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Create your free account →Superior Court Judge · Superior Court of California, County of San Diego · San Diego County, California
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Report generated October 14, 2026 · benchpath.ai/reports/judge/ca-katherine-a-bacal
Judge — Department 63, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego
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Unlock free →Policies and procedures of Department 2101 (Judge Robert C. Longstreth), dated August 27, 2025: hearings that require personal appearance and remote appearances by Microsoft Teams, ex parte reservations, guardian ad litem and publication applications, law and motion, and trial requirements including the trial binder (trial readiness report, limine motions, trial briefs, statement of the case, voir dire questions).
Department 2102 Policies and Procedures — Hon. Todd F. Stevens (Central Division), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2025-10/department_2102_policies_and_procedures.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Policies and procedures of Department 2102 (Central Division, Judge Todd F. Stevens): conformity with the local rules, case management conferences, ex parte matters, law and motion, informal discovery and pleading conferences, taking motions off calendar, trial readiness conferences, remote appearances, settlement conferences and jury trial requirements.
Department 502 (Probate) Guidelines for Parties Appearing Virtually for Trials and Evidentiary Hearings — Hon. Nadia J. Keilani, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the Department 502 policies document (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/dept_502_policies_and_procedures.pdf) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/pls/portal/docs/PAGE/SDCOURT/GENERALINFORMATION/LOCALRULESOFCOURT/ROCDEPARTMENTRULES/PROBATEDEPARTMENTPC3/guidelines%20for%20parties%20appearing.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Guidelines linked from Department 502's probate policies for parties and witnesses appearing remotely at trials and evidentiary hearings: no audio-only testimony without a stipulation, each party arranging and paying for its own and its witnesses' video appearances, video quality sufficient to prevent coaching, exchange of pre-marked exhibits by 3 p.m. the court day before trial, exhibits for testifying witnesses, and keeping non-party virtual witnesses from hearing the rest of the trial.
Department 502 (Probate) Policies and Procedures — Hon. Nadia J. Keilani, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/dept_502_policies_and_procedures.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Probate policies and procedures of Department 502 (Judge Nadia J. Keilani): courtroom staff, virtual appearances, ex parte matters including contested and personal-appearance applications, law and motion, case management conferences, trials and evidentiary hearings, hearings on sales of real property, and Telecourt.
Department 503 (Probate) Policies and Procedures — Hon. Olga Álvarez (Central Courthouse; effective July 15, 2024), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/dept_503_policies_and_procedures.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Probate policies and procedures of Department 503 (Central Courthouse, Judge Olga Álvarez), effective July 15, 2024: courtroom staff, remote appearances, contested and personal-appearance ex parte applications, uncontested ex parte drops and notice, law and motion, trials and evidentiary hearings, hearings on sales of real property, case management conferences, stipulations and orders, and Telecourt.
Department 60 Advance Trial Review Order and Pre-Trial Checklist — Hon. Matthew C. Braner (rev. November 1, 2021), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the Department 60 policies document (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/PAGE/SDCOURT/GENERALINFORMATION/LOCALRULESOFCOURT/ROCDEPARTMENTRULES/DEPARTMENT60/department_60_policies_and_procedures.pdf) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/%20/PAGE/SDCOURT/GENERALINFORMATION/LOCALRULESOFCOURT/ROCDEPARTMENTRULES/DEPARTMENT60/D60%20ATRO.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Department 60's advance trial review order (rev. 11/01/2021): the meet-and-confer before trial call, joint trial readiness materials, exhibits and exhibit lists, motions in limine, witness lists, jury instructions and verdict forms, and the department's pre-trial checklist.
Department 60 Policies and Procedures — Hon. Matthew C. Braner (Central – Hall of Justice; revised September 24, 2025), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/PAGE/SDCOURT/GENERALINFORMATION/LOCALRULESOFCOURT/ROCDEPARTMENTRULES/DEPARTMENT60/department_60_policies_and_procedures.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Policies and procedures of Department 60 (Central – Hall of Justice civil, Judge Matthew C. Braner), revised September 24, 2025: rescheduling, ex parte matters, informal discovery conferences, law and motion, case management and trial readiness conferences, trial calls, trials, virtual appearances and settlement conferences.
Department 602 Trial / Long RFO Requirements — Hon. Rebecca S. Kanter (updated February 27, 2025), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/trial_requirements_-_d602.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Trial and long-cause request-for-order requirements of Department 602 (family law, Judge Rebecca S. Kanter), updated February 27, 2025: in-person appearance, trial notebooks, briefs, exhibit and witness lists with examples of the exhibit list and exhibit tag, and court reporters.
Department 603 Trial/Evidentiary Hearing Procedure Orders — Hon. Laura H. Miller, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/hearing_orders_for_department_603.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Trial and evidentiary hearing procedure orders of Department 603 (family law, Judge Laura H. Miller): trial scheduling and time allocation, trial briefs, exhibits and exhibit tags, motions in limine, experts, child testimony, the court's trial preparation, court reporters, court interpreters and filing.
Department 62 Advance Trial Review Order — Hon. Judy S. Bae (as of July 2026), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the Department 62 policies document (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department62/rules_dept_62.pdf) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department62/ATRO_Dept_62.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Department 62's advance trial review order (as of July 2026): the in-person meet-and-confer at least three court days before trial call and the trial documents, exhibits, motions in limine, witness lists, jury instructions and verdict forms the parties must prepare.
Department 62 Policies and Procedures — Hon. Judy S. Bae (Central Civil – Hall of Justice; as of July 2026), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department62/rules_dept_62.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Policies and procedures of Department 62 (Central civil – Hall of Justice, Judge Judy S. Bae), as of July 2026: ex parte hearings, law and motion, informal discovery conferences and discovery motions, protective orders and motions to seal, service by publication, guardians ad litem, pro hac vice applications, remote appearances, case management, continuances, trial readiness conferences, trial calls, default judgments and courtesy copies.
Department 62 Trial Guidelines — Hon. Judy S. Bae (as of July 2026), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the Department 62 policies document (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department62/rules_dept_62.pdf) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department62/Trial_Guidelines_Dept_62.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Department 62's trial guidelines (as of July 2026): punctuality, objections, conduct in the courtroom, examination of witnesses, exhibits, and conduct during jury selection.
Department 64 Advance Trial Review Order — Hon. Loren G. Freestone, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the Department 64 policies document (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2023-04/department_64_policies_and_procedures_-_honorable_loren_g._freestone.pdf) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/SDCOURT/GENERALINFORMATION/LOCALRULESOFCOURT/advance_trial_review_order_dept_64.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Department 64's advance trial review order: the in-person meet-and-confer before the initial trial call and the joint trial documents, exhibits, motions in limine, witness lists, jury instructions, verdict forms and trial guidelines.
Department 64 Policies and Procedures — Hon. Loren G. Freestone (Central Civil – Hall of Justice; revised September 25, 2025), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2023-04/department_64_policies_and_procedures_-_honorable_loren_g._freestone.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Policies and procedures of Department 64 (Central civil – Hall of Justice, Judge Loren G. Freestone), revised September 25, 2025: ex parte hearings, minor's compromise petitions, remote appearances, service by publication, guardians ad litem, protective orders and motions to seal, law and motion, informal discovery conferences and discovery motions, pro hac vice applications, case management and trial readiness conferences, trial calls, default judgments and courtesy copies.
Department 65 Advance Trial Review Order — Hon. Mark T. Cumba, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the Department 65 policies document (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department65/policy_and_procedures_dept_65.pdf) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department65/d65_atro.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Department 65's advance trial review order: the meet-and-confer before trial call, joint trial readiness materials, exhibits and exhibit objections, motions in limine, witness lists, jury instructions and verdict forms, and court reporters.
Department 65 Policies and Procedures — Hon. Mark T. Cumba (Central Civil – Hall of Justice; revised March 2, 2026), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department65/policy_and_procedures_dept_65.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Policies and procedures of Department 65 (Central civil – Hall of Justice, Judge Mark T. Cumba), revised March 2, 2026: courtroom staff, ex parte matters, informal discovery conferences, minor's compromise petitions, service by publication, protective orders and motions to seal, law and motion, case management and trial readiness conferences, trial calls, trials, remote appearances and default judgments.
Department 65 Trial Requirements — Hon. Mark T. Cumba, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the Department 65 policies document (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department65/policy_and_procedures_dept_65.pdf) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department65/Trial_Requirements_dept_65.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Department 65's trial requirements: the call to the courtroom clerk before trial call and the contents of the trial notebooks and binders the court requires.
Department 66 Advance Trial Review Order — Hon. Wendy M. Behan, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the Department 66 policies document (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department66/department_66_policies_and_procedures_wmb.pdf) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department66/Advance_Trial_Review_Order_Dept_66_WMB.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Department 66's advance trial review order: the meet-and-confer at least three court days before trial call and the trial materials, exhibits, motions in limine, witness lists, jury instructions and verdict forms required.
Department 66 Policies and Procedures — Hon. Wendy M. Behan (Central Civil – Hall of Justice; revised May 29, 2025), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department66/department_66_policies_and_procedures_wmb.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Policies and procedures of Department 66 (Central civil – Hall of Justice, Judge Wendy M. Behan), revised May 29, 2025: ex parte matters, informal discovery conference, law and motion, case management and trial readiness conferences, trial calls, trials and remote appearances.
Department 66 Trial Requirements — Hon. Wendy M. Behan, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the Department 66 policies document (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department66/department_66_policies_and_procedures_wmb.pdf) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department66/d66_trial_requirements_WMB.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Department 66's trial requirements: the call to the courtroom clerk before trial call and the contents of the trial notebooks and binders the court requires.
Department 67 Advance Trial Review Order and Trial Guidelines — Hon. Michael T. Smyth (revised January 2026), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the Department 67 policies document (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department67/department_67_rules_and_procedures.pdf) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department67/Advanced%20Trial%20Review%20Order%20Dept%2067.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Department 67's advance trial review order and trial guidelines (revised January 2026): the meet-and-confer before trial call, trial readiness materials, exhibits, motions in limine, witnesses, jury instructions and verdict forms, courtesy copies, court reporters and the department's courtroom guidelines.
Department 67 Lemon Law Guidance — Hon. Michael T. Smyth, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the Department 67 policies document (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department67/department_67_rules_and_procedures.pdf) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department67/Lemon%20Law%20Guidance%20D67.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Department 67's guidance for Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act (lemon law) cases: the court's review of venue and transfer of improperly venued cases, the discovery motion procedure (joint statement and a separate statement limited to the requests and responses), and general guidance on interrogatories, document requests and protective orders.
Department 67 Policies and Procedures — Hon. Michael T. Smyth (Central – Hall of Justice; revised January 2026), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department67/department_67_rules_and_procedures.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Policies and procedures of Department 67 (Central – Hall of Justice civil, Judge Michael T. Smyth), revised January 2026: lemon law cases, case management conferences, law and motion hearings, trial readiness conferences, trial call and trials, stipulated continuances, ex parte hearings, remote appearances, minor's compromise petitions, guardians ad litem, service by publication, default judgments and courtesy copies.
Department 68 Advance Trial Review Order — Hon. Terrie E. Roberts, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the Department 68 policies document (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/SDCOURT/GENERALINFORMATION/LOCALRULESOFCOURT/ROCDEPARTMENTRULES/DEPARTMENT68/department_68_policies_and_procedures.pdf) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/pls/portal/docs/page/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department68/dept_68_advance_trial_review_order.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Department 68's advance trial review order: the in-person meet-and-confer before the initial trial call, trial briefs, motions in limine, exhibits and exhibit tags, witness lists, jury instructions and verdict forms, audio and video evidence, and court reporters.
Department 68 Policies and Procedures — Hon. Terrie E. Roberts (Central – Hall of Justice; revised July 2026), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/SDCOURT/GENERALINFORMATION/LOCALRULESOFCOURT/ROCDEPARTMENTRULES/DEPARTMENT68/department_68_policies_and_procedures.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Policies and procedures of Department 68 (Central – Hall of Justice civil, Judge Terrie E. Roberts), revised July 2026: remote appearances by MS Teams, failure to appear, ex parte hearings, case management, default judgments, judgment debtor exams, minor's compromises, law and motion, trial readiness conferences, trial calls and trials, continuances, protective orders, lodged documents and filing under seal.
Department 68 Trial Preparation Requirements — Hon. Terrie E. Roberts (as of June 2026), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the Department 68 policies document (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/SDCOURT/GENERALINFORMATION/LOCALRULESOFCOURT/ROCDEPARTMENTRULES/DEPARTMENT68/department_68_policies_and_procedures.pdf) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/SDCOURT/GENERALINFORMATION/LOCALRULESOFCOURT/ROCDEPARTMENTRULES/DEPARTMENT68/DEPARTMENT68/Trial%20Guidelines%20for%20Department%2068.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Department 68's trial preparation requirements (as of June 2026): the call to the court clerk before trial call and the trial notebooks, exhibits, motions in limine, witness lists and jury instructions the court requires.
Department 69 Advance Trial Review Order — Hon. Evan P. Kirvin (revised August 1, 2025), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the Department 69 policies document (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/%20/SDCOURT/GENERALINFORMATION/LOCALRULESOFCOURT/ROCDEPARTMENTRULES/DEPARTMENT69/policies_and_procedures_dept_69.pdf) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/SDCOURT/GENERALINFORMATION/LOCALRULESOFCOURT/ROCDEPARTMENTRULES/DEPARTMENT69/Advance_Trial_Review_Order_Dept_69.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Department 69's advance trial review order (revised 08/01/2025): the meet-and-confer before trial call, the joint statement of the case, voir dire, motions in limine, trial briefs, exhibits, witness lists, jury instructions and verdict forms, court reporters and the contents of the trial notebook.
Department 69 Policies and Procedures — Hon. Evan P. Kirvin (Central – Hall of Justice; revised May 29, 2025), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/%20/SDCOURT/GENERALINFORMATION/LOCALRULESOFCOURT/ROCDEPARTMENTRULES/DEPARTMENT69/policies_and_procedures_dept_69.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Policies and procedures of Department 69 (Central – Hall of Justice civil, Judge Evan P. Kirvin), revised May 29, 2025: case management conferences, courtesy copies, default judgments, discovery motions, ex parte hearings, guardians ad litem, law and motion, service by publication, minor's compromise petitions, pro hac vice applications, remote appearances, protective orders and motions to seal, trial calls and trial readiness conferences.
Department 70 Advance Trial Review Order — Hon. Carolyn M. Caietti, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the Department 70 policies document (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department70/department%2070%20policies%20and%20procedures%20-%20honorable%20carolyn%20m.%20caietti.pdf) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/LOCALRULESOFCOURT/ROCDEPARTMENTRULES/DEPARTMENT70/D70_ATRO.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Department 70's advance trial review order: the in-person meet-and-confer before the initial trial call and the trial documents, exhibits, motions in limine, witness lists, jury instructions, verdict forms and remote appearance arrangements the parties must prepare.
Department 70 Policies and Procedures — Hon. Carolyn M. Caietti (Central – Hall of Justice; revised June 15, 2026), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department70/department%2070%20policies%20and%20procedures%20-%20honorable%20carolyn%20m.%20caietti.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Policies and procedures of Department 70 (Central – Hall of Justice civil, Judge Carolyn M. Caietti), revised June 15, 2026: department staff, ex parte, law and motion, informal discovery conferences and discovery motions, sealing records, guardians ad litem, service by publication, pro hac vice applications, remote appearances, case management conference, continuances, trial readiness conference, trial call, trial and courtesy copies.
Department 70 Pretrial Check List — Hon. Carolyn M. Caietti, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the Department 70 policies document (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department70/department%2070%20policies%20and%20procedures%20-%20honorable%20carolyn%20m.%20caietti.pdf) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/LOCALRULESOFCOURT/ROCDEPARTMENTRULES/DEPARTMENT70/d70_trial_requirements.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Department 70's pretrial check list: the call to the courtroom clerk before trial call and the documents, exhibits and jury materials to have ready, cross-referenced to the department's advance trial review order.
Department 702 Long Cause Trial Rules / Hearing Orders — Hon. Christopher S. Morris, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department702/long_cause_trial_rules-hearing_orders_for_department_702.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Long-cause trial rules and hearing orders of Department 702 (family law, Judge Christopher S. Morris): in-person appearance, trial briefs and in limine motion deadlines, exhibits and exhibit tags, witness testimony, child testimony, court reporters and delivery of filings to the department.
Department 703 Trial / Long RFO Requirements — Hon. Rebecca G. Church, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/trial_requirements_dept_703.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Trial and long-cause request-for-order requirements of Department 703 (family law, Judge Rebecca G. Church): the trial notebook due five court days before trial, trial brief, pre-marked exhibits, exhibit and witness lists, court reporters, with examples of the exhibit list and exhibit tag.
Department 704 Trial/Evidentiary Hearing Procedure Orders — Hon. Leah M. Boucek, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/hearing_orders_for_department_704.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Trial and evidentiary hearing procedure orders of Department 704 (family law; the document is signed by Leah M. Boucek as Commissioner): trial scheduling, briefs, exhibits and exhibit tags, motions in limine, witness and expert testimony, child testimony, the court's trial preparation, court reporters, court interpreters and filing.
Department 71 Advance Trial Review Order and Trial Guidelines — Hon. Gregory W. Pollack, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the Department 71 policies document (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department71/department%2071%20policies%20and%20procedures%20-%20honorable%20gregory%20w.%20pollack.pdf) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/pls/portal/docs/page/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department71/department%2071%20advance%20trial%20review%20order.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Department 71's advance trial review order: trial exhibits and exhibit binders, deposition transcripts, audio evidence, stipulations, the case description and witness list, motions in limine and their deadlines, the trial readiness phone call and the joint trial notebook, with the joint trial exhibit list form (Attachment A) and the department's trial guidelines (Attachment B, rev. 10/2017).
Department 71 Policies and Procedures — Hon. Gregory W. Pollack (Central – Hall of Justice; January 29, 2026), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department71/department%2071%20policies%20and%20procedures%20-%20honorable%20gregory%20w.%20pollack.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Policies and procedures of Department 71 (Central – Hall of Justice civil, Judge Gregory W. Pollack), dated January 29, 2026: department staff and calendar times, ex parte hearings (including for discovery disputes) and continuance requests, trial calls, trial readiness conferences, law and motion practice including reply briefs, good faith settlement applications, and the department's trial guidelines including jury selection.
Department 72 Advance Trial Review Order — Hon. Marcella O. McLaughlin (revised October 25, 2023), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the Department 72 policies document (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department72/Department_72_Policies_and_Procedures.pdf) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department72/dept_72_advance_trial_review_order_ATRO.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Department 72's advance trial review order (revised 10/25/2023): the in-person meet-and-confer before trial call, the trial readiness conference report and documents, exhibits, motions in limine, voir dire, witness lists, jury instructions and verdict forms, and court reporters.
Department 72 Policies and Procedures — Hon. Marcella O. McLaughlin (Central – Hall of Justice; revised June 18, 2025), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department72/Department_72_Policies_and_Procedures.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Policies and procedures of Department 72 (Central – Hall of Justice civil, Judge Marcella O. McLaughlin), revised June 18, 2025: courtroom and calendar contacts, the department's advance trial review order, continuances, protective orders and motions to seal, and guidelines for remote appearances of witnesses at trial.
Department 73 Policies and Procedures — Hon. Michael D. Washington (Hall of Justice; revised July 6, 2026), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department73/policies_and_procedures_dept_73.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Policies and procedures of Department 73 (Hall of Justice civil, Judge Michael D. Washington), revised July 6, 2026: department phone numbers, conformity with the local rules, appearances, calendars, continuances, matters that need no ex parte appearance, and trial call.
Department 74 Advance Trial Review Order — Hon. Blaine K. Bowman, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the Department 74 policies document (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/policies_and_procedures_dept_74.pdf) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/Advance_Trial_Review_Order_Dept_74.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Department 74's advance trial review order: the in-person meet-and-confer at least three court days before trial call and the trial documents, exhibits, motions in limine, witnesses, jury instructions, verdict forms and court reporters required.
Department 74 Policies and Procedures — Hon. Blaine K. Bowman (Hall of Justice; revised September 15, 2025), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/policies_and_procedures_dept_74.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Policies and procedures of Department C-74 (Hall of Justice civil, Judge Blaine K. Bowman), revised September 15, 2025: courtroom staff, case management conferences, continuances, ex parte and law and motion matters, remote and required personal appearances, trial readiness conference, trial call, motions in limine, trial, and construction defect case management orders and timelines.
Department 74 Trial Requirements — Hon. Blaine K. Bowman, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the Department 74 policies document (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/policies_and_procedures_dept_74.pdf) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/Trial_Requirements_Dept_74.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Department 74's trial requirements: the two notebooks counsel bring to the Friday trial call and the documents the joint trial notebook must contain.
Department 75 Advance Trial Review Order — Hon. Euketa Oliver (rev. March 3, 2026), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the Department 75 policies document (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department75/department_75_policies_and_procedures.pdf) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department75/advance%20trial%20review%20-%20d75.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Department 75's advance trial review order (rev. March 3, 2026): the in-person meet-and-confer before the initial trial call and the trial documents, exhibits, motions in limine, witness lists, jury instructions and verdict forms required.
Department 75 Lemon Law Discovery Motion Procedure — Hon. Euketa Oliver, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the Department 75 policies document (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department75/department_75_policies_and_procedures.pdf) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/SDCOURT/GENERALINFORMATION/LOCALRULESOFCOURT/ROCDEPARTMENTRULES/DEPARTMENT75/Department_75_Lemon_Law_Discovery_Motion_Procedure.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Department 75's procedure for motions to compel further discovery in Song-Beverly Act (lemon law) cases: the meet-and-confer, the joint statement and the limited separate statement.
Department 75 Policies and Procedures — Hon. Euketa Oliver (revised July 27, 2026), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department75/department_75_policies_and_procedures.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Policies and procedures of Department 75 (civil, Judge Euketa Oliver), revised July 27, 2026: conformity with the local rules, calendars (ex parte, law and motion, trial readiness conference, trial call), trial hours, binders and equipment, law and motion filings, tentative rulings, sealing and protective orders, discovery dispute outlines and discovery motions, court orders and informal discovery conferences.
Department 804 Remote Appearance Rules (San Diego Superior Court), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/remote_appearance_rule_-_dept_804.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Remote appearance rules of Department 804 (child support matters) under California Rules of Court, rule 3.672(h): in-person appearance is required except for ex parte hearings, agreed continuances and full stipulations; remote appearance only with prior court permission or a Notice of Remote Appearance (RA-010) filed at least 10 court days ahead; video by Microsoft Teams, conduct while appearing remotely, no recording or remote observers, and the meet-and-confer duties of rule 5.98.
Department 903 Trial and Evidentiary Hearing Procedure Orders — Hon. Lizbet Muñoz, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/departmentn903/trial_rules_dept_903.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Trial and evidentiary hearing procedure orders of Department 903 (family law, Judge Lizbet Muñoz): trial and hearing schedule and time allocation, exhibits and exhibit tags, motions in limine, courtroom procedures, the court's trial preparation, court interpreters and filing.
Department 904 Trial Readiness Conference Orders — Hon. Pamela M. Parker (rev. January 16, 2026), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/department904/trc_orders_for_department_904.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Trial readiness conference orders of Department 904 (family law, Judge Pamela M. Parker), rev. January 16, 2026: joint statements before each TRC, time estimates, in-person and remote appearance, trial schedule, briefs and income and expense declarations, electronic exhibit portal uploads and hardcopy exhibit binders, in limine motions, witness and child testimony, the court's trial preparation, court reporters and filing of trial papers.
Department N-18 (North County, Family Law) — Hon. Renee N.G. Stackhouse: Department Rules (as of January 15, 2026), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/departmentn18/department_18_rules.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Rules of Department N-18 (North County family law, Judge Renee N.G. Stackhouse), as of January 15, 2026: reference links, administrative matters, ex parte matters, restraining orders, requests for order and motion hearings, Family Court Services, court reporters, child testimony, settlement conferences, and trials of two days or less and longer trial settings.
Department N-18 Trial / Long RFO Requirements and Guidelines for Remote Witnesses — Hon. Renee N.G. Stackhouse, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the Department N-18 policies document (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/departmentn18/department_18_rules.pdf) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/departmentn18/Dept_18_LC_and_RM_Requirements.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Department NC-18's trial and long-cause request-for-order requirements (the trial notebook due five court days before trial, trial brief, pre-marked exhibits, exhibit and witness lists, court reporters, with exhibit list and tag examples) and its guidelines for remote appearances of witnesses at trials and long RFOs.
Department N-27 (North County, Civil) Policies and Procedures — Hon. Cynthia A. Freeland (revised January 27, 2025), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/departmentn27/department%20n-27%20policies%20and%20procedures%20-%20honorable%20cynthia%20a.%20freeland.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Policies and procedures of Department N-27 (North County civil, Judge Cynthia A. Freeland), revised January 27, 2025: courtroom staff, case management conferences, informal discovery conferences, default prove-up hearings, ex parte and law and motion matters, minor's compromises, virtual appearances, trials, jury fees and trial calls.
Department N-27 Trial Readiness Conference Order Form — Hon. Cynthia A. Freeland, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the Department N-27 policies document (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/departmentn27/department%20n-27%20policies%20and%20procedures%20-%20honorable%20cynthia%20a.%20freeland.pdf) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/departmentn27/freeland_trc_order_form.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Department N-27's trial readiness conference order form: the advance trial review conference meet-and-confer, trial documents, exhibits, motions in limine, witnesses, jury instructions, settlement, and the consequences of non-compliance, initialed by counsel.
Department N-28 (North County, Civil Independent Calendar) Policies and Procedures — Hon. Daniel Segura, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/departmentn28/policies_and_procedures_dept_n-28.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Policies and procedures of North County Department 28 (civil independent calendar, Judge Daniel Segura): staff contacts, the department's weekly schedule, case management conferences, law and motion, trial readiness conferences, trial call and trial, continuances, required personal appearances, ex parte matters, settlement conferences and default prove-up hearings.
Department N-28 Trial Readiness Conference Order Form — Hon. Daniel Segura, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the Department N-28 policies document (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/departmentn28/policies_and_procedures_dept_n-28.pdf) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/%20/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/departmentn28/Advance%20Trial%20Reveiw%20Form%20N-28.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Department N-28's trial readiness conference order form: the advance trial review conference meet-and-confer, trial documents, exhibits, motions in limine, witnesses, jury instructions, settlement, and the consequences of non-compliance, initialed by counsel.
Department N-29 (North County, Civil) Policies and Procedures — Hon. William Y. Wood (revised September 4, 2025), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/departmentn27/department_29_policies_and_procedures_-_honorable_william_y_wood.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Policies and procedures of Department 29 (North County civil, Judge William Y. Wood), revised September 4, 2025: staff contacts, case management conferences, continuances, default prove-up hearings, ex parte and law and motion matters, settlement conferences, telephonic appearances, trial readiness conferences, trial dates and trials.
Department N-29 Trial Readiness Conference Order Form — Hon. William Y. Wood (rev. October 3, 2007), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the Department N-29 policies document (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/departmentn27/department_29_policies_and_procedures_-_honorable_william_y_wood.pdf) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/departmentn27/Advance_Trial_Review_Form_Dept_29.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Department N-29's trial readiness conference order form (rev. 10/03/07): the advance trial review conference meet-and-confer, trial documents, exhibits, motions in limine, witnesses, jury instructions, settlement, and the consequences of non-compliance, initialed by counsel.
Department N-31 (North County, Civil) Policies and Procedures — Hon. Victor M. Torres (revised February 2026), Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the court's Judges and Departments page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/judgeassignments) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2024-02/department_31_-_policies_and_procedures.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Policies and procedures of Department 31 (North County civil, Judge Victor M. Torres), revised February 2026: staff contacts, case management conferences, continuances, default prove-up hearings, ex parte matters, failure hearings, law and motion, minor's compromises, settlement conferences, virtual and required personal appearances, trial readiness conference, trial call and trial.
Department N-31 Trial Readiness Conference Order Form — Hon. Victor M. Torres, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego; linked from the Department N-31 policies document (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2024-02/department_31_-_policies_and_procedures.pdf) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/rocdepartmentrules/departmentn31/advance_trial_review_order_31.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Department N-31's trial readiness conference order form: the advance trial review conference meet-and-confer, trial documents, exhibits, motions in limine, witnesses, jury instructions, settlement, and the consequences of non-compliance, initialed by counsel.
General Order 010126-01 of the Presiding Department, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (In re Court Security; dated January 1, 2026); posted on the court's General Orders page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/generalorders) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-01/general_order_010126-01.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Court security: the Sheriff is the court security officer; everyone entering a court facility must submit to weapons screening; no one may possess a firearm, knife, tear gas, taser, stun gun, ammunition or other dangerous weapon in a courthouse, with listed exemptions for on-duty peace officers, evidence weapons, licensed judicial officers and court employees' pepper spray. In effect for 2026.
General Order 010126-02 of the Presiding Department, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (In re Procedure Regulating Photography, Recording, and Broadcasting in Courthouse; dated January 1, 2026); posted on the court's General Orders page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/generalorders) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-01/general_order_010126-02.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Photography, recording and broadcasting in the courthouse: none without written judicial authorization except under California Rules of Court, rule 1.150 and in the designated media areas listed in Exhibit A; rules for devices, jurors and spectators, remote viewers, generative AI, and law enforcement body-worn cameras. In effect for 2026.
General Order 010126-03 of the Presiding Department, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (In re Prohibiting the Use of Cameras and Other Digital Image-Capture Devices in Courthouse; dated January 1, 2026); posted on the court's General Orders page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/generalorders) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-01/general_order_010126-03.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Cameras and other image-capture devices: no pictures or video in court facilities or of court files and exhibits without written authorization, except portable scanners and copiers used only to image documents under the court's acknowledgement form (SDSC ADM-329). In effect for 2026.
General Order 010126-11 of the Presiding Department, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (In re Waiver of Disqualifications and Limitations for Temporary Judges Pursuant to California Rules of Court, Rule 2.818; dated January 1, 2026); posted on the court's General Orders page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/generalorders) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-01/general_order_010126-11.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Waiver under California Rules of Court, rule 2.818 of the subsection (b)(3) limitation for temporary judges: in family law cases a temporary judge may hear a case where one party is self-represented and the other is represented, as long as any required stipulation is received. In effect for 2026.
General Order 010126-13 of the Presiding Department, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (In re Transfer of Proceedings Involving the Department of Child Support Services; dated January 1, 2026); posted on the court's General Orders page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/generalorders) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-01/general_order_010126-13.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Transfer of proceedings involving the Department of Child Support Services: Title IV-D commissioners may transfer matters between Title IV-D departments; cases where both parties (or one party, the other living outside the county) reside in the North County filing area go to the North County Division; e-filed DCSS documents may use either division's address. In effect for 2026.
General Order 010126-14 of the Presiding Department, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (In re Dismissal of Domestic Violence Cases when Applicant Waives Hearing on Denied Request for Temporary Restraining Order; dated January 1, 2026); posted on the court's General Orders page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/generalorders) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-01/general_order_010126-14.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Dismissal of domestic violence cases when the applicant waives the hearing on a denied temporary restraining order request (Family Code section 6320.5(c)): on a signed written request, where the temporary orders were denied entirely and no other family law matter is pending, the clerk cancels the hearing and dismisses the case without prejudice to refiling. In effect for 2026.
General Order 010126-15 of the Presiding Department, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (In re the Limited Inspection of Parentage Files; dated January 1, 2026); posted on the court's General Orders page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/generalorders) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-01/general_order_010126-15.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Parentage files sealed before July 1, 2010 stay sealed, but a judicial officer may review one and, on stated findings, redesignate it by ex parte order from sealed to confidential. In effect for 2026.
General Order 010126-16 of the Presiding Department, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (In re Commercial Sales Activities on Courthouse Grounds; dated January 1, 2026); posted on the court's General Orders page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/generalorders) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-01/general_order_010126-16.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Commercial sales activities on courthouse grounds: no person or entity may conduct business or commercial activity (including trustee sales) on the exterior areas around the courthouses; the Sheriff enforces the order and exceptions are decided by the Presiding Judge, Assistant Presiding Judge or designee. In effect for 2026.
General Order 010126-17 of the Presiding Department, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (In re the Sargent Shriver Civil Counsel Project; dated January 1, 2026); posted on the court's General Orders page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/generalorders) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-01/general_order_010126-17.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
The Sargent Shriver Civil Counsel Project: representation in unlawful detainer cases and in certain child custody and domestic violence restraining order cases, mandatory and Shriver settlement conferences, and assignment of certain domestic violence cases to a designated Shriver Domestic Violence Judge. In effect for 2026.
General Order 010126-18 of the Presiding Department, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (In re Smoking in and Around Courthouse Facilities; dated January 1, 2026); posted on the court's General Orders page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/generalorders) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-01/general_order_010126-18.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Smoking in and around courthouse facilities: no one may smoke any substance, including tobacco and cannabis products and electronic cigarettes, inside courthouse facilities or within 20 feet of an exit, entrance or operable window. In effect for 2026.
General Order 010126-19 of the Presiding Department, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (In re Direct Assignment of Family Law Case to Department Hearing Related Family Law Case of Broader Jurisdiction; dated January 1, 2026); posted on the court's General Orders page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/generalorders) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-01/general_order_010126-19.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Related family law cases: when a new family law case relates to a pending domestic violence or other family law case, all related cases are assigned to the judicial officer hearing the case of broader jurisdiction (California Rules of Court, rules 5.440 and 3.300), subject to Shriver domestic violence assignments. In effect for 2026.
General Order 010126-20 of the Presiding Department, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (In re Procedures Regarding Electronically Imaged Court Records, Electronic Filing, and Access to Electronic Court Records in Civil and Probate Cases; dated January 1, 2026); posted on the court's General Orders page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/generalorders) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-01/general_order_010126-20.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Electronically imaged court records, electronic filing and electronic access in civil and probate cases: the imaged file is the official record; mandatory e-filing through approved e-filing service providers; the 11:59:59 p.m. filing deadline; service, exhibit, original-document, lodging and proposed-order requirements for civil and probate cases; kiosk and remote access. In effect for 2026.
General Order 010126-21 of the Presiding Department, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (In re Procedures Regarding Electronically Imaged Court Records, Electronic Filing, and Access to Electronic Court Records in Family Court; dated January 1, 2026); posted on the court's General Orders page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/generalorders) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-01/general_order_010126-21.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Electronically imaged court records, electronic filing and electronic access in family law cases: Imaged and Partial-Imaged cases, the official court record, optional e-filing through approved providers, electronic service, the “PARTIAL-IMAGED FILE” caption, exhibits, redactions, lodged documents, format and the 11:59:59 p.m. filing deadline, and kiosk and remote access. In effect for 2026.
General Order 010126-22 of the Presiding Department, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (In re Ban on Cannabis Possession and Use in Courthouse Facilities; dated January 1, 2026); posted on the court's General Orders page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/generalorders) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-01/general_order_010126-22.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Ban on cannabis possession and use in courthouse facilities under Penal Code section 4573 and Health and Safety Code section 11362.45: no possession or use of cannabis, cannabis products, accessories or plants in court facilities, with rare exceptions by court order for documented medical need. In effect for 2026.
General Order 010126-23 of the Presiding Department, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (In re Procedures Regarding Electronically Imaged Court Records and Access to Electronic Court Records in Traffic/Minor Offense Divisions; dated January 1, 2026); posted on the court's General Orders page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/generalorders) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-01/general_order_010126-23.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Electronically imaged court records in the traffic and minor offense divisions: the imaged file (including the case summary's events and orders) is the official record; kiosk access in the traffic business offices, copies and fees; no remote viewing of documents. In effect for 2026.
General Order 010126-24 of the Presiding Department, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (In re Prohibited Expressive Activity in and Around Courthouse Facilities; dated January 1, 2026); posted on the court's General Orders page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/generalorders) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-01/general_order_010126-24.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Prohibited expressive activity in and around courthouse facilities: definitions of prohibited activity, courthouse, curtilage and walkway; prohibitions inside courthouses and their curtilage and on obstructing people entering or leaving; exclusions; Sheriff enforcement and penalties including sanctions up to $1,500 per violation. In effect for 2026.
General Order 010126-25 of the Presiding Department, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (In re Establishment of Video Court for Department of Child Support Services Court Proceedings; dated January 1, 2026); posted on the court's General Orders page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/generalorders) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-01/general_order_010126-25.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Video court for Department of Child Support Services proceedings: North County DCSS cases may be heard by video link to a judicial officer in the Central Division courthouse, with everyone deemed present in the same courtroom. In effect for 2026.
General Order 010126-26 of the Presiding Department, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (In re the Inspection and Copying of a Confidential Family Court File by the Child Abduction Unit of the District Attorney's Office; dated January 1, 2026); posted on the court's General Orders page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/generalorders) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-01/general_order_010126-26.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Inspection and copying of confidential family court files by the District Attorney's Child Abduction Unit without further court order, on presentation of the mandatory declaration (SDSC Form D-293) with the listed contents and acknowledgements. In effect for 2026.
General Order 010126-27 of the Presiding Department, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (In re Procedures Regarding Electronically Imaged Court Records and Access to Electronic Court Records in Adoption Court Departments; dated January 1, 2026); posted on the court's General Orders page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/generalorders) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-01/general_order_010126-27.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Electronically imaged court records in the adoption court departments: the electronic file is the official record; paper filings are destroyed after 30 days; original documents are lodged in advance of hearings; access after finalization is by petition (SDSC Form JUV-236); only the register of actions is viewable remotely. In effect for 2026.
General Order 010126-28 of the Presiding Department, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (In re Search of Criminal Background Information and Notification to Law Enforcement in Domestic Violence Restraining Order Matters; dated January 1, 2026); posted on the court's General Orders page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/generalorders) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-01/general_order_010126-28.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Criminal background searches in domestic violence restraining order matters (Family Code section 6306): the court's Background Investigation Unit conducts the searches and its clerks notify law enforcement when the restrained party has an outstanding warrant or is on parole or probation. In effect for 2026.
General Order 010126-29 of the Presiding Department, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (In re Disclosure of Probation Reports to the Office of the Primary Public Defender for Limited Purpose of Determining Eligibility for Specified Post-conviction Relief; dated January 1, 2026); posted on the court's General Orders page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/generalorders) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-01/general_order_010126-29.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Disclosure of probation reports to the Office of the Primary Public Defender, solely to investigate eligibility for post-conviction relief under Penal Code sections 745, 1016.5, 1473.7 and 1172.6 for unrepresented defendants, with confidentiality, victim-information protection and destruction requirements. In effect for 2026.
General Order 010126-30 of the Presiding Department, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (In re Authorization to Allow Registering of Tribal Court Protective Restraining Orders Electronically with the San Diego Superior Court; dated January 1, 2026); posted on the court's General Orders page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/generalorders) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-01/general_order_010126-30.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Electronic registration of tribal court protective and restraining orders: the Intertribal Court of Southern California and the Pala Intratribal Court email the order with a completed DV-600 and CLETS-001 to the North County or East County address; review, signature, certified copies, CLETS entry and sealing follow. In effect for 2026.
General Order 010126-31 of the Presiding Department, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (In re Assignment of Cases Seeking Writ of Habeas Corpus Challenging Certain Isolation or Quarantine Orders; dated January 1, 2026); posted on the court's General Orders page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/generalorders) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-01/general_order_010126-31.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Habeas corpus petitions challenging isolation or quarantine orders of the county Public Health Officer during a declared emergency are filed in the Central Courthouse and assigned to the Presiding Judge (or Assistant Presiding Judge), who may assign them to the criminal or civil supervising judges. In effect for 2026.
General Order 010126-32 of the Presiding Department, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (In re CLERB Authorization to View Probation Reports, Files, and Records; dated January 1, 2026); posted on the court's General Orders page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/generalorders) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-01/general_order_010126-32.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Citizens Law Enforcement Review Board (CLERB) access to probation reports, files and records: the court-approved authorization form, access on a probationer's signed authorization or on proof of death with court-reviewed redactions, redaction of confidential information, disputes heard in Department 102, and confidentiality conditions. In effect for 2026.
General Order 010126-33 of the Presiding Department, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (In re Amendment to San Diego Local Rule 5.4.1; dated January 1, 2026); posted on the court's General Orders page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/generalorders) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-01/general_order_010126-33.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Amendment of Local Rule 5.4.1.C (domestic violence restraining order hearings): written rescheduling requests use Request to Continue Hearing (JC Form DV-115) with the top of Order on Request to Continue Court Hearing (DV-116) completed; for oral requests parties are encouraged to submit the DV-116 with its top portion completed. In effect for 2026.
General Order 010126-34 of the Presiding Department, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (In re Establishment of Hourly Rate for Converting a Fine on an Infraction to Community Service; dated January 1, 2026); posted on the court's General Orders page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/generalorders) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-01/general_order_010126-34.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Community service credit for infraction fines under Penal Code section 1209.5: the court raises the hourly credit to $34 per hour for 2026 (the statutory rate being $33.80, double the $16.90 minimum wage).
General Order 020926-35 of the Presiding Department, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (In re Procedures Regarding Electronically Imaged Court Records and Access to Electronic Records in the Criminal Division; dated February 9, 2026); posted on the court's General Orders page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/generalorders) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-04/general_order_020926-35.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Electronically imaged court records in the Criminal Division from February 17, 2026: the Odyssey electronic file is the official record in imaging program cases; paper filings are destroyed after 30 days except originals the court must keep; kiosk access in the criminal business offices; no remote viewing of documents. Effective April 28, 2026 through December 31, 2026.
General Order 050526-36 of the Presiding Department, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (In re Protective Order for Law Enforcement Generated Video Discovery; dated May 5, 2026); posted on the court's General Orders page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/generalorders) at https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2026-05/general_order_050526-36.pdf, fetched 2026-09-28.
Protective order for law-enforcement-generated video discovery (CHP MVARS and body-worn camera video): on the parties' stipulation, the general order governs use and disclosure of the video, limits copies and disclosure, requires destruction of copies at the end of the case, and survives final termination. Effective May 5, 2026 through December 31, 2026.
San Diego Superior Court Local Rules (2026), Division I: General and Administrative, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (effective January 1, 2026); posted on the court's Rules of Court page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/division_i_-_general_and_administrative__2026.pdf), fetched 2026-09-28.
Division I of the court's 2026 local rules (rules 1.1.1–1.4.6): scope of the rules, general rules that apply in every division, the court's executive officer, and miscellaneous provisions.
San Diego Superior Court Local Rules (2026), Division II: Civil, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (effective January 1, 2026); posted on the court's Rules of Court page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/division_ii_-_civil_2026.pdf), fetched 2026-09-28.
Division II of the court's 2026 local rules (rules 2.1.1–2.5.12): general civil policies and procedures, alternative dispute resolution, special case categories and miscellaneous civil provisions.
San Diego Superior Court Local Rules (2026), Division III: Criminal, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (effective January 1, 2026); posted on the court's Rules of Court page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/division_iii_-_criminal_2026.pdf), fetched 2026-09-28.
Division III of the court's 2026 local rules (rules 3.1.1–3.4.5): general criminal rules, motions, ex parte requests, and habeas corpus and error coram nobis petitions.
San Diego Superior Court Local Rules (2026), Division IV: Probate, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (effective January 1, 2026); posted on the court's Rules of Court page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/division_iv_-_probate_2026.pdf), fetched 2026-09-28.
Division IV of the court's 2026 local rules (rules 4.1.1–4.23.7): filing requirements, settings and continuances, notices, calendar notes and hearings, orders and bonds, appointment of personal representatives, summary proceedings, creditors' claims, sales, inventories and accounts, fees and commissions, distribution, conservatorships, guardianships, trusts, contested matters and law and motion in probate.
San Diego Superior Court Local Rules (2026), Division V: Family Law, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (effective January 1, 2026); posted on the court's Rules of Court page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/division_v_-_family_law__2026.pdf), fetched 2026-09-28.
Division V of the court's 2026 local rules (rules 5.1.1–5.14.6): case management, emergency (ex parte) orders, domestic violence restraining orders, requests for order, income and expense declarations, calendar assignments, settlement conferences and trials, parentage actions, the family support division, custody and visitation, orders after hearing and judgments, and minor's counsel.
San Diego Superior Court Local Rules (2026), Division VI: Juvenile, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (effective January 1, 2026); posted on the court's Rules of Court page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/division_vi_-_juvenile_2026.pdf), fetched 2026-09-28.
Division VI of the court's 2026 local rules (rules 6.1.1–6.9.24): juvenile and adoption rules, attorney screening and standards of representation, complaint procedures, access to confidential information, appointment of counsel, caseloads, and juvenile justice proceedings.
San Diego Superior Court Local Rules (2026), Division VII: Appellate, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (effective January 1, 2026); posted on the court's Rules of Court page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/division_vii_-_appellate_2026.pdf), fetched 2026-09-28.
Division VII of the court's 2026 local rules (rules 7.1.1–7.3.2): appeals and writ petitions to the court's Appellate Division, and appeals to the Fourth District Court of Appeal.
San Diego Superior Court Local Rules (2026), Division VIII: Mental Health Court, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (effective January 1, 2026); posted on the court's Rules of Court page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/division_viii_-_mental_health_court_2026.pdf), fetched 2026-09-28.
Division VIII of the court's 2026 local rules (rules 8.1.1–8.13.1): the mental health court's locations, venue and procedures, LPS conservatorships, consent to treatment, electroconvulsive treatment, capacity determinations, certification review hearings, habeas corpus writs (including for minors), admission of minors, appointed counsel and fees, and CARE Act proceedings.
San Diego Superior Court Local Rules (2026), Preface: Attorney Civility and Practice Guidelines, Superior Court of California, County of San Diego (effective January 1, 2026); posted on the court's Rules of Court page (https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sites/default/files/sdcourt/generalinformation/localrulesofcourt/san_diego_county_superior_court_rules__2026.pdf), fetched 2026-09-28.
Preface to the court's 2026 local rules: the San Diego County Bar Association's Attorney Civility and Practice Guidelines (rev. 1/1/2020), which the court expects every attorney appearing before it to follow — duties owed to the court, to clients, to opposing parties and counsel, and to the public.