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Create your free account →Superior Court Judge · Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa · Contra Costa County, California
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Report generated October 14, 2026 · benchpath.ai/reports/judge/ca-leonard-e-marquez
Judge — Department 34, Wakefield Taylor Courthouse, 725 Court Street, Martinez, Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa
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Unlock free →Civil Discovery, Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; the court's web page https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/divisions/civil/civil-discovery, fetched 2026-10-08.
Discovery disputes (except those in Family, Probate, Limited Jurisdiction, and Complex Civil cases) assigned to a Discovery Commissioner in Department 57, Room 102 of the Wakefield Taylor Courthouse, on Wednesdays, and Fridays at 10:30a.m. (Zoom; CourtCall not permitted); the Discovery Facilitator Program no longer mandatory; courtesy copies to Department 57; a $60 filing fee for each separate motion; other discovery matters on Law & Motion days in the assigned departments.
Civil Electronic Filing Instructions/FAQs (revised 2/7/2024), Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; posted on the court's Court E-Filing Services page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/online-services/court-e-filing-services) at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/efilingfaq.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
The court's civil e-filing instructions: e-filing under Local Rule 2.87 and the Standing Order on E-Filing; who must e-file and the case types; the EFSPs; filing hours (filed that day if received before 11:59:59 p.m. on a court day); processing from 8:00 a.m. through 4:00 p.m.; common reasons for rejection (separate PDFs, data fields, case type, location, timeliness, text searchable and bookmarked documents); electronic service; fees; proposed orders; fee waivers; sealed filings; courtesy copies; and the technical requirements.
Complex Litigation, Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; the court's web page https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/divisions/civil/complex-litigation, fetched 2026-10-08.
Documents placed on File and Serve for the Complex Litigation Department are serve only and must be filed through the Odyssey e-filing system; Department 16 (Judge Benjamin Reyes II); the high tech courtroom and its Evidence Presentation Equipment instructions; the department's pre-trial orders, initial case assignment order and sample orders.
Court E-Filing Services, Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; the court's web page https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/online-services/court-e-filing-services, fetched 2026-10-08.
Mandatory civil e-filing for attorneys under Local Rule 2.87 and the Ninth Amended E-Filing Standing Order (the implementation schedule: voluntary June 20th, 2022, mandatory July 5th, 2022); the notice re family law filing - selecting the correct fee through the optional services tab ($435 first appearance; $60 motion; $25 motion to modify); criminal and juvenile e-filing under the permissive standing order.
Court Interpreters, Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; the court's web page https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/court-interpreters, fetched 2026-10-08.
Requesting an interpreter: the MC-300e&s Interpreter Request given to a window or courtroom clerk or e-mailed to Interpreter Services (intrps@contracosta.courts.ca.gov), a new form for each hearing, as early as possible; certified, registered or provisionally qualified interpreters; sign language interpreters; the Language Access Representative; the Language Access Services Comment Form.
Court Protocol for Use of Privately Retained Court Reporting in Civil, Family & Probate (CV-300a), Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; posted on the court's Court Reporting Services page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/divisions/civil/court-reporting-services) at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/cv-300a_protocolforuseofprotemreportersinstructions.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
The court's protocol for privately retained court reporters: the procuring party's obligations; the reporter to appear 15 minutes before the calendar and contact the Court Reporter Unit; stipulated selections under Government Code §70044 (form CV-310; notice to the department at least 3 court days before contested matters over one hour; real time reporting, form CV-302); reporting in contested matters other than by stipulation (the court's list; form CV-311); contested LPS trials and adoptions; and family law contempt proceedings.
Criminal and Juvenile Electronic Filing Instructions/FAQs (revised 2/7/2024), Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; posted on the court's Court E-Filing Services page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/online-services/court-e-filing-services) at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/electronicfilinginstructions-criminaljuvenile.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
The court's criminal and juvenile e-filing instructions: e-filing is optional in criminal and juvenile cases under the Standing Order on E-Filing in Criminal and Juvenile Cases (Rules 2.251 – 2.259 of the California Rules of Court); the EFSPs; filing hours; processing; rejections; electronic service; fees; proposed orders; fee waivers; sealed filings; courtesy copies; and the technical requirements.
Department 10 (Judge Julia Campins) Civil Pre-Trial Order (last updated August 20, 2026), Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; posted on the court's General Civil Departments page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/divisions/civil/general-civil-departments) at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/department-10-pre-trial-order-1.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Department 10's civil pre-trial order: pre-trial discovery and motions (general conduct, case management conferences, discovery); the issue conference and mandatory settlement conference; the mandatory meet-and-confer before trial (at least 14 days, at least 7 days and at least three days before the Pretrial Conference); the pretrial conference; and the trial (trial date, voir dire, objections and trial procedure).
Department 10 (Judge Julia Campins) Pre-Trial Discovery Conference, Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; posted on the court's General Civil Departments page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/divisions/civil/general-civil-departments) at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/pre-trial-discovery-conference-campins-d10.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Department 10's Pre-Trial Discovery Conference (PDC) to resolve discovery disputes within 30 days without a formal motion: how a PDC arises (a stipulation before a Motion to Compel, tolling the time to file, or the Court's own contact); the disputes it hears and the cases it will not (a self-represented party; straight motions to compel); the stipulation's contents (meet and confer efforts, a summary, a privilege log); the joint letter brief five court days before (not over five pages); the PDC in chambers with attorneys in person; and its outcomes and sanctions.
Department 14 (Judge Kirk Athanasiou) Pre-Trial Orders and Trial Protocol (updated January 8, 2026), Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; posted on the court's General Civil Departments page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/divisions/civil/general-civil-departments) at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/dept-14-standing-pre-trial-orders-court-trial-3.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Department 14's pre-trial orders and trial protocol (all trials in person): trial exhibits 14 days before trial (numbers for Plaintiff, letters for Defendant, Respondent's numbered exhibits from R500); trial briefs filed at least 10 days before trial (not over twenty (20) pages), witness lists and motions in limine; and the additional trial requirements (court hours 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., computer devices, evidence, scheduling, closing trial briefs).
Department 16 (Judge Benjamin T. Reyes II) Pre-Trial Orders, Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; posted on the court's General Civil Departments page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/divisions/civil/general-civil-departments) at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/standing-order-trial_revised_2025_civil_for-d16-cases-2.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Department 16's pre-trial orders: the summary of deadlines (issue conference, trial readiness conference, the Advance Pre-Trial Conference, motions in limine, witness lists and exhibits ten (10) calendar days before trial, jury instructions, trial briefs, lodging on the first appearance); the preference for electronic or digital exhibits on a thumb drive; witness lists and trial exhibits; motions in limine; the advanced trial conference; proposed jury instructions and verdict forms; voir dire; courtroom decorum; opening statements; witnesses; objections; closing arguments; and compliance.
Department 2 (Hon. Gina Dashman), Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; the court's web page https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/department-2-information, fetched 2026-10-08.
Department 2's best practices and pre-trial orders: courtesy copies in the drop box; DV stipulations (amended DV-110, DV-140 or DV-130; non-CLETS orders prohibited; the DV-116 wording) dropped off in the D2 box; DV trials (Family Code Section 6309; witness and exhibit lists 7 days before trial); e-mails; filings; in-person appearance for MSC, long cause, trial and contempt; non-DV long cause trials and the trial submittal timeline; remote and in-person appearances; the trial protocol; Zoom details.
Department 2 (Judge Gina Dashman) Best Practices and Pre-Trial Orders (updated August 7, 2026), Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; posted on the court's Department 2 Information page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/department-2-information) at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/family-law/pre-trial-orders-and-best-practices-dept-2.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Department 2's family law best practices and pre-trial orders: remote and in-person appearances; filings (the RFO, RESPONSE and REPLY; page limits; AI disclosure; walk in judgments with an FL-182); e-mails and vacating a hearing; domestic violence trials (Family Code Section 6309 discovery; witness and exhibit lists 7 days before trial, exhibits numbered from 001 for Petitioner and 501 for Respondent) and stipulations; and non-DV long cause trials.
Department 26 (Hon. Ayana K. Young), Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; the court's web page https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/department-26-information, fetched 2026-10-08.
Department 26's best practices and pre-trial orders: DV stipulations (dropped off in the D26 box); DV trials; e-mails; filings; non-DV long cause trials and their deadlines; remote and in-person appearances; the trial protocol; Zoom details.
Department 26 (Judge Ayana K. Young) Pre-Trial Orders and Best Practices (updated September 25, 2025), Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; posted on the court's Department 26 Information page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/department-26-information) at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/family-law/pre-trial-orders-and-best-practices-dept-26.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Department 26's family law pre-trial orders and best practices: remote and in-person appearances; filings; e-mails; domestic violence trials and trial submittal deadlines; DV stipulations; non-DV long cause trials (the Income and Expense Declaration, witness lists); and the trial protocol.
Department 30 (Judge Virginia M. George) Pre-Trial Order and Instructions (January 2020), Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; posted on the court's General Probate Departments page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/probate-departments) at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/dept30-pretial-orders.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Department 30's pre-trial order: discovery complete and expert witnesses disclosed 30 days before trial (CCP §2034.230); the non-expert witness list 14 days before; exhibits (pre-marked, in binders with an exhibit list; not lodged in advance) and trial briefs 7 days before; stipulations; service 7 days or fewer before trial by hand delivery; and court reporters (the Civil Protocols for Use of Private Pro Tempore Court Reporters packet).
Department 32 (Judge Joni T. Hiramoto) Instructions for Issue Conference, Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; posted on the court's General Civil Departments page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/divisions/civil/general-civil-departments) at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/d32-orders-issue-conference-1_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Department 32's issue conference instructions (attendance in person): exhibit lists exchanged one month before and met and conferred three weeks before; the trial brief five court days before the Issue Conference with tabbed sections - the statement of the case, motions in limine (served 10 court days before; answers 3 court days before), the witness list, the trial estimate, the court reporter, the exhibit list (a Word table), witness availability (trials Mondays through Thursdays), interpreters, CACI jury instructions and the proposed verdict form.
Department 35 (Hon. Palvir Shoker), Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; the court's web page https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/department-35-information, fetched 2026-10-08.
Department 35: mandatory settlement conferences in person unless the parties agree to appear by Zoom and the court so orders (Local Rule 5.7(a)); long cause and trials in person; short cause calendars by Zoom without an Order to Appear Remotely; the Zoom details.
Department 38 (Judge Barbara C. Hinton) Pre-Trial Order and Instructions (02/13/2024), Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; posted on the court's General Probate Departments page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/probate-departments) at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/dept38pre-trialorderandinstructionsdoc.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Department 38's pre-trial order: discovery complete and expert witnesses disclosed 30 days before trial (CCP §2034.230); the non-expert witness list 14 days before; exhibits (pre-marked; not lodged in advance; copies for the witness) and trial briefs 7 days before; stipulations; service 7 days or fewer before trial; and court reporters (the Civil Protocols for Use of Private Pro Tempore Reporters packet).
Department 7 (Hon. Peter Chang), Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; the court's web page https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/dept-7-information, fetched 2026-10-08.
Department 7's best practices: courtesy copies of pleadings filed within 5 court days of a hearing in the mailbox; e-mails (a joint written request to vacate); filings (the RFO, RESPONSE and REPLY; exhibits over 10 pages; AI disclosure); the long cause pre-trial order; the mandatory settlement conference (Local Rule 5.7; the worksheet for self-represented parties); remote and in-person appearances; DV stipulations; requests to continue (Local Rule 5.4(e) and 5.9(g)); Zoom details.
Department 7 (Judge Peter Chang) Long-Cause Pre-Trial Order (V1.1), Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; posted on the court's Dept 7 Information page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/dept-7-information) at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/family-law/d7-pre-trial-order-v11.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Department 7's long-cause pre-trial order: expert witness disclosures 50 days before trial; declarations of final disclosure 45 days before trial (Family Code § 2106); discovery completed 30 days before trial; discovery motions heard 15 days before the trial date (Section 2024.020), witness lists, the meet and confer and Income & Expense Declarations; 7 days before trial the disputed issues list, trial briefs (20 pages), joint motions in limine, the Section 4320 analysis and exhibits (hard copy sets, electronic exhibits on a USB drive); and the additional requirements (service, electronics, witnesses, objections, closing trial briefs and statements of decision under Code of Civil Procedure section 632).
Ex-Parte Motions, Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; the court's web page https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/divisions/civil/motions-and-hearings/ex-parte-motions, fetched 2026-10-08.
Where ex parte applications are submitted and their notice: family law at Window #10 of the Spinetta Family Law Center (8:00 am to 4:00 pm); temporary conservatorships, temporary guardianships and general probate matters at the Probate File Examiners Offices, Room 210 (9:00 am to 11:00 am, sign-in 8:00 am to 9:00 am; GC-112, GC-115 and GC-211); civil ex parte applications governed by Standing Order since September 15, 2025.
Landlord / Tenant, Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; the court's web page https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/self-help/landlord-tenant, fetched 2026-10-08.
Unlawful detainer hearings in person; remote appearances under CCP Section 367.75 with RA-010 (oppositions on RA-015); Zoom for Department 50 (Richmond/Walnut Creek), Department 54 (Pittsburg) and Department 57 (Martinez); documents for remote hearings served and submitted 3 court days before (no electronic delivery); the Unlawful Detainer Ex Parte Procedure; the eviction process and the Self-Help Center.
Motions and Hearings (Civil), Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; the court's web page https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/divisions/civil/motions-and-hearings, fetched 2026-10-08.
Oppositions served at least nine (9) court days and replies at least five (5) court days before the hearing; the $60 fee for a motion or ex parte application (Government Code section 70617); sanctions paid at the Civil Filing Windows in the Wakefield Taylor Courthouse; the $20.00 stipulation and order fee; no fee for an order after hearing; compromise of claims of minors and incompetent persons (Probate Code section 3500, Code of Civil Procedure section 372; Room 103; $435 when no complaint has been filed).
Notice of Availability of Court Reporting Services (California Rules of Court 2.956(b); rev. 3/23/26), Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; posted on the court's Court Reporting Services page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/divisions/civil/court-reporting-services) at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/ntc-avail_032326.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
The court's notice under California Rules of Court 2.956(b): for each department at each courthouse, its room, judge presiding, calendar assignment and the reporting services normally available (Official Court Reporter, Limited Services Available, Electronic Recording); official court reporters only for parties with fee waivers in Unlimited Civil, Probate & Family Law matters; certified reporters pro tempore per CRC 2.956(c); electronic recording of commissioners' proceedings (Government Code section 70141.11).
Probate Ex Parte Applications and Petitions for Appointment of Temporary Guardians and Conservators, Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; the court's web page https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/divisions/probate/probate-ex-parte-applications-and-petitions, fetched 2026-10-08.
Probate ex parte hours 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. with the Probate Examiners (sign-in between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m.) at 725 Court Street Room 210, Martinez; all ex parte matters by submission, the applicant contacted for pick up.
Requirements for All Remote Appearances (6/2022), Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; posted on the court's Department 2 Information page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/department-2-information), the court's Department 26 Information page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/department-26-information) and 1 other page at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/requirementsforallremoteappearances.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Requirements for all remote appearances (CCP § 367.75; CRC 3.672; CRC 1.150): notice to the other parties no later than 10 days before the hearing (5 court days on shorter notice) by form RA-10, and notice to the court; objections on form RA-015; interpreter requests in advance; and the conditions of a remote appearance (connectivity, audio and video, attire, a private location, no recording).
Restraining Orders, Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; the court's web page https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/self-help/restraining-orders, fetched 2026-10-08.
Where and when restraining order applications are submitted: Domestic Violence Restraining Orders at the Spinetta Family Law Center (8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.; e-filing, drop box or mail), or at the Richmond or Pittsburg courthouse only for the residents the page names; civil harassment, private postsecondary school, workplace violence and elder abuse requests at Department 57, Room 102 (9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.); Gun Violence Restraining Order forms by email; hearings in person and remote appearances (CCP Section 367.75, RA-010, RA-015; documents 3 court days before).
Small Claims, Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; the court's web page https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/divisions/small-claims, fetched 2026-10-08.
Small claims hearings in person; remote appearances under CCP Section 367.75 with RA-010, oppositions on RA-015 and written approval only when opposed; Zoom for Department 50 (Richmond/Walnut Creek), Department 54 (Pittsburg) and Department 57 (Martinez); documents for remote hearings served and submitted 3 court days before (no electronic delivery); claim limits ($12,500; $6,250) and filing fees ($30, $50, $75; $100 after 12 cases).
Standing Order 1.2: Substitution of Attorneys in Juvenile Court Dependency Cases (May 28, 2015), Appendix A: Standing Orders of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (revised August 11, 2026), PDF page 5; the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the compilation (“Current Standing Orders - Effective 8/11/2026”) at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/combined-standing-orders-8-11-2026.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Juvenile Court Standing Order #3 (2015): an attorney substituting in to a juvenile dependency case files a motion for substitution at least two weeks before any scheduled court hearing when retained counsel replaces appointed counsel, or a substitution of counsel form (MC-050) signed by new counsel, old counsel and the client when retained counsel replaces retained counsel; normally no continuance of the scheduled hearing; new counsel prepared for the next hearing.
Standing Order 1.3: Amended Standing Order 5.17 re: Unlawful Detainer Cases (September 2, 2021), Appendix A: Standing Orders of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (revised August 11, 2026), PDF page 6; the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the compilation (“Current Standing Orders - Effective 8/11/2026”) at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/combined-standing-orders-8-11-2026.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Unlawful detainer cases are heard by qualified court commissioners; a party who chooses not to stipulate is referred to the Supervising Judge of the division in which the matter is pending (Richmond, Pittsburg, or the Supervising Civil Judge for Martinez); the court's authority under Code of Civil procedure section 259(b) is unaffected; Section 1 of Standing Order 5.17 of May 30, 2018 rescinded.
Standing Order 1.8: Order Rescinding First Amended General Order re: Use of Electronic Recording Equipment (August 11, 2026), Appendix A: Standing Orders of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (revised August 11, 2026), PDF page 14; the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the compilation (“Current Standing Orders - Effective 8/11/2026”) at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/combined-standing-orders-8-11-2026.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
The First Amended General Order re: Use of Electronic Recording Equipment (October 2, 2025) is rescinded: on August 10, 2026 the California Supreme Court (S288176) directed meaningful access for indigent litigants, upon request, to an official verbatim record, including by electronic recording when no official reporter is available; the court follows that mandate.
Standing Order 2.7: Confidentiality of Court Records; Local Inmates and Petitions for Involuntary Psychiatric Medication (Department 13), Appendix A: Standing Orders of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (revised August 11, 2026), PDF pages 24 to 25; the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the compilation (“Current Standing Orders - Effective 8/11/2026”) at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/combined-standing-orders-8-11-2026.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Petitions seeking involuntary medication of detainees under Penal Code §§ 1370(a)(2)(D)(ii), 2603(c), or 2603(d) and the documents supporting or opposing them may be filed under seal and in an envelope marked “Confidential”; the court's records of these petitions are kept in a confidential file.
Standing Order 3.1: Facsimile Filing in Certain Juvenile Cases, Appendix A: Standing Orders of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (revised August 11, 2026), PDF page 29; the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the compilation (“Current Standing Orders - Effective 8/11/2026”) at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/combined-standing-orders-8-11-2026.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Under Rule 5.522 of the California Rules of Court the court accepts facsimile filing of juvenile petitions under Welfare and Institutions Code sections 600 and 601, with Judicial Council Form JV-520 - Fax Filing Cover Sheet (Juvenile); petitions filed by facsimile in 2017 or 2018 deemed filed (Local Rules 2.80 et seq.).
Standing Order 3.2: Ninth Amended Standing Order re: E-Filing in Civil Cases (February 2, 2026), Appendix A: Standing Orders of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (revised August 11, 2026), PDF pages 30 to 32; the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the compilation (“Current Standing Orders - Effective 8/11/2026”) at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/combined-standing-orders-8-11-2026.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Further to Local Rule 2.87: electronic filing mandatory in Designated Cases from July 5, 2022 - Limited and Unlimited Civil (including Complex), Family Law (including DCSS), Probate, Small Claims, Unlawful Detainer, Appeals; the documents still filed in hard copy (civil harassment and workplace violence restraining orders, bonds and undertakings, bench warrants, name change petitions, challenges under Code of Civil Procedure §§ 170.1/170.3 and 170.6, and the listed civil, complex, probate, family and small claims documents); no courtesy copies unless ordered.
Standing Order 3.3: Petitions for Conviction Sealing (P.C. § 851.93) and/or Conviction Relief Where Relief Previously Granted (P.C. §1203.425) (December 18, 2025), Appendix A: Standing Orders of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (revised August 11, 2026), PDF pages 33 to 34; the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the compilation (“Current Standing Orders - Effective 8/11/2026”) at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/combined-standing-orders-8-11-2026.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
if the Department of Justice has already sealed (Penal Code section 851.93) or expunged (Penal Code section 1203.425) all convictions a pending motion for conviction relief concerns, the Clerk notifies the parties with the docket number of the case and the statement that the petitioner need not calendar a motion date, and enters the sealing or the dismissal of the petition.
Standing Order 3.4: Permissive E-Filing in Criminal and Juvenile Cases (November 16, 2023), Appendix A: Standing Orders of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (revised August 11, 2026), PDF pages 35 to 37; the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the compilation (“Current Standing Orders - Effective 8/11/2026”) at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/combined-standing-orders-8-11-2026.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Electronic filing permitted, not mandatory, in Criminal and Juvenile cases from November 27, 2023 (optional in Juvenile Dependency cases); the documents still filed in hard copy in criminal matters (initial complaints, parole and PRCS filings and warrants, Ramey and search warrants, waivers of extradition, habeas petitions, orders and judgments, challenges under §§ 170.1/170.3 and 170.6, ex parte motions) and juvenile matters; no courtesy copies unless ordered.
Standing Order 3.5: Civil Ex Parte Applications and Motions for Summary Judgment / Adjudication (September 3, 2025), Appendix A: Standing Orders of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (revised August 11, 2026), PDF pages 38 to 39; the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the compilation (“Current Standing Orders - Effective 8/11/2026”) at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/combined-standing-orders-8-11-2026.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
From September 15, 2025, in Unlimited and Limited Civil cases and Unlimited Unlawful Detainer cases: notice to the opposing party by 10:00 a.m. the day before (rule 3.1203) with a declaration; email notice to the assigned department by 10:00 am the court day before; papers filed by 3:00 pm the day before; oppositions by 10:00 a.m. the day of the determination; hearings only if ordered; rulings within 24 hours. Motions for summary judgment / adjudication: a hearing date reserved by email before filing, the moving papers filed within seven (7) calendar days.
Standing Order 4.1: Order re Return of Dangerous, Toxic, Bio-Hazardous Material/Exhibits, Appendix A: Standing Orders of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (revised August 11, 2026), PDF page 40; the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the compilation (“Current Standing Orders - Effective 8/11/2026”) at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/combined-standing-orders-8-11-2026.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
The court will not store dangerous, toxic or bio-hazardous materials as exhibits (drugs, paraphernalia, paint, bodily fluids, urine and weapons); the party brings photographs to be marked and substituted; exhibits returned under Penal Code 1417.3 with a photographic record; toxic exhibits introduced by photographic records and a certified chemical analysis.
Standing Order 4.3: First Amended Standing Order 4.3 re: Court Reporters in Family Law Cases (August 11, 2026), Appendix A: Standing Orders of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (revised August 11, 2026), PDF page 43; the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the compilation (“Current Standing Orders - Effective 8/11/2026”) at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/combined-standing-orders-8-11-2026.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
The court may move reporters from Family Law to other departments except where a reporter is required by statute or case law; parties may provide their own reporter as set forth in Local Rule 2.52; a judge may order electronic recording for an indigent litigant when a court reporter is unavailable (Family Violence Appellate Project v. Superior Courts, August 10, 2026, S288176).
Standing Order 4.4: Weapons Screening (March 16, 2026), Appendix A: Standing Orders of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (revised August 11, 2026), PDF pages 44 to 46; the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the compilation (“Current Standing Orders - Effective 8/11/2026”) at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/combined-standing-orders-8-11-2026.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Entry to court locations through the weapons-screening stations (Code of Civil Procedure sections 128 and 187) and searches of persons and belongings; who may enter without screening; armed or armored entry (Section 171b of the California Penal Code; soft body armor; peace officers on official court business); the prohibited items (firearms, knives, tools, cameras or audio recording devices unless approved under Rule of Court 1.150, and the others listed); and the Sheriff's operational control.
Traffic, Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; the court's web page https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/divisions/traffic, fetched 2026-10-08.
Remote appearance at a traffic hearing or arraignment by TR-128 (filed in person or by mail; remote hearings typically on Fridays); Department 50 traffic trial calendars at 8:30 a.m. in Walnut Creek (arraignments 9:30 a.m.) and 1:30 p.m. in Richmond (arraignments 2:00), Department 54 in Pittsburg at 8:30 a.m., with the Zoom details; reminder notices; failure to appear or pay (a civil assessment of up to $100; TR-320); payment at the clerk's office between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm.
Unlawful Detainer Ex Parte Procedure (effective November 25, 2024), Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; posted on the court's Landlord / Tenant page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/self-help/landlord-tenant) at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/2024-10-30finalprocedureforexparte.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Unlawful detainer ex parte applications: check-in at the civil clerk's window of the assigned branch and the hearing times - Martinez directly to Department 57 at 1:30 p.m.; Pittsburg check-in by 10:00 a.m. for 10:30 a.m. in Department 54; Richmond check-in by 1:00 p.m. for 1:15 p.m. in Department 50; the filing and fees.
Where to File, Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa; the court's web page https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/forms-filing/where-file, fetched 2026-10-08.
Where court forms are filed: the courthouse for each case type (appeals, limited and unlimited civil cases at the Wakefield Taylor Courthouse, small claims and unlawful detainer by city, criminal, elder abuse, family law and domestic violence restraining orders at the Spinetta Family Law Center, the Domestic Violence window at the Pittsburg Superior Court or the Restraining Order window at the Richmond Superior Court, juvenile at the Walnut Creek Superior Court, probate, traffic) and the courthouse for each city and ZIP code.
Title Eight, Chapter 1: General Provision, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Title Eight, Chapter 1 (Rule 8.1): the Appellate Division - regular sessions on the first Friday of each calendar month at 1:30 p.m.; the original trial court file as the record; the record of oral proceedings (the official electronic recording in infraction appeals; strict compliance with Rule of Court 8.916 for a Statement on Appeal).
Title Five, Division 1, Chapter 1: Family Law Department, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Title Five, Division 1, Chapter 1 (Rules 5.0 to 5.21): application of rules and definitions (Rule 5.0); assignment of departments and matters (Rule 5.1); temporary restraining orders and ex parte orders (Rule 5.2); orders shortening time (Rule 5.3); hearings (Rule 5.4); procedures to complete dissolution or legal separation (Rule 5.5); the case management conference / Family Centered Case Resolution Conference (Rule 5.6); the mandatory settlement conference (Rule 5.7); the recommendation conference (Rule 5.8); trials (Rule 5.9); preparation and presentation of orders (Rule 5.10); judgments (Rule 5.11); appointment of elisor (Rule 5.12); confidentiality (Rule 5.13); the Family Law Facilitator (Rule 5.14); temporary spousal or partner support (Rule 5.15); presence of children in the courtroom (Rule 5.16); Family Court Services appointments - orientation, mediation, information gathering and child custody recommending counseling (Rule 5.17); child custody evaluations (Rule 5.18); court communication for domestic violence and child custody orders (Rule 5.19); dismissal for failure to prosecute (Rule 5.20); and the requirement for a current mailing address (Rule 5.21).
Title Five, Division 2, Chapter 1: Juvenile Department, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Division 2, Chapter 1 (Rules 5.50 to 5.75): the juvenile rules, judge and court commissioner (Rules 5.50 to 5.52); motions (Rule 5.53); appointment of juvenile court appointed counsel (Rule 5.54); the minute order (Rule 5.55); public hearings (Rule 5.57); records access by Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) (Rule 5.58); inter-agency exchange of information (Rule 5.59); experience, training and education (Rule 5.61); screening for competency (Rule 5.62); mediation (Rule 5.63); reciprocal discovery (Rule 5.64); disclosure of victim or witness contact information (Rule 5.65); notices regarding change in placement, to caregivers and to minor's counsel regarding subpoenas (Rules 5.66, 5.68 and 5.69); CASA program guidelines and reports (Rules 5.71 and 5.72); assignment of transfer hearings (Rule 5.73); service of JV-790 on victim (Rule 5.74); and presence at juvenile proceedings (Rule 5.75).
Title Four, Division 1, Chapter 1: Criminal Department, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Title Four, Division 1, Chapter 1: electronic recording in misdemeanor and infraction cases (Rule 4.01); motions (Rule 4.1); discovery (Rule 4.2); applications on behalf of inmates (Rule 4.3); violations of probation (Rule 4.4); relief from forfeiture of bail in misdemeanor and felony cases (Rule 4.6); submitting sensitive exhibits (Rule 4.7); and withdrawal of time waivers in misdemeanor cases (Rule 4.8).
Title Four, Division 1, Chapter 2: Felony Direct Calendaring, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 2 (Rules 4.10 to 4.12): direct calendaring in felony matters (Rule 4.10); arraignments and assignment for all purposes (Rule 4.11); and reassignment by the Presiding Judge (Rule 4.12).
Title Four, Division 2, Chapter 1: Infraction Rules, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Division 2, Chapter 1 (Rules 4.40 to 4.46): filing (Rule 4.40); court sessions (Rule 4.41); arraignments and remote appearance for arraignments (Rule 4.42); demurrers (Rule 4.43); withdrawal of time waivers in infraction cases (Rule 4.44); continuances (Rule 4.45); and juvenile traffic infraction matters (Rule 4.46).
Title Four, Division 2, Chapter 2: Adjudication of Infraction Matters, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 2 (Rules 4.60 to 4.64): trial by declaration for traffic infractions (Rule 4.60); clerks' authority in infraction cases (Rule 4.61); prohibited requests in traffic matters (Rule 4.62); requests for ability to pay consideration and civil assessment waiver (Rule 4.63); and appeals (Rule 4.64).
Title Four, Division 2, Chapter 3: Collections Program for Traffic Infraction Cases, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 3 (Rules 4.80 and 4.81): the court collections program (Rule 4.80) and the application of an overpayment (Rule 4.81).
Title One, Chapter 1: Administrative Rules, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Title One, Chapter 1 (Rules 1.1 to 1.6): adoption and amendment of rules (Rule 1.1); department designations (Rule 1.2); the Presiding Judge (Rule 1.3); the Executive Committee (Rule 1.4); the definition of vacation for a judge (Rule 1.5); and activities prohibited on courthouse grounds (Rule 1.6).
Title One, Chapter 2: Media Coverage, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 2 (Rules 1.20 to 1.27): media coverage (Rule 1.20); requests for coverage (Rule 1.21); limitation on coverage (Rule 1.22); prohibited coverage (Rule 1.23); parking limitations for media vehicles (Rule 1.24); areas in court facilities where media activities are authorized (Rule 1.25); video recording and still photography (Rule 1.26); and body worn cameras (Rule 1.27).
Title Seven, Chapter 1: General Provisions, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Title Seven, Chapter 1 (Rules 7.1 to 7.5): probate matters (Rule 7.1); judicial commitments (Rule 7.2); trust fund withdrawals (Rule 7.3); the probate rules (Rule 7.4); and court reporting in probate (Rule 7.5).
Title Seven, Chapter 10: Trusts, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 10 (Rules 7.450 to 7.452): trustee compensation and attorney's fees (Rule 7.450); establishment of a trust (Rule 7.451); and establishment of a special needs trust from inheritance by court order (Rule 7.452).
Title Seven, Chapter 11: Protective Proceedings, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 11 (Rule 7.501): the proceeding for a spousal property transaction under Probate Code Section 3100 et seq. - the declaration of a licensed physician or licensed psychologist, appointed counsel for the non-petitioning spouse, and notice when the petition is predicated on Medi-Cal qualification.
Title Seven, Chapter 12: Elisors, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 12 (Rule 7.520): for the appointment of an elisor, Local Rule 5.12.
Title Seven, Chapter 13: Guidelines for Probate Rules - Attachments, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 13, the probate guidelines' attachments: Attachment 1 - The ABCs of Dividing the Commission Pie in Probate Sales (with its chart); Attachment 2 - Probate Department Fees and Costs Guidelines; Attachment 3 - Fee Declaration Template; and Attachment 4 - Probate Department Operations (the probate calendars, ex parte applications submitted to the Probate Examiners between 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m., and tentative rulings).
Title Seven, Chapter 2: Probate Court Proceedings, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 2 (Rules 7.50 to 7.65): the probate calendar (Rule 7.50); contested matters (Rule 7.51); appearances (Rule 7.52); verifications (Rule 7.53); submission of a proposed order before the hearing (Rule 7.54); responses to tentative rulings, filed no later than the close of business two (2) court days before the hearing (Rule 7.55); continuances to cure defective pleadings or procedures (Rule 7.56); discretion to waive (Rule 7.58); fees (Rule 7.59); record title (Rule 7.60); court ordered fees for fiduciaries and attorneys (Rule 7.61); factual allegations (Rule 7.62); guardian ad litem (Rule 7.63); special notice to attorneys and clients (Rule 7.64); and coordination of fee petitions with accountings (Rule 7.65).
Title Seven, Chapter 3: Petitions, Orders and Notices, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 3 (Rules 7.100 to 7.114): material to be included in formal rulings (Rule 7.101); written response (Rule 7.102); applications for ex parte orders (Rule 7.104); petitions for family allowance (Rule 7.105); bond on petitions for authority to borrow money (Rule 7.106); nunc pro tunc orders correcting clerical errors (Rule 7.107); general notice requirements (Rule 7.108); a probate hearing once noticed cannot be advanced (Rule 7.109); orders to be complete (Rule 7.110); accounts and reports (Rule 7.111); and petitions to show who is entitled to notice (Rule 7.112).
Title Seven, Chapter 4: Appointment of Executors and Administrators, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 4 (Rules 7.150 to 7.156): notice re special letters (Rule 7.150); petitions for probate of will and for letters (Rule 7.151); notice (Rule 7.152); requirements of publication for notice of petition to administer estate (Rule 7.153); court discretion regarding bond (Rule 7.154); continuance to permit filing of a contest (Rule 7.155); and multiple representatives (Rule 7.156).
Title Seven, Chapter 5: Creditors’ Claims, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 5 (Rules 7.200 to 7.203): the nature and form of claims (Rule 7.200); claims of personal representatives and attorneys (Rule 7.202); and funeral claims (Rule 7.203).
Title Seven, Chapter 6: Sales, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 6 (Rules 7.250 to 7.257): sales of real property not under IAEA (Rule 7.250); return of private sale (Rule 7.251); broker's commissions, including in an overbid situation (Rules 7.252 and 7.253); condominiums, community or cooperative apartments (Rule 7.255); purchase of estate property by the personal representative or his or her attorney (Rule 7.256); and tangible personal property (Rule 7.257).
Title Seven, Chapter 7: Accounts, Fees and Petition for Distribution, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 7 (Rules 7.300 to 7.317): notice of petition for distribution (Rule 7.300); property to be distributed must be listed (Rule 7.301); the form of accounting (Rule 7.302); waiver of account (Rule 7.303); inheritance by a surviving spouse (Rule 7.305); extraordinary fees (Rule 7.306); the order (Rule 7.307); segregating trust income and principal (Rule 7.308); creditor's claims (Rule 7.309); federal estate taxes (Rule 7.310); specifically devised property (Rule 7.311); distribution to minors (Rule 7.312); preliminary distribution (Rule 7.313); actions for damages following wrongful death (Rule 7.314); additional powers to a testamentary trustee (Rule 7.315); application for final discharge (Rule 7.316); and payment of costs of administration (Rule 7.317).
Title Seven, Chapter 8: Inventory and Appraisal, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 8 (Rules 7.350 and 7.351): preparation of the inventory and appraisal (Rule 7.350) and waiver of appraisal by the probate referee (Rule 7.351).
Title Seven, Chapter 9: Guardianships and Conservatorships, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 9 (Rules 7.400 to 7.429): initiation of the guardianship investigation (Rule 7.400); temporary guardianships (Rule 7.401); consultation with other departments re custody or dependency proceedings (Rule 7.402); guardianships for dependent children (Rule 7.403); restriction on parental use of a minor's estate (Rule 7.404); final account of guardian (Rule 7.405); setting a guardianship hearing when a temporary guardianship has not been granted (Rule 7.406); appointment of conservator (Rule 7.411); ex parte petitions for appointment of temporary conservatorships (Rule 7.412); specific medical treatment and placement (Rule 7.413); termination (Rule 7.414); accounts of conservator (Rule 7.415); orientation class requirements for unlicensed conservators (Rule 7.416); release of information by the court investigator for benefit of conservatees (Rule 7.417); temporary guardian or conservator (Rule 7.422); duties and conflicts (Rule 7.423); bonds (Rule 7.424); accounts (Rule 7.425); compensation and attorney's fees (Rule 7.426); independent exercise of powers (Rule 7.427); investments (Rule 7.428); and account statements with accountings (Rule 7.429).
Title Three, Chapter 1: Administration of Civil Litigation, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Title Three, Chapter 1 (Rules 3.1 to 3.19): applicability, definitions and transferred cases (Rules 3.1 to 3.3); policy (Rule 3.4); venue, filing and form of papers (Rule 3.5); challenge to the assigned judge (Rule 3.6); service of summons, complaint, cross-complaint, responsive pleadings and default judgments (Rule 3.7); the case management conference procedure (Rule 3.8); telephone appearances (Rule 3.9); sanctions (Rule 3.10); the issue conference (Rule 3.11); jury fees (Rule 3.12); reporting of court proceedings in civil fast track departments (Rule 3.13); unlawful detainer trial setting (Rule 3.14); relief following breach of a settlement agreement in limited jurisdiction cases (Rule 3.15); complex litigation cases (Rule 3.16); CEQA claims (Rule 3.17); conforming copies (Rule 3.18); and the unlawful detainer process (Rule 3.19).
Title Three, Chapter 2: Civil Law and Motion, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 2 (Rules 3.40 to 3.54): the law and motion calendar (Rule 3.40); hearing dates (Rule 3.41); papers to comply with state rules (Rule 3.42); the tentative ruling (Rule 3.43); remote appearances and reporting for law and motion (Rules 3.44 and 3.45); civil ex parte orders (Rule 3.46); original orders to show cause (Rule 3.47); continuances (Rule 3.48); calendar matters heard in the law and motion department (Rule 3.49); name change applications (Rule 3.50); motions (Rule 3.51); uncontested calendars (Rule 3.52); written orders (Rule 3.53); and the number of attorneys examining a witness (Rule 3.54).
Title Three, Chapter 3: Receivers, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 3 (Rule 3.80): appointment of receivers - court clerks may be appointed where no independent third party or active management is needed, but not by stipulation of counsel; California Rules of Court, 3.1175-3.1184.
Title Three, Chapter 4: Elisors, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 4 (Rule 3.90): for the appointment of an elisor, Local Rule 5.12.
Title Three, Chapter 5: Settlements and Settlement Conferences, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 5 (Rules 3.100 to 3.103): settlements (Rule 3.100); settlement conferences (Rule 3.101); special needs trusts (Rule 3.102); and special bench bar settlement conferences (BBSC) (Rule 3.103).
Title Three, Chapter 6: ADR, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 6 (Rules 3.200 to 3.206): the alternative dispute resolution programs (Rule 3.200); mediation - the panel's fees, attendance and mediation statements (Rule 3.201); judicial arbitration (Rule 3.202); settlement mentors (Rule 3.203); neutral case evaluation (Rule 3.204); the temporary judge trial in the civil division (Rule 3.205); and ethical and practice standards for ADR panel members (Rule 3.206).
Title Three, Chapter 7: Discovery Motions and the Optional Discovery Facilitator Program, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 7 (Rules 3.300 and 3.301): the optional Discovery Facilitator Program - the stipulation (Local Court Form ADR-602), the request for assignment, the facilitator's conflict check and the four-hour expectation - and discovery motions and the program.
Title Two, Chapter 1: Jurors, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Title Two, Chapter 1 (Rules 2.1 to 2.9): selection of prospective jurors and juror source lists (Rules 2.1 and 2.2); juror qualifications, statutory excusals and temporary deferment of service (Rules 2.3 to 2.5); employment while serving and the period of juror service (Rules 2.6 and 2.7); juror telephone standby (Rule 2.8); and the jury assembly room (Rule 2.9).
Title Two, Chapter 10: Communication of Concerns, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 10 (Rule 2.170): concerns about judges and subordinate judicial officers submitted in writing, signed and addressed to the Presiding Judge, P.O. Box 431, Martinez, CA 94553 (not by email); and concerns about court employees and services.
Title Two, Chapter 11: Remote Appearances, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 11 (Rule 2.180): remote appearances under Code of Civil Procedure section 367.75 and California Rule of Court, rule 3.672 - the notice requirements, the general provisions, and remote hearings in domestic violence and gun violence restraining order matters (Family Code §6308(b), Penal Code § 18123(b)).
Title Two, Chapter 2: Grand Jury, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 2 (Rules 2.30 to 2.36): grand jury impanelment, the solicitation for applications, qualifications and the Grand Jury Selection Committee (Rules 2.30 to 2.33); an additional grand jury (Rule 2.34); sealing of the grand jury transcript (Rule 2.35); and recruitment for alternates (Rule 2.36).
Title Two, Chapter 3: Attorney’s Fees and Appointment of Counsel, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 3 (Rules 2.40 to 2.44): the attorney's fee schedule (Rule 2.40); the schedule for use entering a default judgment (Rule 2.41); setting attorney fees in a contested case (Rule 2.42); attorney fees in foreclosure cases (Rule 2.43); and the itemization of extraordinary services (Rule 2.44).
Title Two, Chapter 4: Court Reporting Services, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 4 (Rules 2.50 to 2.54): electronic recording (Rule 2.50); the Notice of Availability of Court Reporting Services (Rule 2.51); unavailability of court-provided court reporters and procurement of outside private reporters - the meet and confer and the proposed order on Form CV-311 (Rule 2.52); court-provided court reporters in cases involving fee waiver litigants (Rule 2.53); and transcripts and electronic recording (Rule 2.54).
Title Two, Chapter 5: Sanctions, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 5 (Rule 2.60): a violation of any of these rules may result in sanctions and penalties, among them dropping a matter from the calendar, vacating a trial date, dismissal for lack of prosecution, a fine or costs, and expenses, counsel fees, witness fees and jury fees payable to opposing counsel.
Title Two, Chapter 6: Information and Forms, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 6 (Rules 2.70 to 2.73): the form of documents filed with the court (Rule 2.70); identifying information on filed documents (Rule 2.71); retention of completed copy requests (Rule 2.72); and access to view a court file (Rule 2.73).
Title Two, Chapter 7: Mandatory Electronic Filing and Service, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 7 (Rule 2.87): mandatory electronic filing and service in Designated Cases under Code of Civil Procedure section 1010.6(d) and Rules 2.252 and 2.253 of the California Rules of Court, the Designated Cases announced on the court's website; the exceptions - self-represented litigants and the motion for exemption on Judicial Council form EFS-007.
Title Two, Chapter 8: Standards of Professional Courtesy, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 8: consideration of a history of breaches in professional courtesy (Rule 2.90); the Standards of Professional Courtesy (Rule 2.91) - scheduling (Rule 2.120), discovery (Rule 2.121), conduct towards other attorneys, the court and participants (Rule 2.122), candor to the court and opposing counsel (Rule 2.123) and efficient administration (Rule 2.124); and the Committee on Bias (Rule 2.150).
Title Two, Chapter 9: Setting of Local Court Fees, Local Rules of Court of the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa (effective July 1, 2026); the court's Local Rules page (https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/general-information/local-rules-court) links the book at https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/system/files/general/july-2026-local-rules-final_0.pdf, fetched 2026-10-08.
Chapter 9 (Rule 2.160): the local fees under Government Code section 70631 and California Rule of Court 10.815 - court forms $0.50 per page, a packet of court forms $1.25, recording of court proceedings $25.00, envelopes and postage $0.60, non-professional supervised visitation training, the $100.00 child custody counseling appointment no show fee, and postage and mailing of CDs $4.65.