)

(b) Appearing and participating in depositions

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Any party, other than the deponent, or attorney of record may appear and participate in an

oral deposition by telephone, videoconference, or other remote electronic means, provided:

(1) Written notice of such appearance is served by personal delivery, e-mail, or fax at

least five court days before the deposition;

(2) The party so appearing makes all arrangements and pays all expenses incurred for

the appearance.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2022; previously amended effective January 1, 2007, and

January 1, 2016.)

A deponent must appear as required by statute or as agreed to by the parties and deponent.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2022.)

(d) Court orders

On motion by any person, the court in a specific action may make such other orders as it

deems appropriate.

(Subd (d) relettered effective January 1, 2022; adopted as Subd (e) effective 2003; previously

amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.1010 amended effective January 1, 2022; adopted as rule 333 effective January 1, 2003;

previously amended and renumbered as rule 3.1010 effective January 1, 2007; previously amended

effective January 1, 2016.

Division 11. Law and Motion

Chapter 1. General Provisions

Rule 3.1100. Application

Rule 3.1103. Definitions and construction

Rule 3.1109. Notice of determination of submitted matters

Rule 3.1100. Application

The rules in this division apply to proceedings in civil law and motion, as defined in rule 3.1103,

and to discovery proceedings in family law and probate.

Rule 3.1100 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 301 effective January 1,

1984; previously amended effective July 1, 1984, July 1, 1997, and January 1, 2002.

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Rule 3.1103. Definitions and construction

(a) Law and motion defined

“Law and motion” includes any proceedings:

(1) On application before trial for an order, except for causes arising under the Welfare

and Institutions Code, the Probate Code, the Family Code, or Code of Civil

Procedure sections 527.6, 527.7, 527.8, and 527.85; or

(2) On application for an order regarding the enforcement of judgment, attachment of

property, appointment of a receiver, obtaining or setting aside a judgment by default,

writs of review, mandate and prohibition, a petition to compel arbitration, and

enforcement of an award by arbitration.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2011; previously amended effective July 1, 1997.)

(b) Application of rules on extending or shortening time

Rules 1.10(c) and 2.20 on extending or shortening time apply to proceedings under this

division.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Unless the context or subject matter otherwise requires, the rules in this division apply to

demurrers.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.1103 amended effective January 1, 2011; adopted as rule 303 effective January 1, 1984;

previously amended effective July 1, 1984; previously amended and renumbered effective January 1,

2007.

Rule 3.1109. Notice of determination of submitted matters

(a) Notice by clerk

When the court rules on a motion or makes an order or renders a judgment in a matter it

has taken under submission, the clerk must immediately notify the parties of the ruling,

order, or judgment. The notification, which must specifically identify the matter ruled on,

may be given by serving electronically or mailing the parties a copy of the ruling, order, or

judgment, and it constitutes service of notice only if the clerk is required to give notice

under Code of Civil Procedure section 664.5.

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(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as part of untitled subd effective January 1,

1984; previously amended and lettered subd (a) effective January 1, 2007.)

(b) Notice in a case involving more than two parties

In a case involving more than two parties, a clerk’s notification made under this rule, or

any notice of a ruling or order served by a party, must name the moving party, and the

party against whom relief was requested, and specifically identify the particular motion or

other matter ruled upon.

(Subd (b) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of untitled subd

effective January 1, 1984.)

The failure of the clerk to give the notice required by this rule does not extend the time

provided by law for performing any act except as provided in rules 8.104(a) or 8.822(a).

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.1109 amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as rule 309 effective January 1, 1984;

previously amended and renumbered as rule 3.1109 effective January 1, 2007.

Chapter 2. Format of Motion Papers

Rule 3.1110. General format

Rule 3.1112. Motions and other pleadings

Rule 3.1113. Memorandum

Rule 3.1114. Applications, motions, and petitions not requiring a memorandum

Rule 3.1115. Declarations

Rule 3.1116. Deposition testimony as an exhibit

Rule 3.1110. General format

(a) Notice of motion

A notice of motion must state in the opening paragraph the nature of the order being

sought and the grounds for issuance of the order.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(b) Date of hearing and other information

The first page of each paper must specify immediately below the number of the case:

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(1) The date, time, and location, if ascertainable, of any scheduled hearing and the name

of the hearing judge, if ascertainable;

(2) The nature or title of any attached document other than an exhibit;

(3) The date of filing of the action; and

(4) The trial date, if set.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective July 1, 1997.)

Documents must be consecutively paginated. The page numbering must begin with the

first page and use only Arabic numerals (e.g., 1, 2, 3). The page number may be

suppressed and need not appear on the first page.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2017; adopted as part of subd (b); previously amended and

lettered as subd (c) effective January 1, 2007.

(d) Reference to previously filed papers

Any paper previously filed must be referred to by date of execution and title.

(Subd (d) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (c.)

(e) Binding

For motions filed on paper, all pages of each document and exhibit must be attached

together at the top by a method that permits pages to be easily turned and the entire content

of each page to be read.

(Subd (e) amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as subd (d) effective July 1, 1997; previously

amended and relettered subd (e) effective January 1, 2007.)

(f) Format of exhibits

(1) An index of exhibits must be provided. The index must briefly describe the exhibit

and identify the exhibit number or letter and page number.

(2) Pages from a single deposition must be designated as a single exhibit.

(3) Each paper exhibit must be separated by a hard 8½ x 11 sheet with hard paper or

plastic tabs extending below the bottom of the page, bearing the exhibit designation.

(4) Electronic exhibits must meet the requirements in rule 2.256(b). Unless they are

submitted by a self-represented party, electronic exhibits must include electronic

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bookmarks with links to the first page of each exhibit and with bookmark titles that

identify the exhibit number or letter and briefly describe the exhibit.

(Subd (f) amended effective January 1, 2017; adopted as subd (e) effective July 1, 1997; previously

amended and relettered as subd (f) effective January 1, 2007.)

(g) Translation of exhibits

Exhibits written in a foreign language must be accompanied by an English translation,

certified under oath by a qualified interpreter.

(Subd (g) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of subd (e) effective July

1, 1997.)

Rule 3.1110 amended effective January 1, 2017; adopted as rule 311 effective January 1, 1984;

previously amended effective July 1, 1997; previously amended and renumbered as rule 3.1110 effective

January 1, 2007; previously amended effective July 1, 1997, and January 1, 2016.

Advisory Committee Comment

Subdivision (f)(4). Under current technology, software programs that allow users to apply electronic

bookmarks to electronic documents are available for free.

Rule 3.1112. Motions—and other pleadings

(a) Motions required papers

Unless otherwise provided by the rules in this division, the papers filed in support of a

motion must consist of at least the following:

(1) A notice of hearing on the motion;

(2) The motion itself; and

(3) A memorandum in support of the motion or demurrer.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(b) Other papers

Other papers may be filed in support of a motion, including declarations, exhibits,

appendices, and other documents or pleadings.

(Subd (b) adopted effective January 1, 2007.)

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The papers filed under (a) and (b) may either be filed as separate documents or combined

in one or more documents if the party filing a combined pleading specifies these items

separately in the caption of the combined pleading.

(Subd (c) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007 adopted as part of subd (a).)

(d) Motion—required elements

A motion must:

(1) Identify the party or parties bringing the motion;

(2) Name the parties to whom it is addressed;

(3) Briefly state the basis for the motion and the relief sought; and

(4) If a pleading is challenged, state the specific portion challenged.

(Subd (d) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (b).)

(e) Additional requirements for motions

In addition to the requirements of this rule, a motion relating to the subjects specified in

chapter 6 of this division must comply with any additional requirements in that chapter.

(Subd (e) amended effective July 1, 2008; previously amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(f) Motion in limine

Notwithstanding (a), a motion in limine filed before or during trial need not be

accompanied by a notice of hearing. The timing and place of the filing and service of the

motion are at the discretion of the trial judge.

(Subd (f) adopted effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.1112 amended effective July 1, 2008; adopted as rule 312 effective July 1, 1997; previously

amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.1113. Memorandum

(a) Memorandum in support of motion

A party filing a motion, except for a motion listed in rule 3.1114, must serve and file a

supporting memorandum. The court may construe the absence of a memorandum as an

admission that the motion or special demurrer is not meritorious and cause for its denial

and, in the case of a demurrer, as a waiver of all grounds not supported.

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(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 2004.)

(b) Contents of memorandum

The memorandum must contain a statement of facts, a concise statement of the law,

evidence and arguments relied on, and a discussion of the statutes, cases, and textbooks

cited in support of the position advanced.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2004.)

A case citation must include the official report volume and page number and year of

decision. The court must not require any other form of citation.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective July 1, 1984, January

1, 1992, and January 1, 2004.)

(d) Length of memorandum

Except in a summary judgment or summary adjudication motion, no opening or responding

memorandum may exceed 15 pages. In a summary judgment or summary adjudication

motion, no opening or responding memorandum may exceed 20 pages. No reply or closing

memorandum may exceed 10 pages. The page limit does not include the caption page, the

notice of motion and motion, exhibits, declarations, attachments, the table of contents, the

table of authorities, or the proof of service.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2017; adopted as part of a longer subd (d); previously

amended effective July 1, 1984, January 1, 1992, July 1, 1997, and January 1, 2004.)

(e) Application to file longer memorandum

A party may apply to the court ex parte but with written notice of the application to the

other parties, at least 24 hours before the memorandum is due, for permission to file a

longer memorandum. The application must state reasons why the argument cannot be

made within the stated limit.

(Subd (e) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2004; adopted as part of subd (d).)

(f) Format of longer memorandum

A memorandum that exceeds 10 pages must include a table of contents and a table of

authorities. A memorandum that exceeds 15 pages must also include an opening summary

of argument.

(Subd (f) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of subd (d); subd (d)

previously amended and relettered as subd (e) effective January 1, 2004)

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(g) Effect of filing an oversized memorandum

A memorandum that exceeds the page limits of these rules must be filed and considered in

the same manner as a late-filed paper.

(Subd (g) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of subd (d); previously

amended and relettered as subd (e) effective January 1, 2004.)

(h) Pagination of memorandum

The pages of a memorandum must be numbered consecutively beginning with the first

page and using only Arabic numerals (e.g., 1, 2, 3). The page number may be suppressed

and need not appear on the first page.

(Subd (h) amended effective January 1, 2017; adopted as subd (e) effective July 1, 2000; previously

amended and relettered as subd (f) effective January 1, 2004, and as subd (h) effective January 1,

2007.)

(i) Copies of authorities

(1) A judge may require that if any authority other than California cases, statutes,

constitutional provisions, or state or local rules is cited, a copy of the authority must

be lodged with the papers that cite the authority. If in paper form, the authority must

be tabbed or separated as required by rule 3.1110(f)(3). If in electronic form, the

authority must be electronically bookmarked as required by rule 3.1110(f)(4).

(2) If a California case is cited before the time it is published in the advance sheets of the

Official Reports, the party must include the title, case number, date of decision, and,

if from the Court of Appeal, district of the Court of Appeal in which the case was

decided. A judge may require that a copy of that case must be lodged. If in paper

form, the copy must be tabbed or separated as required by rule 3.1110(f)(3). If in

electronic form, the copy must be electronically bookmarked as required by rule

3.1110(f)(4).

(3) Upon the request of a party to the action, any party citing any authority other than

California cases, statutes, constitutional provisions, or state or local rules must

promptly provide a copy of such authority to the requesting party.

(Subd (i) amended effective January 1, 2017; adopted as part of subd (e) effective January 1, 1992;

previously amended and relettered as subd (h) effective January 1, 2004, and as subd (j) effective

January 1, 2007; previously relettered as part of subd (f) effective July 1, 2000, and as subd. (i)

effective January 1, 2008; previously amended effective July 1, 1997, July 1, 2011, and January 1,

2016.)

(j) Attachments

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To the extent practicable, all supporting memorandums and declarations must be attached

to the notice of motion.

(Subd (j) relettered effective January 1, 2008; adopted as subd (f) effective July 1, 1997; previously

relettered as subd (g) effective July 1, 2000; previously amended and relettered as subd (i) effective

January 1, 2004, and as subd (k) effective January 1, 2007.)

(k) Exhibit references

All references to exhibits or declarations in supporting or opposing papers must reference

the number or letter of the exhibit, the specific page, and, if applicable, the paragraph or

line number.

(Subd (k) relettered effective January 1, 2008; adopted as subd (g) effective July 1, 1997;

previously relettered as subd (h) effective July 1, 2000, and as subd (l) effective January 1, 2007;

previously amended and relettered as subd (j) effective January 1, 2004.)

(l) Requests for judicial notice

Any request for judicial notice must be made in a separate document listing the specific

items for which notice is requested and must comply with rule 3.1306(c).

(Subd (l) relettered effective January 1, 2008; adopted as subd (h) effective July 1, 1997; relettered

as subd (i) effective July 1, 2000; previously amended effective January 1, 2003; previously

amended and relettered as subd (k) effective January 1, 2004, and as subd (m) effective January 1,

2007.)

(m) Proposed orders or judgments

If a proposed order or judgment is submitted, it must be lodged and served with the

moving papers but must not be attached to them. The requirements for proposed orders,

including the requirements for submitting proposed orders by electronic means, are stated

in rule 3.1312.

(Subd (m) amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as subd (i) effective July 1, 1997;

previously amended and relettered as subd (l) effective January 1, 2004; previously relettered as

subd (j) effective July 1, 2000, as subd (n) effective January 1, 2007, and as subd (m) effective

January 1, 2008.)

Rule 3.1113 amended effective January 1, 2017; adopted as rule 313 effective January 1, 1984;

previously amended and renumbered as rule 3.1113 effective January 1, 2007; previously amended

effective July 1, 1984, January 1, 1992, July 1, 1997, July 1, 2000, January 1, 2003, January 1, 2004,

January 1, 2008, July 1, 2011, and January 1, 2016.

Advisory Committee Comment

See also rule 1.200 concerning the format of citations.

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Rule 3.1114. Applications, motions, and petitions not requiring a memorandum

(a) Memorandum not required

Civil motions, applications, and petitions filed on Judicial Council forms that do not

require a memorandum include the following:

(1) Application for appointment of guardian ad litem in a civil case;

(2) Application for an order extending time to serve pleading;

(3) Motion to be relieved as counsel;

(4) Motion filed in small claims case;

(5) Petition for change of name or gender;

(6) Petition for declaration of emancipation of minor;

(7) Petition for injunction prohibiting harassment;

(8) Petition for protective order to prevent elder or dependent adult abuse;

(9) Petition for order to prevent postsecondary school violence;

(10) Petition of employer for injunction prohibiting workplace violence;

(11) Petition for order prohibiting abuse (transitional housing);

(12) Petition to approve compromise of claim of a minor or a person with a disability; and

(13) Petition for withdrawal of funds from blocked account.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2011; previously amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(b) Submission of a memorandum

Notwithstanding (a), if it would further the interests of justice, a party may submit, or the

court may order the submission of, a memorandum in support of any motion, application,

or petition. The memorandum must comply with rule 3.1113.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.1114 amended effective January 1, 2011; adopted as rule 314 effective January 1, 2004;

previously amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007.

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Rule 3.1115. Declarations

The caption of a declaration must state the name of the declarant and must specifically identify

the motion or other proceeding that it supports or opposes.

Rule 3.1115 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 315 effective January 1,

1984.

Rule 3.1116. Deposition testimony as an exhibit

(a) Title page

The first page of any deposition used as an exhibit must state the name of the deponent and

the date of the deposition.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(b) Deposition pages

Other than the title page, the exhibit must contain only the relevant pages of the transcript.

The original page number of any deposition page must be clearly visible.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

The relevant portion of any testimony in the deposition must be marked in a manner that

calls attention to the testimony.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.1116 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 316 effective January 1,

1992.

Chapter 3. Provisional and Injunctive Relief

Article 1. General Provisions

Rule 3.1130. Bonds and undertakings

(a) Prerequisites to acceptance of corporate sureties

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A corporation must not be accepted or approved as surety on a bond or undertaking unless

the following conditions are met:

(1) The Insurance Commissioner has certified the corporation as being admitted to do

business in the state as a surety insurer;

(2) There is filed in the office of the clerk a copy, duly certified by the proper authority,

of the transcript or record of appointment entitling or authorizing the person or

persons purporting to execute the bond or undertaking for and in behalf of the

corporation to act in the premises; and

(3) The bond or undertaking has been executed under penalty of perjury as provided in

Code of Civil Procedure section 995.630, or the fact of execution of the bond or

undertaking by the officer or agent of the corporation purporting to become surety

has been duly acknowledged before an officer of this state authorized to take and

certify acknowledgements.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(b) Certain persons not eligible to act as sureties

An officer of the court or member of the State Bar may not act as a surety.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

An original bond or undertaking may be withdrawn from the files and delivered to the

party by whom it was filed on order of the court only if all parties interested in the

obligation so stipulate, or upon a showing that the purpose for which it was filed has been

abandoned without any liability having been incurred.

Rule 3.1130 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 381 effective January 1,

1984.

Article 2. Writs

Rule 3.1140. Lodging of record in administrative mandate cases

Rule 3.1142. Stay of driving license suspension

Rule 3.1140. Lodging of record in administrative mandate cases

The party intending to use a part of the administrative record in a case brought under Code of

Civil Procedure section 1094.5 must lodge that part of the record at least five days before the

hearing.

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Rule 3.1140 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 347 effective January 1,

1984.

Rule 3.1142. Stay of driving license suspension

A request for a stay of a suspension of a driving license must be accompanied by a copy of the

petitioner’s driving record from the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Rule 3.1142 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 355 effective January 1,

1984.

Article 3. Injunctions

Rule 3.1150. Preliminary injunctions and bonds

Rule 3.1151. Requirements for injunction in certain cases

Rule 3.1152. Requests for protective orders to prevent civil harassment, workplace violence,

private postsecondary school violence, and elder or dependent adult abuse

Rule 3.1150. Preliminary injunctions and bonds

(a) Manner of application and service

A party requesting a preliminary injunction may give notice of the request to the opposing

or responding party either by serving a noticed motion under Code of Civil Procedure

section 1005 or by obtaining and serving an order to show cause (OSC). An OSC must be

used when a temporary restraining order (TRO) is sought, or if the party against whom the

preliminary injunction is sought has not appeared in the action. If the responding party has

not appeared, the OSC must be served in the same manner as a summons and complaint.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted effective July 1, 1997; previously amended

effective July 1, 1999.)

(b) Filing of complaint or obtaining of court file

If the action is initiated the same day a TRO or an OSC is sought, the complaint must be

filed first. The moving party must provide a file-stamped copy of the complaint to the

judge who will hear the application. If an application for a TRO or an OSC is made in an

existing case, the moving party must request that the court file be made available to the

judge hearing the application.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted effective July 1, 1997; previously amended

effective July 1, 1999.)

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The OSC and TRO must be stated separately, with the OSC stated first. The restraining

language sought in an OSC and a TRO must be separately stated in the OSC and the TRO

and may not be incorporated by reference. The OSC must describe the injunction to be

sought at the hearing. The TRO must describe the activities to be enjoined pending the

hearing. A proposed OSC must contain blank spaces for the time and manner of service on

responding parties, the date on which the proof of service must be delivered to the court

hearing the OSC, a briefing schedule, and, if applicable, the expiration date of the TRO.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted effective July 1, 1997; previously amended

effective July 1, 1999.)

(d) Personal attendance

The moving party or counsel for the moving party must be personally present when the

request for a TRO is made.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (e) effective July 1, 1997; amended

as [Proof of service] effective July 1, 1999; previously relettered effective July 1, 1999.)

(e) Previous applications

An application for a TRO or an OSC must state whether there has been any previous

application for similar relief and, if so, the result of the application.

(Subd (e) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (f) effective July 1, 1997; previously

amended and relettered effective July 1, 1999.)

(f) Undertaking

Notwithstanding rule 3.1312, whenever an application for a preliminary injunction is

granted, a proposed order must be presented to the judge for signature, with an undertaking

in the amount ordered, within one court day after the granting of the application or within

the time ordered. Unless otherwise ordered, any restraining order previously granted

remains in effect during the time allowed for presentation for signature of the order of

injunction and undertaking. If the proposed order and the undertaking required are not

presented within the time allowed, the TRO may be vacated without notice. All bonds and

undertakings must comply with rule 3.1130.

(Subd (f) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended and relettered effective July 1,

1997.)

(g) Ex parte temporary restraining orders

Applications for ex parte temporary restraining orders are governed by the ex parte rules in

chapter 4 of this division.

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(Subd (g) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted effective July 1, 1999.)

Rule 3.1150 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 359 effective January 1,

1984; previously amended effective July 1, 1997, and July 1, 1999.

Rule 3.1151. Requirements for injunction in certain cases

A petition for an injunction to limit picketing, restrain real property encroachments, or protect

easements must depict by drawings, plot plans, photographs, or other appropriate means, or must

describe in detail the premises involved, including, if applicable, the length and width of the

frontage on a street or alley, the width of sidewalks, and the number, size, and location of

entrances.

Rule 3.1151 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 361 effective January 1,

1984.

Article 4. Protective Orders

Rule 3.1160. Requests for protective orders to prevent civil harassment, workplace violence,

private postsecondary school violence, and elder or dependent adult abuse

Rule 3.1161. Request to make minor’s information confidential in civil harassment

protective order proceedings

Rule 3.1162. Service requirement for respondents who appear remotely

Rule 3.1160. Requests for protective orders to prevent civil harassment, workplace

violence, private postsecondary school violence, and elder or dependent adult abuse

(a) Application

This rule applies to requests for protective orders under Code of Civil Procedure sections

527.6, 527.8, and 527.85, and Welfare and Institutions Code section 15657.03.

(Subd (a) adopted effective January 1, 2012.)

(b) No memorandum required

Unless ordered by the court, no memorandum is required in support of or in opposition to a

request for a protective order.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2012; previously amended effective July 1, 1995, January

1, 2002, and January 1, 2007.)

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The request for a protective order, notice of hearing, and any temporary restraining order,

must be personally served on the respondent at least five days before the hearing, unless

the court for good cause orders a shorter time. Service must be made in the manner

provided by law for personal service of summons in civil actions.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2012; previously amended effective January 1, 1993, and

January 1, 2007.)

(d) Response

The response to a request for a protective order may be written or oral, or both. If a written

response is served on the petitioner or, if the petitioner is represented, on the petitioner’s

attorney at least two days before the hearing, the petitioner is not entitled to a continuance

on account of the response.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2012; previously amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(e) Continuance

A respondent may request continuance of the hearing upon a showing of good cause. If the

court in its discretion grants the continuance, any temporary restraining order that has been

granted remains in effect until the end of the continued hearing unless otherwise ordered

by the court.

(Subd (e) adopted effective January 1, 2012.)

Rule 3.1160 renumbered effective January 1, 2019; adopted as rule 363 effective January 1, 1984;

previously amended effective January 1, 1993, July 1, 1995, January 1, 2000, January 1, 2002, and

January 1, 2012; previously amended and renumbered as rule 3.1152 effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.1161. Request to make minor’s information confidential in civil harassment

protective order proceedings

(a) Application of rule

This rule applies to requests and orders made under Code of Civil Procedure section

527.6(v) to keep a minor’s information confidential in a civil harassment protective order

proceeding.

Wherever used in this rule, “legal guardian” means either parent if both parents have legal

custody, or the parent or person having legal custody, or the guardian, of a minor.

(b) Information that may be made confidential

The information that may be made confidential includes:

(1) The minor’s name;

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(2) The minor’s address;

(3) The circumstances surrounding the protective order with respect to the minor. These

include the allegations in the Request for Civil Harassment Retraining Orders (form

CH-100) that involve conduct directed, in whole or in part, toward the minor; and

(4) Any other information that the minor or legal guardian believes should be

confidential.

(1) Person making request

A request for confidentiality may be made by a minor or legal guardian.

(2) Number of minors

A request for confidentiality by a legal guardian may be made for more than one

minor. “Minor,” as used in this rule, refers to all minors for whom a request for

confidentiality is made.

(d) Procedures for making request

(1) Timing of requests

A request for confidentiality may be made at any time during the case.

(2) Submission of request

The person submitting a request must complete and file Request to Keep Minor’s

Information Confidential (form CH-160), a confidential form.

(3) Ruling on request

(A) Ruling on request without notice

The court must determine whether to grant a request for confidentiality without

requiring that any notice of the request be given to the other party, or both

parties if the minor is not a party in the proceeding. No adversarial hearing is

to be held.

(B) Request for confidentiality submitted at the same time as a request for

restraining orders

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If a request for confidentiality is submitted at the same time as a request for

restraining orders, the court must consider both requests consistent with Code

of Civil Procedure section 527.6(e) and must consider and rule on the request

for confidentiality before the request for restraining order is filed.

Documents submitted with the restraining order request must not be filed until

after the court has ruled on the request for confidentiality and must be

consistent with (C) below.

If a request for confidentiality under (B) made by the person asking for the

restraining order is denied and the requester seeks to withdraw the request for

restraining orders, all of the following apply:

(i) The court must not file the request for restraining order and the

accompanying proposed order forms and must return the documents to

the requester personally, destroy the documents, or delete the documents

from any electronic files;

(ii) The order denying confidentiality must be filed and maintained in a

public file; and

(iii) The request for confidentiality must be filed and maintained in a

confidential file.

(4) Need for additional facts

If the court finds that the request for confidentiality is insufficiently specific to meet

the requirements under Code of Civil Procedure section 527.6(v)(2) for granting the

request, the court may take testimony from the minor, or legal guardian, the person

requesting a protective order, or other competent witness, in a closed hearing in order

to determine if there are additional facts that would support granting the request.

(e) Orders on request for confidentiality

(1) Rulings

The court may grant the entire request, deny the entire request, or partially grant the

request for confidentiality.

(2) Order granting request for confidentiality

(A) Applicability

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An order made under Code of Civil Procedure section 527.6(v) applies in this

case and in any other civil case to all registers of actions, indexes, court

calendars, pleadings, discovery documents, and other documents filed or served

in the action, and at hearings, trial, and other court proceedings that are open to

the public.

(B) Minor’s name

If the court grants a request for confidentiality of the minor’s name and:

(i) If the minor is a party to the action, the court must use the initials of the

minor or other initials, at the discretion of the court. In addition, the court

must use only initials to identify both parties to the action if using the

other party’s name would likely reveal the identity of the minor.

(ii) If the minor is not a party to the action, the court must not include any

information that would likely reveal the identity of the minor, including

whether the minor lives with the person making the request for

confidentiality.

If the court grants a request for confidentiality, the order must specifically

identify the information about the minor in Request for Civil Harassment

Restraining Orders (form CH-100) and any other applicable document that

must be kept confidential. Information about the minor ordered confidential by

the court must not be made available to the public.

(D) Service

The other party, or both parties if the person making the request for

confidentiality is not a party to the action, must be served with a copy of the

Request to Keep Minor’s Information Confidential (form CH-160), Order on

Request to Keep Minor’s Information Confidential (form CH-165) and Notice

of Order Protecting Information of Minor (form CH-170), redacted if required

under (f)(4).

(3) Order denying request for confidentiality

(A) The order denying confidentiality must be filed and maintained in a public file.

The request for confidentiality must be filed and maintained in a confidential

file.

(B) Notwithstanding denial of a request to keep the minor’s address confidential,

the address may be confidential under other statutory provisions.

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(i) If a request for confidentiality is denied and the request for restraining

order has been withdrawn, and if no other action is pending before the

court in the case, then the Request to Keep Minor’s Information

Confidential (form CH-160) and Order on Request to Keep Minor’s

Information Confidential (form CH-165) must not be served on the other

party, or both parties if the person making the request for confidentiality

is not a party to the action.

(ii) If a request for confidentiality is denied and the request for restraining

order has not been withdrawn, or if an action between the same parties is

pending before the court, then the Request to Keep Minor’s Information

Confidential (form CH-160) and Order on Request to Keep Minor’s

Information Confidential (form CH-165) must be served on the other

party, or both parties if the person making the request for confidentiality

is not a party to the action.

(f) Procedures to protect confidential information when request is granted

(1) If a request for confidentiality is granted in whole or in part, the court, in its

discretion, and taking into consideration the factors stated in (g), must ensure that the

order granting confidentiality is maintained in the most effective manner by:

(A) The judicial officer redacting all information to be kept confidential from all

applicable documents;

(B) Ordering the requesting party or the requesting party’s attorney to prepare a

redacted copy of all applicable documents and submit all redacted copies to the

court for review and filing; or

preparation of a redacted copy of all applicable documents in compliance with

the court’s order granting confidentiality, provided the selected procedure is

consistent with (g).

(2) The redacted copy or copies must be filed and maintained in a public file, and the

unredacted copy or copies must be filed and maintained in a confidential file.

(3) Information that is made confidential from the public and the restrained person must

be filed in a confidential file accessible only to the minor or minors who are subjects

of the order of confidentiality, or the legal guardian who requested confidentiality,

law enforcement for enforcement purposes only, and the court.

(4) Any information that is made confidential from the restrained person must be

redacted from the copy that will be served on the restrained person.

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(g) Factors in selecting redaction procedures

In determining the procedure to follow under (f), the court must consider the following

factors:

(1) Whether the requesting party is represented by an attorney;

(2) Whether the requesting party has immediate access to a self-help center or other

legal assistance;

(3) Whether the requesting party is capable of preparing redacted materials without

assistance;

(4) Whether the redactions to the applicable documents are simple or complex; and

(5) When applicable, whether the selected procedure will ensure that the orders on the

request for restraining order and the request for confidentiality are issued and

redacted in an expeditious and timely manner.

(Subd (g) amended effective September 1, 2020.

(h) Releasing minor’s confidential information

(1) To respondent

Information about a protected minor must be released to the respondent only as

provided in Code of Civil Procedure section 527.6(v)(4)(A)(ii), limited to

information necessary to allow the respondent to respond to the request for the

protective order and to comply with the confidentiality order and the protective

order.

(2) To law enforcement

Information about a minor must be shared with law enforcement as provided in Code

of Civil Procedure section 527.6(v)(4)(A)(i) or by court order.

(3) To other persons

If the court finds it is necessary to prevent harassment or is in the best interest of the

minor, the court may release confidential information on the request of any person or

entity or on the court’s own motion.

(A) Request for release of confidential information

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(i) Any person or entity may request the release of confidential information

by filing Request for Release of Minor’s Confidential Information (form

CH-176) and a proposed, Order on Request for Release of Minor’s

Confidential Information (form CH-179), with the court.

(ii) Within 10 days after filing form CH-176 with the clerk, the clerk must

serve, by first-class mail, the following documents on the minor or legal

guardian who made the request to keep the minor’s information

confidential:

a. Cover Sheet for Confidential Information (form CH-175);

b. Request for Release of Minor’s Confidential Information (form CH-

176);

c. Notice of Request for Release of Minor’s Confidential Information

(form CH-177);

d. Response to Request for Release of Minor’s Confidential

Information (form CH-178) (blank copy);

e. Order on Request for Release of Minor’s Confidential Information

(form CH-179).

(B) Opportunity to object

(i) The person who made the request for confidentiality has the right to

object by filing form CH-178 within 20 days from the date of the mailing

of form CH-177, or verbally objecting at a hearing, if one is held.

(ii) The person filing a response must serve a copy of the response (form

CH-178) on the person requesting release of confidential information.

Service must occur before filing the response form with the court unless

the response form contains confidential information. If the response form

contains confidential information, service must be done as soon as

possible after the response form has been redacted.

(iii) If the person who made the request for confidentiality objects to the

release of information, the court may set the matter for a closed hearing.

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The request may be granted or denied in whole or in part without a hearing.

Alternatively, the court may set the matter for hearing on at least 10 days’ notice to

the person who made the request for release of confidential information and the

person who made the request for confidential information. Any hearing must be

confidential.

(i) Order granting release of confidential information

a. The order (form CH-179) granting the release of confidential

information must be prepared in a manner consistent with the

procedures outlined in (f).

b. A redacted copy of the order (form CH-179) must be filed in a public

file and an unredacted copy of the order must be filed in a

confidential file.

c. Service

If the court grants the request for release of information based on the

pleadings, the court must mail a copy of form CH-179 to the person

who filed form CH-176 and the person who made the request to keep

the minor’s information confidential. Parties may be served in court if

present at the hearing.

(ii) Order denying request to release minor’s confidential information

a. The court may deny a request to release confidential information

based on the request alone.

b. The order (form CH-179) denying the release of confidential

information must be filed in a public file and must not include any

confidential information.

c. Service

If the court denies the request for release of information based on the

pleadings, the court must mail a copy of form CH-179 to the person

who filed form CH-176 and the person who made the request to keep

the minor’s information confidential. Parties may be served in court if

present at the hearing.

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(iii) If the court finds that the request to release confidential information is

insufficiently specific to meet the requirements under Code of Civil

Procedure section 527.6(v)(4)(C), the court may conduct a closed

hearing to determine if there are additional facts that would support

granting the request. The court may receive any relevant evidence,

including testimony from the person requesting the release of a minor’s

confidential information, the minor, the legal guardian, the person who

requested the restraining order, or other competent witness.

(Subd (h) amended effective September 1, 2020.)

(i) Protecting information in subsequent filings and other civil cases

(1) Filings made after an order granting confidentiality

(A) A party seeking to file a document or form after an order for confidentiality

has been made must submit the Cover Sheet for Confidential Information

(form CH-175) attached to the front of the document to be filed.

(B) Upon receipt of form CH-175 with attached documents, the court must:

(i) Order a procedure for redaction consistent with the procedures stated in

(f);

(ii) File the unredacted document in the confidential file pending receipt of

the redacted document if the redacted document is not prepared on the

same court day; and

(iii) File the redacted document in the public file after it has been reviewed

and approved by the court for accuracy.

(2) Other civil case

(A) Information subject to an order of confidentiality issued under Code of Civil

Procedure section 527.6(v) must be kept confidential in any other civil case with

the same parties.

(B) The minor or person making the request for confidentiality and any person

who has been served with a notice of confidentiality must submit a copy of the

order of confidentiality (form CH-165) in any other civil case with the same

parties.

(Subd (i) amended effective September 1, 2020.)

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Rule 3.1161 amended effective September 1, 2020; adopted effective January 1, 2019.

Advisory Committee Comment

Subdivisions (a)–(e). The process described in this rule need not be used for minors if the request for

confidentiality is merely to keep an address confidential and a petitioning minor has a mailing address

which need not be kept private that can be listed on the forms. The restraining order forms do not require

the address of a nonpetitioning minor.

This rule and rule 2.551 provide a standard and procedures for courts to follow when a request is made to

seal a record. The standard as reflected in Code of Civil Procedure section 527.6(v)(2) is based on NBC

Subsidiary (KNBC-TV), Inc. v. Superior Court (1999) 20 Cal.4th 1178. The standard recognizes the First

Amendment right of access to documents used at trial or as a basis of adjudication.

Rule 3.1162. Service requirement for respondents who appear remotely

(a) Application of rule

This rule applies to protective orders issued under Code of Civil Procedure sections 527.6,

527.8, and 527.85; Penal Code sections 18100–18205; and Welfare and Institutions Code

section 15657.03.

(b) No additional proof of service required

If the respondent named in an order issued after hearing appears at that hearing through the

use of remote technology, and through that appearance has received actual notice of the

existence and substance of the restraining order after hearing, no additional proof of

service is required for enforcement of the order.

Rule 3.1162 adopted effective January 1, 2024

Article 5. Receiverships

Rule 3.1175. Ex parte application for appointment of receiver

Rule 3.1176. Confirmation of ex parte appointment of receiver

Rule 3.1177. Nomination of receivers

Rule 3.1178. Amount of undertakings

Rule 3.1179. The receiver

Rule 3.1180. Employment of attorney

Rule 3.1181. Receiver’s inventory

Rule 3.1182. Monthly reports

Rule 3.1183. Interim fees and objections

Rule 3.1184. Receiver’s final account and report

Rule 3.1175. Ex parte application for appointment of receiver

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(a) Application

In addition to any other matters supporting an application for the ex parte appointment of a

receiver, the applicant must show in detail by verified complaint or declaration:

(1) The nature of the emergency and the reasons irreparable injury would be suffered by

the applicant during the time necessary for a hearing on notice;

(2) The names, addresses, and telephone numbers of the persons in actual possession of

the property for which a receiver is requested, or of the president, manager, or

principal agent of any corporation in possession of the property;

(3) The use being made of the property by the persons in possession; and

(4) If the property is a part of the plant, equipment, or stock in trade of any business, the

nature and approximate size or extent of the business and facts sufficient to show

whether the taking of the property by a receiver would stop or seriously interfere

with the operation of the business.

If any of the matters listed above are unknown to the applicant and cannot be ascertained

by the exercise of due diligence, the applicant’s declaration or verified complaint must

fully state the matters unknown and the efforts made to acquire the information.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 2002.)

Rule 3.1175 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 349 effective January 1,

1984; previously amended and renumbered as rule 1900 effective January 1, 2002.

Rule 3.1176. Confirmation of ex parte appointment of receiver

(a) Order to show cause

Whenever a receiver is appointed without notice, the matter must be made returnable upon

an order to show cause why the appointment should not be confirmed. The order to show

cause must be made returnable on the earliest date that the business of the court will admit,

but not later than 15 days or, if good cause appears to the court, 22 days from the date the

order is issued.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2002.)

(b) Service of complaint, order to show cause, declarations, and memorandum

The applicant must serve on each of the adverse parties:

(1) A copy of the complaint if not previously served;

(2) The order to show cause stating the date, time, and place of the hearing;

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(3) Any declarations supporting the application; and

(4) A memorandum supporting the application.

Service must be made as soon as reasonably practical, but no later than 5 days after the

date on which the order to show cause is issued, unless the court orders another time for

service.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 2002.)

When the matter first comes on for hearing, the party that obtained the appointment must

be ready to proceed. If that party is not ready to proceed or has failed to exercise diligence

to effect service upon the adverse parties as provided in (b), the court may discharge the

receiver.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 2002.)

(d) Continuance

The adverse parties are entitled to one continuance to enable them to oppose the

confirmation. If a continuance is granted under this subdivision, the order to show cause

remains in effect until the date of the continued hearing.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2002.)

Rule 3.1176 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 351 effective January 1,

1984; previously amended and renumbered as rule 1901 effective January 1, 2002.

Rule 3.1177. Nomination of receivers

At the hearing of an application for appointment of a receiver on notice or at the hearing for

confirmation of an ex parte appointment, each party appearing may, at the time of the hearing,

suggest in writing one or more persons for appointment or substitution as receiver, stating the

reasons. A party’s suggestion is without prejudice to its objection to the appointment or

confirmation of a receiver.

Rule 3.1177 renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 353 effective January 1, 1984;

previously amended and renumbered as rule 1902 effective January 1, 2002.

Rule 3.1178. Amount of undertakings

At the hearing of an application for appointment of a receiver on notice or ex parte, the applicant

must, and other parties may, propose and state the reasons for the specific amounts of the

undertakings required from (1) the applicant by Code of Civil Procedure section 529, (2) the

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applicant by Code of Civil Procedure section 566(b), and (3) the receiver by Code of Civil

Procedure section 567(b), for any injunction that is ordered in or with the order appointing a

receiver.

Rule 3.1178 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1902.5 effective

January 1, 2004.

Rule 3.1179. The receiver

(a) Agent of the court

The receiver is the agent of the court and not of any party, and as such:

(1) Is neutral;

(2) Acts for the benefit of all who may have an interest in the receivership property; and

(3) Holds assets for the court and not for the plaintiff or the defendant.

(b) Prohibited contracts, agreements, arrangements, and understandings

The party seeking the appointment of the receiver may not, directly or indirectly, require

any contract, agreement, arrangement, or understanding with any receiver whom it intends

to nominate or recommend to the court, and the receiver may not enter into any such

contract, arrangement, agreement, or understanding concerning:

(1) The role of the receiver with respect to the property following a trustee’s sale or

termination of a receivership, without specific court permission;

(2) How the receiver will administer the receivership or how much the receiver will

charge for services or pay for services to appropriate or approved third parties hired

to provide services;

(3) Who the receiver will hire, or seek approval to hire, to perform necessary services; or

(4) What capital expenditures will be made on the property.

Rule 3.1179 renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1903 effective January 1, 2002.

Rule 3.1180. Employment of attorney

A receiver must not employ an attorney without the approval of the court. The application for

approval to employ an attorney must be in writing and must state:

(1) The necessity for the employment;

(2) The name of the attorney whom the receiver proposes to employ; and

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(3) That the attorney is not the attorney for, associated with, nor employed by an attorney for

any party.

Rule 3.1180 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1904 effective January

1, 2002.

Rule 3.1181. Receiver’s inventory

(a) Filing of inventory

A receiver must, within 30 days after appointment, or within such other time as the court

may order, file an inventory containing a complete and detailed list of all property of which

the receiver has taken possession by virtue of the appointment.

(Subd (a) lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of untitled subd effective January 1,

2002.)

(b) Supplemental inventory

The receiver must promptly file a supplementary inventory of all subsequently obtained

property.

(Subd (b) lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of untitled subd effective January 1,

2002.)

Rule 3.1181 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1905 effective January

1, 2002.

Rule 3.1182. Monthly reports

(a) Content of reports

The receiver must provide monthly reports to the parties and, if requested, to nonparty

client lien holders. These reports must include:

(1) A narrative report of events;

(2) A financial report; and

(3) A statement of all fees paid to the receiver, employees, and professionals showing:

(A) Itemized services;

(B) A breakdown of the services by 1/10 hour increments;

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(D) If the fees are on another basis, that basis.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(b) Reports not to be filed

The monthly reports are not to be filed with the court unless the court so orders.

Rule 3.1182 amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1906 effective January 1, 2002;

previously renumbered effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.1183. Interim fees and objections

(a) Interim fees

Interim fees are subject to final review and approval by the court. The court retains

jurisdiction to award a greater or lesser amount as the full, fair, and final value of the

services received.

(b) Objections to interim accounts and reports

Unless good cause is shown, objections to a receiver’s interim report and accounting must

be made within 10 days of notice of the report and accounting, must be specific, and must

be delivered to the receiver and all parties entitled to service of the interim report and

accounting.

Rule 3.1183 renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1907 effective January 1, 2002.

Rule 3.1184. Receiver’s final account and report

(a) Motion or stipulation

A receiver must present by noticed motion or stipulation of all parties:

(1) A final account and report;

(2) A request for the discharge; and

(3) A request for exoneration of the receiver’s surety.

(Subd (a) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2004; adopted as part of unlettered subd.)

(b) No memorandum required

No memorandum needs to be submitted in support of the motion or stipulation served and

filed under (a) unless the court so orders.

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(Subd (b) adopted effective January 1, 2004.)

Notice of the motion or of the stipulation must be given to every person or entity known to

the receiver to have a substantial, unsatisfied claim that will be affected by the order or

stipulation, whether or not the person or entity is a party to the action or has appeared in it.

(Subd (c) adopted effective January 1, 2004.)

(d) Claim for compensation for receiver or attorney

If any allowance of compensation for the receiver or for an attorney employed by the

receiver is claimed in an account, it must state in detail what services have been performed

by the receiver or the attorney and whether previous allowances have been made to the

receiver or attorney and the amounts.

(Subd (d) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2004; adopted as part of unlettered subd;

amended and lettered effective January 1, 2004.)

Rule 3.1184 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1908 effective January

1, 2002; previously amended effective January 1, 2004.

Chapter 4. Ex Parte Applications

Rule 3.1200. Application

Rule 3.1201. Required documents

Rule 3.1202. Contents of application

Rule 3.1203. Time of notice to other parties

Rule 3.1204. Contents of notice and declaration regarding notice

Rule 3.1205. Filing and presentation of the ex parte application

Rule 3.1206. Service of papers

Rule 3.1207. Appearance requirements

Rule 3.1200. Application

The rules in this chapter govern ex parte applications and orders in civil cases, unless otherwise

provided by a statute or a rule. These rules may be referred to as “the ex parte rules.”

Rule 3.1200 adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.1201. Required documents

A request for ex parte relief must be in writing and must include all of the following:

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(1) An application containing the case caption and stating the relief requested;

(2) A declaration in support of the application making the factual showing required under rule

3.1202(c);

(3) A declaration based on personal knowledge of the notice given under rule 3.1204;

(4) A memorandum; and

(5) A proposed order.

Rule 3.1201 adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.1202. Contents of application

(a) Identification of attorney or party

An ex parte application must state the name, address, e-mail address, and telephone

number of any attorney known to the applicant to be an attorney for any party or, if no

such attorney is known, the name, address, e-mail address, and telephone number of the

party if known to the applicant.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2016.)

(b) Disclosure of previous applications

If an ex parte application has been refused in whole or in part, any subsequent application

of the same character or for the same relief, although made upon an alleged different state

of facts, must include a full disclosure of all previous applications and of the court’s

actions.

An applicant must make an affirmative factual showing in a declaration containing

competent testimony based on personal knowledge of irreparable harm, immediate danger,

or any other statutory basis for granting relief ex parte.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.1202 amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted effective January 1, 2007; previously amended

effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.1203. Time of notice to other parties

(a) Time of notice

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A party seeking an ex parte order must notify all parties no later than 10:00 a.m. the court

day before the ex parte appearance, absent a showing of exceptional circumstances that

justify a shorter time for notice.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2008.)

(b) Time of notice in unlawful detainer proceedings

A party seeking an ex parte order in an unlawful detainer proceeding may provide shorter

notice than required under (a) provided that the notice given is reasonable.

Rule 3.1203 amended effective January 1, 2008; adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.1204. Contents of notice and declaration regarding notice

(a) Contents of notice

When notice of an ex parte application is given, the person giving notice must:

(1) State with specificity the nature of the relief to be requested and the date, time, and

place for the presentation of the application; and

(2) Attempt to determine whether the opposing party will appear to oppose the

application.

(b) Declaration regarding notice

An ex parte application must be accompanied by a declaration regarding notice stating:

(1) The notice given, including the date, time, manner, and name of the party informed,

the relief sought, any response, and whether opposition is expected and that, within

the applicable time under rule 3.1203, the applicant informed the opposing party

where and when the application would be made;

(2) That the applicant in good faith attempted to inform the opposing party but was

unable to do so, specifying the efforts made to inform the opposing party; or

(3) That, for reasons specified, the applicant should not be required to inform the

opposing party.

If notice was provided later than 10:00 a.m. the court day before the ex parte appearance,

the declaration regarding notice must explain:

(1) The exceptional circumstances that justify the shorter notice; or

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(2) In unlawful detainer proceedings, why the notice given is reasonable.

Rule 3.1204 adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.1205. Filing and presentation of the ex parte application

Notwithstanding the failure of an applicant to comply with the requirements of rule 3.1203, the

clerk must not reject an ex parte application for filing and must promptly present the application

to the appropriate judicial officer for consideration.

Rule 3.1205 adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.1206. Service of papers

Parties appearing at the ex parte hearing must serve the ex parte application or any written

opposition on all other appearing parties at the first reasonable opportunity. Absent exceptional

circumstances, no hearing may be conducted unless such service has been made.

Rule 3.1206 adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.1207. Appearance requirements

An applicant for an ex parte order must appear, either in person or remotely under rule 3.672,

except in the following cases:

(1) Applications to file a memorandum in excess of the applicable page limit;

(2) Applications for extensions of time to serve pleadings;

(3) Setting of hearing dates on alternative writs and orders to show cause; and

(4) Stipulations by the parties for an order.

Rule 3.1207 amended effective January 21, 2022; adopted effective January 1, 2007; previously amended

effective January 1, 2008, and January 1, 2014.

Chapter 5. Noticed Motions

Rule 3.1300. Time for filing and service of motion papers

Rule 3.1302. Place and manner of filing

Rule 3.1304. Time of hearing

Rule 3.1306. Evidence at hearing

Rule 3.1308. Tentative rulings

Rule 3.1310. Reporting of proceedings on motions

Rule 3.1312. Preparation and submission of proposed order

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Rule 3.1300. Time for filing and service of motion papers

(a) In general

Unless otherwise ordered or specifically provided by law, all moving and supporting

papers must be served and filed in accordance with Code of Civil Procedure section 1005

and, when applicable, the statutes and rules providing for electronic filing and service.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2016; previously amended effective January 1, 2000, and

January 1, 2007.)

(b) Order shortening time

The court, on its own motion or on application for an order shortening time supported by a

declaration showing good cause, may prescribe shorter times for the filing and service of

papers than the times specified in Code of Civil Procedure section 1005.

(Subd (b) adopted effective January 1, 2000.)

Proof of service of the moving papers must be filed no later than five court days before the

time appointed for the hearing.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (b); previously relettered effective

January 1, 2000.)

(d) Filing of late papers

No paper may be rejected for filing on the ground that it was untimely submitted for filing.

If the court, in its discretion, refuses to consider a late filed paper, the minutes or order

must so indicate.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (c) effective January 1, 1992;

previously amended and relettered effective January 1, 2000.)

(e) Computation of time

A paper submitted before the close of the clerk’s office to the public on the day the paper is

due is deemed timely filed. Under rules 2.253(b)(7) and 2.259(c), a court may provide by

local rule that a paper that is required to be filed electronically and that is received

electronically by the court before midnight on a court day is deemed filed on that court

day.

(Subd (e) amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as subd (d) effective January 1, 1992;

previously relettered as subd (e) effective January 1, 2000.)

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Rule 3.1300 amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as rule 317 effective January 1, 1984;

previously amended effective January 1, 1992, and January 1, 2000; previously amended and

renumbered as rule 3.1300 effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.1302. Place and manner of filing

(a) Papers filed in clerk’s office

Unless otherwise provided by local rule or specified in a court’s protocol for electronic

filing, all papers relating to a law and motion proceeding must be filed in the clerk’s office.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2016; previously amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(b) Requirements for lodged material

Material lodged physically with the clerk must be accompanied by an addressed envelope

with sufficient postage for mailing the material. Material lodged electronically must clearly

specify the electronic address to which a notice of deletion may be sent. After

determination of the matter, the clerk may mail or send the material if in paper form back

to the party lodging it. If the lodged material is in electronic form, the clerk may

permanently delete it after sending notice of the deletion to the party who lodged the

material.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2017; previously amended effective January 1, 2007, and

January 1, 2016.)

Rule 3.1302 amended effective January 1, 2017; adopted as rule 319 effective January 1, 1984;

previously amended and renumbered as rule 3.1302 effective January 1, 2007; previously amended

effective January 1, 2016.

Rule 3.1304. Time of hearing

(a) General schedule

The clerk must post electronically and at the courthouse a general schedule showing the

days and departments for holding each type of law and motion hearing.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2016; previously amended effective January 1, 2003.)

(b) Duty to notify if matter not to be heard

The moving party must immediately notify the court if a matter will not be heard on the

scheduled date.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2003.)

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A party may give notice that he or she will not appear at a law and motion hearing and

submit the matter without an appearance unless the court orders otherwise. The court must

rule on the motion as if the party had appeared.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2003; previously amended effective January 1, 1992.)

(d) Action if no party appears

If a party fails to appear at a law and motion hearing without having given notice under (c),

the court may take the matter off calendar, to be reset only upon motion, or may rule on the

matter.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2003; previously amended and relettered effective January

1, 1992.)

Rule 3.1304 amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as rule 321 effective January 1, 1984;

previously amended effective January 1, 1992, and January 1, 2003; previously amended and

renumbered as rule 3.1304 effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.1306. Evidence at hearing

(a) Restrictions on oral testimony

Evidence received at a law and motion hearing must be by declaration or request for

judicial notice without testimony or cross-examination, unless the court orders otherwise

for good cause shown.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 2003.)

(b) Request to present oral testimony

A party seeking permission to introduce oral evidence, except for oral evidence in rebuttal

to oral evidence presented by the other party, must file, no later than three court days

before the hearing, a written statement stating the nature and extent of the evidence

proposed to be introduced and a reasonable time estimate for the hearing. When the

statement is filed less than five court days before the hearing, the filing party must serve a

copy on the other parties in a manner to assure delivery to the other parties no later than

two days before the hearing.

(Subd (b) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2003; adopted as part of subd (a).)

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A party requesting judicial notice of material under Evidence Code sections 452 or 453

must provide the court and each party with a copy of the material. If the material is part of

a file in the court in which the matter is being heard, the party must:

(1) Specify in writing the part of the court file sought to be judicially noticed; and

(2) Either make arrangements with the clerk to have the file in the courtroom at the time

of the hearing or confirm with the clerk that the file is electronically accessible to the

court.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2017; adopted as subd (b); previously amended and

relettered effective January 1, 2003; previously amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.1306 amended effective January 1, 2017; adopted as rule 323 effective January 1, 1984;

previously amended effective January 1, 2003; previously amended and renumbered as rule 3.1306

effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.1308. Tentative rulings

(a) Tentative ruling procedures

A trial court that offers a tentative ruling procedure in civil law and motion matters must

follow one of the following procedures:

(1) Notice of intent to appear required

The court must make its tentative ruling available by telephone and also, at the

option of the court, by any other method designated by the court, by no later than

3:00 p.m. the court day before the scheduled hearing. If the court desires oral

argument, the tentative ruling must so direct. The tentative ruling may also note any

issues on which the court wishes the parties to provide further argument. If the court

has not directed argument, oral argument must be permitted only if a party notifies

all other parties and the court by 4:00 p.m. on the court day before the hearing of the

party’s intention to appear. A party must notify all other parties by telephone or in

person. The court must accept notice by telephone and, at its discretion, may also

designate alternative methods by which a party may notify the court of the party’s

intention to appear. The tentative ruling will become the ruling of the court if the

court has not directed oral argument by its tentative ruling and notice of intent to

appear has not been given.

(2) No notice of intent to appear required

The court must make its tentative ruling available by telephone and also, at the

option of the court, by any other method designated by the court, by a specified time

before the hearing. The tentative ruling may note any issues on which the court

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wishes the parties to provide further argument at the hearing. This procedure must

not require the parties to give notice of intent to appear, and the tentative ruling will

not automatically become the ruling of the court if such notice is not given. The

tentative ruling, or such other ruling as the court may render, will not become the

final ruling of the court until the hearing.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective July 1, 2000.)

(b) No other procedures permitted

Other than following one of the tentative ruling procedures authorized in (a), courts must

not issue tentative rulings except:

(1) By posting a calendar note containing tentative rulings on the day of the hearing; or

(2) By announcing the tentative ruling at the time of oral argument.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously repealed and adopted effective July 1,

2000.)

A court that follows one of the procedures described in (a) must so state in its local rules.

The local rule must specify the telephone number for obtaining the tentative rulings and

the time by which the rulings will be available.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective July 1, 2000.)

(d) Uniform procedure within court or branch

If a court or a branch of a court adopts a tentative ruling procedure, that procedure must be

used by all judges in the court or branch who issue tentative rulings.

(Subd (d) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of Subd (c) effective

July 1, 1992.)

(e) Tentative rulings not required

This rule does not require any judge to issue tentative rulings.

(Subd (e) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of Subd (c) effective

July 1, 1992.)

Rule 3.1308 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 324 effective July 1,

1992; previously amended effective July 1, 2000.

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Rule 3.1310. Reporting of proceedings on motions

A court that does not regularly provide for reporting or electronic recording of hearings on

motions must so state in its local rules. The rules must also provide a procedure by which a party

may obtain a reporter or a recording of the proceedings in order to provide an official verbatim

transcript.

Rule 3.1310 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 324.5 effective January

1, 1992.

Rule 3.1312. Preparation and submission of proposed order

(a) Prevailing party to prepare

Unless the parties waive notice or the court orders otherwise, the party prevailing on any

motion must, within five days of the ruling, serve by any means authorized by law and

reasonably calculated to ensure delivery to the other party or parties no later than the close

of the next business day a proposed order for approval as conforming to the court’s order.

Within five days after service, the other party or parties must notify the prevailing party as

to whether or not the proposed order is so approved. The opposing party or parties must

state any reasons for disapproval. Failure to notify the prevailing party within the time

required shall be deemed an approval. The extensions of time based on a method of service

provided under any statute or rule do not apply to this rule.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2011; previously amended effective July 1, 2000, and

January 1, 2007.)

(b) Submission of proposed order to court

The prevailing party must, upon expiration of the five-day period provided for approval,

promptly transmit the proposed order to the court together with a summary of any

responses of the other parties or a statement that no responses were received.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective July 1, 2000.)

If a proposed order is submitted to the court electronically in a case in which the parties are

electronically filing documents under rules 2.250–2.261, two versions of the proposed

order must be submitted:

(1) A version of the proposed order must be attached to a completed Proposed Order

(Cover Sheet) (form EFS-020), and the combined document in Portable Document

Format (PDF) must be filed electronically; and

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(2) A version of the proposed order in an editable word-processing format must also be

sent electronically to the court, with a copy of the e-mail and proposed order also

being sent to all parties in the action.

Each court that provides for electronic filing must provide an electronic address or

addresses to which the editable versions of proposed orders are to be sent and must specify

any particular requirements regarding the editable word-processing format for proposed

orders.

(Subd (c) adopted effective January 1, 2011.)

(d) Failure of prevailing party to prepare proposed order

If the prevailing party fails to prepare and submit a proposed order as required by (a) and

(b) above, any other party may do so.

(Subd (d) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2011; adopted as subd (c); previously

amended effective July 1, 2000.)

(e) Motion unopposed

This rule does not apply if the motion was unopposed and a proposed order was submitted

with the moving papers, unless otherwise ordered by the court.

(Subd (e) relettered effective January 1, 2011; adopted as subd (d) effective July 1, 2000;

previously amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.1312 amended effective January 1, 2011; adopted as rule 391 effective July 1, 1992; previously

amended effective July 1, 2000; previously amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007.

Chapter 6. Particular Motions

Article 1. Pleading and Venue Motions

Rule 3.1320. Demurrers

Rule 3.1322. Motions to strike

Rule 3.1324. Amended pleadings and amendments to pleadings

Rule 3.1326. Motions for change of venue

Rule 3.1327. Motions to quash or to stay action in summary proceeding involving

possession of real property

Rule 3.1320. Demurrers

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(a) Grounds separately stated

Each ground of demurrer must be in a separate paragraph and must state whether it applies

to the entire complaint, cross-complaint, or answer, or to specified causes of action or

defenses.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(b) Demurrer not directed to all causes of action

A demurrer to a cause of action may be filed without answering other causes of action.

(Subd (b) adopted effective January 1,2007.)

A party filing a demurrer must serve and file therewith a notice of hearing that must

specify a hearing date in accordance with the provisions of Code of Civil Procedure section

1005 and, if service is by electronic means, in accordance with the requirements of Code of

Civil Procedure section 1010.6(a)(4) and rule 2.251(h)(2).

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as subd (b); previously amended effective

July 1, 2000; previously amended and relettered as subd (c) effective January 1, 2007.)

(d) Date of hearing

Demurrers must be set for hearing not more than 35 days following the filing of the

demurrer or on the first date available to the court thereafter. For good cause shown, the

court may order the hearing held on an earlier or later day on notice prescribed by the

court.

(Subd (d) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of subd (b).)

(e) Caption

A demurrer must state, on the first page immediately below the number of the case, the

name of the party filing the demurrer and the name of the party whose pleading is the

subject of the demurrer.

(Subd (e) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (c).)

(f) Failure to appear at hearing

When a demurrer is regularly called for hearing and one of the parties does not appear, the

demurrer must be disposed of on the merits at the request of the party appearing unless for

good cause the hearing is continued. Failure to appear in support of a special demurrer may

be construed by the court as an admission that the demurrer is not meritorious and as a

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waiver of all grounds thereof. If neither party appears, the demurrer may be disposed of on

its merits or dropped from the calendar, to be restored on notice or on terms as the court

may deem proper, or the hearing may be continued to such time as the court orders.

(Subd (f) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (d).)

(g) Leave to answer or amend

Following a ruling on a demurrer, unless otherwise ordered, leave to answer or amend

within 10 days is deemed granted, except for actions in forcible entry, forcible detainer, or

unlawful detainer in which case 5 calendar days is deemed granted.

(Subd (g) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (e).)

(h) Ex parte application to dismiss following failure to amend

A motion to dismiss the entire action and for entry of judgment after expiration of the time

to amend following the sustaining of a demurrer may be made by ex parte application to

the court under Code of Civil Procedure section 581(f)(2).

(Subd (h) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (f); previously

amended effective July 1, 1995.)

(i) Motion to strike late-filed amended pleading

If an amended pleading is filed after the time allowed, an order striking the amended

pleading must be obtained by noticed motion under Code of Civil Procedure section 1010.

(Subd (i) amended effective January 1, 2009; adopted as part of subd (f); previously amended

effective July 1, 1995; previously amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007.)

(j) Time to respond after demurrer

Unless otherwise ordered, defendant has 10 days to answer or otherwise plead to the

complaint or the remaining causes of action following:

(1) The overruling of the demurrer;

(2) The expiration of the time to amend if the demurrer was sustained with leave to

amend; or

(3) The sustaining of the demurrer if the demurrer was sustained without leave to

amend.

(Subd (j) amended effective January 1, 2011; adopted as subd (g) effective July 1, 1984; previously

amended and relettered effective January 1, 2007.)

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Rule 3.1320 amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as rule 325 effective January 1, 1984;

previously amended and renumbered as rule 3.1320 effective January 1, 2007; previously amended

effective July 1, 1984, July 1, 1995, July 1, 2000, January 1, 2009, and January 1, 2011.

Rule 3.1322. Motions to strike

(a) Contents of notice

A notice of motion to strike a portion of a pleading must quote in full the portions sought

to be stricken except where the motion is to strike an entire paragraph, cause of action,

count, or defense. Specifications in a notice must be numbered consecutively.

(Subd (a) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of untitled subd

effective January 1, 1984.)

(b) Timing

A notice of motion to strike must be given within the time allowed to plead, and if a

demurrer is interposed, concurrently therewith, and must be noticed for hearing and heard

at the same time as the demurrer.

(Subd (b) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of untitled Subd

effective January 1, 1984.)

Rule 3.1322 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 329 effective January 1,

1984.

Rule 3.1324. Amended pleadings and amendments to pleadings

(a) Contents of motion

A motion to amend a pleading before trial must:

(1) Include a copy of the proposed amendment or amended pleading, which must be

serially numbered to differentiate it from previous pleadings or amendments;

(2) State what allegations in the previous pleading are proposed to be deleted, if any, and

where, by page, paragraph, and line number, the deleted allegations are located; and

(3) State what allegations are proposed to be added to the previous pleading, if any, and

where, by page, paragraph, and line number, the additional allegations are located.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2002.)

(b) Supporting declaration

A separate declaration must accompany the motion and must specify:

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(1) The effect of the amendment;

(2) Why the amendment is necessary and proper;

(3) When the facts giving rise to the amended allegations were discovered; and

(4) The reasons why the request for amendment was not made earlier.

(Subd (b) adopted effective January 1, 2002.)

The court may deem a motion to file an amendment to a pleading to be a motion to file an

amended pleading and require the filing of the entire previous pleading with the approved

amendments incorporated into it.

(Subd (c) adopted effective January 1, 2002.)

(d) Requirements for amendment to a pleading

An amendment to a pleading must not be made by alterations on the face of a pleading

except by permission of the court. All alterations must be initialed by the court or the clerk.

(Subd (d) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2002; adopted as subd (b).)

Rule 3.1324 renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 327 effective January 1, 1984;

previously amended effective January 1, 2002.

Rule 3.1326. Motions for change of venue

Following denial of a motion to transfer under Code of Civil Procedure section 396b, unless

otherwise ordered, 30 calendar days are deemed granted defendant to move to strike, demur, or

otherwise plead if the defendant has not previously filed a response. If a motion to transfer is

granted, 30 calendar days are deemed granted from the date the receiving court sends notice of

receipt of the case and its new case number.

Rule 3.1326 amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as rule 326 effective January 1, 1984;

previously amended effective July 1, 1984; previously amended and renumbered as rule 3.1326 effective

January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.1327. Motions to quash or to stay action in summary proceeding involving

possession of real property

(a) Notice

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In an unlawful detainer action or other action brought under chapter 4 of title 3 of part 3 of

the Code of Civil Procedure (commencing with section 1159), notice of a motion to quash

service of summons on the ground of lack of jurisdiction or to stay or dismiss the action on

the ground of inconvenient forum must be given in compliance with Code of Civil

Procedure sections 1010.6 or 1013 and 1167.4.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2016.)

(b) Opposition and reply at hearing

Any opposition to the motion and any reply to an opposition may be made orally at the

time of hearing or in writing as set forth in (c).

If a party seeks to have a written opposition considered in advance of the hearing, the

written opposition must be filed and served on or before the court day before the hearing.

Service must be by personal delivery, electronic service, fax transmission, express mail, or

other means consistent with Code of Civil Procedure sections 1010, 1010.6, 1011, 1012,

and 1013, and reasonably calculated to ensure delivery to the other party or parties no later

than the close of business on the court day before the hearing. The court, in its discretion,

may consider written opposition filed later.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2016.)

Rule 3.1327 amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted effective January 1, 2009.

Article 2. Procedural Motions

Rule 3.1330. Motion concerning arbitration

Rule 3.1332. Motion or application for continuance of trial

Rule 3.1335. Motion or application to advance, specially set, or reset trial date

Rule 3.1330. Motion concerning arbitration

A petition to compel arbitration or to stay proceedings pursuant to Code of Civil Procedure

sections 1281.2 and 1281.4 must state, in addition to other required allegations, the provisions of

the written agreement and the paragraph that provides for arbitration. The provisions must be

stated verbatim or a copy must be physically or electronically attached to the petition and

incorporated by reference.

Rule 3.1330 amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as rule 371 effective January 1, 1984;

previously amended and renumbered as rule 3.1330 effective January 1, 2007.

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Rule 3.1332. Motion or application for continuance of trial

(a) Trial dates are firm

To ensure the prompt disposition of civil cases, the dates assigned for a trial are firm. All

parties and their counsel must regard the date set for trial as certain.

(Subd (a) repealed and adopted effective January 1, 2004; amended effective January 1, 1995.)

(b) Motion or application

A party seeking a continuance of the date set for trial, whether contested or uncontested or

stipulated to by the parties, must make the request for a continuance by a noticed motion or

an ex parte application under the rules in chapter 4 of this division, with supporting

declarations. The party must make the motion or application as soon as reasonably

practical once the necessity for the continuance is discovered.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 1995.)

Although continuances of trials are disfavored, each request for a continuance must be

considered on its own merits. The court may grant a continuance only on an affirmative

showing of good cause requiring the continuance. Circumstances that may indicate good

cause include:

(1) The unavailability of an essential lay or expert witness because of death, illness, or

other excusable circumstances;

(2) The unavailability of a party because of death, illness, or other excusable

circumstances;

(3) The unavailability of trial counsel because of death, illness, or other excusable

circumstances;

(4) The substitution of trial counsel, but only where there is an affirmative showing that

the substitution is required in the interests of justice;

(5) The addition of a new party if:

(A) The new party has not had a reasonable opportunity to conduct discovery and

prepare for trial; or

(B) The other parties have not had a reasonable opportunity to conduct discovery

and prepare for trial in regard to the new party’s involvement in the case;

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(6) A party’s excused inability to obtain essential testimony, documents, or other

material evidence despite diligent efforts; or

(7) A significant, unanticipated change in the status of the case as a result of which the

case is not ready for trial.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted effective January 1, 2004.)

(d) Other factors to be considered

In ruling on a motion or application for continuance, the court must consider all the facts

and circumstances that are relevant to the determination. These may include:

(1) The proximity of the trial date;

(2) Whether there was any previous continuance, extension of time, or delay of trial due

to any party;

(3) The length of the continuance requested;

(4) The availability of alternative means to address the problem that gave rise to the

motion or application for a continuance;

(5) The prejudice that parties or witnesses will suffer as a result of the continuance;

(6) If the case is entitled to a preferential trial setting, the reasons for that status and

whether the need for a continuance outweighs the need to avoid delay;

(7) The court’s calendar and the impact of granting a continuance on other pending

trials;

(8) Whether trial counsel is engaged in another trial;

(9) Whether all parties have stipulated to a continuance;

(10) Whether the interests of justice are best served by a continuance, by the trial of the

matter, or by imposing conditions on the continuance; and

(11) Any other fact or circumstance relevant to the fair determination of the motion or

application.

(Subd (d) adopted effective January 1, 2004.)

Rule 3.1332 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 375 effective January 1,

1984; previously amended effective January 1, 1985, January 1, 1995, and January 1, 2004.

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Rule 3.1335. Motion or application to advance, specially set, or reset trial date

(a) Noticed motion or application required

A party seeking to advance, specially set, or reset a case for trial must make this request by

noticed motion or ex parte application under the rules in chapter 4 of this division.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(b) Grounds for motion or application

The request may be granted only upon an affirmative showing by the moving party of good

cause based on a declaration served and filed with the motion or application.

Rule 3.1335 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 375.1 effective January

1, 2004.

Article 3. Motions to Dismiss

Rule 3.1340. Motion for discretionary dismissal after two years for delay in prosecution

Rule 3.1342. Motion to dismiss for delay in prosecution

Rule 3.1340. Motion for discretionary dismissal after two years for delay in prosecution

(a) Discretionary dismissal two years after filing

The court on its own motion or on motion of the defendant may dismiss an action under

Code of Civil Procedure sections 583.410–583.430 for delay in prosecution if the action

has not been brought to trial or conditionally settled within two years after the action was

commenced against the defendant.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(b) Notice of court’s intention to dismiss

If the court intends to dismiss an action on its own motion, the clerk must set a hearing on

the dismissal and send notice to all parties at least 20 days before the hearing date.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as part of subd (a) effective January 1,

1990; previously amended and lettered as subd (b) effective January 1, 2007.)

“Conditionally settled” means:

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(1) A settlement agreement conditions dismissal on the satisfactory completion of

specified terms that are not to be fully performed within two years after the filing of

the case; and

(2) Notice of the settlement is filed with the court as provided in rule 3.1385.

(Subd (c) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of Subd (a) effective

January 1, 1990.)

Rule 3.1340 amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as rule 372 effective January 1, 1990;

previously amended and renumbered as rule 3.1340 effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.1342. Motion to dismiss for delay in prosecution

(a) Notice of motion

A party seeking dismissal of a case under Code of Civil Procedure sections 583.410–

583.430 must serve and file a notice of motion at least 45 days before the date set for

hearing of the motion. The party may, with the memorandum, serve and file a declaration

stating facts in support of the motion. The filing of the notice of motion must not preclude

the opposing party from further prosecution of the case to bring it to trial.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2009; previously amended effective January 1, 1986, and

January 1, 2007.)

(b) Written opposition

Within 15 days after service of the notice of motion, the opposing party may serve and file

a written opposition. The failure of the opposing party to serve and file a written

opposition may be construed by the court as an admission that the motion is meritorious,

and the court may grant the motion without a hearing on the merits.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Within 15 days after service of the written opposition, if any, the moving party may serve

and file a response.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(d) Reply

Within five days after service of the response, if any, the opposing party may serve and file

a reply.

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(e) Relevant matters

In ruling on the motion, the court must consider all matters relevant to a proper

determination of the motion, including:

(1) The court’s file in the case and the declarations and supporting data submitted by the

parties and, where applicable, the availability of the moving party and other essential

parties for service of process;

(2) The diligence in seeking to effect service of process;

(3) The extent to which the parties engaged in any settlement negotiations or

discussions;

(4) The diligence of the parties in pursuing discovery or other pretrial proceedings,

including any extraordinary relief sought by either party;

(5) The nature and complexity of the case;

(6) The law applicable to the case, including the pendency of other litigation under a

common set of facts or determinative of the legal or factual issues in the case;

(7) The nature of any extensions of time or other delay attributable to either party;

(8) The condition of the court’s calendar and the availability of an earlier trial date if the

matter was ready for trial;

(9) Whether the interests of justice are best served by dismissal or trial of the case; and

(10) Any other fact or circumstance relevant to a fair determination of the issue.

The court must be guided by the policies set forth in Code of Civil Procedure section

583.130.

(Subd (e) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 1986.)

(f) Court action

The court may grant or deny the motion or, where the facts warrant, the court may continue

or defer its ruling on the matter pending performance by either party of any conditions

relating to trial or dismissal of the case that may be required by the court to effectuate

substantial justice.

Rule 3.1342 amended effective January 1, 2009; adopted as rule 373 effective January 1, 1984;

previously amended effective January 1, 1986; previously amended and renumbered effective January 1,

2007.

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Article 4. Discovery Motions

Title 3, Civil Rules—Division 11, Law and Motion—Chapter 6, Particular Motions—Article 4, Discovery

Motions adopted effective January 1, 2009.

Rule 3.1345. Format of discovery motions

Rule 3.1346. Service of motion papers on nonparty deponent

Rule 3.1347. Discovery motions in summary proceeding involving possession of real

property

Rule 3.1348. Sanctions for failure to provide discovery

Rule 3.1345. Format of discovery motions

(a) Separate statement required

Any motion involving the content of a discovery request or the responses to such a request

must be accompanied by a separate statement. The motions that require a separate

statement include a motion:

(1) To compel further responses to requests for admission;

(2) To compel further responses to interrogatories;

(3) To compel further responses to a demand for inspection of documents or tangible

things;

(4) To compel answers at a deposition;

(5) To compel or to quash the production of documents or tangible things at a

deposition;

(6) For medical examination over objection; and

(7) For issue or evidentiary sanctions.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective July 1, 1987, January

1, 1992, January 1, 1997, and July 1, 2001.)

(b) Separate statement not required

A separate statement is not required under the following circumstances:

(1) When no response has been provided to the request for discovery; or

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(2) When a court has allowed the moving party to submit—in place of a separate

statement—a concise outline of the discovery request and each response in dispute.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2020; adopted effective July 1, 2001.)

A separate statement is a separate document filed and served with the discovery motion

that provides all the information necessary to understand each discovery request and all the

responses to it that are at issue. The separate statement must be full and complete so that

no person is required to review any other document in order to determine the full request

and the full response. Material must not be incorporated into the separate statement by

reference. The separate statement must include—for each discovery request (e.g., each

interrogatory, request for admission, deposition question, or inspection demand) to which a

further response, answer, or production is requested—the following:

(1) The text of the request, interrogatory, question, or inspection demand;

(2) The text of each response, answer, or objection, and any further responses or

answers;

(3) A statement of the factual and legal reasons for compelling further responses,

answers, or production as to each matter in dispute;

(4) If necessary, the text of all definitions, instructions, and other matters required to

understand each discovery request and the responses to it;

(5) If the response to a particular discovery request is dependent on the response given

to another discovery request, or if the reasons a further response to a particular

discovery request is deemed necessary are based on the response to some other

discovery request, the other request and the response to it must be set forth; and

(6) If the pleadings, other documents in the file, or other items of discovery are relevant

to the motion, the party relying on them must summarize each relevant document.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously repealed and adopted effective July 1,

2001.)

(d) Identification of interrogatories, demands, or requests

A motion concerning interrogatories, inspection demands, or admission requests must

identify the interrogatories, demands, or requests by set and number.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (b); previously amended effective

July 1, 1987; previously relettered effective July 1, 2001.)

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Rule 3.1345 amended effective January 1, 2020; adopted as rule 335 effective January 1, 1984;

previously amended effective July 1, 1987, January 1, 1992, January 1, 1997, and July 1, 2001;

previously amended and renumbered as rule 3.1020 effective January 1, 2007; previously renumbered as

rule 3.3145 effective January 1, 2009.

Rule 3.1346. Service of motion papers on nonparty deponent

A written notice and all moving papers supporting a motion to compel an answer to a deposition

question or to compel production of a document or tangible thing from a nonparty deponent must

be personally served on the nonparty deponent unless the nonparty deponent agrees to accept

service by mail or electronic service at an address or electronic service address specified on the

deposition record.

Rule 3.1346 amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as rule 337 effective January 1, 1984;

previously amended effective July 1, 1987; previously amended and renumbered as rule 3.1025 effective

January 1, 2007; previously renumbered as rule 3.1346 effective January 1, 2009.

Rule 3.1347. Discovery motions in summary proceeding involving possession of real

property

(a) Notice

In an unlawful detainer action or other action brought under chapter 4 of title 3 of part 3 of

the Code of Civil Procedure (commencing with section 1159), notice of a discovery

motion must be given in compliance with Code of Civil Procedure sections 1010.6 or 1013

and 1170.8.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2016.)

(b) Opposition and reply at hearing

Any opposition to the motion and any reply to an opposition may be made orally at the

time of hearing or in writing as set forth in (c).

If a party seeks to have a written opposition considered in advance of the hearing, the

written opposition must be served and filed on or before the court day before the hearing.

Service must be by personal delivery, electronic service, fax transmission, express mail, or

other means consistent with Code of Civil Procedure sections 1010, 1010.6, 1011, 1012,

and 1013, and reasonably calculated to ensure delivery to the other party or parties no later

than the close of business on the court day before the hearing. The court, in its discretion,

may consider written opposition filed later.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2016.)

Rule 3.1347 amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted effective January 1, 2009.

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Rule 3.1348. Sanctions for failure to provide discovery

(a) Sanctions despite no opposition

The court may award sanctions under the Discovery Act in favor of a party who files a

motion to compel discovery, even though no opposition to the motion was filed, or

opposition to the motion was withdrawn, or the requested discovery was provided to the

moving party after the motion was filed.

(b) Failure to oppose not an admission

The failure to file a written opposition or to appear at a hearing or the voluntary provision

of discovery shall not be deemed an admission that the motion was proper or that sanctions

should be awarded.

Rule 3.1348 renumbered effective January 1, 2009; adopted as rule 341 effective July 1, 2001; previously

renumbered as rule 3.1030 effective January 1, 2007.

Article 5. Summary Judgment Motions

Title 3, Civil Rules—Division 11, Law and Motion—Chapter 6, Particular Motions—Article 5, Summary

Judgment Motions renumbered effective January 1, 2009; adopted as article 4 effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.1350. Motion for summary judgment or summary adjudication

Rule 3.1352. Objections to evidence

Rule 3.1354. Written objections to evidence

Rule 3.1351. Motions for summary judgment in summary proceeding involving possession

of real property

Rule 3.1350. Motion for summary judgment or summary adjudication

(a) Definitions

As used in this rule:

(1) “Motion” refers to either a motion for summary judgment or a motion for summary

adjudication.

(2) “Material facts” are facts that relate to the cause of action, claim for damages, issue

of duty, or affirmative defense that is the subject of the motion and that could make a

difference in the disposition of the motion.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2016.)

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(b) Motion for summary adjudication

If made in the alternative, a motion for summary adjudication may make reference to and

depend on the same evidence submitted in support of the summary judgment motion. If

summary adjudication is sought, whether separately or as an alternative to the motion for

summary judgment, the specific cause of action, affirmative defense, claims for damages,

or issues of duty must be stated specifically in the notice of motion and be repeated,

verbatim, in the separate statement of undisputed material facts.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 2002.)

Except as provided in Code of Civil Procedure section 437c(r) and rule 3.1351, the motion

must contain and be supported by the following documents:

(1) Notice of motion by [moving party] for summary judgment or summary adjudication

or both;

(2) Separate statement of undisputed material facts in support of [moving party’s]

motion for summary judgment or summary adjudication or both;

(3) Memorandum in support of [moving party’s] motion for summary judgment or

summary adjudication or both;

(4) Evidence in support of [moving party’s] motion for summary judgment or summary

adjudication or both; and

(5) Request for judicial notice in support of [moving party’s] motion for summary

judgment or summary adjudication or both (if appropriate).

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2009; previously amended effective January 1, 2002, and

January 1, 2007.)

(d) Separate statement in support of motion

(1) The Separate Statement of Undisputed Material Facts in support of a motion must

separately identify:

(A) Each cause of action, claim for damages, issue of duty, or affirmative defense

that is the subject of the motion; and

(B) Each supporting material fact claimed to be without dispute with respect to the

cause of action, claim for damages, issue of duty, or affirmative defense that is

the subject of the motion.

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(2) The separate statement should include only material facts and not any facts that are

not pertinent to the disposition of the motion.

(3) The separate statement must be in the two-column format specified in (h). The

statement must state in numerical sequence the undisputed material facts in the first

column followed by the evidence that establishes those undisputed facts in that same

column. Citation to the evidence in support of each material fact must include

reference to the exhibit, title, page, and line numbers.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2016; previously amended effective January 1, 2002,

January 1, 2007, and January 1, 2008.)

(e) Documents in opposition to motion

Except as provided in Code of Civil Procedure section 437c(r) and rule 3.1351, the

opposition to a motion must consist of the following separate documents, titled as shown:

(1) [Opposing party’s] memorandum in opposition to [moving party’s] motion for

summary judgment or summary adjudication or both;

(2) [Opposing party’s] separate statement in opposition to [moving party’s] motion for

summary judgment or summary adjudication or both;

(3) [Opposing party’s] evidence in opposition to [moving party’s] motion for summary

judgment or summary adjudication or both (if appropriate); and

(4) [Opposing party’s] request for judicial notice in opposition to [moving party’s]

motion for summary judgment or summary adjudication or both (if appropriate).

(Subd (e) amended effective January 1, 2016; previously amended effective January 1, 2002,

January 1, 2007, and January 1, 2009.)

(f) Content of separate statement in opposition to motion

The Separate Statement in Opposition to Motion must be in the two-column format

specified in (h).

(1) Each material fact claimed by the moving party to be undisputed must be set out

verbatim on the left side of the page, below which must be set out the evidence said

by the moving party to establish that fact, complete with the moving party’s

references to exhibits.

(2) On the right side of the page, directly opposite the recitation of the moving party’s

statement of material facts and supporting evidence, the response must unequivocally

state whether that fact is “disputed” or “undisputed.” An opposing party who

contends that a fact is disputed must state, on the right side of the page directly

opposite the fact in dispute, the nature of the dispute and describe the evidence that

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supports the position that the fact is controverted. Citation to the evidence in support

of the position that a fact is controverted must include reference to the exhibit, title,

page, and line numbers.

(3) If the opposing party contends that additional material facts are pertinent to the

disposition of the motion, those facts must be set forth in the separate statement. The

separate statement should include only material facts and not any facts that are not

pertinent to the disposition of the motion. Each fact must be followed by the

evidence that establishes the fact. Citation to the evidence in support of each material

fact must include reference to the exhibit, title, page, and line numbers.

(Subd (f) amended effective January 1, 2016; previously amended effective January 1, 2002.)

(g) Documentary evidence

If evidence in support of or in opposition to a motion exceeds 25 pages, the evidence must

be separately bound and must include a table of contents.

(Subd (g) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 2002.)

(h) Format for separate statements

Supporting and opposing separate statements in a motion for summary judgment must

follow this format:

Supporting statement:

Moving Party’s Undisputed Material

Facts and Supporting Ev

dence:

Opposing Party’s Response and

Support

ing Eviden

ce:

1. Plaintiff and defendant entered into a

written contract for the sale of widgets.

Jackson declaration, 2:17-21; contract,

Ex. A to Jackson declaration.

2. No widgets were ever received.

Jackson declaration, 3:7-21.

Opposing statement:

Moving Party’s Undisputed Material

Fact

s a

nd Alleged S

upp

ort

ing Eviden

ce:

Opposing Party’s Response and

Evidence:

1. Plaintiff and defendant entered into a

written co

ntrac

for the sale of widgets.

Undisputed.

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Jackson declaration, 2:17-21; contract,

Ex. A to Jackson declaration.

2. No widgets were ever received.

Jackson declaration, 3:7-21.

Disputed. The widgets were received in

New Zealand on August 31, 2001.

aygi

claration, 7:2

Supporting and opposing separate statements in a motion for summary adjudication must

follow this format:

Supporting statement:

ISSUE 1—THE FIRST CAUSE OF ACTION FOR

NEGLIGENCE IS BARRED BECAUSE PLAINTIFF

EXPRESSLY ASSUMED THE RISK OF INJURY

Moving Party’s Undisputed Material

Facts and Supporting

Evidence:

Opposing Party’s Response and

Supporting

idence:

1. Plaintiff was injured while mountain

climbing on a trip with Any Company

USA. Plaintiff's deposition, 12:3-4.

2. Before leaving on the mountain

climbing trip, plaintiff signed a

waiver of liability for acts

of negligence. Smith declaration,

5:4-5; waiver of liability,

Ex. A to Smith declaration.

Opposing statement:

ISSUE 1—THE FIRST CAUSE OF ACTION FOR

NEGLIGENCE IS BARRED BECAUSE PLAINTIFF

EXPRESSLY ASSUMED THE RISK OF INJURY

Moving Party’s Undisputed Material

Facts and Allege

d S

upporting Ev

ide

nce

Opposing Party’s Response and

idenc

1. Plaintiff was injured while mountain

climbing on a trip with Any Company

USA. Plaintiff's depo

ition,

12:3

Undisputed.

2. Before leaving on the mountain

climbing trip, plaintiff sign

Disputed. Plaintiff did not sign the

wai

ver of

liability; the signature on the

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waiver of liability for acts

of negligence. Smith declaration,

5:4-5; waiver of liability,

Ex. A to Smith declaration.

waiver is forged. Jones declaration,

3:6-7.

(Subd (h) amended effective July 1, 2008; previously amended effective January 1, 1999, January

1, 2002, and January 1, 2008.)

(i) Request for electronic version of separate statement

On request, a party must within three days provide to any other party or the court an

electronic version of its separate statement. The electronic version may be provided in any

form on which the parties agree. If the parties are unable to agree on the form, the

responding party must provide to the requesting party the electronic version of the separate

statement that it used to prepare the document filed with the court. Under this subdivision,

a party is not required to create an electronic version or any new version of any document

for the purpose of transmission to the requesting party.

(Subd (i) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted effective January 1, 2002.)

Rule 3.1350 amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as rule 342 effective July 1, 1997; previously

amended and renumbered as rule 3.1350 effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January

1, 1999, January 1, 2002, January 1, 2008, July 1, 2008, and January 1, 2009.

Advisory Committee Comment

Subdivision (a)(2). This definition is derived from statements in L.A. Nat. Bank v. Bank of

Canton (1991) 229 Cal. App. 3d 1267, 1274 (“In order to prevent the imposition of a summary

judgment, the disputed facts must be 'material,' i.e., relate to a claim or defense in issue which

could make a difference in the outcome.”) and Reid v. Google, Inc. (2010) 50 Cal.4th 512, 532–

533 (Parties are encouraged “to raise only meritorious objections to items of evidence that are

legitimately in dispute and pertinent to the disposition of the summary judgment motion.”)

Subdivisions (d)(2) and (f)(3). Consistent with Reid, supra, these provisions are intended to

eliminate from separate statements facts that are not material, and, thereby reduce the number of

unnecessary objections to evidence.

Rule 3.1351. Motions for summary judgment in summary proceeding involving possession

of real property

(a) Notice

In an unlawful detainer action or other action brought under chapter 4 of title 3 of part 3 of

the Code of Civil Procedure (commencing with section 1159), notice of a motion for

summary judgment must be given in compliance with Code of Civil Procedure sections

1010.6 or 1013 and 1170.7.

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(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2016.)

(b) Opposition and reply at hearing

Any opposition to the motion and any reply to an opposition may be made orally at the

time of hearing or in writing as set forth in (c).

If a party seeks to have a written opposition considered in advance of the hearing, the

written opposition must be filed and served on or before the court day before the hearing.

Service must be by personal delivery, electronic service, fax transmission, express mail, or

other means consistent with Code of Civil Procedure sections 1010, 1010.6, 1011, 1012,

and 1013, and reasonably calculated to ensure delivery to the other party or parties no later

than the close of business on the court day before the hearing. The court, in its discretion,

may consider written opposition filed later.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2016.)

Rule 3.1351 amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted effective January 1, 2009.

Rule 3.1352. Objections to evidence

A party desiring to make objections to evidence in the papers on a motion for summary judgment

must either:

(1) Submit objections in writing under rule 3.1354; or

(2) Make arrangements for a court reporter to be present at the hearing.

Rule 3.1352 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 343 effective January 1,

1984; previously amended effective January 1, 2002.

Rule 3.1354. Written objections to evidence

(a) Time for filing and service of objections

Unless otherwise excused by the court on a showing of good cause, all written objections

to evidence in support of or in opposition to a motion for summary judgment or summary

adjudication must be served and filed at the same time as the objecting party’s opposition

or reply papers are served and filed.

(Subd (a) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as untitled subd; previously

amended and lettered subd (b) effective January 1, 2007.)

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(b) Format of objections

All written objections to evidence must be served and filed separately from the other

papers in support of or in opposition to the motion. Objections to specific evidence must be

referenced by the objection number in the right column of a separate statement in

opposition or reply to a motion, but the objections must not be restated or reargued in the

separate statement. Each written objection must be numbered consecutively and must:

(1) Identify the name of the document in which the specific material objected to is

located;

(2) State the exhibit, title, page, and line number of the material objected to;

(3) Quote or set forth the objectionable statement or material; and

(4) State the grounds for each objection to that statement or material.

Written objections to evidence must follow one of the following two formats:

(First Format):

Objections to Jackson Declaration

Objection Number 1

“Johnson told me that no widgets were ever received.” (Jackson declaration, page 3, lines 7–8.)

Grounds for Objection 1: Hearsay (Evid. Code, § 1200); lack of personal knowledge (Evid.

Code, § 702(a)).

(Second Format):

Objections to Jackson Declaration

Material Objected to:

Grounds for Objection:

1. Jackson declaration, page 3, lines

7–8: “Johnson told me that no

widgets were ever received.”

Hearsay (Evid. Code, §1200); lack of

personal knowledge (Evid. Code, §

702(a)).

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted effective January 1, 2007.)

A party submitting written objections to evidence must submit with the objections a

proposed order. The proposed order must include places for the court to indicate whether it

has sustained or overruled each objection. It must also include a place for the signature of

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the judge. The court may require that the proposed order be provided in electronic form.

The proposed order must be in one of the following two formats:

(First Format):

Objections to Jackson Declaration

Objection Number 1

“Johnson told me that no widgets were ever received.” (Jackson declaration, page 3, lines 7–8.)

Grounds for Objection 1: Hearsay (Evid. Code, § 1200); lack of personal knowledge (Evid.

Code, § 702(a)).

Court’s Ruling on Objection 1:

Sustained: _________ Overruled:_________

(Second Format):

Objections to Jackson Declaration

Material

Objected

to:

Grounds for Objection: Ruling on the Objection

1. Jackson

declaration,

page 3, lines

7–8:

“Johnson

told me that

no widgets

were ever

ceived.”

Hearsay (Evid. Code, §

1200); lack of personal

knowledge (Evid. Code, §

702(a)).

Sustained: _________

Overruled:_________

Date: ______________________ _______________________________

Judge

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.1354 amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as rule 345 effective January 1, 1984;

previously amended and renumbered as rule 3.1354 effective January 1, 2007; previously amended

effective January 1, 2002, and January 1, 2007.

Article 6. Miscellaneous Motions

Title 3, Civil Rules—Division 11, Law and Motion—Chapter 6, Particular Motions—Article 6,

Miscellaneous Motions renumbered effective January 1, 2009; adopted as article 5 effective January 1,

2007.

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Rule 3.1360. Motion to grant lien on cause of action

Rule 3.1362. Motion to be relieved as counsel

Rule 3.1360. Motion to grant lien on cause of action

A motion that a lien be granted on a cause of action, right to relief, or judgment must be

accompanied by an authenticated record of the judgment on which the judgment creditor relies

and a declaration as to the identity of the party involved and the amount due.

Rule 3.1360 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 369 effective January 1,

1984.

Rule 3.1362. Motion to be relieved as counsel

(a) Notice

A notice of motion and motion to be relieved as counsel under Code of Civil Procedure

section 284(2) must be directed to the client and must be made on the Notice of Motion and

Motion to Be Relieved as Counsel—Civil (form MC-051).

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective July 1, 2000.)

(b) Memorandum

Notwithstanding any other rule of court, no memorandum is required to be filed or served

with a motion to be relieved as counsel.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted effective July 1, 2000.)

The motion to be relieved as counsel must be accompanied by a declaration on the

Declaration in Support of Attorney’s Motion to Be Relieved as Counsel—Civil (form MC-

052). The declaration must state in general terms and without compromising the

confidentiality of the attorney-client relationship why a motion under Code of Civil

Procedure section 284(2) is brought instead of filing a consent under Code of Civil

Procedure section 284(1).

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (b); previously relettered and

amended effective July 1, 2000.)

(d) Service

The notice of motion and motion, the declaration, and the proposed order must be served

on the client and on all other parties who have appeared in the case. The notice may be by

personal service, electronic service, or mail.

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(1) If the notice is served on the client by mail under Code of Civil Procedure section

1013, it must be accompanied by a declaration stating facts showing that either:

(A) The service address is the current residence or business address of the client; or

(B) The service address is the last known residence or business address of the

client and the attorney has been unable to locate a more current address after

making reasonable efforts to do so within 30 days before the filing of the

motion to be relieved.

(2) If the notice is served on the client by electronic service under Code of Civil

Procedure section 1010.6 and rule 2.251, it must be accompanied by a declaration

stating that the electronic service address is the client’s current electronic service

address.

As used in this rule, “current” means that the address was confirmed within 30 days before

the filing of the motion to be relieved. Merely demonstrating that the notice was sent to the

client’s last known address and was not returned or no electronic delivery failure message

was received is not, by itself, sufficient to demonstrate that the address is current. If the

service is by mail, Code of Civil Procedure section 1011(b) applies.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2017; adopted as subd (c); previously relettered and

amended effective July 1, 2000; previously amended effective July 1, 1991, January 1, 1996,

January 1, 2007, and January 1, 2009.)

(e) Order

The proposed order relieving counsel must be prepared on the Order Granting Attorney’s

Motion to Be Relieved as Counsel—Civil (form MC-053) and must be lodged with the

court with the moving papers. The order must specify all hearing dates scheduled in the

action or proceeding, including the date of trial, if known. If no hearing date is presently

scheduled, the court may set one and specify the date in the order. After the order is signed,

a copy of the signed order must be served on the client and on all parties that have

appeared in the case. The court may delay the effective date of the order relieving counsel

until proof of service of a copy of the signed order on the client has been filed with the

court.

(Subd (e) amended effective January 1, 2009; adopted as subd (d); previously amended effective

January 1, 1996, and January 1, 2007; previously amended and relettered effective July 1, 2000.)

Rule 3.1362 amended effective January 1, 2017; adopted as rule 376 effective July 1, 1984; previously

amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective July 1, 1991, January

1, 1996, July 1, 2000, and January 1, 2009.

Chapter 7. Civil Petitions

229

Rule 3.1365. Petitions under the California Environmental Quality Act

Rule 3.1366. Lodging and service

Rule 3.1367. Electronic format

Rule 3.1368. Paper format

Rule 3.1365. Petitions under the California Environmental Quality Act

Rules for petitions for relief brought under the California Environmental Quality Act have been

renumbered and moved to division 22 of these rules, beginning with rule 3.2200.

Rule 3.1365 adopted effective July 1, 2014.

Advisory Committee Comment

Former rule 3.1365 on the form and format of administrative record lodged in a CEQA proceeding has

been renumbered as rule 3.2205.

Rule 3.1366. Lodging and service

The party preparing the administrative record must lodge it with the court and serve it on each

party. A record in electronic format must comply with rule 3.1367. A record in paper format

must comply with rule 3.1368. If the party preparing the administrative record elects or is

ordered to prepare an electronic version of the record, (1) a court may require the party to lodge

one copy of the record in paper format, and (2) a party may request the record in paper format

and pay the reasonable cost or show good cause for a court order requiring the party preparing

the administrative record to serve the requesting party with one copy of the record in paper

format.

Rule 3.1366 adopted effective January 1, 2010.

Rule 3.1367. Electronic format

(a) Requirements

The electronic version of the administrative record lodged in the court in a proceeding

brought under the California Environmental Quality Act must be:

(1) In compliance with rule 3.1365;

(2) Created in portable document format (PDF) or other format for which the software

for creating and reading documents is in the public domain or generally available at a

reasonable cost;

(3) Divided into a series of electronic files and include electronic bookmarks that

identify each part of the record and clearly state the volume and page numbers

contained in each part of the record;

230

(4) Contained on a CD-ROM, DVD, or other medium in a manner that cannot be

altered; and

(5) Capable of full text searching.

The electronic version of the index required under rule 3.1365(b) may include hyperlinks

to the indexed documents.

(b) Documents not included

Any document that is part of the administrative record and for which it is not feasible to

create an electronic version may be provided in paper format only. Not feasible means that

it would be reduced in size or otherwise altered to such an extent that it would not be easily

readable.

Rule 3.1367 adopted effective January 1, 2010.

Rule 3.1368. Paper format

(a) Requirements

In the paper format of the administrative record lodged in the court in a proceeding brought

under the California Environmental Quality Act:

(1) Both sides of each page must be used;

(2) The paper must be opaque, unglazed, white or unbleached, 8 1/2 by 11 inches, and of

standard quality no less than 20-pound weight, except that maps, charts, and other

demonstrative materials may be larger; and

(3) Each page must be numbered consecutively at the bottom.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2014.)

(b) Binding and cover

The paper format of the administrative record must be bound on the left margin or

contained in three-ring binders. Bound volumes must contain no more than 300 pages, and

binders must contain no more than 400 pages. If bound, each page must have an adequate

margin to allow unimpaired readability. The cover of each volume must contain the

information required in rule 2.111, be prominently entitled “ADMINISTRATIVE

RECORD,” and state the volume number and the page numbers included in the volume.

Rule 3.1368 amended effective January 1, 2014; adopted effective January 1, 2010.

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Chapter 8. Other Civil Petitions

Title 3, Civil Rules—Division 11, Law and Motion—Chapter 8, Other Civil Petitions; renumbered

effective January 1, 2010; adopted as Chapter 7 effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.1370. Emancipation of minors

Rule 3.1372. Petitions for relief from financial obligations during military service

Rule 3.1370. Emancipation of minors

A petition for declaration of the emancipation of a minor must comply with rule 5.605.

Rule 3.1370 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 270 effective July 1,

1994.

Rule 3.1372. Petitions for relief from financial obligations during military service

(a) Application

This rule applies to petitions for relief from financial obligations made by a servicemember

under Military and Veterans Code section 409.3.

(b) Service of petition

Service of the petition for relief and all supporting papers must be made in the manner

provided by law for service of summons in civil actions.

Unless ordered by the court, no memorandum is required in support of or opposition to a

petition for relief.

Rule 3.1372 adopted effective January 1, 2012.

Division 12. Settlement

Rule 3.1380. Mandatory settlement conferences

Rule 3.1382. Good faith settlement and dismissal

Rule 3.1384. Petition for approval of the compromise of a claim of a minor or a person

with a disability; order for deposit of funds; and petition for withdrawal

Rule 3.1385. Duty to notify court and others of settlement of entire case

Rule 3.1380. Mandatory settlement conferences

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(a) Setting conferences

On the court’s own motion or at the request of any party, the court may set one or more

mandatory settlement conferences.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2008; previously amended effective January 1, 1995, and

July 1, 2002.)

(b) Persons attending

Trial counsel, parties, and persons with full authority to settle the case must personally

attend the conference, unless excused by the court for good cause. If any consent to settle

is required for any reason, the party with that consensual authority must be personally

present at the conference.

(Subd (b) amended and relettered effective July 1, 2002; adopted as subd (c); previously amended

effective January 1, 1995.)

No later than five court days before the initial date set for the settlement conference, each

party must submit to the court and serve on each party a mandatory settlement conference

statement containing:

(1) A good faith settlement demand;

(2) An itemization of economic and noneconomic damages by each plaintiff;

(3) A good faith offer of settlement by each defendant; and

(4) A statement identifying and discussing in detail all facts and law pertinent to the

issues of liability and damages involved in the case as to that party.

The settlement conference statement must comply with any additional requirement

imposed by local rule.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2008; adopted as subd (d); previously amended effective

January 1, 1995, and January 1, 2007; previously amended and relettered effective July 1, 2002.)

(d) Restrictions on appointments

A court must not:

(1) Appoint a person to conduct a settlement conference under this rule at the same time

as that person is serving as a mediator in the same action; or

(2) Appoint a person to conduct a mediation under this rule.

233

(Subd (d) adopted effective January 1, 2008.)

Rule 3.1380 amended effective January 1, 2008; adopted as rule 222 effective January 1, 1985;

previously amended effective January 1, 1995, July 1, 2001, and July 1, 2002; previously amended and

renumbered effective January 1, 2007.

Advisory Committee Comment

Subdivision (d) This provision is not intended to discourage settlement conferences or mediations.

However, problems have arisen in several cases, such as Jeld-Wen v. Superior Court of San Diego County

(2007) 146 Cal.App.4th 536, when distinctions between different ADR processes have been blurred. To

prevent confusion about the confidentiality of the proceedings, it is important to clearly distinguish

between settlement conferences held under this rule and mediations. The special confidentiality

requirements for mediations established by Evidence Code sections 1115–1128 expressly do not apply to

settlement conferences under this rule. This provision is not intended to prohibit a court from appointing a

person who has previously served as a mediator in a case to conduct a settlement conference in that case

following the conclusion of the mediation.

Rule 3.1382. Good faith settlement and dismissal

A motion or application for determination of good faith settlement may include a request to

dismiss a pleading or a portion of a pleading. The notice of motion or application for

determination of good faith settlement must list each party and pleading or portion of pleading

affected by the settlement and the date on which the affected pleading was filed.

Rule 3.1382 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 330 effective July 1,

1999.

Rule 3.1384. Petition for approval of the compromise of a claim of a minor or a person

with a disability; order for deposit of funds; and petition for withdrawal

(a) Petition for approval of the compromise of a claim

A petition for court approval of a compromise or covenant not to sue under Code of Civil

Procedure section 372 must comply with rules 7.950 or 7.950.5, 7.951, and 7.952.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2021.)

(b) Order for the deposit of funds and petition for withdrawal

An order for the deposit of funds of a minor or a person with a disability, and a petition for

the withdrawal of such funds, must comply with rules 7.953 and 7.954.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.1384 amended effective January 1, 2021; adopted as rule 378 effective January 1, 2002;

previously amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007.

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Rule 3.1385. Duty to notify court and others of settlement of entire case

(a) Notice of settlement

(1) Court and other persons to be notified

If an entire case is settled or otherwise disposed of, each plaintiff or other party

seeking affirmative relief must immediately file written notice of the settlement or

other disposition with the court and serve the notice on all parties and any arbitrator

or other court-connected alternative dispute resolution (ADR) neutral involved in the

case. Each plaintiff or other party seeking affirmative relief must also immediately

give oral notice to all of the above if a hearing, conference, or trial is scheduled to

take place within 10 days.

(2) Compensation for failure to provide notice

If the plaintiff or other party seeking affirmative relief does not notify an arbitrator or

other court-connected ADR neutral involved in the case of a settlement at least 2

days before the scheduled hearing or session with that arbitrator or neutral, the court

may order the party to compensate the arbitrator or other neutral for the scheduled

hearing time. The amount of compensation ordered by the court must not exceed the

maximum amount of compensation the arbitrator would be entitled to receive for

service as an arbitrator under Code of Civil Procedure section 1141.18(b) or that the

neutral would have been entitled to receive for service as a neutral at the scheduled

hearing or session.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 1989, July

1, 2001, July 1, 2002, January 1, 2004, and January 1, 2006.)

(b) Dismissal of case

Except as provided in (c) or (d), each plaintiff or other party seeking affirmative relief must

serve and file a request for dismissal of the entire case within 45 days after the date of

settlement of the case. If the plaintiff or other party required to serve and file the request

for dismissal does not do so, the court must dismiss the entire case 45 days after it receives

notice of settlement unless good cause is shown why the case should not be dismissed.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2009; adopted effective January 1, 1989; previously

amended effective July 1, 2002, January 1, 2004, and January 1, 2006.)

(1) Notice

If the settlement agreement conditions dismissal of the entire case on the satisfactory

completion of specified terms that are not to be performed within 45 days of the

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settlement, including payment in installment payments, the notice of conditional

settlement served and filed by each plaintiff or other party seeking affirmative relief

must specify the date by which the dismissal is to be filed.

(2) Dismissal

If the plaintiff or other party required to serve and file a request for dismissal within

45 days after the dismissal date specified in the notice does not do so, the court must

dismiss the entire case unless good cause is shown why the case should not be

dismissed.

(3) Hearings vacated

(A) Except as provided in (B), on the filing of the notice of conditional settlement,

the court must vacate all hearings and other proceedings requiring the

appearance of a party and may not set any hearing or other proceeding

requiring the appearance of a party earlier than 45 days after the dismissal date

specified in the notice, unless requested by a party.

(B) The court need not vacate a hearing on an order to show cause or other

proceeding relating to sanctions, or for determination of good faith settlement

at the request of a party under Code of Civil Procedure section 877.6.

(4) Case disposition time

Under standard 2.2(n)(1)(A), the filing of a notice of conditional settlement removes

the case from the computation of time used to determine case disposition time.

(Subd (c) amended effective July 1, 2013; adopted effective January 1, 1989; previously amended

effective July 1, 2002, January 1, 2004, and January 1, 2006.)

(d) Compromise of claims of a minor or disabled person

If the settlement of the case involves the compromise of the claim of a minor or person

with a disability, the court must not hold an order to show cause hearing under (b) before

the court has held a hearing to approve the settlement, provided the parties have filed

appropriate papers to seek court approval of the settlement.

(Subd (d) adopted effective January 1, 2009.)

(e) Request for additional time to complete settlement

If a party who has served and filed a notice of settlement under (a) determines that the case

cannot be dismissed within the prescribed 45 days, that party must serve and file a notice

and a supporting declaration advising the court of that party’s inability to dismiss the case

within the prescribed time, showing good cause for its inability to do so, and proposing an

alternative date for dismissal. The notice and a supporting declaration must be served and

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filed at least 5 court days before the time for requesting dismissal has elapsed. If good

cause is shown, the court must continue the matter to allow additional time to complete the

settlement. The court may take such other actions as may be appropriate for the proper

management and disposition of the case.

(Subd (e) adopted effective January 1, 2009.)

Rule 3.1385 amended effective July 1, 2013; adopted as rule 225 effective January 1, 1985; previously

amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 1989,

January 1, 1992, July 1, 2001, July 1, 2002, January 1, 2004, January 1, 2006, and January 1, 2009.

Division 13. Dismissal of Actions

Rule 3.1390. Service and filing of notice of entry of dismissal

A party that requests dismissal of an action must serve on all parties and file notice of entry of

the dismissal.

Rule 3.1390 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 383 effective January 1,

1984.

Division 14. Pretrial [Reserved]

Division 15. Trial

Chapter 1. General Provisions [Reserved]

Chapter 2. Consolidation or Bifurcation of Cases for Trial [Reserved]

Chapter 3. Nonjury Trials [Reserved]

Chapter 4. Jury Trials

Rule 3.1540. Examination of prospective jurors in civil cases

(a) Application

This rule applies to all civil jury trials.

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(Subd (a) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of untitled subd

effective January 1, 1949.)

(b) Examination of jurors by the trial judge

In examining prospective jurors in civil cases, the judge should consider the policies and

recommendations in standard 3.25 of the Standards of Judicial Administration.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2013; adopted as part of untitled subd effective January 1,

1949; previously amended and lettered as subd (b) effective January 1, 2007.)

On completion of the initial examination, the trial judge must permit counsel for each party

that so requests to submit additional questions that the judge will put to the jurors.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2013; adopted as part of untitled subd effective January 1,

1949; previously amended and lettered as subd (c) effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.1540 amended effective January 1, 2013; adopted as rule 228 effective January 1, 1949;

previously amended effective January 1, 1972, January 1, 1974, January 1, 1975, January 1, 1988,

January 1, 1990, June 6, 1990, and July 1, 1993; previously amended and renumbered as rule 3.1540

effective January 1, 2007.

Chapter 4.5. Expedited Jury Trials

Division 15, Trial—Chapter 4.5, Expedited Jury Trials, adopted effective January 1, 2011.

Article 1 Applicability

Rule 3.1545. Expedited jury trials

(a) Application

The rules in this chapter apply to civil actions in which the parties either:

(1) Agree to a voluntary expedited jury trial under chapter 4.5 (commencing with section

630.01) of title 8 of part 2 of the Code of Civil Procedure, or

(2) Are required to take part in an expedited jury trial under chapter 4.6 (commencing

with section 630.20) of title 8 of part 2 of the Code of Civil Procedure.

(Subd (a) amended effective July 1, 2016.)

(b) Definitions

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As used in this chapter, unless the context or subject matter otherwise requires:

(1) “Consent order” means the consent order granting an expedited jury trial described

in Code of Civil Procedure section 630.03.

(2) “Expedited jury trial” is a short jury trial before a reduced jury panel, and may be

either a “mandatory expedited jury trial” or “voluntary expedited jury trial”.

(3) “Mandatory expedited jury trial” has the same meaning as stated in Code of Civil

Procedure section 630.21.

(4) “Voluntary expedited jury trial” has the same meaning as stated for “expedited jury

trial” in Code of Civil Procedure section 630.01.

(5) “High/low agreement” and “posttrial motions” have the same meanings as stated in

Code of Civil Procedure section 630.01.

(Subd (b) amended effective July 1, 2016.)

This chapter does not limit the adoption or use of other expedited trial or alternative

dispute resolution programs or procedures.

Rule 3.1545 amended effective July 1, 2016; adopted effective January 1, 2011.

Article 2. Rules Applicable Only to Cases with Mandatory Expedited Jury Trials

Rule 3.1546. [Former rule 3.1546 enumbered as rule 3.1553 effective July 1, 2016]

Rule 3.1546. Pretrial procedures for mandatory expedited jury trials

Former rule 3.1546. Renumbered effective July 1, 2016

Rule 3.1546 renumbered as rule 3.1553.

Rule 3.1546. Pretrial procedures for mandatory expedited jury trials

(a) Pretrial procedures

The pretrial procedures for limited civil actions set out in Code of Civil Procedure sections

90–100 are applicable to all cases with mandatory expedited jury trials. The statutory

procedures include limited discovery, optional case questionnaires, optional requests for

pretrial statements identifying trial witnesses and exhibits, and the possibility of presenting

testimony in the form of affidavits or declarations.

(b) Case management

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The case management rules in chapter 3 of division 7 of these rules, starting at rule 3.720,

are applicable to all cases with mandatory expedited jury trials, except to the extent the

rules have been modified by local court rules applicable to limited civil cases.

(1) Parties seeking to opt out of mandatory expedited jury trial procedures on grounds

stated in Code of Civil Procedure section 630.20(b) must file a Request to Opt Out of

Mandatory Expedited Jury Trial Procedures (form EJT-003).

(2) Except on a showing of good cause, the request to opt out must be served and filed at

least 45 days before the date first set for trial or, in cases in which the date first set

for trial occurred before July 1, 2016, 45 days before the first trial date after July 1,

2016.

(3) Except on a showing of good cause, any objection to the request must be served and

filed within 15 days after the date of service of the request, on an Objection to

Request to Opt Out of Mandatory Expedited Jury Trial Procedures (form EJT-004).

(4) If the grounds on which a party or parties have opted out of mandatory expedited

jury trial procedures no longer apply to a case, the parties must promptly inform the

court, and the case may be tried as a mandatory expedited jury trial.

(Subd (c) amended effective September 1, 2017.)

(d) Agreements regarding pretrial and trial procedures

Parties are encouraged to agree to procedures or limitations on pretrial procedures and on

presentation of information at trial that could streamline the case, including but not limited

to those items described in rule 3.1547(b). The parties may use Agreement of Parties

(Mandatory Expedited Jury Trial Procedures) (form EJT-018) and the attachment (form

EJT-022A) to describe such agreements.

Rule 3.1546 amended effective September 1, 2017; adopted effective July 1, 2016.

Advisory Committee Comment

Because Code of Civil Procedure section 630.20, which becomes operative July 1, 2016, applies to cases

already on file and possibly already set for trial, as well as cases filed after the statutory provisions go into

effect, the deadlines in rule 3.1546(c) for opt outs and objections may be problematic as applied to cases

set for trial within the first couple of months after the rule goes into effect. It is expected that the good

cause provisions within the rules regarding deadlines, along with judicious use of continuances as

appropriate, will be liberally used to permit courts to manage those cases fairly, appropriately, and

efficiently.

Article 3. Rules Applicable Only to Cases with Voluntary Expedited Jury Trials

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Rule 3.1547. Consent order for voluntary expedited jury trial

Rule 3.1548. Pretrial submissions for voluntary expedited jury trials

Rule 3.1547. Consent order for voluntary expedited jury trial

(a) Submitting proposed consent order to the court

(1) Unless the court otherwise allows, to be eligible to participate in a voluntary

expedited jury trial, the parties must submit to the court, no later than 30 days before

any assigned trial date, a proposed consent order granting an expedited jury trial.

(2) The parties may enter into written stipulations regarding any high/low agreements or

other matters. Only in the following circumstances may a high/low agreement be

submitted to the court with the proposed consent order or disclosed later in the

action:

(A) Upon agreement of the parties;

(B) In any case involving either

(i) A self-represented litigant, or

(ii) A minor, an incompetent person, or a person for whom a conservator has

been appointed; or

(Subd (a) amended effective July 1, 2016.)

(b) Optional content of proposed consent order

In addition to complying with the provisions of Code of Civil Procedure section 630.03(e),

the proposed consent order may include other agreements of the parties, including the

following:

(1) Modifications of the requirements or timelines for pretrial submissions required by

rule 3.1548;

(2) Limitations on the number of witnesses per party, including expert witnesses;

(3) Modification of statutory or rule provisions regarding exchange of expert witness

information and presentation of testimony by such witnesses;

(4) Allocation of the time periods stated in rule 3.1550 including how arguments and

cross-examination may be used by each party in the five-hour time frame;

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(5) Any evidentiary matters agreed to by the parties, including any stipulations or

admissions regarding factual matters;

(6) Any agreements about what constitutes necessary or relevant evidence for a

particular factual determination;

(7) Agreements about admissibility of particular exhibits or demonstrative evidence that

are presented without the legally required authentication or foundation;

(8) Agreements about admissibility of video or written depositions and declarations;

(9) Agreements about any other evidentiary issues or the application of any of the rules

of evidence;

(10) Agreements to use photographs, diagrams, slides, electronic presentations, overhead

projections, notebooks of exhibits, or other methods for presenting information to the

jury;

(11) Agreements concerning the time frame for filing and serving motions in limine; and

(12) Agreements concerning numbers of jurors required for jury verdicts in cases with

fewer than eight jurors.

(Subd (b) amended effective July 1, 2016.)

Rule 3.1547 amended effective July 1, 2016; adopted effective January 1, 2011.

Rule 3.1548. Pretrial submissions for voluntary expedited jury trials

(a) Service

Service under this rule must be by a means consistent with Code of Civil Procedure

sections 1010.6, 1011, 1012, and 1013 or rule 2.251 and be reasonably calculated to assure

delivery to the other party or parties no later than the close of business on the last

allowable day for service as specified below.

(b) Pretrial exchange for voluntary expedited jury trials

Unless otherwise agreed by the parties, no later than 25 days before trial, each party must

serve on all other parties the following:

(1) Copies of any documentary evidence that the party intends to introduce at trial

(except for documentary evidence to be used solely for impeachment or rebuttal),

including, but not limited to, medical bills, medical records, and lost income records;

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(2) A list of all witnesses whom the party intends to call at trial, except for witnesses to

be used solely for impeachment or rebuttal, and designation of whether the testimony

will be in person, by video, or by deposition transcript;

(3) A list of depositions that the party intends to use at trial, except for depositions to be

used solely for impeachment or rebuttal;

(4) A copy of any audiotapes, videotapes, digital video discs (DVDs), compact discs

(CDs), or other similar recorded materials that the party intends to use at trial for

evidentiary purposes, except recorded materials to be used solely for impeachment or

rebuttal and recorded material intended to be used solely in closing argument;

(5) A copy of any proposed jury questionnaires (parties are encouraged to agree in

advance on a questionnaire);

(6) A list of proposed approved introductory instructions, preinstructions, and

instructions to be read by the judge to the jury;

(7) A copy of any proposed special jury instructions in the form and format described in

rule 2.1055;

(8) Any proposed verdict forms;

(9) A special glossary, if the case involves technical or unusual vocabulary; and

(10) Motions in limine.

(Subd (b) amended effective July 1, 2016.)

No later than 20 days before trial, a party may serve on any other party any additional

documentary evidence and a list of any additional witnesses whom the party intends to use

at trial in light of the exchange of information under subdivision (b).

(Subd (c) amended effective July 1, 2016.)

(d) Submissions to court for voluntary expedited jury trials

No later than 20 days before trial, each party must file all motions in limine and must lodge

with the court any items served under (b)(2)–(9) and (c).

(Subd (d) amended effective July 1, 2016.)

(e) Preclusionary effect

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Unless good cause is shown for any omission, failure to serve documentary evidence as

required under this rule will be grounds for preclusion of the evidence at the time of trial.

(f) Pretrial conference for voluntary expedited jury trials

No later than 15 days before trial, unless that period is modified by the consent order, the

judicial officer assigned to the case must conduct a pretrial conference, at which time

objections to any documentary evidence previously submitted will be ruled on. If there are

no objections at that time, counsel must stipulate in writing to the admissibility of the

evidence. Matters to be addressed at the pretrial conference, in addition to the evidentiary

objections, include the following:

(1) Any evidentiary matters agreed to by the parties, including any stipulations or

admissions regarding factual matters;

(2) Any agreement of the parties regarding limitations on necessary or relevant

evidence, including any limitations on expert witness testimony;

(3) Any agreements of the parties to use photographs, diagrams, slides, electronic

presentations, overhead projections, notebooks of exhibits, or other methods of

presenting information to the jury;

(4) Admissibility of any exhibits or demonstrative evidence without legally required

authentication or foundation;

(5) Admissibility of video or written depositions and declarations and objections to any

portions of them;

(6) Objections to and admissibility of any recorded materials that a party has designated

for use at trial;

(7) Jury questionnaires;

(8) Jury instructions;

(9) Special verdict forms;

(10) Allocation of time for each party’s case;

(11) Motions in limine filed before the pretrial conference; and

(12) The parties’ intention on how any high/low agreement will affect an award of fees

and costs.

(Subd (f) amended effective July 1, 2016.)

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(g) Expert witness documents

Any documents produced at the deposition of an expert witness are deemed to have been

timely exchanged for the purpose of (c) above.

Rule 3.1548 amended effective July 1, 2016; adopted effective January 1, 2011.

Article 4. Rules Applicable to All Expedited Jury Trials

Rule 3.1549. Voir dire

Rule 3.1550. Time limits

Rule 3.1551. Case presentation

Rule 3.1552. Presentation of evidence

Rule 3.1553. Assignment of judicial officers

Rule 3.1549. Voir dire

Parties are encouraged to submit a joint form questionnaire to be used with prospective jurors to

help expedite the voir dire process.

Rule 3.1549 amended effective July 1, 2016; adopted effective January 1, 2011.

Rule 3.1550. Time limits

Including jury voir dire, each side will be allowed five hours to present its case, including

opening statements and closing arguments, unless the court, upon a finding of good cause, allows

additional time. The amount of time allotted for each side includes the time that the side spends

on cross-examination. The parties are encouraged to streamline the trial process by limiting the

number of live witnesses. The goal is to complete an expedited jury trial within two trial days.

Rule 3.1550 amended effective July 1, 2016; adopted effective January 1, 2011.

Rule 3.1551. Case presentation

(a) Methods of presentation

Upon agreement of the parties and with the approval of the judicial officer, the parties may

present summaries and may use photographs, diagrams, slides, electronic presentations,

overhead projections, individual notebooks of exhibits for submission to the jurors, or

other innovative methods of presentation approved at the pretrial conference.

(b) Exchange of items

Anything to be submitted to the jury under (a) as part of the evidentiary presentation of the

case in chief must be exchanged 20 days in advance of the trial, unless that period is

modified by the consent order or agreement of the parties. This rule does not apply to items

to be used solely for closing argument.

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(Subd (b) amended effective July 1, 2016.)

The parties should stipulate to factual and evidentiary matters to the greatest extent

possible.

Rule 3.1551 amended effective July 1, 2016; adopted effective January 1, 2011.

Rule 3.1552. Presentation of evidence

(a) Stipulations regarding rules of evidence

The parties may offer such evidence as is relevant and material to the dispute. An

agreement to modify the rules of evidence for the trial made pursuant to the expedited jury

trial statutes commencing with Code of Civil Procedure section 630.01 may be included in

the consent order or agreement of the parties. To the extent feasible, the parties should

stipulate to modes and methods of presentation that will expedite the process, either in the

consent order or at the pretrial conference.

(Subd (a) amended effective July 1, 2016.)

(b) Objections

Objections to evidence and motions to exclude evidence must be submitted in a timely

manner. Except as provided in rule 3.1548(f), failure to raise an objection before trial does

not preclude making an objection or motion to exclude at trial.

Rule 3.1552 amended effective July 1, 2016; adopted effective January 1, 2011.

Rule 3.1553. Assignment of judicial officers

The presiding judge is responsible for the assignment of a judicial officer to conduct an

expedited jury trial. The presiding judge may assign a temporary judge appointed by the court

under rules 2.810–2.819 to conduct an expedited jury trial. A temporary judge requested by the

parties under rules 2.830–2.835, whether or not privately compensated, may not be appointed to

conduct a voluntary expedited jury trial.

Rule 3.1553 amended and renumbered effective July 1, 2016; adopted as rule 3.1546 effective January 1,

2011.

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Chapter 5. Testimony and Evidence [Reserved]

Chapter 6. Expert Witness Testimony [Reserved]

Chapter 7. Jury Instructions

Rule 3.1560. Application

The rules on jury instructions in chapter 4 of division 8 of title 2 of these rules apply to civil

cases.

Rule 3.1560 adopted effective January 1, 2007.

Chapter 8. Special Verdicts

Rule 3.1580. Request for special findings by jury

Whenever a party desires special findings by a jury, the party must, before argument, unless

otherwise ordered, present to the judge in writing the issues or questions of fact on which the

findings are requested, in proper form for submission to the jury, and serve copies on all other

parties.

Rule 3.1580 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 230 effective January 1,

1949.

Chapter 9. Statement of Decision

Rule 3.1590. Announcement of tentative decision, statement of decision,and judgment

Rule 3.1591. Statement of decision, judgment, and motion for new trial following

bifurcated trial

Rule 3.1590. Announcement of tentative decision, statement of decision, and judgment

(a) Announcement and service of tentative decision

On the trial of a question of fact by the court, the court must announce its tentative

decision by an oral statement, entered in the minutes, or by a written statement filed with

the clerk. Unless the announcement is made in open court in the presence of all parties that

247

appeared at the trial, the clerk must immediately serve on all parties that appeared at the

trial a copy of the minute entry or written tentative decision.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2010; previously amended effective January 1, 1969, July

1, 1973, January 1, 1982, January 1, 1983, and January 1, 2007.)

(b) Tentative decision not binding

The tentative decision does not constitute a judgment and is not binding on the court. If the

court subsequently modifies or changes its announced tentative decision, the clerk must

serve a copy of the modification or change on all parties that appeared at the trial.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2010; adopted as part of subd (a); previously amended and

lettered effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 2007.)

The court in its tentative decision may:

(1) State that it is the court’s proposed statement of decision, subject to a party’s

objection under (g);

(2) Indicate that the court will prepare a statement of decision;

(3) Order a party to prepare a statement of decision; or

(4) Direct that the tentative decision will become the statement of decision unless, within

10 days after announcement or service of the tentative decision, a party specifies

those principal controverted issues as to which the party is requesting a statement of

decision or makes proposals not included in the tentative decision.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2010; adopted as part of subd (a); previously amended and

lettered effective January 1, 2007.)

(d) Request for statement of decision

Within 10 days after announcement or service of the tentative decision, whichever is later,

any party that appeared at trial may request a statement of decision to address the principal

controverted issues. The principal controverted issues must be specified in the request.

(Subd (d) adopted effective January 1, 2010.)

(e) Other party’s response to request for statement of decision

If a party requests a statement of decision under (d), any other party may make proposals

as to the content of the statement of decision within 10 days after the date of request for a

statement of decision.

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(Subd (e) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2010; adopted as subd (b); previously

amended effective January 1, 1969, and January 1, 1982; previously amended and relettered as

subd (d) effective January 1, 2007.)

(f) Preparation and service of proposed statement of decision and judgment

If a party requests a statement of decision under (d), the court must, within 30 days of

announcement or service of the tentative decision, prepare and serve a proposed statement

of decision and a proposed judgment on all parties that appeared at the trial, unless the

court has ordered a party to prepare the statement. A party that has been ordered to prepare

the statement must within 30 days after the announcement or service of the tentative

decision, serve and submit to the court a proposed statement of decision and a proposed

judgment. If the proposed statement of decision and judgment are not served and submitted

within that time, any other party that appeared at the trial may within 10 days thereafter:

(1) prepare, serve, and submit to the court a proposed statement of decision and judgment

or (2) serve on all other parties and file a notice of motion for an order that a statement of

decision be deemed waived.

(Subd (f) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2010; adopted as subd (c); previously

amended effective January 1, 1969, July 1, 1973, and January 1, 1982; previously amended and

relettered as subd (e)effective January 1, 2007.)

(g) Objections to proposed statement of decision

Any party may, within 15 days after the proposed statement of decision and judgment have

been served, serve and file objections to the proposed statement of decision or judgment.

(Subd (g) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2010; adopted as subd (d); previously

amended effective January 1, 1969, and January 1, 1982; previously relettered as subd (f) effective

January 1, 2007.)

(h) Preparation and filing of written judgment when statement of decision not prepared

If no party requests or is ordered to prepare a statement of decision and a written judgment

is required, the court must prepare and serve a proposed judgment on all parties that

appeared at the trial within 20 days after the announcement or service of the tentative

decision or the court may order a party to prepare, serve, and submit the proposed

judgment to the court within 10 days after the date of the order.

(Subd (h) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2010; previously amended effective January

1, 1969; previously amended and relettered as subd (e) effective January 1, 1982, and as subd (g)

effective January 1, 2007.)

(i) Preparation and filing of written judgment when statement of decision deemed

waived

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If the court orders that the statement of decision is deemed waived and a written judgment

is required, the court must, within 10 days of the order deeming the statement of decision

waived, either prepare and serve a proposed judgment on all parties that appeared at the

trial or order a party to prepare, serve, and submit the proposed judgment to the court

within 10 days.

(Subd (i) adopted effective January 1, 2010.)

(j) Objection to proposed judgment

Any party may, within 10 days after service of the proposed judgment, serve and file

objections thereto.

(Subd (j) adopted effective January 1, 2010.)

(k) Hearing

The court may order a hearing on proposals or objections to a proposed statement of

decision or the proposed judgment.

(Subd (k) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2010; adopted as subd (f) effective January

1, 1982; previously relettered as subd (i) effective January, 2007.)

(l) Signature and filing of judgment

If a written judgment is required, the court must sign and file the judgment within 50 days

after the announcement or service of the tentative decision, whichever is later, or, if a

hearing was held under (k), within 10 days after the hearing. An electronic signature by the

court is as effective as an original signature. The judgment constitutes the decision on

which judgment is to be entered under Code of Civil Procedure section 664.

(Subd (l) amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as part of subd (e); previously amended and

relettered as subd (h) effective January 1, 2007, and as subd (l) effective January 1, 2010.)

(m) Extension of time; relief from noncompliance

The court may, by written order, extend any of the times prescribed by this rule and at any

time before the entry of judgment may, for good cause shown and on such terms as may be

just, excuse a noncompliance with the time limits prescribed for doing any act required by

this rule.

(Subd (m) relettered effective January 1, 2010; previously amended effective January 1, 1969, and

July 1, 1973; previously amended and relettered as subd (g) effective January 1, 1982, and as

subd (j) effective January 1, 2007.)

(n) Trial within one day

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When a trial is completed within one day or in less than eight hours over more than one

day, a request for statement of decision must be made before the matter is submitted for

decision and the statement of decision may be made orally on the record in the presence of

the parties.

(Subd (n) amended and relettered effective January 1, 2010; adopted as subd (h) effective January

1, 1983; previously amended and relettered as subd (k) effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.1590 amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as rule 232 effective January 1, 1949;

previously amended and renumbered as rule 3.1590 effective January 1, 2007; previously amended

effective January 1, 1969, July 1, 1973, January 1, 1982, January 1, 1983, January 1, 2007, and January

1, 2010.

Rule 3.1591. Statement of decision, judgment, and motion for new trial following

bifurcated trial

(a) Separate trial of an issue

When a factual issue raised by the pleadings is tried by the court separately and before the

trial of other issues, the judge conducting the separate trial must announce the tentative

decision on the issue so tried and must, when requested under Code of Civil Procedure

section 632, issue a statement of decision as prescribed in rule 3.1590; but the court must

not prepare any proposed judgment until the other issues are tried, except when an

interlocutory judgment or a separate judgment may otherwise be properly entered at that

time.

(Subd (a) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of untitled subd.)

(b) Trial of issues by a different judge

If the other issues are tried by a different judge or judges, each judge must perform all acts

required by rule 3.1590 as to the issues tried by that judge and the judge trying the final

issue must prepare the proposed judgment.

(Subd (b) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of untitled subd.)

A judge may proceed with the trial of subsequent issues before the issuance of a statement

of decision on previously tried issues. Any motion for a new trial following a bifurcated

trial must be made after all the issues are tried and, if the issues were tried by different

judges, each judge must hear and determine the motion as to the issues tried by that judge.

(Subd (c) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of untitled subd.)

Rule 3.1591 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 232.5 effective January

1, 1975; previously amended effective January 1, 1982, and January 1, 1985.

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Division 16. Post-trial

Rule 3.1600. Notice of intention to move for new trial

Rule 3.1602. Hearing of motion to vacate judgment

Rule 3.1600. Notice of intention to move for new trial

(a) Time for service of memorandum

Within 10 days after filing notice of intention to move for a new trial in a civil case, the

moving party must serve and file a memorandum in support of the motion, and within 10

days thereafter any adverse party may serve and file a memorandum in reply.

(Subd (a) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of untitled subd

effective January 1, 1949.)

(b) Effect of failure to serve memorandum

If the moving party fails to serve and file a memorandum within the time prescribed in (a),

the court may deny the motion for a new trial without a hearing on the merits.

(Subd (b) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of untitled subd

effective January 1, 1949.)

Rule 3.1600 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 203 effective January 1,

1949; previously amended effective April 1, 1962, January 1, 1971, January 1, 1984, and January 1,

1987; previously amended and renumbered as rule 236.5 effective January 1, 2003.

Rule 3.1602. Hearing of motion to vacate judgment

A motion to vacate judgment under Code of Civil Procedure section 663 must be heard and

determined by the judge who presided at the trial; provided, however, that in case of the inability

or death of such judge or if at the time noticed for the hearing thereon he is absent from the

county where the trial was had, the motion may be heard and determined by another judge of the

same court.

Rule 3.1602 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 236 effective January 1,

1949.

Division 17. Attorney’s Fees and Costs

Rule 3.1700. Prejudgment costs

Rule 3.1702. Claiming attorney’s fees

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Rule 3.1700. Prejudgment costs

(a) Claiming costs

(1) Trial costs

A prevailing party who claims costs must serve and file a memorandum of costs

within 15 days after the date of service of the notice of entry of judgment or

dismissal by the clerk under Code of Civil Procedure section 664.5 or the date of

service of written notice of entry of judgment or dismissal, or within 180 days after

entry of judgment, whichever is first. The memorandum of costs must be verified by

a statement of the party, attorney, or agent that to the best of his or her knowledge

the items of cost are correct and were necessarily incurred in the case.

(2) Costs on default

A party seeking a default judgment who claims costs must request costs on the

Request for Entry of Default (Application to Enter Default) (form CIV-100) at the

time of applying for the judgment.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2016; previously amended effective January 1, 2007, and

July 1, 2007.)

(b) Contesting costs

(1) Striking and taxing costs

Any notice of motion to strike or to tax costs must be served and filed 15 days after

service of the cost memorandum. If the cost memorandum was served by mail, the

period is extended as provided in Code of Civil Procedure section 1013. If the cost

memorandum was served electronically, the period is extended as provided in Code

of Civil Procedure section 1010.6(a)(4).

(2) Form of motion

Unless objection is made to the entire cost memorandum, the motion to strike or tax

costs must refer to each item objected to by the same number and appear in the same

order as the corresponding cost item claimed on the memorandum of costs and must

state why the item is objectionable.

(3) Extensions of time

The party claiming costs and the party contesting costs may agree to extend the time

for serving and filing the cost memorandum and a motion to strike or tax costs. This

agreement must be confirmed in writing, specify the extended date for service, and

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be filed with the clerk. In the absence of an agreement, the court may extend the

times for serving and filing the cost memorandum or the notice of motion to strike or

tax costs for a period not to exceed 30 days.

(4) Entry of costs

After the time has passed for a motion to strike or tax costs or for determination of

that motion, the clerk must immediately enter the costs on the judgment.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2016; previously amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.1700 amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as rule 870 effective January 1, 1987;

previously amended and renumbered as rule 3.1700 effective January 1, 2007; previously amended

effective July 1, 2007.

Rule 3.1702. Claiming attorney’s fees

(a) Application

Except as otherwise provided by statute, this rule applies in civil cases to claims for

statutory attorney’s fees and claims for attorney’s fees provided for in a contract.

Subdivisions (b) and (c) apply when the court determines entitlement to the fees, the

amount of the fees, or both, whether the court makes that determination because the statute

or contract refers to “reasonable” fees, because it requires a determination of the prevailing

party, or for other reasons.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

(b) Attorney’s fees before trial court judgment

(1) Time for motion

A notice of motion to claim attorney’s fees for services up to and including the

rendition of judgment in the trial court—including attorney’s fees on an appeal

before the rendition of judgment in the trial court—must be served and filed within

the time for filing a notice of appeal under rules 8.104 and 8.108 in an unlimited civil

case or under rules 8.822 and 8.823 in a limited civil case.

(2) Stipulation for extension of time

The parties may, by stipulation filed before the expiration of the time allowed under

(b)(1), extend the time for filing a motion for attorney’s fees:

(A) Until 60 days after the expiration of the time for filing a notice of appeal in an

unlimited civil case or 30 days after the expiration of the time in a limited civil

case; or

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(B) If a notice of appeal is filed, until the time within which a memorandum of

costs must be served and filed under rule 8.278(c) in an unlimited civil case or

under rule 8.891(c)(1) in a limited civil case.

(Subd (b) amended effective July 1, 2013; previously amended effective January 1, 1999, January

1, 2006, January 1, 2007, January 1, 2009, and January 1, 2011.)

(1) Time for motion

A notice of motion to claim attorney’s fees on appeal—other than the attorney’s fees

on appeal claimed under (b)—under a statute or contract requiring the court to

determine entitlement to the fees, the amount of the fees, or both, must be served and

filed within the time for serving and filing the memorandum of costs under rule

8.278(c)(1) in an unlimited civil case or under rule 8.891(c)(1) in a limited civil case.

(2) Stipulation for extension of time

The parties may by stipulation filed before the expiration of the time allowed under

(c)(1) extend the time for filing the motion up to an additional 60 days in an

unlimited civil case or 30 days in a limited civil case.

(Subd (c) amended effective January 1, 2010; previously amended effective January 1, 1999,

January 1, 2006, January 1, 2007, and July 1, 2008.)

(d) Extensions

For good cause, the trial judge may extend the time for filing a motion for attorney’s fees

in the absence of a stipulation or for a longer period than allowed by stipulation.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted effective January 1, 1999.)

(e) Attorney’s fees fixed by formula

If a party is entitled to statutory or contractual attorney’s fees that are fixed without the

necessity of a court determination, the fees must be claimed in the memorandum of costs.

(Subd (e) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (d); previously relettered effective

January 1, 1999.)

Rule 3.1702 amended effective July 1, 2013; adopted as rule 870.2 effective January 1, 1994; previously

amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective January 1, 1999,

January 1, 2006, July 1, 2008, January 1, 2009, and January 1, 2011.

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Division 18. Judgments

Rule 3.1800. Default judgments

Rule 3.1802. Inclusion of interest in judgment

Rule 3.1804. Periodic payment of judgments against public entities

Rule 3.1806. Notation on written instrument of rendition of judgment

Rule 3.1800. Default judgments

(a) Documents to be submitted

A party seeking a default judgment on declarations must use mandatory Request for Entry

of Default (Application to Enter Default) (form CIV-100), unless the action is subject to

the Fair Debt Buying Practices Act, Civil Code section 1788.50 et seq., in which case the

party must use mandatory Request for Entry of Default (Fair Debt Buying Practices Act)

(form CIV-105). In an unlawful detainer case, a party may, in addition, use optional

Declaration for Default Judgment by Court (form UD-116) when seeking a court judgment

based on declarations. The following must be included in the documents filed with the

clerk:

(1) Except in unlawful detainer cases, a brief summary of the case identifying the parties

and the nature of plaintiff’s claim;

(2) Declarations or other admissible evidence in support of the judgment requested;

(3) Interest computations as necessary;

(4) A memorandum of costs and disbursements;

(5) A declaration of nonmilitary status for each defendant against whom judgment is

sought;

(6) A proposed form of judgment;

(7) A dismissal of all parties against whom judgment is not sought or an application for

separate judgment against specified parties under Code of Civil Procedure section

579, supported by a showing of grounds for each judgment;

(8) Exhibits as necessary; and

(9) A request for attorney fees if allowed by statute or by the agreement of the parties.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2018; previously amended effective January 1, 2005,

January 1, 2007, and July 1, 2007.)

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(b) Fee schedule

A court may by local rule establish a schedule of attorney’s fees to be used by that court in

determining the reasonable amount of attorney’s fees to be allowed in the case of a default

judgment.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.1800 amended effective January 1, 2018; adopted as rule 388 effective July 1, 2000; previously

amended effective January 1, 2005, and July 1, 2007; previously amended and renumbered effective

January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.1802. Inclusion of interest in judgment

The clerk must include in the judgment any interest awarded by the court.

Rule 3.1802 amended effective January 1, 2014; adopted as rule 875 effective January 1, 1987;

previously amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007.

Rule 3.1804. Periodic payment of judgments against public entities

(a) Notice of election or hearing

A public entity electing to pay a judgment against it by periodic payments under

Government Code section 984 must serve and file a notice of election stipulating to the

terms of such payments, or a notice of hearing on such terms, by the earlier of:

(1) 30 days after the clerk sends, or a party serves, notice of entry of judgment; or

(2) 60 days after entry of judgment.

(b) Time for hearing

Notwithstanding any contrary local rule or practice, a hearing under (a) must be held

within 30 days after service of the notice. The court must make an order for periodic

payments at the hearing.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007.)

Rule 3.1804 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 389 effective January 1,

2002.

Rule 3.1806. Notation on written instrument of rendition of judgment

In all cases in which judgment is rendered upon a written obligation to pay money, the clerk

must, at the time of entry of judgment, unless otherwise ordered, note over the clerk’s official

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signature and across the face of the writing the fact of rendition of judgment with the date of the

judgment and the title of the court and the case.

Rule 3.1806 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 234 effective January 1,

1949.

Division 19. Postjudgment and Enforcement of Judgments

Rule 3.1900. Notice of renewal of judgment

A copy of the application for renewal of judgment must be physically or electronically attached

to the notice of renewal of judgment required by Code of Civil Procedure section 683.160.

Rule 3.1900 amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted as rule 986 effective July 1, 1983; previously

amended and renumbered as rule 3.1900 effective January 1, 2007.

Division 20. Unlawful Detainers

Rule 3.2000. Unlawful detainer—supplemental costs

Rule 3.2005. Settlement opportunities

Rule 3.2000. Unlawful detainer—supplemental costs

(a) Time for filing supplemental cost memorandum

In unlawful detainer proceedings, the plaintiff who has complied with Code of Civil

Procedure section 1034.5 may, no later than 10 days after being advised by the sheriff or

marshal of the exact amount necessarily used and expended to effect the eviction, file a

supplemental cost memorandum claiming the additional costs and specifying the items

paid and the amount.

(Subd (a) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of untitled subd

effective January 1, 1987.)

(b) Motion to tax costs

The defendant may move to tax those costs within 10 days after service of the

supplemental cost memorandum.

(Subd (b) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of untitled subd

effective January 1, 1987.)

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After costs have been fixed by the court, or on failure of the defendant to file a timely

notice of motion to tax costs, the clerk must immediately enter judgment for the costs. The

judgment may be enforced in the same manner as a money judgment.

(Subd (c) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of untitled subd

effective January 1, 1987.)

Rule 3.2000 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of rule 870.4 effective

January 1, 1987.

Rule 3.2005. Settlement opportunities

(a) Policy favoring an opportunity for resolution without trial

The intent of this rule is to promote opportunities for resolution of unlawful detainer cases

before trial. Courts should encourage participation, to the extent feasible, in at least one

opportunity for resolution before trial, including but not limited to a settlement conference,

mediation, or another alternative dispute resolution process.

(b) Exemption for mandatory settlement conference statement deadline

The court may exempt the parties in an unlawful detainer case participating in a mandatory

settlement conference from the five-court-day deadline for submitting a settlement

conference statement set out in rule 3.1380(c).

Rule 3.2005 adopted effective January 1, 2024.

Advisory Committee Comment

The Judicial Council has adopted an optional form—Eviction Case (Unlawful Detainer) Stipulation (form

UD-155)—that can be used to advise the court about any settlement that has been reached before trial.

Subdivision (a). The committee notes that parties may choose but cannot be required to participate in for-

cost mediation or alternative dispute resolution (ADR). This rule is not intended in any way to mandate

for-cost mediation or ADR.

Subdivision (b). Because unlawful detainer cases generally proceed on an expedited basis, this

exemption allows parties in unlawful detainer cases to participate in and complete mandatory settlement

conferences on shorter timelines. Nothing in this rule, including the exemption set out in subdivision (b),

is intended to preclude a court from shortening other deadlines related to alternative dispute resolution

processes.

Division 21. Rules for Small Claims Actions

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Chapter 1. Trial Rules

Rule 3.2100. Compliance with fictitious business name laws

Rule 3.2102. Substituted service

Rule 3.2104. Defendant’s claim

Rule 3.2106. Venue challenge

Rule 3.2107. Request for court order

Rule 3.2108. Form of judgment

Rule 3.2110. Role of clerk in assisting small claims litigants

Rule 3.2100. Compliance with fictitious business name laws

(a) Filing of declaration of compliance

A claimant who is required to file a declaration of compliance with the fictitious business

name laws under Code of Civil Procedure section 116.430 must file the declaration in each

case filed.

(Subd (a) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as untitled subd effective

January 1, 1986.)

(b) Available methods

The clerk must make the declaration of compliance available to the claimant in any one of

the following ways:

(1) The declaration of compliance may be placed on a separate form approved by the

Judicial Council;

(2) The approved Judicial Council form may be placed on the reverse of the Plaintiff’s

Statement to the Clerk or on the back of any Judicial Council small claims form with

only one side; or

(3) The precise language of the declaration of compliance that appears on the approved

Judicial Council form may be incorporated into the Plaintiff’s Statement to the Clerk.

(Subd (b) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of untitled subd

effective January 1, 1986.)

Rule 3.2100 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1701 effective January

1, 1986; previously amended effective July 1, 1991.

Rule 3.2102. Substituted service

If substituted service is authorized by Code of Civil Procedure section 116.340 or other

provisions of law, no due diligence is required in a small claims court action.

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Rule 3.2102 renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1702 effective July 1, 1991.

Rule 3.2104. Defendant’s claim

A defendant may file a claim against the plaintiff even if the claim does not relate to the same

subject or event as the plaintiff’s claim, so long as the claim is within the jurisdictional limit of

the small claims court.

Rule 3.2104 renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1703 effective July 1, 1991.

Rule 3.2106. Venue challenge

A defendant may challenge venue by writing to the court. The defendant is not required to

personally appear at the hearing on the venue challenge. If the court denies the challenge and the

defendant is not present, the hearing must be continued to another appropriate date. The parties

must be given notice of the venue determination and hearing date.

Rule 3.2106 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1704 effective July 1,

1991.

Rule 3.2107. Request for court order

(a) Request before trial

If a party files a written request for a court order before the hearing on the claim, the

requesting party must mail, personally deliver, or if agreed on by the parties electronically

serve a copy to all other parties in the case. The other parties must be given an opportunity

to answer or respond to the request before or at the hearing. This subdivision does not

apply to a request to postpone the hearing date if the plaintiff’s claim has not been served.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2016.)

(b) Request after trial

If a party files a written request for a court order after notice of entry of judgment, the clerk

must send a copy of the request to all other parties in the action. A party has 10 calendar

days from the date on which the clerk sent the request to file a response before the court

makes an order. The court may schedule a hearing on the request, except that if the request

is to vacate the judgment for lack of appearance by the plaintiff, the court must hold a

hearing. The court may give notice of any scheduled hearing with notice of the request, but

the hearing must be scheduled at least 11 calendar days after the clerk has sent the request.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2016.)

Rule 3.2107 amended effective January 1, 2016; adopted effective January 1, 2007.

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Rule 3.2108. Form of judgment

The court may give judgment for damages, equitable relief, or both, and may make other orders

as the court deems just and equitable for the resolution of the dispute. If specific property is

referred to in the judgment, whether it be personal or real, tangible or intangible, the property

must be identified with sufficient detail to permit efficient implementation or enforcement of the

judgment.

Rule 3.2108 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1705 effective July 1,

1991.

Rule 3.2110. Role of clerk in assisting small claims litigants

(a) Provision of forms and pamphlets

The clerk must provide forms and pamphlets from the Judicial Council.

(Subd (a) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of untitled subd

effective July 1, 1991.)

(b) Provision of Department of Consumer Affairs materials

The clerk must provide materials from the Department of Consumer Affairs when

available.

(Subd (b) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of untitled subd

effective July 1, 1991.)

The clerk must inform litigants of the small claims advisory service.

(Subd (c) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of untitled subd effective

July 1, 1991.)

(d) Answering questions

The clerk may answer questions relative to filing and service of the claim, designation of

the parties, scheduling of hearings, and similar matters.

(Subd (d) amended and lettered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as part of untitled subd

effective July 1, 1991.)

Rule 3.2110 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1706 effective July 1,

1991.

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Chapter 2. Small Claims Advisors

Rule 3.2120. Advisor assistance

(a) Notice to parties

The clerk must inform the parties, orally or in writing, about:

(1) The availability of advisors to assist small claims litigants at no additional charge as

provided in Code of Civil Procedure sections 116.260 and 116.940; and

(2) The provisions of Government Code section 818.9.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously amended effective July 1, 1991.)

(b) Training

All small claims advisors must receive training sufficient to ensure competence in the areas

of:

(1) Small claims court practice and procedure;

(2) Alternative dispute resolution programs;

(3) Consumer sales;

(4) Vehicular sales, leasing, and repairs;

(5) Credit and financing transactions;

(6) Professional and occupational licensing;

(7) Landlord-tenant law; and

(8) Contract, warranty, tort, and negotiable instruments law.

It is the intent of this rule that the county must provide this training.

(Subd (b) amended effective January 1, 2007; previously repealed and adopted effective July 1,

1991.)

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In addition to the training required in subdivision (b), each county may establish additional

qualifications for small claims advisors.

(Subd (c) adopted effective July 1, 1991.)

(d) Conflict of interest

A small claims advisor must disclose any known direct or indirect relationship the advisor

may have with any party or witness in the action. An advisor must not disclose information

obtained in the course of the advisor’s duties or use the information for financial or other

advantage.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2007; adopted as subd (c); previously relettered effective

July 1, 1991.)

Rule 3.2120 amended and renumbered effective January 1, 2007; adopted as rule 1725 effective January

1, 1986; previously amended effective July 1, 1991.

Division 22. Petitions Under the California Environmental Quality Act

Chapter 1. General Provisions

Rule 3.2200. Application

Rule 3.2205. Form and format of administrative record lodged in a CEQA proceeding

Rule 3.2206. Lodging and service

Rule 3.2207. Electronic format

Rule 3.2208. Paper format

Rule 3.2200. Application

Except as otherwise provided in chapter 2 of the rules in this division, which govern actions

under Public Resources Code sections 21168.6.6–21168.6.9, 21178–21189.3, 21189.50–

21189.57, 21189.70–21189.70.10, and 21189.80–21189.91, the rules in this chapter apply to all

actions brought under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as stated in division 13

of the Public Resources Code.

Rule 3.2200 amended effective December 31, 2023; adopted effective July 1, 2014; previously amended

effective January 1, 2017, March 11, 2022, and January 1, 2023.

Rule 3.2205. Form and format of administrative record lodged in a CEQA proceeding

(a) Organization

(1) Order of documents

Except as permitted in (a)(3), the administrative record must be organized in the

following order, as applicable:

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(A) The Notice of Determination;

(B) The resolutions or ordinances adopted by the lead agency approving the

project;

statement of overriding considerations;

(D) The final environmental impact report, including the draft environmental

impact report or a revision of the draft, all other matters included in the final

environmental impact report, and other types of environmental impact

documents prepared under the California Environmental Quality Act, such as a

negative declaration, mitigated negative declaration, or addenda;

(E) The initial study;

(F) Staff reports prepared for the administrative bodies providing subordinate

approvals or recommendations to the lead agency, in chronological order;

(G) Transcripts and minutes of hearings, in chronological order; and

(H) The remainder of the administrative record, in chronological order.

(2) List not limiting

The list of documents in (1) is not intended to limit the content of the administrative

record, which is prescribed in Public Resources Code section 21167.6(e).

(3) Different order permissible

The documents may be organized in a different order from that set out in (1) if the

court so orders on:

(A) A party’s motion;

(B) The parties’ stipulation; or

(4) Oversized documents

Oversized documents included in the record must be presented in a manner that

allows them to be easily unfolded and viewed.

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(5) Use of tabs or electronic bookmarks

The administrative record must be separated by tabs or marked with electronic

bookmarks that identify each part of the record listed above.

(b) Index

A detailed index must be placed at the beginning of the administrative record. The index

must list each document in the administrative record in the order presented, or in

chronological order if ordered by the court, including title, date of the document, brief

description, and the volume and page where it begins. The index must list any included

exhibits or appendixes and must list each document contained in the exhibit or appendix

(including environmental impact report appendixes) and the volume and page where each

document begins. A copy of the index must be filed in the court at the time the

administrative record is lodged with the court.

A court may require each party filing a brief to prepare and lodge an appendix of excerpts

that contains the documents or pages of the record cited in that party’s brief.

Rule 3.2205 renumbered effective July 1, 2014; adopted as rule 3.1365 effective January 1, 2010.

Rule 3.2206. Lodging and service

The party preparing the administrative record must lodge it with the court and serve it on each

party. A record in electronic format must comply with rule 3.2207. A record in paper format

must comply with rule 3.2208. If the party preparing the administrative record elects, is required

by law, or is ordered to prepare an electronic version of the record, (1) a court may require the

party to lodge one copy of the record in paper format, and (2) a party may request the record in

paper format and pay the reasonable cost or show good cause for a court order requiring the

party preparing the administrative record to serve the requesting party with one copy of the

record in paper format.

Rule 3.2206 renumbered and amended effective July 1, 2014; adopted as rule 3.1366 effective January 1,

2010.

Rule 3.2207. Electronic format

(a) Requirements

The electronic version of the administrative record lodged in the court in a proceeding

brought under the California Environmental Quality Act must be:

(1) In compliance with rule 3.2205;

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(2) Created in portable document format (PDF) or other format for which the software

for creating and reading documents is in the public domain or generally available at a

reasonable cost;

(3) Divided into a series of electronic files and include electronic bookmarks that

identify each part of the record and clearly state the volume and page numbers

contained in each part of the record;

(4) Contained on a CD-ROM, DVD, or other medium in a manner that cannot be

altered; and

(5) Capable of full text searching.

The electronic version of the index required under rule 3.2205(b) may include hyperlinks

to the indexed documents.

(Subd (a) amended effective July 1, 2014.)

(b) Documents not included

Unless otherwise required by law, any document that is part of the administrative record

and for which it is not feasible to create an electronic version may be provided in paper

format only. Not feasible means that it would be reduced in size or otherwise altered to

such an extent that it would not be easily readable.

(Subd (b) amended effective July 1, 2014.)

Rule 3.2207 renumbered and amended effective July 1, 2014; adopted as rule 3.1367 effective January 1,

2010.

Rule 3.2208. Paper format

(a) Requirements

In the paper format of the administrative record lodged in the court in a proceeding brought

under the California Environmental Quality Act:

(1) Both sides of each page must be used;

(2) The paper must be opaque, unglazed, white or unbleached, 8 1/2 by 11 inches, and of

standard quality no less than 20-pound weight, except that maps, charts, and other

demonstrative materials may be larger; and

(3) Each page must be numbered consecutively at the bottom.

(Subd (a) amended effective January 1, 2014.)

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(b) Binding and cover

The paper format of the administrative record must be bound on the left margin or

contained in three-ring binders. Bound volumes must contain no more than 300 pages, and

binders must contain no more than 400 pages. If bound, each page must have an adequate

margin to allow unimpaired readability. The cover of each volume must contain the

information required in rule 2.111, be prominently entitled “ADMINISTRATIVE

RECORD,” and state the volume number and the page numbers included in the volume.

Rule 3.2208 renumbered effective July 1, 2014; adopted as rule 3.1368 effective January 1, 2010;

previously amended effective January 1, 2014.

Chapter 2. California Environmental Quality Act Proceedings Involving Streamlined

CEQA Projects

Article 1. General Provisions

Rule 3.2220. Definitions and application

Rule 3.2221. Time

Rule 3.2222. Filing and service

Rule 3.2223. Petition

Rule 3.2224. Response to petition

Rule 3.2225. Administrative record

Rule 3.2226. Initial case management conference

Rule 3.2227. Briefing and Hearing

Rule 3.2228. Judgment

Rule 3.2229. Notice of settlement

Rule 3.2230. Settlement procedures and statement of issues

Rule 3.2231. Postjudgment motions

Rule 3.2220. Definitions and application

(a) Definitions

As used in this chapter:

(1) (1) A “streamlined CEQA project” means any project within the definitions stated

in (2) through (9).

(2) An “environmental leadership development project” or “leadership project” means a

project certified by the Governor under Public Resources Code sections 21182–

21184.

(3) The “Sacramento entertainment and sports center project” or “Sacramento arena

project” means an entertainment and sports center project as defined by Public

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Resources Code section 21168.6.6, for which the proponent provided notice of

election to proceed under that statute described in section 21168.6.6(j)(1).

(4) An “Oakland sports and mixed-use project” or “Oakland ballpark project” means a

project as defined in Public Resources Code section 21168.6.7 and certified by the

Governor under that section.

(5) An “Inglewood arena project” means a project as defined in Public Resources Code

section 21168.6.8 and certified by the Governor under that section.

(6) An “expanded capitol building annex project” means a state capitol building annex

project, annex project–related work, or state office building project as defined by

Public Resources Code section 21189.50.

(7) An “Old Town Center transit and transportation facilities project” or “Old Town

Center project” means a project as defined in Public Resources Code section

21189.70.

(8) An “environmental leadership transit project” means a project as defined in Public

Resources Code section 21168.6.9.

(9) An “infrastructure project” means an “energy infrastructure project,” a

“semiconductor or microelectronic project,” a “transportation-related project,” or a

“water-related project” as defined in Public Resources Code section 21189.81 and

certified by the Governor under Public Resources Code sections 21189.82 and

21189.83.

(Subd (a) amended December 31, 2023; previously amended effective January 1, 2017, March 11,

2022, January 1, 2023.)

(b) Proceedings governed

The rules in this chapter govern actions or proceedings brought to attack, review, set aside,

void, or annul the certification of the environmental impact report or the grant of any

project approvals for a streamlined CEQA project. Except as otherwise provided in Public

Resources Code sections 21168.6.6–21168.6.9, 21178–21189.3, 21189.50–21189.57,

21189.70–21189.70.10, and 21189.80–21189.91 and these rules, the provisions of the

Public Resources Code and the CEQA Guidelines adopted by the Natural Resources

Agency (Cal. Code Regs., tit. 14, § 15000 et seq.) governing judicial actions or

proceedings to attack, review, set aside, void, or annul acts or decisions of a public agency

on the grounds of noncompliance with the California Environmental Quality Act and the

rules of court generally apply in proceedings governed by this rule.

(Subd (b) amended effective December 31, 2023; previously amended effective January 1, 2017,

March 11, 2022, and January 1, 2023.)

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Any action or proceeding governed by these rules is exempted from the rules regarding

complex cases.

Rule 3.2220 amended effective December 31, 2023; adopted effective July 1, 2014; previously amended

effective January 1, 2017, March 11, 2022, and January 1, 2023.

Rule 3.2221. Time

(a) Extensions of time

The court may order extensions of time only for good cause and in order to promote the

interests of justice.

(b) Extensions of time by parties

If the parties stipulate to extend the time for performing any acts in actions governed by

these rules, they are deemed to have agreed that the statutorily prescribed time for

resolving the action may be extended by the stipulated number of days of the extension,

and to that extent to have waived any objection to noncompliance with the deadlines for

completing review stated in Public Resources Code sections 21168.6.6–21168.6.9, 21185,

21189.51, 21189.70.3, and 21189.85. Any such stipulation must be approved by the court.

(Subd (b) amended effective December 31, 2023; previously amended effective January 1, 2017,

March 11, 2022, and January 1, 2023.)

If a party fails to comply with any time requirements provided in these rules or ordered by

the court, the court may issue an order to show cause as to why one of the following

sanctions should not be imposed:

(1) Reduction of time otherwise permitted under these rules for the performance of other

acts by that party;

(2) If the failure to comply is by petitioner or plaintiff, dismissal of the petition;

(3) If the failure to comply is by respondent or a real party in interest, removal of the

action from the expedited procedures provided under Public Resources Code

sections 21168.6.6–21168.6.9, 21185, 21189.51, 21189.70.3, and 21189.85, and

these rules; or

(4) Any other sanction that the court finds appropriate.

(Subd (c) amended effective December 31, 2023; previously amended effective January 1, 2017,

March 11, 2022, and January 1, 2023.)

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Rule 3.2221 amended effective December 31, 2023; adopted effective July 1, 2014; previously amended

effective January 1, 2017, March 11, 2022, and January 1, 2023.

Rule 3.2222. Filing and service

(a) Electronic filing

All pleadings and other documents filed in actions or proceedings governed by this chapter

must be filed electronically, unless the action or proceeding is in a court that does not

provide for electronic filing of documents.

(b) Service

Other than the petition, which must be served personally, all documents that the rules in

this chapter require be served on the parties must be served personally or electronically.

All parties represented by counsel are deemed to have agreed to accept electronic service.

All self-represented parties may agree to such service.

Service of the petition or complaint in an action governed by these rules and relating to a

Sacramento arena project must be made according to the rules in article 2.

(d) Service of petition in action regarding streamlined CEQA project other than the

Sacramento arena project

If the petition or complaint in an action governed by these rules and relating to a

streamlined CEQA project other than the Sacramento arena project is not personally served

on any respondent public agency, any real party in interest, and the Attorney General

within three court days following filing of the petition, the time for filing petitioner’s briefs

on the merits provided in rule 3.2227(a) and rule 8.702(f) will be decreased by one day for

every additional two court days in which service is not completed, unless otherwise

ordered by the court for good cause shown.

(Subd (d) amended effective March 11, 2022; previously amended effective January 1, 2017.)

(e) Exemption from extension of time

The extension of time provided in Code of Civil Procedure section 1010.6 for service

completed by electronic means does not apply to any service in actions governed by these

rules.

Rule 3.2222 amended effective March 11, 2022; adopted effective July 1, 2014; previously amended

effective January 1, 2017.

Advisory Committee Comment

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Parties should note that, while Public Resources Code section 21167 provides the statute of limitations for

filing petitions under the California Environment Quality Act, these rules provide an incentive for parties

to file actions governed by these rules more quickly, in the form of extra briefing time for petitioners who

file within 10 days of the issuance of a Notice of Determination. See rule 3.2227(a).

Rule 3.2223. Petition

In addition to any other applicable requirements, the petition must:

(1) On the first page, directly below the case number, indicate that the matter is a

“Streamlined CEQA Project”;

(2) State one of the following:

(A) The proponent of the project at issue provided notice to the lead agency that it

was proceeding under Public Resources Code section 21168.6.6, 21168.6.7,

21168.6.8, or 21168.6.9 (whichever is applicable) and is subject to this rule; or

(B) The proponent of the project at issue provided notice to the lead agency that it

was proceeding under Public Resources Code sections 21189.80–21189.91 and

is subject to this rule; or

leadership development project under Public Resources Code sections 21182–

21184 and is subject to this rule; or

(D) The project at issue is an expanded capitol building annex project as defined by

Public Resources Code section 21189.50 and is subject to this rule; or

(E) The project at issue is an Old Town Center project as defined by Public

Resources Code section 21189.70 and is subject to this rule;

(3) If an environmental leadership development, Oakland ballpark, or Inglewood arena

project, energy infrastructure project, semiconductor or microelectronic project, or

water-related project, provide notice that the person or entity that applied for

certification of the project as such a project must make the payments required by rule

3.2240 and, if the matter goes to the Court of Appeal, the payments required by rule

8.705;

(4) If an environmental leadership transit project, provide notice that the project

applicant must make the payments required by rule 3.2240 and, if the matter goes to

the Court of Appeal, the payments required by rule 8.705; and

(5) Be verified.

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Rule 3.2223 amended effective December 31, 2023; adopted effective July 1, 2014; previously amended

effective January 1, 2017, March 11, 2022, and January 1, 2023.

Rule 3.2224. Response to petition

(a) Responsive pleadings and motions

Respondent and any real party in interest must serve and file any answer to the petition;

any motion challenging the sufficiency of the petition, including any motion to dismiss the

petition; any other response to the petition; any motion to change venue; or any motion to

intervene within 10 days after service of petition or complaint on that party or within the

time ordered by the court. Any such answer, motion, or other response from the same party

must be filed concurrently.

(b) Opposition

Any opposition or other response to a motion challenging the sufficiency of the petition or

to change venue must be served and filed within 10 days after the motion is served.

Rule 3.2224 adopted effective July 1, 2014.

Rule 3.2225. Administrative record

(a) Lodging and service

Within 10 days after the petition is served on the lead public agency, that agency must

lodge the certified final administrative record in electronic form with the court and serve

notice on petitioner and real party in interest that the record has been lodged with the court.

Within that same time, the agency must serve a copy of the administrative record in

electronic form on any petitioner and real party in interest who has not already been

provided a copy.

(b) Paper copy of record

(1) On request of the court, the lead agency shall provide the court with the record in

paper format.

(2) On request and payment of the reasonable cost of preparation, or on order of the

court for good cause shown, the lead agency shall provide a party with the record in

paper format.

Unless otherwise ordered by the court:

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(1) Any request to augment or otherwise change the contents of the administrative

record must be made by motion served and filed no later than the filing of that

party’s initial brief.

(2) Any opposition or other response to the motion must be served and filed within 10

days after the motion is filed.

(3) Any motion regarding the record will be heard at the time of the hearing on the

merits of the petition unless the court orders otherwise.

Rule 3.2225 adopted effective July 1, 2014.

Rule 3.2226. Initial case management conference

(a) Timing of conference

The court should hold an initial case management conference within 30 days of the filing

of the petition or complaint.

(b) Notice

Petitioner must provide notice of the case management conference to respondent, real party

in interest, and any responsible agency or party to the action who has been served before

the case management conference, within one court day of receiving notice from the court

or at time of service of the petition or complaint, whichever is later.

At the conference, the court should consider the following subjects:

(1) Whether all parties named in the petition or complaint have been served;

(2) Whether a list of responsible agencies has been provided, and notice provided to

each;

(3) Whether all responsive pleadings have been filed, and if not, when they must be

filed, and whether any hearing is required to address them;

(4) Whether severance, bifurcation, or consolidation with other actions is desirable, and

if so, a relevant briefing schedule;

(5) Whether to appoint a liaison or lead counsel, and either a briefing schedule on this

issue or the actual appointment of counsel;

(6) Whether the administrative record has been certified and served on all parties,

whether there are any issues with it, and whether the court wants to receive a paper

copy;

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(7) Whether the parties anticipate any motions before the hearing on the merits

concerning discovery, injunctions, or other matters, and if so, a briefing schedule for

these motions;

(8) What issues the parties intend to raise in their briefs on the merits, and whether any

limitation of issues to be briefed and argued is appropriate;

(9) Whether a schedule for briefs on the merits different from the schedule provided in

these rules is appropriate;

(10) Whether the submission of joint briefs on the merits is appropriate, and the page

limitations on all briefs, whether aggregate per side or per brief;

(11) When the hearing on the merits of the petition will be held, and the amount of time

appropriate for it;

(12) The potential for settlement, and whether a schedule for settlement conferences or

alternative dispute resolution should be set;

(13) Any stipulations between the parties;

(14) Whether a further case management conference should be set; and

(15) Any other matters that the court finds appropriate.

(d) Joint case management conference statements

At least three court days before the case management conference, petitioner and all parties

that have been served with the petition must serve and file a joint case management

conference statement that addresses the issues identified in (c) and any other pertinent

issues.

(e) Preparation for the conference

At the conference, lead counsel for each party and each self-represented party must appear

in person or remotely, must be familiar with the case, and must be prepared to discuss and

commit to the party’s position on the issues listed in (c).

(Subd (e) amended effective January 21, 2022.)

Rule 3.2226 amended effective January 21, 2022; adopted July 1, 2014.

Rule 3.2227. Briefing and Hearing

(a) Briefing schedule

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Unless otherwise ordered by the court:

(1) Within 5 days after filing its brief, each party must submit an electronic version of

the brief that contains hyperlinks to material cited in the brief, including

electronically searchable copies of the administrative record, cited decisions, and any

other brief in the case filed electronically by the parties. Such briefs must comply

with any local requirements of the reviewing court relating to e-briefs.

(2) The petitioner must serve and file its brief within 25 days after the case management

conference, unless petitioner served and filed the petition within 10 days of the

public agency’s issuance of its Notice of Determination, in which case petitioner

must file and serve its brief within 35 days after the case management conference.

(3) Within 25 days after the petitioner’s brief is filed, the respondent public agency

must—and any real party in interest may—serve and file a respondent’s brief.

Respondents and real parties must file a single joint brief, unless otherwise ordered

by the court.

(4) Within 5 days after the respondent’s brief is filed, the parties must jointly file an

appendix of excerpts that contain the documents or pertinent excerpts of the

documents cited in the parties’ briefs.

(5) Within 10 days after the respondent’s brief is filed, the petitioner may serve and file

a reply brief.

(b) Hearing

(1) The hearing should be held within 80 days of the case management conference,

extended by the number of days to which the parties have stipulated to extend the

briefing schedule.

(2) If the court has, within 90 days of the filing of the petition or complaint, set a hearing

date, the provision in Public Resources Code section 21167.4 that petitioner request

a hearing date within 90 days is deemed to have been met, and no further request is

required.

Rule 3.2227 adopted effective July 1, 2014.

Rule 3.2228. Judgment

The court should issue its decision and final order, writ, or judgment within 30 days of the

completion of the hearing in the action. The court must include a written statement of the factual

and legal basis for its decision. Code of Civil Procedure section 632 does not apply to actions

governed by the rules in this division.

Rule 3.2228 adopted effective July 1, 2014.

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Rule 3.2229. Notice of settlement

The petitioner or plaintiff must immediately notify the court if the case is settled.

Rule 3.2229 adopted effective July 1, 2014.

Rule 3.2230. Settlement procedures and statement of issues

In cases governed by the rules in this chapter, unless otherwise ordered by the court, the

procedures described in Public Resources Code section 21167.8, including the filing of a

statement of issues, are deemed to have been met by the parties addressing the potential for

settlement and narrowing of issues within the case management conference statement and

discussing those points as part of the case management conference.

Rule 3.2230 adopted effective July 1, 2014.

Rule 3.2231. Postjudgment motions

(a) Exemption from statutory provisions

In any actions governed by the rules in this article, any postjudgment motion except for a

motion for attorney’s fees and costs is governed by this rule. Such motions are exempt

from the timing requirements otherwise applicable to postjudgment motions under Code of

Civil Procedure section 1005. Motions in Sacramento arena project cases are also exempt

from the timing and procedural requirements of Code of Civil Procedure sections 659 and

663.

(b) Time for postjudgment motions

(1) Time for motions under Code of Civil Procedure section 473

Moving party must serve and file any motion before the earlier of:

(A) Five days after the court clerk mails to the moving party a document entitled

“Notice of Entry” of judgment or a file-stamped copy of the judgment,

showing the date either was served; or

(B) Five days after the moving party is served by any party with a written notice of

judgment or a file-stamped copy of the judgment, accompanied by a proof of

service.

(2) Time for motions for new trial or motions to vacate judgment

Moving party in Sacramento arena project cases must serve and file motion before

the earlier of:

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(A) Five days after the court clerk mails to the moving party a document entitled

“Notice of Entry” of judgment or a file-stamped copy of the judgment,

showing the date either was served; or

(B) Five days after the moving party is served by any party with a written notice of

judgment or a file-stamped copy of the judgment, accompanied by a proof of

service.

A memorandum in support of a postjudgment motion may be no longer than 15 pages.

(d) Opposition to motion

Any opposition to the motion must be served and filed within five days of service of the

moving papers and may be no longer than 15 pages.

(e) Reply

Any reply brief must be served and filed within two court days of service of the opposition

papers and may be no longer than 5 pages.

(f) Hearing and decision

The court may set a hearing on the motion at its discretion. The court should issue its

decision on the motion within 15 days of the filing of the motion.

Rule 3.2231 adopted effective July 1, 2014.

Article 2. CEQA Challenges to Approval of Sacramento Arena Project

Rule 3.2235. Application

Rule 3.2236. Service of Petition

Rule 3.2237. List of responsible parties

Rule 3.2235. Application

This article governs any action or proceeding brought to attack, review, set aside, void, or annul

the certification of the environmental impact report or any project approvals for the Sacramento

arena project.

Rule 3.2235 adopted effective July 1, 2014.

Rule 3.2236. Service of Petition

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(a) Respondent

Unless the respondent public agency has agreed to accept service of summons

electronically, the petitioner or plaintiff must personally serve the petition or complaint on

the respondent public agency within three court days after the date of filing.

(b) Real parties in interest

The petitioner or plaintiff must serve the petition or complaint on any real party in interest

named in the pleading within three court days after the date of filing.

The petitioner or plaintiff must serve the petition or complaint on the Attorney General

within three court days after the date of filing

(d) Responsible agencies

The petitioner or plaintiff must serve the petition or complaint on any responsible agencies

or public agencies with jurisdiction over a natural resource affected by the project within

two court days of receipt of a list of such agencies from respondent public agency.

(e) Proof of service

The petitioner or plaintiff must file proof of service on each respondent, real party in

interest, or agency within one court day of completion of service.

Rule 3.2236 adopted effective July 1, 2014.

Rule 3.2237. List of responsible parties

Respondent public agency must provide the petitioner or plaintiff, not later than three court days

following service of the petition or complaint on the public agency, with a list of responsible

agencies and any public agency having jurisdiction over a natural resource affected by the

project.

Rule 3.2237 adopted effective July 1, 2014.

Article 3. Trial Court Costs

Rule 3.2240. Trial court costs in certain streamlined CEQA projects

In fulfillment of the provisions in Public Resources Code sections 21168.6.7, 21168.6.8,

21168.6.9, 21183, and 21189.82 regarding payment of trial court costs with respect to cases

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concerning environmental leadership development, environmental leadership transit, Oakland

ballpark, Inglewood arena, energy infrastructure, semiconductor or microelectronic, or water-

related projects:

(1) Within 10 days after service of the petition or complaint in a case concerning an

environmental leadership development project, the person or entity that applied for

certification of the project as an environmental leadership development project must pay a

fee of $180,000 to the court.

(2) Within 10 days after service of the petition or complaint in a case concerning an energy

infrastructure project, a semiconductor or microelectronic project, or a water-related

project, the project applicant, if the applicant is not the lead agency, must pay a fee of

$180,000 to the court.

(3) Within 10 days after service of the petition or complaint in a case concerning an

environmental leadership transit project, the project applicant must pay a fee of $180,000

to the court.

(4) Within 10 days after service of the petition or complaint in a case concerning an Oakland

ballpark project or an Inglewood arena project, the person or entity that applied for

certification of the project as a streamlined CEQA project must pay a fee of $120,000 to

the court.

(5) If the court incurs the costs of any special master appointed by the court in the case or of

any contract personnel retained by the court to work on the case, the person or entity that

applied for certification of the project or the project applicant must also pay, within 10

days of being ordered by the court, those incurred or estimated costs

(6) If the party fails to timely pay the fee or costs specified in this rule, the court may impose

sanctions that the court finds appropriate after notifying the party and providing the party

with an opportunity to pay the required fee or costs.

(7) Any fee or cost paid under this rule is not recoverable.

Rule 3.2240 amended effective December 31, 2023;adopted effective March 11, 2022; previously

amended effective January 1, 2023.

Division 23. Miscellaneous

Rule 3.2300. Review under Penal Code section 186.35 of law enforcement agency denial of

request to remove name from shared gang database

(a) Proceedings governed

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This rule applies to proceedings under Penal Code section 186.35 to seek review of a local

law enforcement agency’s denial of a request under Penal Code section 186.34 to remove a

person’s name from a shared gang database.

(b) Definitions

For purposes of this rule:

(1) “Request for review” or “petition” means a petition under Penal Code section 186.35

requesting review of a law enforcement agency’s denial of a person’s request under

Penal Code section 186.34 to remove a person’s name from a shared gang database.

(2) “Law enforcement agency” means the local law enforcement agency that denied the

request under Penal Code section 186.34 to remove a person’s name from a shared

gang database.

(Sub(b) amended effective January 1, 2018)

The presiding judge of each superior court must designate one or more judges to handle

any petitions governed by this rule that are filed in the court.

(d) Petition

(1) Form

(A) Except as provided in (i) and (ii), Petition for Review of Denial of Request to

Remove Name From Gang Database (form MC-1000) must be used to seek

review under Penal Code section 186.35 of a law enforcement agency’s

decision denying a request to remove a person’s name from a shared gang

database.

(i) A petition filed by an attorney need not be on form MC-1000. For good

cause the court may also accept a petition from a nonattorney that is not

on form MC-1000.

(ii) Any petition that is not on form MC-1000 must contain the information

specified in form MC-1000 and must bear the name “Petition for Review

of Denial of Request to Remove Name From Gang Database.”

(B) The person seeking review must attach to the petition under (A) either:

(i) The law enforcement agency’s written verification, if one was received,

of its decision denying the person’s request under Penal Code section

186.34 to remove his or her name—or, if the request was filed by a

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parent or guardian on behalf of a child under 18, the name of the child—

from the shared gang database; or

(ii) If the law enforcement agency did not provide written verification

responding to the person’s request under Penal Code section 186.34

within 30 days of submission of the request, a copy of the request and

written documentation submitted to the law enforcement agency

contesting the designation.

(2) Time for filing

The petition must be filed within the time frame specified in Penal Code Section

186.35(b).

(3) Where to file

The petition must be filed in either the superior court of the county in which the law

enforcement agency is located or, if the person filing the petition resides in

California, in the superior court of the county in which that person resides.

(4) Fee

The fee for filing the petition is $25, as specified in Government Code section

70615.

(5) Service

A copy of the petition with the attachment required under (1)(B) must be served

either personally or by mail on the law enforcement agency, as provided in Code of

Civil Procedure sections 1011–1013a. Proof of this service must be filed in the

superior court with the petition.

(Subd (d) amended effective January 1, 2019; previously amended effective January 1, 2018.)

(e) Record

(1) Filing

(A) The law enforcement agency must serve the record on the person filing the

petition and must file the record in the superior court in which the petition was

filed.

(B) The record must be served and filed within 15 days after the date the petition is

served on the law enforcement agency as required by subdivision (d)(5) of this

rule.

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confidential under Welfare and Institutions Code section 827 or have been

sealed, the law enforcement agency must include a coversheet that states

“Confidential Filing—Juvenile Case File Enclosed.”

(D) The procedures set out in rules 2.550 and 2.551 apply to any record sought to

be filed under seal in a proceeding under this rule.

(2) Contents

The record is limited to the documents required by Penal Code section 186.35(c).

(3) Format

(A) The cover or first page of the record must:

(i) Clearly identify it as the record in the case;

(ii) Clearly indicate if the record includes any documents that are

confidential under Welfare and Institutions Code section 827 or have

been sealed;

(iii) State the title and court number of the case; and

(iv) Include the name, mailing address, telephone number, fax number (if

available), e-mail address (if available), and California State Bar number

(if applicable) of the attorney or other person filing the record on behalf

of the law enforcement agency. The court will use this as the name,

mailing address, telephone number, fax number, and e-mail address of

record for the agency unless the agency informs the court otherwise in

writing.

(B) All documents in the record must have a page size of 8.5 by 11 inches;

(D) The contents must be arranged chronologically;

(E) The pages must be consecutively numbered; and

(F) The record must be stapled and two-hole punched at the top of the page.

(4) Failure to file the record

If the law enforcement agency does not timely file the required record, the superior

court clerk must serve the law enforcement agency with a notice indicating that the

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agency must file the record within five court days of service of the clerk’s notice or

the court may order the law enforcement agency to remove the name of the person

from the shared gang database.

(Subd (e) amended effective January 1, 2019; previously amended effective January 1, 2018.)

(f) Written argument

(1) Contents

(A) The person filing the petition may include in the petition or separately serve

and file a written argument about why, based on the record specified in Penal

Code section 186.35(c), the law enforcement agency has failed to establish by

clear and convincing evidence the active gang membership, associate status, or

affiliate status of the person so designated or to be so designated by the law

enforcement agency in the shared gang database.

(B) The law enforcement agency may serve and file a written argument about why,

based on the record specified in Penal Code section 186.35(c), it has

established by clear and convincing evidence the active gang membership,

associate status, or affiliate status of the person.

number of the record where that thing appears or, if the record has not yet been

filed, the page number of the relevant document.

(D) Except for any required attachment to a petition, when an argument is included

in the petition, nothing may be attached to an argument and an argument must

not refer to any evidence that is not in the record.

(2) Time to serve and file

Any written argument must be served and filed within 15 days after the date the

record is served.

(3) Format and length of argument

(A) The cover or first page of any argument must:

(i) Clearly identify it as the argument of the person filing the petition or of

the law enforcement agency;

(ii) State the title and, if assigned, court number of the case; and

(iii) Include the name, mailing address, telephone number, fax number (if

available), e-mail address (if available), and California State Bar number

(if applicable) of the attorney or other person filing the argument.

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(B) An argument must not exceed 10 pages.

(Subd (f) amended effective January 1, 2019; previously amended effective January 1, 2018.)

(g) Oral argument

(1) Setting oral argument

The court may set the case for oral argument at the request of either party or on its

own motion.

(2) Requesting or waiving oral argument

The person filing the petition or the law enforcement agency may request oral

argument or inform the court that they do not want to participate in oral argument.

Any such request for or waiver of oral argument must be served and filed within 15

days after the date the record is served.

(3) Sending notice of oral argument

If oral argument is set, the clerk must send notice at least 20 days before the oral

argument date. The court may shorten the notice period for good cause; in that event,

the clerk must immediately notify the parties by telephone or other expeditious

method.

(4) Sealed or confidential records

If the responding party indicates that the record contains information from a juvenile

case file or documents that are sealed or confidential under Welfare and Institutions

Code section 827, the argument must be closed to the public unless the crime

charged allows for public access under Welfare and Institutions Code section 676.

(h) Decision

As provided in Penal Code section 186.35, if, on de novo review and any arguments

presented to the court, the court finds that the law enforcement agency has failed to

establish by clear and convincing evidence the active gang membership, associate status, or

affiliate status of the person so designated in the shared gang database, the court must order

the law enforcement agency to remove the name of the person from the shared gang

database.

(i) Service on the Attorney General

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The court must serve on the Attorney General a copy of any order under (e)(4) or (h) to

remove a name from a shared gang database.

Rule 3.2300 amended effective January 1, 2019; adopted effective January 20, 2017; previously amended

effective January 1, 2018.

Advisory Committee Comment

Subdivision (d)(1)(B). Penal Code section 186.34(e) provides that if a person to be designated as a

suspected gang member, associate, or affiliate, or his or her parent or guardian, submits written

documentation to the local law enforcement agency contesting the designation, the local law enforcement

agency “shall provide the person and if the person is under 18 years of age, his or her parent or guardian,

with written verification of the agency’s decision within 30 days of submission of the written

documentation contesting the designation. If the law enforcement agency denies the request for removal,

the notice of its determination shall state the reason for the denial. If the law enforcement agency does not

provide a verification of the agency’s decision within the required 30-day period, the request to remove

the person from the gang database shall be deemed denied.”

Subdivision (e)(2). Penal Code section 186.35(c) provides that the evidentiary record for this review

proceeding “shall be limited to the agency’s statement of basis of its designation made pursuant to

subdivision (c) or (d) of Section 186.34, and the documentation provided to the agency by the person

contesting the decision pursuant to subdivision (e) of Section 186.34.”

Penal Code section 186.34(d)(1) provides that “[a] person, or, if the person is under 18 years of age, his or

her parent or guardian, or an attorney working on behalf of the person, may request information of any

law enforcement agency as to whether the person is designated as a suspected gang member, associate, or

affiliate in a shared gang database” and, if the person is so designated, “information as to the basis for the

designation for the purpose of contesting the designation as described in subdivision (e).” Section

186.35(d)(2) provides that “[t]he law enforcement agency shall provide information requested under

paragraph (1), unless doing so would compromise an active criminal investigation or compromise the

health or safety of the person if the person is under 18 years of age.”

Penal Code section 186.34(e) provides that “the person to be designated as a suspected gang member,

associate, or affiliate, or his or her parent or guardian, may submit written documentation to the local law

enforcement agency contesting the designation.”

Penal Code section 186.34(f) also provides that “[n]othing in this section shall require a local law

enforcement agency to disclose any information protected under Section 1040 or 1041 of the Evidence

Code or Section 6254 of the Government Code.”