Civil Court
Civil courts have jurisdiction over non-criminal disputes among individuals and/or corporations involving money, title or possession of real property, or lawsuits seeking compensation for a civil tort, such as personal injury.
Civil Court Overview
In a civil case, typically the plaintiff, a person, group, business, institution, or a government body, brings a claim of harm against a defendant, another person or group.
Learn About Different Types of Civil Cases
The Judicial Council’s website provides information and resources on different types of civil cases.
Civil Direct Calendar Department
If the Court has assigned your case to a Civil Direct Calendar Department, you can get information about the department by visiting the eCourt Public Portal.
Writ matters are assigned to Department 23 and Collection matters to Department 5. Small Claims and Civil Harassment matters are heard in Department 105 and Department 519.
Unlawful Detainer/Eviction Cases
Unlawful Detainer cases are assigned to Department 511 located at the Hayward Hall of Justice.
Applications for Stay of Evictions can be filed at the court locations that accept civil filings.
- Hayward Hall of Justice (Hayward)
- Rene C. Davidson Courthouse (Oakland)
The Court will decide on the Stay of Eviction without a court hearing.
Click here for additional information about Unlawful Detainer cases from the Judicial Council of California.
Civil Court Services
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Rulings on Motions
Find information on Tentative Rulings, Motions, Ex Parte Applications, and how to reserve a hearing date.
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Civil e-Filing
View information and instructions on how to file and view e-filed documents via our new Civil e-filing public portal.
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Small Claims
Small Claims Court is a special court where you can resolve disputes quickly and inexpensively without an attorney.
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Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
Learn more about resolving your case via Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR).