Trial Courts

Each of the state's 58 counties has a Superior Court which is a trial court of general jurisdiction.  These courts hear both criminal and civil cases.  Each court has a Small Claims division to hear civil suits for $7,500 or less in value under simplified rules which do not allow attorneys to appear for the parties.   The Superior Courts also have an Appellate Division to hear appeals from limited civil cases involving civil suits up to $25,000 and misdemeanors.   A Superior Court judge hears appeals from the Small Claims Court.

California Superior Courts

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A Visitors' Guide to the California Superior Courts


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