Contra Costa Superior Court Service and Proof of Service Rules

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

The filing party must notify the opposing party or counsel by 10:00 a.m. the day before presentation, absent exceptional circumstances justifying shorter notice, and submit a notice declaration with the application papers.

Notice of the filing of an ex parte application must be provided to the opposing party or their counsel no later than 10:00 a.m. the day before the application will be presented to the Court, absent a showing of exceptional circumstances justifying a shorter notice period, as provided in California Rules of Court, rule 3.1203. A declaration regarding notice must be submitted with the ex parte application papers.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Oppositions to requested ex parte relief must be submitted to the Clerk's Office and served on the requesting party as soon as possible, but no later than 10:00 a.m.

Oppositions to the ex parte relief requested shall be submitted to the Clerk's Office and served on the party making the request as soon as possible, but not later than 10:00 a.m. on the

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion to seal

The filing party must serve each motion to seal a grand jury transcript on all parties and the court reporters.

The filing party must serve all Motions to Seal a Grand Jury Transcript on all parties and the court reporter(s).

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Sealing order

After the court issues an order sealing a grand jury transcript in whole or in part, the prevailing party must serve the order on all parties and the court reporters.

When an Order is issued by the Court to seal a Grand Jury transcript, in whole or in part, the prevailing party must serve the Order on all parties and the court reporter(s).

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Complaint

Failure to serve the complaint and file the required proof of service triggers an Order to Show Cause concerning sanctions.

(2) Upon failure to serve the complaint and file a proof of service as required, an Order to Show Cause shall issue as to why counsel shall not be sanctioned for failure to comply with California Rules of Court, Rule 3.110.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 court days

Applies to

Responsive papers

Responsive papers to an Order to Show Cause must be served at least five court days before the hearing.

Responsive papers to the Order to Show Cause must be filed and served no less than five (5) court days in advance of the hearing.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

The Issue Conference Statement must be filed with the court and served on all parties at least five court days before the conference.

Parties must file with the court and serve on all parties an Issue Conference Statement (Local Court Form CV-659(c)) of not more than ten (10) pages at least five (5) court days before the Issue Conference.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Objections to motions in limine

Objections to motions in limine must be filed and served five calendar days before the conference, with a copy lodged in the assigned department's chambers.

Any objections to motions in limine must be filed and served five (5) calendar days before the conference, with a copy lodged with the chambers of the department to which the case is assigned.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Jury questionnaire

A party seeking a written jury questionnaire must serve its proposed questionnaire on all other parties no later than 20 court days before the Issue Conference.

(1) If any party intends to request that a specific written questionnaire be submitted to the jury, said party shall, no later than twenty (20) court days before the Issue Conference, serve a proposed questionnaire on the other parties;

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

2 court days

Applies to

Jury questionnaire

For an approved jury questionnaire, the submitting party must deliver adequate copies to the Jury Commissioner at least two court days before trial and arrange and pay for prompt copying and distribution to the court and parties in juror-call order.

(5) If the Court approves a questionnaire, it shall be the responsibility of the party submitting a questionnaire to have an adequate number of copies delivered to the office of the Jury Commissioner no later than two (2) court days before the scheduled commencement of trial, and to arrange and pay for prompt copying and distribution of the completed questionnaire to the Court and other parties in the order in which jurors will be called; and

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Service of a signed Order to Show Cause must be effected by a certified copy, for which no charge may be made.

When an Order to Show Cause has been signed, the original shall be filed immediately in the office of the Court Clerk and service shall be effected by a certified copy, for which no charge shall be made.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

2 calendar days

Proofs of service for motions and orders to show cause must be filed with the court clerk at least two calendar days before the hearing unless the court orders otherwise.

Unless otherwise ordered, all returns of Proof of Service of Notice of Motions and Orders to Show Cause shall be filed in the office of the Clerk of the Court not less than two (2) calendar days preceding the time set for hearings.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Mediator report

The mediator must send the completed Mediator’s Report to the ADR Programs office, counsel, and all self-represented parties.

The mediator must forward a copy of the completed Mediator’s Report (Local Court Form ADR-305) to the ADR Programs office, counsel, and all self-represented parties.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Notice of assignment

The ADR Office must serve the Notice of Assignment of Discovery Facilitator, using Local Court Form ADR-612, within 20 calendar days after receiving the assignment request.

The ADR Office shall serve a Notice of Assignment of Discovery Facilitator (Local Court Form ADR-612) within twenty (20) calendar days of receipt of a Request for Assignment of Discovery Facilitator.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

10 calendar days

Applies to

Rejection of assigned discovery facilitator

Parties must serve Local Court Form ADR-617 on the ADR Office and all parties within 10 calendar days after service of the Notice of Assignment.

Parties to the proposed motion shall have ten (10) calendar days after service of the Notice of Assignment to serve on the ADR Office and the parties in the action a Rejection of Assigned Discovery Facilitator (Local Court Form ADR-617).

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Discovery motion

The moving party must serve the formal discovery motion on the parties.

If service of the Recommendations of Discovery Facilitator and Termination of Appointment of Discovery Facilitator does not resolve the dispute, the moving party shall have thirty (30) days from the service of the Recommendations of Discovery Facilitator and Termination of Appointment of Discovery Facilitator to file with the clerk of the court and serve on the parties a formal Discovery Motion.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Unless otherwise ordered, motions and proofs of service must be served under California Rules of Court, Rule 4.111, and Penal Code Section 1538.5.

Unless otherwise ordered, all motions and proofs of service shall be filed and served in accordance with the time limitations set forth in California Rules of Court, Rule 4.111 and Penal Code Section 1538.5, and shall be set for hearing in the Criminal Department of the appropriate court.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

Pretrial-motion pleadings must be filed where the case is pending and served on opposing counsel in the regularly assigned office by the most expeditious available means.

All pleadings filed in connection with Pre-Trial motions shall be filed in the courthouse where the case is pending at the time the motion is filed. All pleadings shall be served on opposing counsel in his or her regularly assigned office by the most expeditious means available.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

Service

Email to court

Pleadings and exhibits connected to felony motions must be emailed to the Court’s Research Attorneys at ratts@contracosta.courts.ca.gov.

Pleadings and exhibits in connection with felony motions shall be served on the Research Attorneys by email at the following address: ratts@contracosta.courts.ca.gov.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

2 court days

Applies to

Reply brief

Service

Email

A defendant may reply to the warrantless-search justification, but any reply must be served by email, facsimile, or personal service at least two court days before the hearing.

The defendant may then file a reply specifying the inadequacies of the justification. Any such reply brief must be served (by email, facsimile or personal service) at least two court days before the hearing;

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

The applicant must give the other party legally required notice for an ex parte order or TRO unless Family Code Section 6300 applies or notice would cause great or irreparable injury before the hearing.

Except as provided in Family Code Section 6300, unless notice of the application for an ex parte order (including an application for an order shortening time) or a Temporary Restraining Order would result in great or irreparable injury to the applicant before the matter can be heard on notice, the applicant shall give the other party the notice required by law.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Moving and responsive papers

A current, fully completed I&E, or a Simplified Financial Statement when appropriate, must be filed and served with moving and responsive papers in financial-relief hearings, unless a qualifying I&E was filed within the preceding 90 calendar days and no significant financial changes occurred.

A fully completed, current Income and Expense Declaration (I&E) (or Simplified Financial Statement, when appropriate) shall be filed and served with moving and responsive papers in all hearings involving requests for support, attorney’s fees, costs, or other financial relief, unless the party has filed an I&E within ninety (90) calendar days of the date of the hearing and there have been no significant changes in the party’s income, assets or expenses.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Moving and responsive pleadings

Moving and responsive pleadings must be timely filed and served under Code of Civil Procedure section 1005 or other applicable law unless the court grants prior leave for a different service time or method; untimely pleadings may not be considered.

Unless the Court has granted prior leave for different service time or method, all moving and responsive pleadings shall be timely filed and served in compliance with the provisions of Code of Civil Procedure section 1005 or any other applicable provision of law. The Court may not consider any moving or responsive pleading that was not timely filed and served.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

14 calendar days

Applies to

Witness list

A party seeking live testimony from witnesses other than the parties must file and serve a witness list describing the anticipated testimony at least 14 calendar days before the hearing.

Pursuant to Family Code Section 217, a party seeking to present live testimony from all witnesses other than the parties shall file and serve all parties with their witness list with a brief description of the anticipated testimony. This list shall be filed and served no less than fourteen (14) calendar days before hearing.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

A private mediator must file and serve the required consent and qualifications declaration on all parties within 10 court days after receiving the court’s appointment order.

Within 10 court days of receiving the order of appointment by the court, the private mediator shall file and serve on all parties the “Consent to Appointment as Private Mediator or Child Custody Recommending Counselor and Declaration Regarding Qualifications” (local form FamLaw-301).”

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Status review or permanency review hearing notice

The social worker must ensure notice of status-review and permanency-review hearings is provided to the dependent child's current caregivers.

The social worker shall ensure that notice is provided to the current caregivers of a dependent child, including foster parents, relative caregivers, preadoptive parents, or nonrelative extended family members of all status review and permanency review hearings as required under W&I Code 293.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

30 calendar days

Applies to

Caregiver information form and instructions

At least 30 calendar days before the hearing, the social worker must provide the caregiver with Judicial Council Form JV-290 and the related completion and filing instructions.

The social worker shall also provide the caregiver, at least thirty (30) calendar days before such hearings, with a Caregiver Information Form (Judicial Council Form JV-290) and instructions on how to complete and file the Instructions to Complete the Caregiver Information Form (Judicial Council Form JV-290-INFO) with the court.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Subpoena or subpoena notice

A social worker who receives a subpoena or subpoena notice for a minor in a dependency action must immediately notify the minor's counsel.

In the event that a social worker receives a subpoena or notice of a subpoena of a minor subject to a dependency action, the social worker shall provide immediate notice to minor’s counsel in the dependency action.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Subpoena

The social worker must provide minor's counsel with any copy of the subpoena in the social worker's possession.

The social worker is to provide minor’s counsel with a copy of the subpoena in the possession of the social worker.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 court days

Applies to

Casa court report

CASA must distribute copies of its court report to attorneys for all parties, County Counsel's Office, and Children and Family Services at least five court days before the hearing.

CASA shall copy the CASA court report and distribute it to attorneys of all parties to the case, County Counsel’s Office, and Children and Family Services a minimum of five court days prior to the hearing for which the report was prepared.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Casa court report

A CASA court report may be provided only to attorneys for the parties and those individuals or entities authorized by Welfare and Institutions Code sections 827(a) and 827.10.

Other than the attorneys for the parties (for example, parents, legal guardians, Children and Family Services), no other individuals or entities are entitled to receive a copy of the CASA court report, and only those individuals or entities named in subdivision (a) of section 827 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and those individuals or entities named in section 827.10 of the Welfare and Institutions Code are permitted to access a CASA court report.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

An endorsed filed copy of the notice-compliance declaration must be delivered to the Probate Department before the hearing.

An endorsed filed copy of a declaration regarding notice in compliance with CRC, Rule 3.1204 must be delivered to the Probate Department prior to the hearing.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

24 hours

Service

Personal service

When a family-allowance petition is brought by someone other than the executor, a dispute is reflected in filed papers, or special notice is requested, all other parties must receive in-person or telephone notice at least 24 hours before the ex parte application.

However, if the petitioner is someone other than the executor or there is a dispute as evidenced by papers on file in the proceedings, or there is a request for special notice, then all other parties must be notified in person or by telephone at least twenty-four (24) hours in advance of the time and place where the application for the ex parte order will be made.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition for letters of special administration

A petition for letters of special administration requires at least 24 hours of oral or written notice to the surviving spouse or domestic partner, the nominated executor, and any other person the court determines is equitably entitled to notice.

Petitions for letters of special administration will not be granted without twenty-four (24) hour (oral or written) notice to the surviving spouse or domestic partner as defined in Probate Code Section 1894, to the person nominated as executor, and to any other person whom the Court determines to be equitably entitled to notice.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Service

Mail

When a Probate Code section directs the clerk to cause hearing notice to be mailed, counsel must perform the mailing.

If a Probate Code Section requires the clerk to “cause notice of the hearing to be mailed”, the clerk fulfills this function by requiring counsel to do the mailing. Therefore, counsel is charged with this duty.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

15 calendar days

Applies to

Final account

Proof of service on the ward must be filed, verifying service of the final account, petition, and notice of hearing at least 15 calendar days before the hearing.

Proof of service is on file verifying that a copy of the final account and petition, and notice of hearing thereon, has been served upon the ward not less than fifteen (15) calendar days before the hearing, (Probate Code Section 1460)

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

When a petition is based on the non-petitioning spouse’s Medi-Cal eligibility, notice must also be given to the Director of the California Department of Health Services.

(3) When the petitioner is predicated upon the non-petitioning spouse’s qualification for Medi- Cal benefits, notice shall also be given to the Director of the California Department of Health Services.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Applies to

Motion to seal

The filing party must serve every motion to seal a grand jury transcript on all parties and the court reporters.

The filing party must serve all Motions to Seal a Grand Jury Transcript on all parties and the court reporter(s).

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Applies to

Sealing order

After the court issues an order sealing a grand jury transcript in whole or in part, the prevailing party must serve the order on all parties and the court reporters.

When an Order is issued by the Court to seal a Grand Jury transcript, in whole or in part, the prevailing party must serve the Order on all parties and the court reporter(s).

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Service

Electronic service

A represented party, or a self-represented party that elects electronic filing and service, must provide an electronic service address when it first files a paper electronically.

Each represented party – and self-represented party upon election to participate in electronic filing and service – must provide an electronic address for service on the first occasion that party files any paper electronically.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Applies to

Complaint

Counsel must serve the complaint and file the required proof of service; failure to do may result in an Order to Show Cause and sanctions.

Upon failure to serve the complaint and file a proof of service as required, an Order to Show Cause shall issue as to why counsel shall not be sanctioned for failure to comply with California Rules of Court, Rule 3.110.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Deadline

5 court days

Applies to

Responsive papers

Responsive papers to an Order to Show Cause must be filed and served at least five court days before the hearing.

Responsive papers to the Order to Show Cause must be filed and served no less than five (5) court days in advance of the hearing.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Deadline

5 calendar days

Applies to

Objection to motion in limine

Objections to motions in limine must be filed and served five calendar days before the Issue Conference, with a copy lodged in the assigned department's chambers.

Any objections to motions in limine must be filed and served five (5) calendar days before the conference, with a copy lodged with the chambers of the department to which the case is assigned.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Deadline

20 court days

Applies to

Jury questionnaire

A party seeking a written jury questionnaire must serve the proposed questionnaire on all other parties no later than 20 court days before the Issue Conference.

If any party intends to request that a specific written questionnaire be submitted to the jury, said party shall, no later than twenty (20) court days before the Issue Conference, serve a proposed questionnaire on the other parties;

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Deadline

2 court days

Applies to

Jury questionnaire

The submitting party must deliver an adequate number of approved questionnaires to the Jury Commissioner at least two court days before trial and arrange and pay for prompt copying and distribution of the completed questionnaire to the Court and other parties.

If the Court approves a questionnaire, it shall be the responsibility of the party submitting a questionnaire to have an adequate number of copies delivered to the office of the Jury Commissioner no later than two (2) court days before the scheduled commencement of trial, and to arrange and pay for prompt copying and distribution of the completed questionnaire to the Court and other parties in the order in which jurors will be called; and

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

The petitioner must give opposing counsel or an unrepresented party notice of the ex parte application as required by California Rules of Court, Rule 3.1203, but need not notify the Court before presenting it.

The petitioner must comply with California Rules of Court, Rule 3.1203 concerning notice to opposing counsel or unrepresented party of the intent to present an ex parte application to the Court. The petitioning party need not notify the Court before presenting the application to set hearing date and briefing schedule.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Applies to

Order to show cause

Service of a signed Order to Show Cause must be made by certified copy.

When an Order to Show Cause has been signed, the original shall be filed immediately in the Clerk’s Office and service shall be effected by a certified copy, for which no charge shall be made.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Deadline

2 calendar days

Applies to

Proof of service

Unless the court orders otherwise, returns of proof of service for motions and Orders to Show Cause must be filed at least two calendar days before the hearing.

Unless otherwise ordered, all returns of Proof of Service of Notice of Motions and Orders to Show Cause shall be filed in the Clerk’s Office not less than two (2) calendar days preceding the time set for hearings.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Applies to

Request for assignment of discovery facilitator

A copy of the Request for Assignment of Discovery Facilitator must be served on all parties to the action.

A copy of the Request for Assignment of Discovery Facilitator shall also be served on all parties to the action.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Applies to

Notice of assignment of discovery facilitator

The ADR Office must serve the Notice of Assignment of Discovery Facilitator within 20 calendar days after receiving the request.

The ADR Office shall serve a Notice of Assignment of Discovery Facilitator (Local Court Form ADR-612) within twenty (20) calendar days of receipt of a Request for Assignment of Discovery Facilitator.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Deadline

10 calendar days

Applies to

Rejection of assigned discovery facilitator

Parties have 10 calendar days after service of the Notice of Assignment to serve a Rejection of Assigned Discovery Facilitator on the ADR Office and all parties in the action.

Parties to the proposed motion shall have ten (10) calendar days after service of the Notice of Assignment to serve on the ADR Office and the parties in the action a Rejection of Assigned Discovery Facilitator (Local Court Form ADR-617).

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Applies to

Pleadings

Pre-trial-motion pleadings must be filed where the case is pending and served on opposing counsel by the most expeditious means, with special procedures when opposing counsel is unknown.

All pleadings filed in connection with pre-trial motions shall be filed in the courthouse where the case is pending at the time the motion is filed. All pleadings shall be served on opposing counsel in his or her regularly assigned office by the most expeditious means available. If the identity of opposing counsel is not known when the pleading is filed, the following service rules shall apply: (1) if the case is being handled by a special unit, the pleading shall be served on the office of the special unit assigned to the case; (2) in all other cases, the pleading shall be served on the office of the opposing party closest to the courthouse in which the case is pending.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Applies to

Pleadings

Service

Email

In felony cases, pleadings and exhibits for substantive pre-trial motions must be simultaneously emailed to the Court's Research Attorneys at the stated address under Rule 4.111(a) timing.

In felony cases, any party filing a pleading in connection with a substantive pre- trial motion shall simultaneously serve the Court’s Research Attorneys in accordance with the timeframes set forth in Rule 4.111(a) of the California Rules of Court. Pleadings and exhibits in connection with felony motions shall be served on the Research Attorneys by email at the following address: ratts@contracosta.courts.ca.gov.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Deadline

2 court days

Applies to

Reply brief

The reply brief must be served by email, facsimile, or personal service at least two court days before the hearing.

Any such reply brief must be served (by email, facsimile or personal service) at least two court days before the hearing;

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Applies to

Post conviction pleading or exhibit

Service

Email

In felony post-conviction matters, a party filing a pleading or exhibit in connection with a substantive motion, petition, or habeas petition must simultaneously email the Court's Research Attorneys at the stated address.

In felony cases, any party filing a pleading or exhibit in connection with a substantive post-conviction motion and petition, including a post-conviction writ of habeas corpus, shall simultaneously serve the Court’s Research Attorneys by email at: ratts@contracosta.courts.ca.gov

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

To withdraw a prior general time waiver in an infraction matter, the defendant must give written proper notice to both the district attorney and citing officer, ordinarily at least two days in advance.

A defendant in an infraction matter who wishes to withdraw a previous general time waiver, must give “proper notice” to the district attorney as required by Penal Code section 1382(a)(3)(A). The defendant shall also give notice to the citing officer. Such notice shall be in writing, addressed and delivered in a manner reasonably calculated to come to the immediate attention of the district attorney and the citing officer to permit the officer enough notice to ascertain availability and the court to set a trial date accordingly. Two days’ notice shall constitute proper notice.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Unless a statutory exception or imminent great or irreparable injury applies, the applicant must give the other party the legally required notice for an ex parte order, order-shortening-time application, or temporary restraining order application.

Except as provided in Family Code Section 6300, unless notice of the application for an ex parte order (including an application for an order shortening time) or a Temporary Restraining Order would result in great or irreparable injury to the applicant before the matter can be heard on notice, the applicant shall give the other party the notice required by law.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Absent prior court approval, all moving and responsive pleadings must be timely filed and served under Code of Civil Procedure section 1005 or other applicable law, and untimely pleadings may not be considered.

(4) Unless the Court has granted prior leave for different service time or method, all moving and responsive pleadings shall be timely filed and served in compliance with the provisions of Code of Civil Procedure section 1005 or any other applicable provision of law. The Court may not consider any moving or responsive pleading that was not timely filed and served.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Deadline

14 calendar days

Applies to

Witness list

A witness list with a brief description of anticipated testimony must be filed and served at least 14 calendar days before the hearing.

witness list with a brief description of the anticipated testimony. This list shall be filed and served no less than 14 calendar days before hearing.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Applies to

Review hearing update

An update for a review hearing must be filed and served at least two weeks before the hearing unless the court sets another deadline, and the update may not exceed five pages.

If any party wishes to update the Court for a review hearing, any such update shall be filed and served at least 2 weeks prior to the review hearing unless the Court specifies a different deadline. Any update shall not to exceed five pages in length.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Deadline

5 court days

Applies to

Moving papers

Unless the court grants an order shortening time, proof of timely service of the moving papers must be filed no later than five court days before the hearing.

Unless the Court has granted an order shortening time, proof of service of the moving papers shall be filed no later than 5 court days before the hearing.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

After a continuance, the moving party must file proof of timely service for both the moving papers and notice of the continued hearing date.

If a hearing is continued, the moving party shall file proof of timely service of both the moving papers and notice of the continued hearing date.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

When an initial FCCRC or CSC notice is issued before a response or default, the petitioner must serve a copy of the notice on the respondent.

If a response to the petition has not been filed, and a default against the respondent has not been entered, when the notice for an initial FCCRC or CSC is issued, the petitioner must serve a copy of the notice on respondent.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

The complaint must be served on the other party and a proof of service filed.

A copy of the declaration complaint shall be served provided toon the other party. and a proof of service shall be filed.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

The response must be served on the other party and a proof of service filed before the next hearing.

A copy of the response shall be served provided toon the other party. and a proof of service shall be filed before the next hearing date.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

The social worker must provide the current caregiver with the Caregiver Information Form and completion instructions at least 30 calendar days before the hearing.

The social worker shall also provide the caregiver, at least thirty (30) calendar days before such hearings, with a Caregiver Information Form (Judicial Council Form JV-290) and instructions on how to complete and file the Instructions to Complete the Caregiver Information Form (Judicial Council Form JV-290-INFO) with the court.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

CASA must distribute the court report to attorneys for all parties, County Counsel’s Office, and Children and Family Services at least five court days before the hearing.

(b) Copying and Distribution of CASA court report. CASA shall copy the CASA court report and distribute it to attorneys of all parties to the case, County Counsel’s Office, and Children and Family Services a minimum of five court days prior to the hearing for which the report was prepared.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Only attorneys for the parties and individuals or entities identified under Welfare and Institutions Code sections 827(a) and 827.10 may receive or access a CASA court report.

(c) Access to CASA court report. Other than the attorneys for the parties (for example, parents, legal guardians, Children and Family Services), no other individuals or entities are entitled to receive a copy of the CASA court report, and only those individuals or entities named in subdivision (a) of section 827 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and those individuals or entities named in section 827.10 of the Welfare and Institutions Code are permitted to access a CASA court report.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Applies to

Response to tentative ruling

Endorsed filed copies of a tentative-ruling response must be delivered to the Probate Examiner.

In order to be considered, responses to tentative rulings must be filed no later than the close of business, two (2) court days before the hearing and endorsed filed copies delivered to the Probate Examiner.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Deadline

24 hours

When the petitioner is not the executor, a dispute is on file, or special notice is requested, all other parties must receive personal or telephone notice at least 24 hours before the ex parte application.

However, if the petitioner is someone other than the executor or there is a dispute as evidenced by papers on file in the proceedings, or there is a request for special notice, then all other parties must be notified in person or by telephone at least twenty-four (24) hours in advance of the time and place where the application for the ex parte order will be made.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

A family-allowance application made more than six months after qualification of the personal representative must be noticed and calendared.

If the application is made more than six (6) months after the personal representative has qualified, it shall be noticed and placed on the calendar.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Deadline

24 hours

Applies to

Petition for letters of special administration

A petition for letters of special administration requires 24-hour oral or written notice to specified persons before the petition may be granted.

Petitions for letters of special administration will not be granted without twenty-four (24) hour (oral or written) notice to the surviving spouse or domestic partner as defined in Probate Code Section 1894, to the person nominated as executor, and to any other person whom the Court determines to be equitably entitled to notice.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Notice must reach beneficiaries and contingent beneficiaries named in testamentary trusts; notice to the trustee alone is inadequate.

The terms “beneficiaries named in the Will” and “named contingent beneficiaries” used above include beneficiaries named in testamentary trusts. It is not adequate merely to give notice to the trustee of a trust where beneficiaries or contingent beneficiaries are named in testamentary trusts;

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Present and contingent trust beneficiaries must receive notice when the trust trustee is a will beneficiary and the same person is proposed as personal representative.

Since use of applicable Judicial Council forms is mandatory and the purpose of Item 8 is to identify persons entitled to receive notice of the petition, the Probate Division will require notice to be given to present and contingent beneficiaries of trusts where the trustee is a beneficiary of the will and the trustee is identical to the proposed personal representative;

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

The California Attorney General is entitled to notice when a charitable trust is involved.

The California Attorney General, where there is a charitable trust involved (Probate Code Section 8111).

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Service

Mail

When the Probate Code requires the clerk to cause notice of a hearing to be mailed, counsel must perform the mailing.

If a Probate Code Section requires the clerk to “cause notice of the hearing to be mailed,” the clerk fulfills this function by requiring counsel to do the mailing. Therefore, counsel is charged with this duty.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Applies to

Notice of petition to administer estate

Service

Publication

Publication and mailing of the Notice of Petition to Administer Estate provides notice for all probate instruments specifically referred to in the petition.

The publication and mailing of Notice of Petition to Administer Estate under Probate Code Section 8120 is sufficient to include all instruments which are offered for probate filed with, and specifically referred to in the Petition for which notice is given.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Applies to

Notice of petition to administer estate

Service

Publication

A will or supplemental instrument not specifically mentioned in the petition requires an amended or second petition and a newly published and mailed notice.

Any other Wills or supplement to a Will not specifically mentioned in the Petition must be presented to the Court in an amended or second Petition and a new Notice of Petition to Administer Estate must be published and mailed.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Deadline

15 calendar days

Notice of a petition-for-distribution hearing must be served at least 15 calendar days before the hearing on affected named beneficiaries and intestate heirs, and on the specified trust trustees and, when required, trust beneficiaries.

At least fifteen (15) calendar days before the hearing of the petition, notice of the hearing must be served upon each named beneficiary whose interest is affected by the petition and to the heirs of the decedent in intestate estates. Also see Probate Code Section 1220. Notice shall also be given to: a) the trustee of any intervivos trust to which the estate pours over; b) to trust beneficiaries if required under Probate Code Section 1208; c) to the trustee of any testamentary trust.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Deadline

15 calendar days

The ward must appear at the final-account hearing unless proof of service shows that the final account, petition, and hearing notice were served at least 15 calendar days before the hearing, or the ward’s written acknowledgment of receipt and approval is on file.

An appearance by the ward at the hearing on the guardian’s final account and petition will be required unless either: (1) Proof of service is on file verifying that a copy of the final account and petition, and notice of hearing thereon, has been served upon the ward not less than fifteen (15) calendar days before the hearing, (Probate Code Section 1460), or (2) The ward’s written acknowledgment of receipt and approval of the petition and final account is on file.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Proposed or draft document; may not be in force

Applies to

Declaration regarding notice

A copy of the declaration regarding compliance with CRC 3.1204 must be delivered to the Probate Department when the papers are presented.

A copy of a declaration regarding notice in compliance with CRC, Rule 3.1204 must be delivered to the Probate Department at the time the papers are presented.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

After an unresolved discovery-facilitator hearing, the facilitator must serve the parties with the required recommendations and termination document within ten days.

If the discovery dispute is not completely resolved at the hearing, the Discovery Facilitator shall, within ten (10) days of the completion of the hearing, serve a document on the parties entitled “Recommendations of Discovery Facilitator and Termination of Appointment of Discovery Facilitator” (Local Court Form ADR-616).

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion to seal

The filing party must serve every motion to seal a grand jury transcript on all parties and the court reporter(s).

The filing party must serve all Motions to Seal a Grand Jury Transcript on all parties and the court reporter(s).

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Sealing order

After the court enters an order sealing a grand jury transcript in whole or in part, the prevailing party must serve the order on all parties and the court reporter(s).

When an Order is issued by the Court to seal a Grand Jury transcript, in whole or in part, the prevailing party must serve the Order on all parties and the court reporter(s).

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Counsel must follow California Rules of Court Rule 3.110 for service and filing of pleadings, proofs of service, and notices of default judgments.

Counsel are to be familiar with and follow with particularity the rules set forth in California Rules of Court, Rule 3.110 as to service and filing of pleadings and proofs of service and the notice of default judgments.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Failure to serve the complaint and file the required proof of service may result in an order to show cause and sanctions.

Upon failure to serve the complaint and file a proof of service as required, an Order to Show Cause shall issue as to why counsel shall not be sanctioned for failure to comply with California Rules of Court, Rule 3.110.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 court days

Applies to

Responsive papers

Responsive papers to an order to show cause must be served at least five court days before the hearing.

Responsive papers to the Order to Show Cause must be filed and served no less than five (5) court days in advance of the hearing.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

10 calendar days

Applies to

Motion in limine

All motions in limine must be written and filed and served at least 10 calendar days before the issue conference.

All motions in limine must be in writing and are to be filed and served at least ten (10) calendar days before the conference.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 calendar days

Applies to

Objection

Objections to motions in limine must be filed and served 5 calendar days before the issue conference, with a copy lodged with the assigned department's chambers.

Any objections to motions in limine must be filed and served five (5) calendar days before the conference, with a copy lodged with the chambers of the department to which the case is assigned.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 court days

Parties must serve the Issue Conference Statement on all parties at least five court days before the Issue Conference.

Parties must file with the court and serve all parties an Issue Conference Statement (Local Court Form CV-659(c)) of not more than ten (10) pages at least five (5) court days before the Issue Conference.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

An ex parte applicant must give notice to opposing counsel or an unrepresented party of the intent to present the application, but need not notify the Court before presenting it; after signing, the order must be presented to the Clerk’s Office for filing.

notice to opposing counsel or unrepresented party of the intent to present an ex parte application to the Court. The petitioning party need not notify the Court before presenting the application to set hearing date and briefing schedule. Once the order is signed and a briefing schedule assigned, the party shall present the order to the Clerk’s Office for filing.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

2 calendar days

Applies to

Proof of service

Unless otherwise ordered, returns of proof of service for motions and orders to show cause must be filed at least two calendar days before the hearing.

Unless otherwise ordered, all returns of Proof of Service of Notice of Motions and Orders to Show Cause shall be filed in the Clerk’s Office not less than two (2) calendar days preceding the time set for hearings.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Written order

In a contested matter where opposing counsel appears, the prevailing party must prepare and serve the written order on the opposing party, which must review it under California Rules of Court, Rule 3.1312.

In any contested matter, where opposing counsel appears, a written order shall be prepared and served by the prevailing party and reviewed by the opposing party, in accordance with California Rules of Court, Rule 3.1312.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Discovery motion

The formal discovery motion must be served on the parties within thirty days after service of the facilitator recommendations if the dispute remains unresolved.

If service of the Recommendations of Discovery Facilitator and Termination of Appointment of Discovery Facilitator does not resolve the dispute, the moving party shall have thirty (30) days from the service of the Recommendations of Discovery Facilitator and Termination of Appointment of Discovery Facilitator to file with the clerk of the court and serve on the parties a formal Discovery Motion.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Unless otherwise ordered, criminal pre-trial motions and proofs of service must be filed and served under the cited time limitations and set for hearing in the appropriate Criminal Department.

(1) Unless otherwise ordered, all motions and proofs of service shall be filed and served in accordance with the time limitations set forth in California Rules of Court, Rule 4.111 and Penal Code Section 1538.5, and shall be set for hearing in the Criminal Department of the appropriate court.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Pre-trial motion pleadings must be filed where the case is pending and served on opposing counsel by the most expeditious means, with special procedures when opposing counsel is unknown.

(3) All pleadings filed in connection with pre-trial motions shall be filed in the courthouse where the case is pending at the time the motion is filed. All pleadings shall be served on opposing counsel in his or her regularly assigned office by the most expeditious means available. If the identity of opposing counsel is not known when the pleading is filed, the following service rules shall apply: (1) if the case is being handled by a special unit, the pleading shall be served on the office of the special unit assigned to the case; (2) in all other cases, the pleading shall be served on the office of the opposing party closest to the courthouse in which the case is pending.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Pleadings and exhibits

Service

Email

In felony cases, pleadings in substantive pre-trial motions and related exhibits must be simultaneously emailed to the Court's Research Attorneys.

(4) In felony cases, any party filing a pleading in connection with a substantive pre- trial motion shall simultaneously serve the Court’s Research Attorneys. Pleadings and exhibits in connection with felony motions shall be served on the Research Attorneys by email at the following address: ratts@contracosta.courts.ca.gov.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

2 court days

Applies to

Reply brief

Service

Email

A defendant’s reply on an inadequate warrantless-search justification must be served at least two court days before the hearing by email, facsimile, or personal service.

3. The defendant may then file a reply specifying the inadequacies of the justification. Any such reply brief must be served (by email, facsimile or personal service) at least two court days before the hearing;

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Moving and responsive pleadings must be timely filed and served under Code of Civil Procedure section 1005 or other applicable law, unless the Court grants prior leave for a different service time or method.

Unless the Court has granted prior leave for different service time or method, all moving and responsive pleadings shall be timely filed and served in compliance with the provisions of Code of Civil Procedure section 1005 or any other applicable provision of law.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

The Court may not consider a moving or responsive pleading that was not timely filed and served.

The Court may not consider any moving or responsive pleading that was not timely filed and served.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Communications between Family Court Services personnel and parties or attorneys must occur by telephone conference or in writing, with copies sent to the other party or attorney even when the counselor initiates the communication.

All communication between Family Court Services Mediators and Child Custody Recommending Counselors and the parties/attorneys shall be by telephone conference or in writing, with copies sent to the other party/attorney, even where the Mediators and Child Custody Recommending Mediator/Child Counselor initiates the communication.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 court days

Applies to

CASA court report

At least five court days before the covered hearing, CASA must copy and distribute its court report to attorneys for all parties, County Counsel’s Office, and Children and Family Services.

(b) Copying and Distribution of CASA court report. CASA shall copy the CASA court report and distribute it to attorneys of all parties to the case, County Counsel’s Office, and Children and Family Services a minimum of five court days prior to the hearing for which the report was prepared.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

JV 790 restitution order

In a Welfare and Institutions Code section 602 case with awarded victim restitution, the District Attorney must promptly serve each victim with a certified copy of the JV-790 restitution order and file proof of service within 30 days of the order, or file a statement of due diligent efforts if the victim’s contact information is unavailable.

In any Welfare & Institutions Code section 602 case in which the Court awarded victim restitution, the Court shall, before terminating the juvenile’s probation, execute for each victim still entitled to restitution a JV-790 restitution order converting any outstanding restitution award to a civil judgment. The District Attorney in all such cases shall: (a) forthwith serve on each victim named in a JV-790 restitution order a certified copy of that victim’s restitution order; and (b) within 30 days of the date of the Order, file with the Court proof of service of the JV-790 restitution order served pursuant to subsection (A) or, if the victim’s contact information is not available, a statement of due diligence reflecting the District Attorney’s good faith efforts to locate the victim.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

2 court days

Applies to

Response to tentative ruling

Endorsed filed copies of the response must be delivered to the Probate Examiner by the same filing deadline.

In order to be considered, responses to tentative rulings must be filed no later than the close of business, two (2) court days before the hearing and endorsed filed copies delivered to the Probate Examiner.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Family allowance application

A family allowance application made more than six months after the personal representative qualifies must be noticed and placed on the court calendar.

If the application is made more than six (6) months after the personal representative has qualified, it shall be noticed and placed on the calendar.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

24 hours

A petition for letters of special administration requires at least 24 hours of oral or written notice to the surviving spouse or domestic partner, nominated executor, and any other person the court finds equitably entitled to notice.

Petitions for letters of special administration will not be granted without twenty-four (24) hour (oral or written) notice to the surviving spouse or domestic partner as defined in Probate Code Section 1894, to the person nominated as executor, and to any other person whom the Court determines to be equitably entitled to notice.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

A copy of the petition must accompany the initial Notice of Petition to Administer Estate when it is served.

A copy of the petition must be served with the initial Notice of Petition to Administer Estate.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

When a will-beneficiary trustee is also the proposed personal representative, present and contingent trust beneficiaries must receive notice.

Since use of applicable Judicial Council forms is mandatory and the purpose of Item 8 is to identify persons entitled to receive notice of the petition, the Probate Division will require notice to be given to present and contingent beneficiaries of trusts where the trustee is a beneficiary of the will and the trustee is identical to the proposed personal representative;

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Service

Publication

Publication and mailing of a Notice of Petition to Administer Estate covers all filed probate instruments specifically identified in the petition for which notice is given.

The publication and mailing of Notice of Petition to Administer Estate under Probate Code Section 8120 is sufficient to include all instruments which are offered for probate filed with, and specifically referred to in the Petition for which notice is given.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Service

Publication

A will or supplement not specifically identified in the petition must be included in an amended or second petition, followed by publication and mailing of a new notice.

Any other Wills or supplement to a Will not specifically mentioned in the Petition must be presented to the Court in an amended or second Petition and a new Notice of Petition to Administer Estate must be published and mailed.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

15 calendar days

Applies to

Notice of hearing

Notice of a petition-for-distribution hearing must be served at least 15 calendar days before the hearing on each affected named beneficiary and, in intestate estates, on the decedent's heirs.

At least fifteen (15) calendar days before the hearing of the petition, notice of the hearing must be served upon each named beneficiary whose interest is affected by the petition and to the heirs of the decedent in intestate estates.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

In addition to the usual hearing notices, notice must be served on heirs at law in the same manner as a request for special notice.

In addition to the usual notices given on hearing of such a petition, under Probate Code Section 9835, notice shall be served on the heirs at law in the same manner as if each had filed a request for special notice.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion to seal grand jury transcript

The filing party must serve every motion to seal a Grand Jury transcript on all parties and the court reporter(s).

The filing party must serve all Motions to Seal a Grand Jury Transcript on all parties and the court reporter(s).

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Sealing order

When the Court orders sealing of a Grand Jury transcript in whole or part, the prevailing party must serve the order on all parties and the court reporter(s).

When an Order is issued by the Court to seal a Grand Jury transcript, in whole or in part, the prevailing party must serve the Order on all parties and the court reporter(s).

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Service

Electronic service

A represented party, or a self-represented party that elects electronic filing and service, must provide an electronic service address when first filing a paper electronically.

Each represented party – and self-represented party upon election to participate in electronic filing and service – must provide an electronic address for service on the first occasion that party files any paper electronically.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 court days

Applies to

Issue conference statement

The Issue Conference Statement must be served on all parties at least five court days before the Issue Conference.

Parties must file with the court and serve all parties an Issue Conference Statement (Local Court Form CV-659(c)) of not more than ten (10) pages at least five (5) court days before the Issue Conference.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Witness testimony notice

Witness testimony notice must be given no later than the end of the court day before the witness will testify.

Such notice shall be given no later than at the end of the court day preceding the court day when the witness is to testify.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Service of a signed Order to Show Cause must be effected by certified copy, which is provided without charge.

When an Order to Show Cause has been signed, the original shall be filed immediately in the Clerk’s Office and service shall be effected by a certified copy, for which no charge shall be made.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

2 calendar days

Applies to

Proof of service

Returns of proof of service for notices of motions and orders to show cause must be filed at least two calendar days before the hearing, unless the court orders otherwise.

Unless otherwise ordered, all returns of Proof of Service of Notice of Motions and Orders to Show Cause shall be filed in the Clerk’s Office not less than two (2) calendar days preceding the time set for hearings.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Order

In a contested matter with appearing opposing counsel, the prevailing party must prepare and serve the written order for the opposing party's review in compliance with California Rules of Court, Rule 3.1312.

In any contested matter, where opposing counsel appears, a written order shall be prepared and served by the prevailing party and reviewed by the opposing party, in accordance with California Rules of Court, Rule 3.1312.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Request for assignment of discovery facilitator

A copy of the Request for Assignment of Discovery Facilitator must be served on every party to the action.

A copy of the Request for Assignment of Discovery Facilitator shall also be served on all parties to the action.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

20 calendar days

Applies to

Notice of assignment of discovery facilitator

The ADR Office must serve the Notice of Assignment of Discovery Facilitator within 20 calendar days after receiving the request.

The ADR Office shall serve a Notice of Assignment of Discovery Facilitator (Local Court Form ADR-612) within twenty (20) calendar days of receipt of a Request for Assignment of Discovery Facilitator.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

10 calendar days

Applies to

Rejection of assigned discovery facilitator

Parties have 10 calendar days after service of the Notice of Assignment to serve a Rejection of Assigned Discovery Facilitator on the ADR Office and the parties.

Parties to the proposed motion shall have ten (10) calendar days after service of the Notice of Assignment to serve on the ADR Office and the parties in the action a Rejection of Assigned Discovery Facilitator (Local Court Form ADR-617).

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Pleadings connected to pre-trial motions must be filed where the case is pending and served on opposing counsel at the regularly assigned office by the most expeditious means available.

All pleadings filed in connection with pre-trial motions shall be filed in the courthouse where the case is pending at the time the motion is filed. All pleadings shall be served on opposing counsel in his or her regularly assigned office by the most expeditious means available.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

When opposing counsel is unknown at filing, serve the special unit's office for special-unit cases or the closest opposing-party office in all other cases.

If the identity of opposing counsel is not known when the pleading is filed, the following service rules shall apply: (1) if the case is being handled by a special unit, the pleading shall be served on the office of the special unit assigned to the case; (2) in all other cases, the pleading shall be served on the office of the opposing party closest to the courthouse in which the case is pending.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Service

Email to court

In felony cases, pleadings and exhibits connected to substantive pre-trial motions must be served simultaneously on the Court's Research Attorneys by email at ratts@contracosta.courts.ca.gov, following Rule 4.111(a) timeframes.

In felony cases, any party filing a pleading in connection with a substantive pre- trial motion shall simultaneously serve the Court’s Research Attorneys in accordance with the timeframes set forth in Rule 4.111(a) of the California Rules of Court. Pleadings and exhibits in connection with felony motions shall be served on the Research Attorneys by email at the following address: ratts@contracosta.courts.ca.gov.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

2 court days

Applies to

Reply brief

Service

Email to opposing party

A defendant may file a reply identifying deficiencies in the justification, and the reply brief must be served by email, facsimile, or personal service at least two court days before the hearing.

3. The defendant may then file a reply specifying the inadequacies of the justification. Any such reply brief must be served (by email, facsimile or personal service) at least two court days before the hearing;

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 calendar days

Applies to

Motion

Service

Personal service to opposing party

Unless the Court orders otherwise, moving papers in a shortened-time motion must be personally served at least five calendar days before the hearing.

(2) Except by order of the Court, upon a showing of good cause, all ex parte applications seeking to set a matter on shortened time shall provide for moving papers to be filed and personally served at least five (5) calendar days and for opposing papers to be filed and served at least two (2) calendar days before the hearing date. All papers, including opposition and reply papers, filed in motions brought on an order shortening time, shall be accompanied by a copy of the proposed order.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Post conviction pleading or exhibit

Service

Email

In felony cases, a pleading or exhibit filed in connection with a substantive post-conviction motion or petition must be simultaneously emailed to the Court's Research Attorneys at ratts@contracosta.courts.ca.gov.

(B) In felony cases, any party filing a pleading or exhibit in connection with a substantive post-conviction motion and petition, including a post-conviction writ of habeas corpus, shall simultaneously serve the Court’s Research Attorneys by email at: ratts@contracosta.courts.ca.gov

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Unless the statutory exception or great-or-irreparable-injury exception applies, the applicant must give the other party legally required notice for an ex parte order, order-shortening-time application, or temporary restraining order.

Except as provided in Family Code Section 6300, unless notice of the application for an ex parte order (including an application for an order shortening time) or a Temporary Restraining Order would result in great or irreparable injury to the applicant before the matter can be heard on notice, the applicant shall give the other party the notice required by law.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Income and expense declaration

The financial declaration must be served with the moving or responsive papers unless an I&E was filed within 90 calendar days before the hearing and no significant financial changes have occurred.

A fully completed, current Income and Expense Declaration (I&E) (or Simplified Financial Statement, when appropriate) shall be filed and served with moving and responsive papers in all hearings involving requests for support, attorney’s fees, costs, or other financial relief, unless the party has filed an I&E within 90 calendar days of the date of the hearing and there have been no significant changes in the party’s income, assets or expenses.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Moving or responsive pleading

Moving and responsive pleadings must be timely served under section 1005 or other applicable law unless prior court leave authorizes a different service time or method, and untimely pleadings may not be considered.

Unless the Court has granted prior leave for different service time or method, all moving and responsive pleadings shall be timely filed and served in compliance with the provisions of Code of Civil Procedure section 1005 or any other applicable provision of law. The Court may not consider any moving or responsive pleading that was not timely filed and served.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 court days

Applies to

Moving papers

Unless the court shortens time, proof of service of the moving papers must be filed no later than five court days before the hearing.

Unless the Court has granted an order shortening time, proof of service of the moving papers shall be filed no later than 5 court days before the hearing.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

After a hearing is continued, the moving party must file proof of timely service for both the moving papers and notice of the continued hearing date.

If a hearing is continued, the moving party shall file proof of timely service of both the moving papers and notice of the continued hearing date.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Mediation agreement

The mediator must prepare the written mediation agreement, send copies to the parties and attorneys of record, and submit the original to the court.

the Family Court Services mediator shall prepare the written agreement and send copies to the parties and attorneys of record, and submit the original to the Court

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

10 court days

Applies to

Consent to appointment and declaration regarding qualifications

The private mediator must serve the required appointment consent and qualification declaration on all parties within 10 court days after receiving the appointment order.

Within 10 court days of receiving the order of appointment by the court, the private mediator shall file and serve on all parties the Consent to Appointment as Private Confidential Mediator or Child Custody Recommending Counselor and Declaration Regarding Qualifications (local court Form FamLaw-301).

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

15 calendar days

Copies of each complaint or grievance must be provided to the Evaluator and all other parties at least 15 calendar days before the Recommendation Conference.

All such complaints and grievances must be submitted to the bench officer hearing the matter at least 15 calendar days before the Recommendation Conference, with copies to the Evaluator and all other parties.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

2 calendar days

The Evaluator must submit a written response addressing all complaint issues to the bench officer and copy all parties at least 2 calendar days before the Recommendation Conference.

The Evaluator shall submit a written response to all issues raised in the written complaint to the bench officer hearing the matter at least 2 calendar days before the Recommendation Conference, with copies to all parties.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Notice of change of address

An attorney or party must promptly file Judicial Council form MC-040 and serve it on all parties after a mailing address, telephone number, fax number, or email address changes.

An attorney or party whose mailing address, telephone number, fax number or e-mail address changes shall promptly file and serve on all parties a Notice of Change of Address or Other Contact Information (Judicial Council form MC-040). Addresses and other contact information will not be updated in the Court’s case management system without the filing of this form.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

30 calendar days

Applies to

Caregiver notice

The social worker must provide notice of status-review and permanency-review hearings to a dependent child's current caregivers and, at least 30 calendar days beforehand, provide the caregiver with Form JV-290 and filing instructions.

The social worker shall ensure that notice is provided to the current caregivers of a dependent child, including foster parents, relative caregivers, pre-adoptive parents, or nonrelative extended family members of all status review and permanency review hearings as required under W&I Code 293. The social worker shall also provide the caregiver, at least thirty (30) calendar days before such hearings, with a Caregiver Information Form (Judicial Council Form JV-290) and instructions on how to complete and file the Instructions to Complete the Caregiver Information Form (Judicial Council Form JV-290-INFO) with the court.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Subpoena

When a social worker receives a subpoena compelling a dependent minor's testimony, the social worker must notify minor's counsel and provide a copy, using whichever notice deadline occurs later: at least five business days before the appearance or within 48 hours after receiving the subpoena information.

In the event that a social worker receives a subpoena or notice of a subpoena compelling the appearance for testimony of a minor subject to a dependency action, the social worker shall provide immediate notice to minor’s counsel in the dependency action. This notice shall be given at least five (5) business days before the date of the appearance of the minor child or within 48 hours of the social worker’s receipt of information of the subpoena, whichever occurs later. The social worker shall provide minor’s counsel with a copy of the subpoena.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 court days

Applies to

Casa court report

CASA must copy and distribute its court report to attorneys for all parties, County Counsel's Office, and Children and Family Services at least five court days before the report's hearing.

CASA shall copy the CASA court report and distribute it to attorneys of all parties to the case, County Counsel’s Office, and Children and Family Services a minimum of five court days prior to the hearing for which the report was prepared.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Casa court report

Only attorneys for the parties and the other persons or entities identified in Welfare and Institutions Code sections 827(a) and 827.10 may receive or access a CASA court report.

Other than the attorneys for the parties (for example, parents, legal guardians, Children and Family Services), no other individuals or entities are entitled to receive a copy of the CASA court report, and only those individuals or entities named in subdivision (a) of section 827 of the Welfare and Institutions Code, and those individuals or entities named in section 827.10 of the Welfare and Institutions Code are permitted to access a CASA court report.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Family allowance ex parte application

When the family-allowance petitioner is not the executor, a dispute is on file, or special notice is requested, all other parties must receive notice in person or by telephone at least 24 hours before the ex parte application.

However, if the petitioner is someone other than the executor or there is a dispute as evidenced by papers on file in the proceedings, or there is a request for special notice, then all other parties must be notified in person or by telephone at least twenty-four (24) hours in advance of the time and place where the application for the ex parte order will be made.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

The petition must be served with the initial Notice of Petition to Administer Estate, and the petition copy should not be published with that notice.

A copy of the petition must be served with the initial Notice of Petition to Administer Estate. A copy of the petition should not be published with the Notice.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Special administration petition

A petition for letters of special administration cannot be granted without at least 24 hours’ oral or written notice to the surviving spouse or domestic partner, nominated executor, and any other person the court finds equitably entitled to notice.

Petitions for letters of special administration will not be granted without twenty-four (24) hour (oral or written) notice to the surviving spouse or domestic partner as defined in Probate Code Section 1894, to the person nominated as executor, and to any other person whom the Court determines to be equitably entitled to notice.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

When an heir’s or beneficiary’s address is unknown, a declaration describing the specific locating efforts must be filed before the court will excuse notice or authorize an alternative notice method.

If the address of an heir or beneficiary is unknown, the Court requires a declaration stating specifically what efforts were made to locate such heir or beneficiary before the Court will dispense with notice or prescribe an alternate form of notice.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Notice of petition to administer estate

Service

Publication

A new notice of petition to administer estate must be published and mailed when a will or supplement to a will is not specifically mentioned in the petition.

Any other Wills or supplement to a Will not specifically mentioned in the Petition must be presented to the Court in an amended or second Petition and a new Notice of Petition to Administer Estate must be published and mailed.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Creditors claim

A hearing must be held and notice with a copy of the claim given to all entitled persons, including residuary beneficiaries, unless the personal representative’s or attorney’s claim appears reasonable and special-notice requesters have waived notice.

Unless a claim by a personal representative or attorney for the personal representative appears reasonable, and any persons requesting special notice have waived the notice as to the claim, a hearing shall be held as set forth in Probate Code Section 9252(a) and notice given to all persons entitled to such notice, including all residuary beneficiaries, together with a copy of the claim, pursuant to Probate Code Section 1220.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

15 calendar days

Notice of the petition-for-distribution hearing must be served at least 15 calendar days before the hearing on each affected named beneficiary and, in intestate estates, the decedent's heirs.

At least fifteen (15) calendar days before the hearing of the petition, notice of the hearing must be served upon each named beneficiary whose interest is affected by the petition and to the heirs of the decedent in intestate estates.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

The filing party must serve every motion to seal a grand jury transcript on all parties and the court reporter(s).

The filing party must serve all Motions to Seal a Grand Jury Transcript on all parties and the court reporter(s).

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

The prevailing party must serve the sealing order on all parties and the court reporter(s).

When an Order is issued by the Court to seal a Grand Jury transcript, in whole or in part, the prevailing party must serve the Order on all parties and the court reporter(s).

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Electronic service address change notice

Service

Electronic service

Electronic filers must provide an electronic service address when first filing electronically and promptly notify the court and all parties of any change.

Each represented party – and self-represented party upon election to participate in electronic filing and service – must provide an electronic address for service on the first occasion that party files any paper electronically. A party whose electronic service address changes while their case is pending must promptly notify the Court and all parties by electronically filing a notice of change of electronic service address or Judicial Council form EFS-010, Notice to Change Electronic Service Address.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

New authority

New authority offered at a hearing must be provided to the Court and all opposing counsel at or before the hearing.

If, after all briefing allowed by law or the Court has been submitted, an attorney locates new authority that s/he desires to bring to the Court’s attention at a hearing on the matter, a copy of such new authority shall be provided to both the Court and to all opposing counsel in the case at or before the hearing.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Failure to serve the complaint and file the required proof of service may result in an Order to Show Cause and potential sanctions.

Upon failure to serve the complaint and file a proof of service as required, an Order to Show Cause shall issue as to why counsel shall not be sanctioned for failure to comply with California Rules of Court, Rule 3.110.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 court days

Responsive papers to an Order to Show Cause must be filed and served at least five court days before the hearing.

Responsive papers to the Order to Show Cause must be filed and served no less than five (5) court days in advance of the hearing.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

15 calendar days

Applies to

Case management statement

The completed CM-110 Case Management Statement must be served at least 15 calendar days before the first case management conference.

Each appearing party shall file and serve the completed Case Management Statement, (Judicial Council Form CM-110), at least fifteen (15) calendar days before the First Case Management Conference as provided by California Rules of Court, Rule 3.725.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 calendar days

Applies to

Objection

Objections to motions in limine must be served 5 calendar days before the Issue Conference, and a copy must be lodged with the assigned department's chambers.

Any objections to motions in limine must be filed and served five (5) calendar days before the conference, with a copy lodged with the chambers of the department to which the case is assigned.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

20 court days

Applies to

Jury questionnaire

A party intending to request a written jury questionnaire must serve the proposed questionnaire on all other parties at least 20 court days before the Issue Conference.

If any party intends to request that a specific written questionnaire be submitted to the jury, said party shall, no later than twenty (20) court days before the Issue Conference, serve a proposed questionnaire on the other parties;

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Order to show cause

Service of a signed Order to Show Cause must be effected by certified copy, for which no charge may be imposed.

When an Order to Show Cause has been signed, the original shall be filed immediately in the Clerk’s Office and service shall be effected by a certified copy, for which no charge shall be made.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Written order

In a contested matter with appearing opposing counsel, the prevailing party must prepare and serve the written order for review by the opposing party in accordance with California Rules of Court, Rule 3.1312.

In any contested matter, where opposing counsel appears, a written order shall be prepared and served by the prevailing party and reviewed by the opposing party, in accordance with California Rules of Court, Rule 3.1312.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Request for assignment

A copy of the Request for Assignment of Discovery Facilitator must be served on all parties to the action.

A copy of the Request for Assignment of Discovery Facilitator shall also be served on all parties to the action.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

20 calendar days

Applies to

Notice of assignment

The ADR Office must serve the Notice of Assignment of Discovery Facilitator within 20 calendar days after receiving the assignment request.

The ADR Office shall serve a Notice of Assignment of Discovery Facilitator (Local Court Form ADR-612) within twenty (20) calendar days of receipt of a Request for Assignment of Discovery Facilitator.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

10 calendar days

Applies to

Rejection of assigned discovery facilitator

Parties must serve a Rejection of Assigned Discovery Facilitator on the ADR Office and all parties within 10 calendar days after service of the Notice of Assignment.

Parties to the proposed motion shall have ten (10) calendar days after service of the Notice of Assignment to serve on the ADR Office and the parties in the action a Rejection of Assigned Discovery Facilitator (Local Court Form ADR-617).

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Recommendations of discovery facilitator and termination of appointment

If the dispute remains unresolved after the hearing, the Discovery Facilitator must serve the written recommendations and termination document on the parties within 10 days after the hearing.

If the discovery dispute is not completely resolved at the hearing, the Discovery Facilitator shall, within ten (10) days of the completion of the hearing, serve a document on the parties entitled “Recommendations of Discovery Facilitator and Termination of Appointment of Discovery Facilitator” (Local Court Form ADR-616).

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Unless otherwise ordered, motions and proofs of service must be filed and served under the referenced time limitations and set for hearing in the appropriate Criminal Department.

Unless otherwise ordered, all motions and proofs of service shall be filed and served in accordance with the time limitations set forth in California Rules of Court, Rule 4.111 and Penal Code Section 1538.5, and shall be set for hearing in the Criminal Department of the appropriate court.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Pleading

Pre-trial motion pleadings must be served on opposing counsel by the most expeditious available means, with specified fallback offices when counsel's identity is unknown.

All pleadings filed in connection with pre-trial motions shall be filed in the courthouse where the case is pending at the time the motion is filed. All pleadings shall be served on opposing counsel in his or her regularly assigned office by the most expeditious means available. If the identity of opposing counsel is not known when the pleading is filed, the following service rules shall apply: (1) if the case is being handled by a special unit, the pleading shall be served on the office of the special unit assigned to the case; (2) in all other cases, the pleading shall be served on the office of the opposing party closest to the courthouse in which the case is pending.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Pleading

Service

Email

In felony cases, pleadings and exhibits connected to substantive pre-trial motions must be simultaneously emailed to the Court's Research Attorneys at the stated address under the referenced Rule 4.111(a) timeframes.

In felony cases, any party filing a pleading in connection with a substantive pre- trial motion shall simultaneously serve the Court’s Research Attorneys in accordance with the timeframes set forth in Rule 4.111(a) of the California Rules of Court. Pleadings and exhibits in connection with felony motions shall be served on the Research Attorneys by email at the following address: ratts@contracosta.courts.ca.gov.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 calendar days

Applies to

Moving papers

Service

Personal service

Unless the Court orders otherwise upon good cause, ex parte applications to set a matter on shortened time must provide for moving papers to be filed and personally served at least five (5) calendar days and opposing papers to be filed and served at least two (2) calendar days before the hearing.

(2) Except by order of the Court, upon a showing of good cause, all ex parte applications seeking to set a matter on shortened time shall provide for moving papers to be filed and personally served at least five (5) calendar days and for opposing papers to be filed and served at least two (2) calendar days before the hearing date.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

The applicant generally must give the other party legally required notice for an ex parte order or TRO application, unless Family Code section 6300 applies or notice would cause great or irreparable injury before the hearing.

Except as provided in Family Code Section 6300, unless notice of the application for an ex parte order (including an application for an order shortening time) or a Temporary Restraining Order would result in great or irreparable injury to the applicant before the matter can be heard on notice, the applicant shall give the other party the notice required by law.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Service

Publication

The petitioner, rather than the County Clerk, must arrange publication.

It is the responsibility of the petitioner to arrange for publication. The County Clerk does not have this responsibility.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Financial relief moving and responsive papers

Moving and responsive papers in financial-relief hearings must be served with the required financial declaration, except when a sufficiently recent unchanged I&E has already been filed.

A fully completed, current Income and Expense Declaration (I&E) (or Simplified Financial Statement, when appropriate) shall be filed and served with moving and responsive papers in all hearings involving requests for support, attorney’s fees, costs, or other financial relief, unless the party has filed an I&E within 90 calendar days of the date of the hearing and there have been no significant changes in the party’s income, assets or expenses.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Moving or responsive pleadings

Moving and responsive pleadings must be timely filed and served under applicable law unless the court grants leave for a different service time or method, and untimely pleadings will not be considered.

(4) Unless the Court has granted prior leave for different service time or method, all moving and responsive pleadings shall be timely filed and served in compliance with the provisions of Code of Civil Procedure section 1005 or any other applicable provision of law. The Court may not consider any moving or responsive pleading that was not timely filed and served.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

14 calendar days

Applies to

Witness list

A party presenting live testimony from witnesses other than the parties must file and serve all parties with a witness list describing the anticipated testimony at least 14 calendar days before the hearing.

(5) Pursuant to Family Code section 217, a party seeking to present live testimony from all witnesses other than the parties shall file and serve all parties with their witness list with a brief description of the anticipated testimony. This list shall be filed and served no less than 14 calendar days before hearing.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Updated I&E

When specified financial changes have occurred or more than three months will pass before the review hearing, each party must file and serve an updated I&E with required income-demonstrating attachments.

If financial matters are at issue and there have been any significant changes since the last I&E was filed, or if more than 3 months will have passed between the filing of the last I&E and the review hearing date, each party shall file and serve an updated I&E and include the required attachments that demonstrate the party’s income.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 court days

Applies to

Moving papers

Unless the court grants an order shortening time, proof of service of the moving papers must be filed no later than five court days before the hearing.

(l) Proof of Service Unless the Court has granted an order shortening time, proof of service of the moving papers shall be filed no later than 5 court days before the hearing.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Proof of service

After a hearing is continued, the moving party must file proof of timely service for both the moving papers and notice of the continued hearing date.

If a hearing is continued, the moving party shall file proof of timely service of both the moving papers and notice of the continued hearing date.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Consent to appointment and declaration regarding qualifications

A private mediator must file Form FamLaw-301 and serve it on all parties within 10 court days after receiving the appointment order.

Within 10 court days of receiving the order of appointment by the court, the private mediator shall file and serve on all parties the Consent to Appointment as Private Confidential Mediator or Child Custody Recommending Counselor and Declaration Regarding Qualifications (local court Form FamLaw-301).

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion to modify criminal protective order

Notice of a hearing on a motion to modify a Criminal Protective Order must be given to all counsel and parties in both the criminal action and the related Family, Juvenile, or Probate matter.

(2) The Family, Juvenile, or Probate Court may, on its own motion or at the request of a defendant, protected person or other interested party, calendar a hearing before the Criminal Court for a motion to modify a Criminal Protective Order. Notice of the hearing shall be given to all counsel and parties in both the criminal action and the family, juvenile, or probate matter.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion to modify criminal protective order

A party calendaring a hearing to modify a Criminal Protective Order must first give notice to the District Attorney.

(1) A party seeking to modify a Criminal Protective Order may calendar the matter for hearing before the Criminal Court, after giving notice to the District Attorney.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Protective custody or visitation order

When calendaring or receiving notice of a Criminal Protective Order modification involving related Family, Juvenile, or Probate proceedings concerning minor children, the court must provide the Criminal Court with existing or proposed protection, custody, or visitation orders.

(3) When the Family, Juvenile, or Probate Court calendars a hearing on a motion to modify a Criminal Protective Order, or receives notice that a party with a pending Family, Juvenile, or Probate matter involving minor children seeks to modify a Criminal Protective Order, the Court shall provide the Criminal Court with copies of existing or proposed Orders relating to protection, custody and/or visitation in the pending family, juvenile, or probate matter.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Notice of change of address or other contact information

An attorney or party changing specified contact information must promptly serve Judicial Council form MC-040 on all parties.

An attorney or party whose mailing address, telephone number, fax number or e-mail address changes shall promptly file and serve on all parties a Notice of Change of Address or Other Contact Information (Judicial Council form MC-040).

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 court days

Applies to

Motion to continue

Notice of a motion to continue a jurisdiction hearing must be served on the opposing party at least five court days before the hearing.

A motion to continue the jurisdiction hearing in any proceeding shall be made and heard no less than two (2) court days before the jurisdiction hearing, after service of notice on the opposing party at least five (5) court days before the jurisdiction hearing.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Ex parte order application

The petitioner must notify all interested or opposing parties by fax, email, or telephone by 10:00 a.m. on the day before the hearing, provide the notice declaration to the Probate Department when presenting the papers, and support any order dispensing with notice with a declaration of exceptional circumstances.

Petitioner must notify all interested or opposing parties by fax, email, or telephone no later than 10:00 a.m. on the day before the scheduled hearing as provided by CRC, Rule 3.1203 and CRC, Rule 3.1204. A copy of a declaration regarding notice in compliance with CRC, Rule 3.1204 must be delivered to the Probate Department at the time the papers are presented. Orders dispensing with notice must be supported by a declaration setting forth the exceptional circumstances that justify dispensing with notice.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

24 hours

Applies to

Petition for family allowance

When the family-allowance petition is filed by someone other than the executor, when a dispute is shown by filed papers, or when special notice is requested, all other parties must receive in-person or telephone notice at least 24 hours before the ex parte application.

However, if the petitioner is someone other than the executor or there is a dispute as evidenced by papers on file in the proceedings, or there is a request for special notice, then all other parties must be notified in person or by telephone at least twenty-four (24) hours in advance of the time and place where the application for the ex parte order will be made.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

A copy of the petition must accompany the initial Notice of Petition to Administer Estate when it is served.

A copy of the petition must be served with the initial Notice of Petition to Administer Estate.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

When an heir’s or beneficiary’s address is unknown, a declaration detailing the search efforts is required before notice may be excused or an alternative notice prescribed.

If the address of an heir or beneficiary is unknown, the Court requires a declaration stating specifically what efforts were made to locate such heir or beneficiary before the Court will dispense with notice or prescribe an alternate form of notice.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Service

Mail

Counsel, not the clerk, is responsible for mailing hearing notices when a Probate Code provision requires the clerk to cause mailing.

If a Probate Code Section requires the clerk to “cause notice of the hearing to be mailed,” the clerk fulfills this function by requiring counsel to do the mailing. Therefore, counsel is charged with this duty.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Service

Publication

A will or supplement not specifically identified in the petition requires an amended or second petition and a newly published and mailed notice.

Any other Wills or supplement to a Will not specifically mentioned in the Petition must be presented to the Court in an amended or second Petition and a new Notice of Petition to Administer Estate must be published and mailed.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

The filing party must serve every motion to seal a grand jury transcript on all parties and the court reporters.

The filing party must serve all Motions to Seal a Grand Jury Transcript on all parties and the court reporter(s).

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

After the court issues an order sealing a grand jury transcript wholly or partly, the prevailing party must serve the order on all parties and the court reporters.

When an Order is issued by the Court to seal a Grand Jury transcript, in whole or in part, the prevailing party must serve the Order on all parties and the court reporter(s).

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 court days

Applies to

Order to show cause response

Papers responding to an Order to Show Cause must be served at least five court days before the hearing.

Responsive papers to the Order to Show Cause must be filed and served no less than five (5) court days in advance of the hearing.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Service

Personal service

Reasonable diligence in attempting personal service requires at least three good-faith personal-delivery attempts on at least two different days, including a weekend attempt when service occurs at a dwelling.

For purposes of Code of Civil Procedure section 415.20(b), a party shows reasonable diligence in attempting personal service by attempting personal delivery in good faith on at least three occasions. The party's attempts at personal service must occur on at least two different days of the week, and if service is at a dwelling, at least one attempt must occur on a Saturday or Sunday. If a party meets these requirements, a court clerk will find that the reasonable diligence requirement is met.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion in limine

Written motions in limine must be served at least 10 calendar days before the issue conference.

All motions in limine must be in writing and are to be filed and served at least ten (10) calendar days before the conference.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Issue conference statement

The Issue Conference Statement must be served on all parties at least five court days before the conference.

Parties must file with the court and serve all parties an Issue Conference Statement (Local Court Form CV-659(c)) of not more than ten (10) pages at least five (5) court days before the Issue Conference.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Jury questionnaire

A party seeking a written jury questionnaire must serve its proposed questionnaire on all other parties no later than 20 court days before the Issue Conference.

If any party intends to request that a specific written questionnaire be submitted to the jury, said party shall, no later than twenty (20) court days before the Issue Conference, serve a proposed questionnaire on the other parties;

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Jury questionnaire

The submitting party must deliver an adequate number of approved questionnaires to the Jury Commissioner at least two court days before trial and arrange and pay for prompt copying and distribution of completed questionnaires.

If the Court approves a questionnaire, it shall be the responsibility of the party submitting a questionnaire to have an adequate number of copies delivered to the office of the Jury Commissioner no later than two (2) court days before the scheduled commencement of trial, and to arrange and pay for prompt copying and distribution of the completed questionnaire to the Court and other parties in the order in which jurors will be called; and

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

A petitioner must provide notice to opposing counsel or an unrepresented party, as required by California Rules of Court, Rule 3.1203, of the intent to present an ex parte application.

The petitioner must comply with California Rules of Court, Rule 3.1203 concerning notice to opposing counsel or unrepresented party of the intent to present an ex parte application to the Court.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

A copy of the resulting writ order must be delivered to the hearing department and the Research Attorney’s Office.

A copy of the resulting order concerning the writ is to be delivered to the department in which the writ will be heard as well as to the Research Attorney’s Office.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

An ex parte application may be heard only after the papers are provided to the court and appearing counsel and both have had adequate time to review them; whenever practicable, moving papers should be served before the hearing.

Ex parte applications will be heard only after each party with papers to present has given them to the Court and other counsel who appear, and after both Court and counsel have had adequate time to review them. Therefore, whenever practicable, moving papers should be served on the affected party or that party’s attorney by personal delivery, telecopy (fax), express mail, messenger, or similar means before the hearing.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

2 calendar days

Unless the court orders otherwise, returns of proof of service for motions and orders to show cause must be filed in the Clerk’s Office at least two calendar days before the hearing.

Unless otherwise ordered, all returns of Proof of Service of Notice of Motions and Orders to Show Cause shall be filed in the Clerk’s Office not less than two (2) calendar days preceding the time set for hearings.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

In a contested matter in which opposing counsel appears, the prevailing party must serve the written order on the opposing party.

In any contested matter, where opposing counsel appears, a written order shall be prepared and served by the prevailing party and reviewed by the opposing party, in accordance with California Rules of Court, Rule 3.1312.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Request for Assignment of Discovery Facilitator

A copy of the facilitator-assignment request must also be served on every party to the action.

A copy of the Request for Assignment of Discovery Facilitator shall also be served on all parties to the action.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Request for Assignment of Discovery Facilitator

The facilitator-assignment request must be served no later than the final filing date for the discovery motion.

The Request for Assignment of Discovery Facilitator (Local Court Form ADR-610) must be served on or before the last date for filing the Discovery Motion.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Recommendations of discovery facilitator

Within 10 days after the hearing, the Discovery Facilitator must serve the parties the document entitled “Recommendations of Discovery Facilitator and Termination of Appointment of Discovery Facilitator,” using Local Court Form ADR-616.

The Discovery Facilitator shall, within ten (10) days of the completion of the hearing, serve a document on the parties entitled “Recommendations of Discovery Facilitator and Termination of Appointment of Discovery Facilitator” (Local Court Form ADR-616).

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

Pleadings for pretrial motions must be filed where the case is pending and served on opposing counsel by the most expeditious available means.

All pleadings filed in connection with pre-trial motions shall be filed in the courthouse where the case is pending at the time the motion is filed. All pleadings shall be served on opposing counsel in his or her regularly assigned office by the most expeditious means available.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

Service

Email

In felony cases, pleadings and exhibits connected with substantive pretrial motions must be simultaneously emailed to the Court's Research Attorneys at ratts@contracosta.courts.ca.gov.

In felony cases, any party filing a pleading in connection with a substantive pre- trial motion shall simultaneously serve the Court’s Research Attorneys. Pleadings and exhibits in connection with felony motions shall be served on the Research Attorneys by email at the following address: ratts@contracosta.courts.ca.gov.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

The applicant generally must give the other party legally required notice for ex parte-order and temporary-restraining-order applications, subject to the stated statutory and imminent-injury exceptions.

Except as provided in Family Code Section 6300, unless notice of the application for an ex parte order (including an application for an order shortening time) or a Temporary Restraining Order would result in great or irreparable injury to the applicant before the matter can be heard on notice, the applicant shall give the other party the notice required by law.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Moving and responsive pleadings

Absent prior Court approval of a different service time or method, moving and responsive pleadings must be timely filed and served under Code of Civil Procedure section 1005 or other applicable law; untimely pleadings may not be considered.

(4) Unless the Court has granted prior leave for different service time or method, all moving and responsive pleadings shall be timely filed and served in compliance with the provisions of Code of Civil Procedure section 1005 or any other applicable provision of law. The Court may not consider any moving or responsive pleading that was not timely filed and served.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

14 calendar days

Applies to

Witness list

A party seeking live testimony from witnesses other than the parties must file and serve all parties with a witness list and a brief description of anticipated testimony at least 14 calendar days before the hearing.

(5) Pursuant to Family Code section 217, a party seeking to present live testimony from all witnesses other than the parties shall file and serve all parties with their witness list with a brief description of the anticipated testimony. This list shall be filed and served no less than 14 calendar days before hearing.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 court days

Applies to

Motion

Proof of service of the moving papers must be filed no later than five court days before the hearing unless the Court has shortened the time.

Unless the Court has granted an order shortening time, proof of service of the moving papers shall be filed no later than 5 court days before the hearing.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

When a hearing is continued, the moving party must file proof of timely service for both the moving papers and notice of the continued hearing date.

If a hearing is continued, the moving party shall file proof of timely service of both the moving papers and notice of the continued hearing date.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Consent to appointment and declaration regarding qualifications

A private mediator must file and serve the required consent and qualifications declaration on all parties within 10 court days after receiving the appointment order.

Within 10 court days of receiving the order of appointment by the court, the private mediator shall file and serve on all parties the Consent to Appointment as Private Confidential Mediator or Child Custody Recommending Counselor and Declaration Regarding Qualifications (local court Form FamLaw-301).

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Notice of change of address or other contact information

The Notice of Change of Address or Other Contact Information must be served promptly on all parties when an attorney’s or party’s contact information changes.

An attorney or party whose mailing address, telephone number, fax number or e-mail address changes shall promptly file and serve on all parties a Notice of Change of Address or Other Contact Information (Judicial Council form MC-040).

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 court days

Notice of a motion to continue a jurisdiction hearing must be served on the opposing party at least five court days before the hearing.

A motion to continue the jurisdiction hearing in any proceeding shall be made and heard no less than two (2) court days before the jurisdiction hearing, after service of notice on the opposing party at least five (5) court days before the jurisdiction hearing.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 court days

Applies to

Casa court report

Copies of a CASA court report must be distributed to attorneys for all parties, County Counsel’s Office, and Children and Family Services at least five court days before the relevant hearing.

CASA shall copy the CASA court report and distribute it to attorneys of all parties to the case, County Counsel’s Office, and Children and Family Services a minimum of five court days prior to the hearing for which the report was prepared.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition for letters of special administration

A petition for letters of special administration requires at least 24 hours of oral or written notice to specified persons before the petition may be granted.

Petitions for letters of special administration will not be granted without twenty-four (24) hour (oral or written) notice to the surviving spouse or domestic partner as defined in Probate Code Section 1894, to the person nominated as executor, and to any other person whom the Court determines to be equitably entitled to notice.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition

The petition must be served with the initial Notice of Petition to Administer Estate and should not be published with that notice.

A copy of the petition must be served with the initial Notice of Petition to Administer Estate. A copy of the petition should not be published with the Notice.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Service

Mail

Counsel is responsible for mailing hearing notices when a Probate Code section requires the clerk to cause notice by mail.

If a Probate Code Section requires the clerk to “cause notice of the hearing to be mailed,” the clerk fulfills this function by requiring counsel to do the mailing. Therefore, counsel is charged with this duty.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

15 calendar days

Applies to

Notice of petition for distribution

Notice of the petition-for-distribution hearing must be served at least 15 calendar days before the hearing on affected named beneficiaries, heirs in intestate estates, and specified trust-related recipients.

At least fifteen (15) calendar days before the hearing of the petition, notice of the hearing must be served upon each named beneficiary whose interest is affected by the petition and to the heirs of the decedent in intestate estates. Also see Probate Code Section 1220. Notice shall also be given to: a) the trustee of any intervivos trust to which the estate pours over; b) to trust beneficiaries if required under Probate Code Section 1208; c) to the trustee of any testamentary trust.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

75 calendar days

Applies to

Petition for final distribution

A Petition for Final Distribution must show that creditors received the prescribed notice at least 75 calendar days before the hearing, or that the creditors were paid or no creditors were known.

The Petition for Final Distribution must show that all of decedent’s creditors received a Notice of Administration to Creditors (Judicial Council Form DE-157) at least seventy-five (75) calendar days before the hearing, or were paid or that there were no known creditors of decedent.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition

Notice of a petition under Probate Code Section 9835 must be served on the heirs at law in the same manner as a request for special notice, in addition to the usual hearing notices.

In addition to the usual notices given on hearing of such a petition, under Probate Code Section 9835, notice shall be served on the heirs at law in the same manner as if each had filed a request for special notice.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

15 calendar days

Applies to

Guardian final account and petition

Proof of service must be on file showing that the ward received the guardian’s final account and petition and hearing notice at least 15 calendar days before the hearing.

(1) Proof of service is on file verifying that a copy of the final account and petition, and notice of hearing thereon, has been served upon the ward not less than fifteen (15) calendar days before the hearing, (Probate Code Section 1460), or

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Ex parte temporary conservatorship application

Petitioner must notify all interested or opposing parties by fax, email, or telephone no later than 10:00 a.m. on the day before the scheduled hearing.

Petitioner must notify all interested or opposing parties by fax, email, or telephone no later than 10:00 a.m. on the day before the scheduled hearing as provided by CRC, Rule 3.1203 and CRC, Rule 3.1204.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion to seal

A motion to seal a grand jury transcript must be served on all parties and the court reporters.

The filing party must serve all Motions to Seal a Grand Jury Transcript on all parties and the court reporter(s).

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Sealing order

When the court orders a grand jury transcript sealed in whole or in part, the prevailing party must serve the order on all parties and the court reporters.

When an Order is issued by the Court to seal a Grand Jury transcript, in whole or in part, the prevailing party must serve the Order on all parties and the court reporter(s).

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

When required, the complete document must be served on all parties by the applicable deadline and accompanied by a certificate of that service.

This subdivision applies only to filings with the Court. The complete document must, where required, be served on all parties in accordance with applicable time limits, and a certificate to that effect must accompany the filing.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Complaint

Counsel must follow California Rules of Court, Rule 3.110 for pleading service, filing, proofs of service, and default-judgment notices; failure to serve the complaint and file a proof of service may result in an Order to Show Cause and sanctions.

(1) Counsel are to be familiar with and follow with particularity the rules set forth in California Rules of Court, Rule 3.110 as to service and filing of pleadings and proofs of service and the notice of default judgments. (2) Upon failure to serve the complaint and file a proof of service as required, an Order to Show Cause shall issue as to why counsel shall not be sanctioned for failure to comply with California Rules of Court, Rule 3.110.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 court days

Applies to

Responsive papers

Responsive papers to an Order to Show Cause must be filed and served at least five court days before the hearing.

(3) Responsive papers to the Order to Show Cause must be filed and served no less than five (5) court days in advance of the hearing.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

When serving the summons and complaint, or a cross-complaint on a new party, the responding party must also receive specified first case management conference and ADR documents.

At the time of serving the Summons and Complaint (and a cross-complaint upon a new party), the responding party shall be served with the Notice of the First Case Management Conference and an ADR Case Management Stipulation and Order (Local Court Form CV- 655(b)) for Unlimited Jurisdiction Civil cases, and the ADR Case Management Stipulation.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

10 calendar days

Applies to

Motion in limine

Motions in limine must be served at least 10 calendar days before the conference.

All motions in limine must be in writing and are to be filed and served at least ten (10) calendar days before the conference.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 calendar days

Applies to

Objection to motion in limine

Objections to motions in limine must be served at least 5 calendar days before the conference.

Any objections to motions in limine must be filed and served five (5) calendar days before the conference, with a copy lodged with the chambers of the department to which the case is assigned.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 court days

Applies to

Issue conference statement

The Issue Conference Statement must be served on all parties at least 5 court days before the Issue Conference.

Parties must file with the court and serve on all parties an Issue Conference Statement (Local Court Form CV-659(c)) of not more than ten (10) pages at least five (5) court days before the Issue Conference.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

20 court days

Applies to

Jury questionnaire

A party seeking a written jury questionnaire must serve the proposed questionnaire on the other parties at least 20 court days before the Issue Conference.

If any party intends to request that a specific written questionnaire be submitted to the jury, said party shall, no later than twenty (20) court days before the Issue Conference, serve a proposed questionnaire on the other parties;

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Written order

In a contested matter with appearing opposing counsel, the prevailing party must prepare and serve the written order for opposing counsel's review under California Rules of Court, Rule 3.1312.

In any contested matter, where opposing counsel appears, a written order shall be prepared and served by the prevailing party and reviewed by the opposing party, in accordance with California Rules of Court, Rule 3.1312.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

2 calendar days

Applies to

Notice of motion

Unless the court orders otherwise, returns of proof of service for notices of motions and orders to show cause must be filed with the Clerk at least two calendar days before the hearing.

Unless otherwise ordered, all returns of Proof of Service of Notice of Motions and Orders to Show Cause shall be filed in the office of the Clerk of the Court not less than two (2) calendar days preceding the time set for hearings.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Request for assignment of discovery facilitator

Unless exempt, a party must first serve a Request for Assignment of Discovery Facilitator on the ADR Office by fax or email before filing a discovery motion.

Unless exempt as set forth above, any party wishing to file a Discovery Motion, must first serve a Request for Assignment of Discovery Facilitator (Local Court Form ADR-610) by fax or email to the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Office of the Contra Costa County Superior Court, Fax 925-608-2109; email: ADRdiscoveryfacilitator@contracosta.courts.ca.gov

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Request for assignment of discovery facilitator

A copy of the Request for Assignment of Discovery Facilitator must also be served on all parties in the action.

A copy of the Request for Assignment of Discovery Facilitator shall also be served on all parties to the action.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Pleadings

When opposing counsel is unknown, serve the special unit assigned to a special-unit case or the opposing party's office closest to the courthouse in all other cases.

If the identity of opposing counsel is not known when the pleading is filed, the following service rules shall apply: (1) if the case is being handled by a special unit, the pleading shall be served on the office of the special unit assigned to the case; (2) in all other cases, the pleading shall be served on the office of the opposing party closest to the courthouse in which the case is pending.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Pleadings

Service

Email

In felony cases, pleadings in connection with substantive pretrial motions, along with related exhibits, must simultaneously be emailed to the Court's Research Attorneys.

In felony cases, any party filing a pleading in connection with a substantive Pre- Trial motion shall simultaneously serve the Court’s Research Attorneys. Pleadings and exhibits in connection with felony motions shall be served on the Research Attorneys by email at the following address: ratts@contracosta.courts.ca.gov.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

2 court days

Applies to

Reply brief

Service

Email

A defendant may file a reply identifying inadequacies in the warrantless-search justification, and the reply must be served by email, facsimile, or personal service at least two court days before the hearing.

The defendant may then file a reply specifying the inadequacies of the justification. Any such reply brief must be served (by email, facsimile or personal service) at least two court days before the hearing;

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 calendar days

Applies to

Motion

Service

Personal service

Unless the Court orders otherwise and good cause is shown, moving papers in an ex parte shortened-time application must be personally served at least five calendar days before the hearing, and opposing papers must be served at least two calendar days beforehand.

Except by order of the Court, upon a showing of good cause, all ex parte applications seeking to set a matter on shortened time shall provide for moving papers to be filed and personally served at least five (5) calendar days and for opposing papers to be filed and served at least two (2) calendar days before the hearing date.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Ex party order or temporary restraining order application

Statutorily required notice must be given for an ex parte-order or temporary-restraining-order application unless Family Code section 6300 applies or waiting for notice would cause great or irreparable injury.

Except as provided in Family Code Section 6300, unless notice of the application for an ex parte order (including an application for an order shortening time) or a Temporary Restraining Order would result in great or irreparable injury to the applicant before the matter can be heard on notice, the applicant shall give the other party the notice required by law.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Moving and responsive pleadings

Moving and responsive pleadings must be timely filed and served under Code of Civil Procedure section 1005 or other applicable law unless prior leave permits a different service time or method; untimely filings may not be considered.

Unless the Court has granted prior leave for different service time or method, all moving and responsive pleadings shall be timely filed and served in compliance with the provisions of Code of Civil Procedure section 1005 or any other applicable provision of law. The Court may not consider any moving or responsive pleading that was not timely filed and served.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

14 calendar days

Applies to

Witness list

A party seeking live testimony from nonparty witnesses must file and serve all parties a witness list describing the anticipated testimony at least 14 calendar days before the hearing.

Pursuant to Family Code Section 217, a party seeking to present live testimony from all witnesses other than the parties shall file and serve all parties with their witness list with a brief description of the anticipated testimony. This list shall be filed and served no less than fourteen (14) calendar days before hearing.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Case management conference statement

Each party must file and serve a Case Management Conference Statement at least seven calendar days before the CMC date.

No less than seven (7) calendar days before the date set for the Case Management Conference (CMC) each party shall file and serve a Case Management Conference Statement (Local Court Form FamLaw-113).

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Separate statement of contested issue

A Separate Statement of Contested Issue must be served by each party when the parties cannot agree on the Joint Statement of Contested Issues.

If the parties are unable to agree upon a Joint Statement of Contested Issues, then each party shall file and serve a Separate Statement of Contested Issue which includes all of the information required for a Joint Statement of Contested Issues.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

The declaration must be served on the other party and a proof of service must be filed.

A copy of the declaration shall be served on the other party and a proof of service shall be filed.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

The response must be served on the other party and a proof of service filed before the next hearing date.

A copy of the response shall be served on the other party and a proof of service shall be filed before the next hearing date.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 court days

Applies to

Motion

Notice of a motion to continue a jurisdiction hearing must be served on the opposing party at least five court days before the hearing.

A motion to continue the jurisdiction hearing in any proceeding shall be made and heard no less than two (2) court days before the jurisdiction hearing, after service of notice on the opposing party at least five (5) court days before the jurisdiction hearing.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

24 hours

Service

Personal service to all parties

When the family-allowance petitioner is not the executor, a dispute is on file, or special notice is requested, all other parties must receive personal or telephone notice at least 24 hours before the ex parte application.

However, if the petitioner is someone other than the executor or there is a dispute as evidenced by papers on file in the proceedings, or there is a request for special notice, then all other parties must be notified in person or by telephone at least twenty-four (24) hours in advance of the time and place where the application for the ex parte order will be made.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Amended or second probate petition

Service

Publication

A will or supplemental will not specifically mentioned in the petition requires an amended or second petition and a newly published and mailed Notice of Petition to Administer Estate.

Any other Wills or supplement to a Will not specifically mentioned in the Petition must be presented to the Court in an amended or second Petition and a new Notice of Petition to Administer Estate must be published and mailed.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Service

Mail

When a Probate Code section requires the clerk to cause notice of a hearing to be mailed, counsel must perform the mailing.

If a Probate Code Section requires the clerk to “cause notice of the hearing to be mailed”, the clerk fulfills this function by requiring counsel to do the mailing. Therefore, counsel is charged with this duty.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

15 calendar days

Applies to

Notice of hearing

Notice of the petition-for-distribution hearing must be served at least 15 calendar days before the hearing on affected named beneficiaries and, in intestate estates, the decedent's heirs.

At least fifteen (15) calendar days before the hearing of the petition, notice of the hearing must be served upon each named beneficiary whose interest is affected by the petition and to the heirs of the decedent in intestate estates.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Notice of sale

Subject to the stated statutory exceptions, non-perishable or non-depreciating personal property may be sold at public auction or private sale after the required notice and subject to court confirmation.

With the exceptions set forth in Probate Code Sections 10252(a), (b) and (d), non- perishable or non-depreciating personal property may be sold subject to Court confirmation at either public auction or at private sale, after giving notice as set forth in Probate Code Section 10250, et seq.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Notice of a petition under Probate Code Section 9835 must be served on each heir at law in the manner applicable to a request for special notice.

In addition to the usual notices given on hearing of such a petition, under Probate Code Section 9835, notice shall be served on the heirs at law in the same manner as if each had filed a request for special notice.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

A petition for distribution requesting additional trustee powers not conferred by the will must include notice under Probate Code Section 17203.

Notice must be given under Probate Code Section 17203 where the Petition for Distribution requests the Court to grant a trustee additional powers not conferred by the Will.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

An endorsed filed copy of the notice declaration must be delivered to the Probate Department before the hearing.

An endorsed filed copy of a declaration regarding notice in compliance with CRC, Rule 3.1204 must be delivered to the Probate Department prior to the hearing.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Minimum notice to the conservatee and spouse is required unless the court approves Judicial Council Form GC-112 before the hearing.

Minimum notice to the conservatee and conservatee's spouse, if any, pursuant to Probate Code Section 2250(e)(2) and (3) will be required unless the Ex Parte Application for Good Cause Exception to Notice of Hearing on Petition for Appointment of Temporary Conservator (Judicial Council Form GC-112) is approved by the Court prior to the hearing.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

The filing party must serve every motion to seal a grand jury transcript on all parties and the court reporters.

The filing party must serve all Motions to Seal a Grand Jury Transcript on all parties and the court reporter(s).

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

When the Court issues an order sealing a grand jury transcript in whole or in part, the prevailing party must serve the order on all parties and the court reporters.

When an Order is issued by the Court to seal a Grand Jury transcript, in whole or in part, the prevailing party must serve the Order on all parties and the court reporter(s).

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Original document production request

A request to produce an original must be served on the filing or serving party, which must then produce the original within 15 calendar days.

The request to file or produce the original document shall be served upon the party filing or serving the facsimile-produced document, who shall file or produce the original document in the Court within fifteen (15) calendar days thereafter.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

When service is required, the complete document must be served on all parties by the applicable deadline and accompanied by a certificate of that service.

The complete document must, where required, be served on all parties in accordance with applicable time limits, and a certificate to that effect must accompany the filing.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Service

Mail

Counsel, rather than the clerk, is responsible for mailing notices when a Probate Code section requires the clerk to cause notice to be mailed.

If a Probate Code Section requires the clerk to “cause notice of the hearing to be mailed,” the clerk fulfills this function by requiring counsel to do the mailing. Therefore, counsel is charged with this duty.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Service

Electronic service

A represented party, or an electing self-represented party, must provide an electronic service address when first filing electronically.

Each represented party – and self-represented party upon election to participate in electronic filing and service – must provide an electronic address for service on the first occasion that party files any paper electronically.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Service

Electronic service

A party must promptly electronically notify the Court and all parties of a changed electronic service address by filing the prescribed notice or form EFS-010.

A party whose electronic service address changes while their case is pending must promptly notify the Court and all parties by electronically filing a notice of change of electronic service address or Judicial Council form EFS-010, Notice to Change Electronic Service Address.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Counsel must follow California Rules of Court, Rule 3.110 for service and filing pleadings, proofs of service, and notices of default judgment.

Counsel are to be familiar with and follow with particularity the rules set forth in California Rules of Court, Rule 3.110 as to service and filing of pleadings and proofs of service and the notice of default judgments.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Failure to serve the complaint and file the required proof of service results in an Order to Show Cause concerning possible sanctions.

Upon failure to serve the complaint and file a proof of service as required, an Order to Show Cause shall issue as to why counsel shall not be sanctioned for failure to comply with California Rules of Court, Rule 3.110.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 court days

Responsive papers to an Order to Show Cause must be served at least five court days before the hearing.

Responsive papers to the Order to Show Cause must be filed and served no less than five (5) court days in advance of the hearing.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 calendar days

Applies to

Objection to motion in limine

Objections to motions in limine must be filed and served five calendar days before the issue conference, with a copy lodged in the assigned department's chambers.

Any objections to motions in limine must be filed and served five (5) calendar days before the conference, with a copy lodged with the chambers of the department to which the case is assigned.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

A petitioner must provide Rule 3.1203 notice to opposing counsel or an unrepresented party before presenting an ex parte application, but need not provide advance notice to the Court before presenting it to set the hearing date and briefing schedule.

The petitioner must comply with California Rules of Court, Rule 3.1203 concerning notice to opposing counsel or unrepresented party of the intent to present an ex parte application to the Court. The petitioning party need not notify the Court before presenting the application to set hearing date and briefing schedule.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Service of a signed Order to Show Cause must be effected by certified copy, and no service charge may be imposed.

When an Order to Show Cause has been signed, the original shall be filed immediately in the Clerk’s Office and service shall be effected by a certified copy, for which no charge shall be made.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

2 calendar days

Applies to

Proof of service

Unless the court orders otherwise, proof of service for motions and Orders to Show Cause must be filed in the Clerk’s Office at least two calendar days before the hearing.

Unless otherwise ordered, all returns of Proof of Service of Notice of Motions and Orders to Show Cause shall be filed in the Clerk’s Office not less than two (2) calendar days preceding the time set for hearings.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

In a contested matter with appearing opposing counsel, the prevailing party must prepare and serve the written order for review by the opposing party under California Rules of Court 3.1312.

In any contested matter, where opposing counsel appears, a written order shall be prepared and served by the prevailing party and reviewed by the opposing party, in accordance with California Rules of Court, Rule 3.1312.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 court days

Applies to

Settlement conference written statement

The Clerk-endorsed settlement-conference written statement must be served on all parties five court days before the conference.

Have endorsed by the Clerk of the Court and served on all parties five (5) court days before the conference, a written statement

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

The Request for Assignment of Discovery Facilitator may be served on the ADR Office by fax or email.

Unless exempt as set forth above, any party wishing to file a Discovery Motion, must first serve a Request for Assignment of Discovery Facilitator (Local Court Form ADR-610) by fax or email to the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Office of the Contra Costa County Superior Court, fax 925-608-2109; email: ADRdiscoveryfacilitator@contracosta.courts.ca.gov.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

A copy of the Request for Assignment of Discovery Facilitator must also be served on every party to the action.

A copy of the Request for Assignment of Discovery Facilitator shall also be served on all parties to the action.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

10 calendar days

Applies to

Rejection of assigned discovery facilitator

The parties have 10 calendar days after service of the assignment notice to serve a written rejection on the ADR Office and all parties.

Parties to the proposed motion shall have ten (10) calendar days after service of the Notice of Assignment to serve on the ADR Office and the parties in the action a Rejection of Assigned Discovery Facilitator (Local Court Form ADR-617).

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Discovery facilitator recommendations

Within 10 days after an unresolved discovery hearing, the Discovery Facilitator must serve Local Court Form ADR-616 on the parties.

If the discovery dispute is not completely resolved at the hearing, the Discovery Facilitator shall, within ten (10) days of the completion of the hearing, serve a document on the parties entitled “Recommendations of Discovery Facilitator and Termination of Appointment of Discovery Facilitator” (Local Court Form ADR-616).

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Unless the Court orders otherwise, required service must comply with California Rules of Court, Rule 4.111 and Penal Code Section 1538.5.

Unless otherwise ordered, all motions and proofs of service shall be filed and served in accordance with the time limitations set forth in California Rules of Court, Rule 4.111 and Penal Code Section 1538.5, and shall be set for hearing in the Criminal Department of the appropriate court.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Pleading

Pre-trial motion pleadings must be served on opposing counsel by the most expeditious available means, with specified substitute offices when counsel's identity is unknown.

All pleadings filed in connection with pre-trial motions shall be filed in the courthouse where the case is pending at the time the motion is filed. All pleadings shall be served on opposing counsel in his or her regularly assigned office by the most expeditious means available. If the identity of opposing counsel is not known when the pleading is filed, the following service rules shall apply: (1) if the case is being handled by a special unit, the pleading shall be served on the office of the special unit assigned to the case; (2) in all other cases, the pleading shall be served on the office of the opposing party closest to the courthouse in which the case is pending.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Pleading

Service

Email

In felony cases, pleadings and exhibits concerning substantive pre-trial motions must be simultaneously emailed to the Court's Research Attorneys at ratts@contracosta.courts.ca.gov.

In felony cases, any party filing a pleading in connection with a substantive pre- trial motion shall simultaneously serve the Court’s Research Attorneys. Pleadings and exhibits in connection with felony motions shall be served on the Research Attorneys by email at the following address: ratts@contracosta.courts.ca.gov.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 calendar days

Applies to

Moving papers

Service

Personal service

Moving papers in an ex parte shortened-time matter must be personally served at least five calendar days before the hearing.

Except by order of the Court, upon a showing of good cause, all ex parte applications seeking to set a matter on shortened time shall provide for moving papers to be filed and personally served at least five (5) calendar days and for opposing papers to be filed and served at least two (2) calendar days before the hearing date.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

An applicant for an ex parte order, order-shortening-time application, or temporary restraining order generally must give the other party legally required notice, subject to the stated exceptions.

Except as provided in Family Code Section 6300, unless notice of the application for an ex parte order (including an application for an order shortening time) or a Temporary Restraining Order would result in great or irreparable injury to the applicant before the matter can be heard on notice, the applicant shall give the other party the notice required by law.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

The required I&E or Simplified Financial Statement must also be served with moving and responsive papers in hearings seeking support, attorney’s fees, costs, or other financial relief.

A fully completed, current Income and Expense Declaration (I&E) (or Simplified Financial Statement, when appropriate) shall be filed and served with moving and responsive papers in all hearings involving requests for support, attorney’s fees, costs, or other financial relief, unless the party has filed an I&E within ninety (90) calendar days of the date of the hearing and there have been no significant changes in the party’s income, assets or expenses.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Moving and responsive pleadings must be timely filed and served under Code of Civil Procedure section 1005 or other applicable law unless the Court grants prior leave for a different service time or method.

Unless the Court has granted prior leave for different service time or method, all moving and responsive pleadings shall be timely filed and served in compliance with the provisions of Code of Civil Procedure section 1005 or any other applicable provision of law.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Written response

If the other party files a written response, the response must be served on the other party and proof of service filed before the next hearing date.

The other party may file a written response. A copy of the response shall be served on the other party and a proof of service shall be filed before the next hearing date.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

10 court days

Applies to

Private mediator appointment declaration

A private mediator must file and serve the required consent and qualifications declaration on all parties within 10 court days after receiving the court’s appointment order.

Within 10 court days of receiving the order of appointment by the court, the private mediator shall file and serve on all parties the Consent to Appointment as Private Confidential Mediator or Child Custody Recommending Counselor and Declaration Regarding Qualifications (local court Form FamLaw-301).

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Notice

Notice concerning the specified placement changes must be provided in writing, including by facsimile or email.

Notice by Children and Family Services relating to the above changes in placement must be given in writing, which includes by facsimile or email.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Notice

Notice to the child’s counsel must include the child’s address and telephone number and the caregiver’s name.

Notice to the child’s counsel shall include the child’s address, telephone number and name of the caregiver.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Notice

Upon receiving a subpoena or notice of a subpoena compelling a minor’s testimony in a dependency action, the social worker must immediately notify minor’s counsel.

In the event that a social worker receives a subpoena or notice of a subpoena compelling the appearance for testimony of a minor subject to a dependency action, the social worker shall provide immediate notice to minor’s counsel in the dependency action.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Subpoena

The social worker must provide minor’s counsel with a copy of the subpoena.

The social worker shall provide minor’s counsel with a copy of the subpoena.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 court days

Applies to

Casa court report

CASA must copy and distribute its court report to attorneys of all parties, County Counsel’s Office, and Children and Family Services at least five court days before the hearing.

CASA shall copy the CASA court report and distribute it to attorneys of all parties to the case, County Counsel’s Office, and Children and Family Services a minimum of five court days prior to the hearing for which the report was prepared.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

An endorsed filed copy of a tentative-ruling response must be delivered to the Probate Examiner.

In order to be considered, responses to tentative rulings must be filed no later than the close of business, two (2) court days before the hearing and endorsed filed copies delivered to the Probate Examiner.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Probate hearing

A noticed probate hearing may not be advanced before its scheduled date unless the court orders advancement and new notice is given.

When a hearing on a probate matter has been noticed, or when it has been noticed and then continued to a definite date, the matter cannot be heard before the date set, except by Court order and new notice.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Notice of petition to administer estate

A copy of the petition must accompany the initial Notice of Petition to Administer Estate when served.

A copy of the petition must be served with the initial Notice of Petition to Administer Estate.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Notice to beneficiaries named in testamentary trusts is required; notice only to the trustee is inadequate.

The terms “beneficiaries named in the Will” and “named contingent beneficiaries” used above include beneficiaries named in testamentary trusts. It is not adequate merely to give notice to the trustee of a trust where beneficiaries or contingent beneficiaries are named in testamentary trusts;

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Present and contingent beneficiaries of a trust must receive notice when the trustee is a beneficiary of the will and the trustee is the proposed personal representative.

Since use of applicable Judicial Council forms is mandatory and the purpose of Item 8 is to identify persons entitled to receive notice of the petition, the Probate Division will require notice to be given to present and contingent beneficiaries of trusts where the trustee is a beneficiary of the will and the trustee is identical to the proposed personal representative;

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Notice must be given to any non-petitioning executor, including an alternate executor named in the will.

Any non-petitioning Executor, including alternate executors named in the Will; and

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Before notice is waived or alternative notice is prescribed for an heir or beneficiary with an unknown address, a declaration detailing the locator efforts must be submitted.

If the address of an heir or beneficiary is unknown, the Court requires a declaration stating specifically what efforts were made to locate such heir or beneficiary before the Court will dispense with notice or prescribe an alternate form of notice.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Service

Publication

Publication and mailing of the Notice of Petition to Administer Estate covers all filed instruments offered for probate and specifically referred to in the petition.

The publication and mailing of Notice of Petition to Administer Estate under Probate Code Section 8120 is sufficient to include all instruments which are offered for probate filed with, and specifically referred to in the Petition for which notice is given.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Service

Publication

An amended or second petition and a newly published and mailed notice are required for any additional will or supplement not specifically mentioned in the petition.

Any other Wills or supplement to a Will not specifically mentioned in the Petition must be presented to the Court in an amended or second Petition and a new Notice of Petition to Administer Estate must be published and mailed.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Grand jury sealing motion

The filing party must serve every motion to seal a grand jury transcript on all parties and the court reporters.

The filing party must serve all Motions to Seal a Grand Jury Transcript on all parties and the court reporter(s).

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Grand jury sealing order

The prevailing party must serve an order sealing a grand jury transcript in whole or part on all parties and the court reporters.

When an Order is issued by the Court to seal a Grand Jury transcript, in whole or in part, the prevailing party must serve the Order on all parties and the court reporter(s).

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Designated cases

Service

Electronic service

Represented parties in Designated Cases must allow service of filed documents electronically.

Represented parties in Designated Cases must file documents and allow for service electronically.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Service

Electronic service

Represented parties, and self-represented parties that elect electronic filing and service, must provide an electronic service address when they first file a paper electronically.

Each represented party – and self-represented party upon election to participate in electronic filing and service – must provide an electronic address for service on the first occasion that party files any paper electronically.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Counsel must follow California Rules of Court, Rule 3.110 for serving and filing pleadings and proofs of service and filing notice of default judgments.

(1) Counsel are to be familiar with and follow with particularity the rules set forth in California Rules of Court, Rule 3.110 as to service and filing of pleadings and proofs of service and the notice of default judgments.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Failure to serve the complaint and file the required proof of service triggers an Order to Show Cause concerning possible sanctions.

(2) Upon failure to serve the complaint and file a proof of service as required, an Order to Show Cause shall issue as to why counsel shall not be sanctioned for failure to comply with California Rules of Court, Rule 3.110.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 court days

Responsive papers to an Order to Show Cause must be filed and served at least five court days before the hearing.

(3) Responsive papers to the Order to Show Cause must be filed and served no less than five (5) court days in advance of the hearing.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Service

Personal service

For Code of Civil Procedure section 415.20(b), parties must attempt personal delivery in good faith at least three times on at least two different days of the week, including a weekend attempt for dwelling service, for the clerk to find reasonable diligence.

(4) For purposes of Code of Civil Procedure section 415.20(b), a party shows reasonable diligence in attempting personal service by attempting personal delivery in good faith on at least three occasions. The party's attempts at personal service must occur on at least two different days of the week, and if service is at a dwelling, at least one attempt must occur on a Saturday or Sunday. If a party meets these requirements, a court clerk will find that the reasonable diligence requirement is met. Litigants with approved fee waivers who rely on a sheriff’s office for service may seek an exception to the weekend service requirement from the judicial officer if the sheriff’s office does not serve process on weekends. Nothing in this section shall be interpreted to prevent a judicial officer from exercising discretion to find reasonable diligence based on the facts of a case.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Notice of first case management conference

A responding party in an unlimited-jurisdiction civil case must receive the First Case Management Conference notice and specified ADR stipulation or order when the summons and complaint, or a cross-complaint, is served.

At the time of serving the Summons and Complaint (and a cross-complaint upon a new party), the responding party shall be served with the Notice of the First Case Management Conference and an ADR Case Management Stipulation and Order (Local Court Form CV- 655(b)) for unlimited jurisdiction civil cases, and the ADR Case Management Stipulation.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

15 calendar days

Applies to

Case management statement

Each appearing party must file and serve a completed Case Management Statement at least 15 calendar days before the First Case Management Conference.

Each appearing party shall file and serve the completed Case Management Statement, (Judicial Council Form CM-110), at least fifteen (15) calendar days before the First Case Management Conference as provided by California Rules of Court, Rule 3.725.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 calendar days

Applies to

Objection to motion in limine

Objections to motions in limine must be served five calendar days before the conference, and a copy must be lodged with the assigned department’s chambers.

Any objections to motions in limine must be filed and served five (5) calendar days before the conference, with a copy lodged with the chambers of the department to which the case is assigned.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 court days

Applies to

Issue conference statement

Each party must serve all parties with the Issue Conference Statement at least five court days before the conference.

Parties must file with the court and serve all parties an Issue Conference Statement (Local Court Form CV-659(c)) of not more than ten (10) pages at least five (5) court days before the Issue Conference.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

A petitioner seeking an ex parte writ application must give opposing counsel or an unrepresented party the notice required by California Rules of Court, Rule 3.1203.

The petitioner must comply with California Rules of Court, Rule 3.1203 concerning notice to opposing counsel or unrepresented party of the intent to present an ex parte application to the Court.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Service of a signed Order to Show Cause must be made by certified copy without charge.

When an Order to Show Cause has been signed, the original shall be filed immediately in the Clerk’s Office and service shall be effected by a certified copy, for which no charge shall be made.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

In a contested matter with appearing opposing counsel, the prevailing party must prepare and serve the written order, which must then be reviewed by opposing party under California Rules of Court, Rule 3.1312.

In any contested matter, where opposing counsel appears, a written order shall be prepared and served by the prevailing party and reviewed by the opposing party, in accordance with California Rules of Court, Rule 3.1312.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Mediators report

The mediator must forward the completed Mediator’s Report to the ADR Program’s Office, counsel, and all self-represented parties.

The mediator must forward a copy of the completed Mediator’s Report (Local Court Form ADR-305) to the ADR Program’s Office, counsel, and all self-represented parties.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Request for assignment of discovery facilitator

A copy of the Request for Assignment of Discovery Facilitator must be served on every party to the action.

A copy of the Request for Assignment of Discovery Facilitator shall also be served on all parties to the action.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

If the dispute remains unresolved at the hearing, the Discovery Facilitator must serve the parties with Local Court Form ADR-616 within 10 days after the hearing is completed.

If the discovery dispute is not completely resolved at the hearing, the Discovery Facilitator shall, within ten (10) days of the completion of the hearing, serve a document on the parties entitled “Recommendations of Discovery Facilitator and Termination of Appointment of Discovery Facilitator” (Local Court Form ADR-616).

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Pleadings

Pleadings in connection with pre-trial motions must be filed where the case is pending and served on opposing counsel by the most expeditious means available.

All pleadings filed in connection with pre-trial motions shall be filed in the courthouse where the case is pending at the time the motion is filed. All pleadings shall be served on opposing counsel in his or her regularly assigned office by the most expeditious means available.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Pleadings

When opposing counsel is unknown and the case is handled by a special unit, the pleading must be served on the assigned special unit's office.

If the identity of opposing counsel is not known when the pleading is filed, the following service rules shall apply: (1) if the case is being handled by a special unit, the pleading shall be served on the office of the special unit assigned to the case;

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Pleadings

When opposing counsel is unknown in cases not handled by a special unit, the pleading must be served on the opposing party's office closest to the courthouse where the case is pending.

If the identity of opposing counsel is not known when the pleading is filed, the following service rules shall apply: (1) if the case is being handled by a special unit, the pleading shall be served on the office of the special unit assigned to the case; (2) in all other cases, the pleading shall be served on the office of the opposing party closest to the courthouse in which the case is pending.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Post conviction pleading or exhibit

Service

Email

In felony cases, a party filing a pleading or exhibit connected with a substantive post-conviction motion or petition, including habeas corpus, must simultaneously email the Court's Research Attorneys at ratts@contracosta.courts.ca.gov.

(B) In felony cases, any party filing a pleading or exhibit in connection with a substantive post-conviction motion and petition, including a post-conviction writ of habeas corpus, shall simultaneously serve the Court’s Research Attorneys by email at: ratts@contracosta.courts.ca.gov

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Unless Family Code section 6300 applies or notice before hearing would cause the applicant great or irreparable injury, the applicant must give the other party all legally required notice of an ex parte order, order-shortening-time, or temporary restraining order application.

Except as provided in Family Code Section 6300, unless notice of the application for an ex parte order (including an application for an order shortening time) or a Temporary Restraining Order would result in great or irreparable injury to the applicant before the matter can be heard on notice, the applicant shall give the other party the notice required by law.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Moving and responsive pleadings

Absent prior court leave changing the service time or method, all moving and responsive pleadings must be timely filed and served under Code of Civil Procedure section 1005 or other applicable law.

Unless the Court has granted prior leave for different service time or method, all moving and responsive pleadings shall be timely filed and served in compliance with the provisions of Code of Civil Procedure section 1005 or any other applicable provision of law.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

14 calendar days

Applies to

Witness list

A party seeking live testimony from nonparty witnesses must file and serve all parties with a witness list and a brief description of anticipated testimony at least 14 calendar days before the hearing.

Pursuant to Family Code section 217, a party seeking to present live testimony from all witnesses other than the parties shall file and serve all parties with their witness list with a brief description of the anticipated testimony. This list shall be filed and served no less than 14 calendar days before hearing.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 court days

Applies to

Moving papers

Unless time is shortened by court order, proof of timely service of moving papers must be filed no later than five court days before the hearing; if timely service is not proven, the matter may be taken off calendar or continued, and the moving party must file proof of service for the moving papers and continued-hearing notice.

Unless the Court has granted an order shortening time, proof of service of the moving papers shall be filed no later than 5 court days before the hearing. (CRC 5.94 (b).) If a responding party fails to appear at a hearing and the moving party has not filed proof of timely service, the matter will be taken off calendar or continued to another date to allow for timely service or filing of the proof of service. If a hearing is continued, the moving party shall file proof of timely service of both the moving papers and notice of the continued hearing date.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Copies of proposed earnings-assignment or income-withholding orders that will be returned after filing must be provided to the requesting party or the party's attorney.

In addition, copies of proposed earnings assignment orders or income withholding orders that will be returned to the requesting party, or his/her attorney, after filing shall be provided.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

10 court days

Applies to

Consent to appointment and declaration regarding qualifications

The private mediator must serve Form FamLaw-301 on all parties within 10 court days after receiving the appointment order.

Within 10 court days of receiving the order of appointment by the court, the private mediator shall file and serve on all parties the Consent to Appointment as Private Confidential Mediator or Child Custody Recommending Counselor and Declaration Regarding Qualifications (local court Form FamLaw-301).

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

When specified contact information changes, the attorney or party must promptly serve the required notice on all parties.

An attorney or party whose mailing address, telephone number, fax number or e-mail address changes shall promptly file and serve on all parties a Notice of Change of Address or Other Contact Information (Judicial Council form MC-040).

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition for letters of special administration

A petition for letters of special administration cannot be granted without at least 24 hours’ oral or written notice to the specified persons and any other person the court finds equitably entitled to notice.

Petitions for letters of special administration will not be granted without twenty-four (24) hour (oral or written) notice to the surviving spouse or domestic partner as defined in Probate Code Section 1894, to the person nominated as executor, and to any other person whom the Court determines to be equitably entitled to notice.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

A copy of the petition must accompany the initial Notice of Petition to Administer Estate when served.

A copy of the petition must be served with the initial Notice of Petition to Administer Estate.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Service

Mail

When a Probate Code section requires the clerk to cause notice of the hearing to be mailed, counsel must perform the mailing.

If a Probate Code Section requires the clerk to “cause notice of the hearing to be mailed,” the clerk fulfills this function by requiring counsel to do the mailing. Therefore, counsel is charged with this duty.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Petition for distribution

A petition for distribution requesting additional trustee powers not conferred by the will must be accompanied by notice under Probate Code Section 17203.

Notice must be given under Probate Code Section 17203 where the Petition for Distribution requests the Court to grant a trustee additional powers not conferred by the Will.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

15 calendar days

Applies to

Final account

A copy of the guardian’s final account and petition, together with notice of the hearing, must be served on the ward at least 15 calendar days before the hearing, with proof of service on file.

(1) Proof of service is on file verifying that a copy of the final account and petition, and notice of hearing thereon, has been served upon the ward not less than fifteen (15) calendar days before the hearing, (Probate Code Section 1460)

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Ex parte application

Notice of an ex parte application generally must be provided to the opposing party or counsel by 10:00 a.m. the preceding day, unless exceptional circumstances justify a shorter period.

Notice of the filing of an ex parte application must be provided to the opposing party or their counsel no later than 10:00 a.m. the day before the application will be presented to the Court, absent a showing of exceptional circumstances justifying a shorter notice period, as provided in California Rules of Court, rule 3.1203.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion to seal

A motion to seal a grand jury transcript must be served on all parties and the court reporters.

The filing party must serve all Motions to Seal a Grand Jury Transcript on all parties and the court reporter(s).

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Sealing order

The prevailing party must serve any order sealing a grand jury transcript in whole or part on all parties and the court reporters.

When an Order is issued by the Court to seal a Grand Jury transcript, in whole or in part, the prevailing party must serve the Order on all parties and the court reporter(s).

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Counsel must follow California Rules of Court, Rule 3.110 for service and filing of pleadings, proofs of service, and notices of default judgments.

(1) Counsel are to be familiar with and follow with particularity the rules set forth in California Rules of Court, Rule 3.110 as to service and filing of pleadings and proofs of service and the notice of default judgments.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Complaint

Failure to serve the complaint and file the required proof of service may result in an Order to Show Cause and sanctions.

(2) Upon failure to serve the complaint and file a proof of service as required, an Order to Show Cause shall issue as to why counsel shall not be sanctioned for failure to comply with California Rules of Court, Rule 3.110.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 court days

Applies to

Responsive papers

Responsive papers to an Order to Show Cause must be filed and served at least five court days before the hearing.

(3) Responsive papers to the Order to Show Cause must be filed and served no less than five (5) court days in advance of the hearing.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Service

Personal service

For purposes of Code of Civil Procedure section 415.20(b), reasonable diligence in attempting personal service requires good-faith personal-delivery attempts on at least three occasions across at least two days of the week, with at least one weekend attempt when service is at a dwelling.

(4) For purposes of Code of Civil Procedure section 415.20(b), a party shows reasonable diligence in attempting personal service by attempting personal delivery in good faith on at least three occasions. The party's attempts at personal service must occur on at least two different days of the week, and if service is at a dwelling, at least one attempt must occur on a Saturday or Sunday. If a party meets these requirements, a court clerk will find that the reasonable diligence requirement is met.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Adr case management stipulation

The responding party in Unlimited Jurisdiction Civil cases and plaintiffs in Limited Jurisdiction Civil cases will receive an ADR Case Management Stipulation (Local Court Form CV-659(d)) for Limited Jurisdiction Civil cases.

The responding party in Unlimited Jurisdiction Civil cases and plaintiffs in Limited Jurisdiction Civil cases will receive an ADR Case Management Stipulation (Local Court Form CV-659(d)) for Limited Jurisdiction Civil cases.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Case questionnaire

The responding party in a Limited Jurisdiction Civil case must also receive a blank DISC-010 case questionnaire.

The responding party in Limited Jurisdiction Civil Cases will also receive a blank Case Questionnaire for Limited Civil Cases (Judicial Council form DISC-010).

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

15 calendar days

Applies to

Case management statement

Each appearing party must serve the completed Form CM-110 at least 15 calendar days before the first case-management conference.

Each appearing party shall file and serve the completed Case Management Statement, (Judicial Council Form CM-110), at least fifteen (15) calendar days before the First Case Management Conference as provided by California Rules of Court, Rule 3.725.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion papers

Moving, opposing, and reply papers must be served on the parties within the time prescribed by law.

(1) Moving, opposing and reply papers must be filed and served with the Court and parties within the time prescribed by law. The Court will not consider late filed papers unless good cause is shown at the hearing.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

2 calendar days

Proofs of service for motions and orders to show cause must be filed with the court clerk at least two calendar days before the hearing.

Unless otherwise ordered, all returns of Proof of Service of Notice of Motions and Orders to Show Cause shall be filed in the office of the Clerk of the Court not less than two (2) calendar days preceding the time set for hearings.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Return of service

When court entry of default is required, the Return of Service must be filed before requesting the hearing.

unless it is a matter requiring court entry of default, in which case the Return of Service must be filed before the request for hearing.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 court days

Applies to

Settlement conference statement

For a mandatory settlement conference, parties must have the Clerk endorse and serve a written statement of the specified facts, law, contentions, damages, injuries, and economic claims on all parties five court days before the conference.

(1) Have endorsed by the Clerk of the Court and served on all parties five (5) court days before the conference, a written statement of the facts, law and respective contentions of the parties to prove or disprove the right of recovery, items and amount of special damages, nature and extent of injuries incurred and claimed residuals documented by medical report when possible, any wage loss claim showing methods of computation, and any claim for future medical expenses and earnings loss;

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Request for Assignment of Discovery Facilitator

A copy of the Discovery Facilitator assignment request must also be served on every party to the action.

A copy of the Request for Assignment of Discovery Facilitator shall also be served on all parties to the action.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Request for Assignment of Discovery Facilitator

The Discovery Facilitator assignment request must be served no later than the last date for filing the Discovery Motion.

The Request for Assignment of Discovery Facilitator (Local Court Form ADR-610) must be served on or before the last date for filing the Discovery Motion.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

The ADR Office must serve the Notice of Assignment of Discovery Facilitator within 20 calendar days after receiving the assignment request.

The ADR Office shall serve a Notice of Assignment of Discovery Facilitator (Local Court Form ADR-612) within twenty (20) calendar days of receipt of a Request for Assignment of Discovery Facilitator.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

10 calendar days

A party has 10 calendar days after service of the assignment notice to serve a Rejection of Assigned Discovery Facilitator on the ADR Office and all parties.

Parties to the proposed motion shall have ten (10) calendar days after service of the Notice of Assignment to serve on the ADR Office and the parties in the action a Rejection of Assigned Discovery Facilitator (Local Court Form ADR-617).

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Discovery facilitator recommendations

After an unresolved discovery-dispute hearing, the Discovery Facilitator must serve Local Court Form ADR-616 on the parties within 10 days after the hearing is completed.

If the discovery dispute is not completely resolved at the hearing, the Discovery Facilitator shall, within ten (10) days of the completion of the hearing, serve a document on the parties entitled “Recommendations of Discovery Facilitator and Termination of Appointment of Discovery Facilitator” (Local Court Form ADR-616).

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Pretrial-motion pleadings must be filed where the case is pending and served on opposing counsel by the most expeditious available means.

All pleadings filed in connection with Pre-Trial motions shall be filed in the courthouse where the case is pending at the time the motion is filed. All pleadings shall be served on opposing counsel in his or her regularly assigned office by the most expeditious means available.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion

Service

Email to court

In felony cases, pleadings in substantive pretrial motions and related exhibits must be simultaneously emailed to the court’s Research Attorneys.

In felony cases, any party filing a pleading in connection with a substantive Pre- Trial motion shall simultaneously serve the Court’s Research Attorneys. Pleadings and exhibits in connection with felony motions shall be served on the Research Attorneys by email at the following address: ratts@contracosta.courts.ca.gov.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

2 court days

Applies to

Reply brief

The defendant may file a reply identifying inadequacies in the justification, and the reply must be served by email, fax, or personal service at least two court days before the hearing.

The defendant may then file a reply specifying the inadequacies of the justification. Any such reply brief must be served (by email, facsimile or personal service) at least two court days before the hearing;

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 calendar days

Applies to

Motion

Service

Personal service

Unless the court orders otherwise and good cause is shown, moving papers in an ex parte application to set a matter on shortened time must be filed and personally served at least five calendar days before the hearing, and opposing papers must be filed and served at least two calendar days before the hearing; all papers must include a proposed order.

(2) Except by order of the Court, upon a showing of good cause, all ex parte applications seeking to set a matter on shortened time shall provide for moving papers to be filed and personally served at least five (5) calendar days and for opposing papers to be filed and served at least two (2) calendar days before the hearing date. All papers, including opposition and reply papers, filed in motions brought on an order shortening time, shall be accompanied by a copy of the proposed order.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

For ex parte-order and temporary-restraining-order applications, the applicant generally must give the other party legally required notice unless notice would cause great or irreparable injury, except as provided by Family Code Section 6300.

Except as provided in Family Code Section 6300, unless notice of the application for an ex parte order (including an application for an order shortening time) or a Temporary Restraining Order would result in great or irreparable injury to the applicant before the matter can be heard on notice, the applicant shall give the other party the notice required by law.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Income and expense declaration or simplified financial statement

The current I&E or appropriate Simplified Financial Statement must be served with moving and responsive papers for financial-relief hearings, subject to the stated 90-day and unchanged-financial-circumstances exception.

A fully completed, current Income and Expense Declaration (I&E) (or Simplified Financial Statement, when appropriate) shall be filed and served with moving and responsive papers in all hearings involving requests for support, attorney’s fees, costs, or other financial relief, unless the party has filed an I&E within ninety (90) calendar days of the date of the hearing and there have been no significant changes in the party’s income, assets or expenses.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Absent prior court approval of a different service time or method, moving and responsive pleadings must be served in compliance with Code of Civil Procedure section 1005 or other applicable law.

Unless the Court has granted prior leave for different service time or method, all moving and responsive pleadings shall be timely filed and served in compliance with the provisions of Code of Civil Procedure section 1005 or any other applicable provision of law.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

7 calendar days

Applies to

Case management conference statement

Each party must serve the Case Management Conference Statement no later than seven calendar days before the CMC.

No less than seven (7) calendar days before the date set for the Case Management Conference (CMC) each party shall file and serve a Case Management Conference Statement (Local Court Form FamLaw-113).

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Separate statement of contested issues

When the parties cannot agree on a Joint Statement of Contested Issues, each party must serve a Separate Statement of Contested Issue containing the joint statement's required information.

If the parties are unable to agree upon a Joint Statement of Contested Issues, then each party shall file and serve a Separate Statement of Contested Issue which includes all of the information required for a Joint Statement of Contested Issues.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

5 court days

Notice of a motion to continue a jurisdiction hearing must be served on the opposing party at least five court days before the hearing.

A motion to continue the jurisdiction hearing in any proceeding shall be made and heard no less than two (2) court days before the jurisdiction hearing, after service of notice on the opposing party at least five (5) court days before the jurisdiction hearing.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

24 hours

A petition for letters of special administration requires at least 24 hours of oral or written notice to the surviving spouse or domestic partner, nominated executor, and any other person the court finds equitably entitled to notice.

Petitions for letters of special administration will not be granted without twenty-four (24) hour (oral or written) notice to the surviving spouse or domestic partner as defined in Probate Code Section 1894, to the person nominated as executor, and to any other person whom the Court determines to be equitably entitled to notice.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Notice is due to all named contingent beneficiaries and to persons whose testamentary gifts were revoked by a later modification to the will.

This includes all named contingent beneficiaries who may be entitled to share in the estate, and also includes persons provided for in the Will but whose gifts have been revoked by a subsequent modification to the will;

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

When testamentary-trust beneficiaries or contingent beneficiaries are named, notice to the trustee alone is inadequate.

The terms “beneficiaries named in the Will” and “named contingent beneficiaries” used above include beneficiaries named in testamentary trusts. It is not adequate merely to give notice to the trustee of a trust where beneficiaries or contingent beneficiaries are named in testamentary trusts;

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

When the trustee is both a will beneficiary and the proposed personal representative, notice must also be given to present and contingent beneficiaries of the trust.

Since use of applicable Judicial Council forms is mandatory and the purpose of Item 8 is to identify persons entitled to receive notice of the petition, the Probate Division will require notice to be given to present and contingent beneficiaries of trusts where the trustee is a beneficiary of the will and the trustee is identical to the proposed personal representative;

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

The California Attorney General is entitled to notice when a charitable trust is involved.

The California Attorney General, where there is a charitable trust involved (Probate Code Section 8111).

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Before waiving notice or prescribing an alternative when an heir’s or beneficiary’s address is unknown, the court requires a declaration detailing the locating efforts made.

If the address of an heir or beneficiary is unknown, the Court requires a declaration stating specifically what efforts were made to locate such heir or beneficiary before the Court will dispense with notice or prescribe an alternate form of notice.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Notice of hearing

Service

Mail

Counsel is responsible for mailing hearing notice when a Probate Code section requires the clerk to cause notice to be mailed.

If a Probate Code Section requires the clerk to “cause notice of the hearing to be mailed”, the clerk fulfills this function by requiring counsel to do the mailing. Therefore, counsel is charged with this duty.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Notice of petition to administer estate

Service

Publication

Any will or supplement not specifically mentioned in the petition must be raised by an amended or second petition, with a new Notice of Petition to Administer Estate published and mailed.

Any other Wills or supplement to a Will not specifically mentioned in the Petition must be presented to the Court in an amended or second Petition and a new Notice of Petition to Administer Estate must be published and mailed.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

15 calendar days

Applies to

Petition for distribution

Notice of a petition-for-distribution hearing must be served at least 15 calendar days before the hearing on each named beneficiary whose interest is affected and on the decedent's heirs in intestate estates.

At least fifteen (15) calendar days before the hearing of the petition, notice of the hearing must be served upon each named beneficiary whose interest is affected by the petition and to the heirs of the decedent in intestate estates.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Deadline

15 calendar days

Proof of service must be filed showing that the final account, petition, and notice of hearing were served on the ward at least 15 calendar days before the hearing.

Proof of service is on file verifying that a copy of the final account and petition, and notice of hearing thereon, has been served upon the ward not less than fifteen (15) calendar days before the hearing, (Probate Code Section 1460), or

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

The applicant must provide the documents and FamLaw-206 notice to the other side and, when DCSS is a party and child-support emergency relief is requested, also provide them to DCSS; this pre-filing step is notice rather than service and may be completed personally.

Deliver a copy of the document(s) to the other side along with a “Notice Upon Ex-Parte Application for Orders” (local form FamLaw-206). If DCSS is a party to your case and you are requesting emergency orders regarding child support, you must also give a copy to DCSS. This step is called notice, not service, so you can do this yourself.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026CRITICAL

Service

Personal service to opposing party

If the court grants emergency ex parte orders, the other party must receive personal service, and the applicant may not serve the applicant's own documents.

Serve the other party. If the judge granted your request for emergency (ex parte) orders, the other side must be personally served. You cannot serve your own documents.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Applies to

Motion to seal

The filing party must serve all parties and the court reporter(s) with any Motion to Seal a Grand Jury Transcript.

The filing party must serve all Motions to Seal a Grand Jury Transcript on all parties and the court reporter(s).

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Service

Electronic service

Represented parties in Designated Cases must allow service electronically.

Represented parties in Designated Cases must file documents and allow for service electronically.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 2, 2026CRITICAL

Service

Electronic service

A represented party, or a self-represented party that elects electronic filing and service, must provide an electronic service address when first filing paper electronically.

Each represented party – and self-represented party upon election to participate in electronic filing and service – must provide an electronic address for service on the first occasion that party files any paper electronically.