For the inexperienced, court systems are intimidating and difficult to understand. Whether you are involved in a criminal or a civil matter, knowing more about the court system in California is settling and a great confidence-builder. The more you know, the easier it is to understand what is happening and to anticipate what will happen next.

This primer Includes vocabulary, definitions, court titles and roles, and details about specific types of law and cases, including civil law, criminal law, animal abuse, annulment, battery, burglary, child support, custody, dissolution, divorce, ex parte, kidnapping, murder, rape, restraining order, separation, stalking, and vandalism.

This article is not intended to provide legal advice. For legal advice on any of the information in this post, please contact one of our attorneys. Browse our attorney profiles or contact us by phone: 805-452-7214.