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Court Rules

San Mateo Superior Court

Court-Level Rules, Filing Procedures & Policies

Rules last changed:

Limits & Logistics

Document Limits

Brief
6,800 wds
Discovery Dispute Summary
5 pgs
Discovery Dispute Letter
5 pgs
Electronic Letter
5 pgs

Courtesy Copies

Complaint Form

Ex Parte Application, Ex Parte Opposition, Ex Parte Filing

  • Email

Motion, Responsive Papers

Adjournments

24Hoursnotice
  • A stipulated short-cause continuance may be requested by phone with 24 hours’ notice or in open court; no more than one may be granted without a court order and good cause, and a case not ready on the continued date may be removed from calendar absent good cause.
  • An extension request for filing appellate briefs must be submitted to the Appellate Division under LCR rule 1.8.
  • A continuance request must establish adequate grounds and good cause.
  • A request to continue a judicial arbitration hearing after the jurisdictional time frame must be made using the specified local form and emailed contemporaneously to ADR staff.
  • +19 more

Request must include

Reason for RequestProposed New Dates
3Court Daysnotice
  • Failure to notify the court at least three court days before a hearing that the hearing will not proceed may result in monetary sanctions, except when the matter settles or resolves within the three-day period.
5Court Daysnotice
  • A continuance may be requested by email to probate@sanmateocourt.org. Such requests should be made at the earliest possible time prior to the hearing (but no later than 5 court days prior to the hearing) and must include the following: 1) The case number; 2) The date of the hearing; 3) a statement that all parties agree to the continuance (and are cc’d on the email) or that the requesting party is the Petitioner in the matter and no hearing has yet taken place; and 4) preferred dates for the continued hearing and/or any unavailability with six months of the hearing date.
  • Counsel must call the assigned department clerk at least five court days before the MSC to confirm the conference or request a continuance.
Original DateProposed New Dates
15Calendar Daysnotice
  • Each party may request one Status Conference continuance by giving at least 15 calendar days' notice before the scheduled conference date.

Communication

Email
idc@sanmateocourt.org
Email
pci@sanmateocourt.org
Hours: ahead of time
Phone
650-261-5068
Technical Issues
Hours: 30 minutes before the start of a court hearing through the duration of the court session
Email
Scheduling
Email

Chambers

No status inquiries
Filters:

Page & Word Limits5 rules

Page LimitsMandatory

No brief shall exceed 6,800 words in length without prior approval of the Appellate Division. (CRC rule 8.883(b).) Tables of contents and/or authorities are excluded from this limitation, but footnotes are included.

Brief
Up to 6,800 words

Excluded from word count

  • Table of contents
  • Table of authorities

Exception

More words with leave of court

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 44
|SectionDiv I – Appellate Division Rules — Briefs — Length
Page LimitsMandatory

The electronic letter summarizing the discovery dispute may not exceed five pages.

Discovery dispute summary
Up to 5 pages

Court's wording

Within five (5) calendar days of the initial email request to the Court for an Informal Discovery Request, the disputing parties shall, jointly or separately, email correspondence to the Court at IDC@sanmateocourt.org, and contemporaneously to all parties, an electronic letter of no more than five (5) pages, without attachments, summarizing the discovery dispute(s).

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 74
|SectionRule 3.700(f)(i) — Email Correspondence Detailing Discovery Dispute
Page LimitsMandatory

The electronic letter summarizing the discovery dispute may not exceed five pages.

Discovery dispute letter
Up to 5 pages
Applies to
  • Letter

Court's wording

Within five (5) calendar days of the initial email request to the Court for an Informal Discovery Request, the disputing parties shall, jointly or separately, email correspondence to the Court at IDC@sanmateocourt.org and contemporaneously to all parties, an electronic letter of no more than five (5) pages, without attachments, summarizing the discovery dispute(s).

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 95
|SectionDivision IV — Probate Department
Page LimitsMandatory

The electronic discovery-dispute correspondence is limited to five pages and must not include attachments.

Electronic letter
Up to 5 pages

Court's wording

Within five (5) calendar days of the initial email request to the Court for an Informal Discovery Request, the disputing parties shall, jointly or separately, email correspondence to the department email address for the Family Law Commissioner, and contemporaneously to all parties, an electronic letter of no more than five (5) pages, without attachments, summarizing the discovery dispute(s).

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 153
|SectionDivision V - Rules - 503 - Rule 5.4(g)(i)
Page LimitsImportant

Permission to file any briefs in excess of 6,800 words shall be obtained by application in accordance with LCR rule 1.8.

Brief
Up to 6,800 words
localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 44
|SectionDiv I – Appellate Division Rules — Briefs — Length

Document Format Requirements26 rules

FormattingMandatory

Except for footnotes and block quotations, text lines in appellate briefs must be spaced at least one and one-half lines.

Line spacing
1.5 lines
Applies to
  • Brief

Formatting

  • The one-and-a-half-spacing requirement does not apply to footnotes or block quotations

Court's wording

Briefs shall comply with CRC rule 8.883, including but not limited to the requirement that lines of text other than footnotes and block quotations must be at least one- and-a-half-spaced as stated in CRC.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 44
|SectionDiv I – Appellate Division Rules — Briefs — Content and Format
FormattingMandatory

Only one side of the paper may be used and such briefs shall be bound at the top, with cover colors that comply with CRC 8.40(b).

Applies to
  • Brief

Formatting

  • Cover colors must comply with CRC 8.40(b).
localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 44
|SectionDiv I – Appellate Division Rules — Briefs — Content and Format
FormattingMandatory

Briefs relating to a petition for writ of mandate or prohibition shall comply with CRC rules 8.931 through 8.933 and 8.883, except that only one side of the paper may be used and they must be bound at the top, with cover colors that comply with CRC 8.40(b).

Applies to
  • Brief

Formatting

  • Bind the briefs at the top.
localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 47
|SectionDivision I – Appellate Department Rules
FormattingMandatory

Original hard copy documents presented to the clerk for filing shall be submitted bound at the top by a clip or fastener (but not staples).

File type
Paper
localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 50
|SectionRule 2.1 Form of Papers Presented for Filing
FormattingMandatory

All proposed jury instructions shall conform to the requirements of California Rules of Court, Rule 2.1055.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 54
|SectionRule 2.7.3 Form of Proposed Jury Instructions
FormattingMandatory

In addition to a hard copy of the proposed jury instructions, counsel shall provide the modified instructions on a CD or USB flash drive, also commonly referred to as a thumb drive

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 54
|SectionRule 2.7.2 Duty Of Counsel with Respect to Jury Instructions
FormattingMandatory

Any jury instructions requested after the conclusion of taking evidence shall be in writing.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 54
|SectionRule 2.7.3 Form of Proposed Jury Instructions
FormattingMandatory

Pursuant to CRC Rule 2.256(b)(3), all electronically filed documents (other than exhibits) must be text searchable.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 64
|SectionDivision III — Rule 3.3 Form of Papers
FormattingMandatory

Pursuant to CRC Rule 3.1110(f)(4), exhibits to any electronically filed briefs, declarations or other documents must be electronically “bookmarked”.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 64
|SectionDivision III — Rule 3.3 Form of Papers
FormattingMandatory

All electronic correspondence must be sent in at least 12-point type.

Font size
At least 12 points
Applies to
  • Electronic correspondence
localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 95
|SectionDivision IV — Probate Department
FormattingMandatory

The electronic discovery-dispute letter must not have attachments.

Applies to
  • Letter

Formatting

  • The electronic discovery-dispute letter must be submitted without attachments

Court's wording

Within five (5) calendar days of the initial email request to the Court for an Informal Discovery Request, the disputing parties shall, jointly or separately, email correspondence to the Court at IDC@sanmateocourt.org and contemporaneously to all parties, an electronic letter of no more than five (5) pages, without attachments, summarizing the discovery dispute(s).

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 95
|SectionDivision IV — Probate Department
FormattingMandatory

Any claim presented for filing more than four months after letters are first issued shall be accompanied by either (1) a copy of the Notice of Administration to Creditors showing that the claim is timely, or (2) a Court Order allowing a late filing of the claim pursuant to Section 9103.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 108
|SectionRule 4.32 Nature and Form of Claims, subsection B.2
FormattingMandatory

Creditors' claims must be submitted on Judicial Council forms.

Court's wording

Creditors' claims shall be submitted on Judicial Council forms but creditors' claims will be liberally construed in favor of their sufficiency if the content and format are in substantial compliance with the Probate Code.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 108
|SectionRule 4.32 Nature and Form of Claims, subsection B.1
FormattingMandatory

All filings regarding conservatorships must be accompanied by an original and two copies.

Applies to
  • Conservatorship filing

Formatting

  • An original and two copies must accompany every conservatorship filing
localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 120
|SectionRule 4.76 Temporary Conservatorships, subsection B(1)
FormattingMandatory

All filings must consist of an original and two (2) copies. Signatures must be in blue ink.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 122
|SectionRule 4.77.1 Petition for General Guardianship
FormattingMandatory

G. Filing Procedures: All filings must consist of an original and two(2) copes.

Formatting

  • One original and two copies per filing
FormattingMandatory

E. Filing Procedures: All filings must consist of an original and two (2) copes. Signatures must be in blue ink.

Formatting

  • Each filing must consist of one original and two copies
localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 144
|SectionDivision IV — Probate Department, Rule 4.89
FormattingMandatory

The party preparing the order or judgment shall ensure that at least two lines of text appear on the page upon which the judge’s signature is affixed. No text may appear after the judge’s signature.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 167
|SectionRule 5.10 Preparation of Orders After Hearing and Judgments
FormattingImportant

All emails must be sent in at least 12 point type.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 71
|SectionCivil Law & Motion
FormattingImportant

All electronic correspondence must be sent in at least 12 point type.

Font size
At least 12 points
Applies to
  • Electronic correspondence
localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 73
|SectionRule 3.600(a) — Correspondence with Civil Departments
FormattingImportant

The electronic discovery-dispute summary must not have attachments.

Applies to
  • Discovery dispute summary

Formatting

  • No attachments

Court's wording

Within five (5) calendar days of the initial email request to the Court for an Informal Discovery Request, the disputing parties shall, jointly or separately, email correspondence to the Court at IDC@sanmateocourt.org, and contemporaneously to all parties, an electronic letter of no more than five (5) pages, without attachments, summarizing the discovery dispute(s).

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 74
|SectionRule 3.700(f)(i) — Email Correspondence Detailing Discovery Dispute
FormattingImportant

Schedules for Income and Disbursements shall be stated in chronological and also categorical format.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 136
|SectionRule 4.81.17 Accounts and Reports
FormattingImportant

Signatures must be in blue ink.

FormattingNote

The court, in its discretion, may permit instructions to be sent into the jury room in "Booklet Form".

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 54
|SectionRule 2.7.3 Form of Proposed Jury Instructions
FormattingNote

Satisfactory vouchers or proof of the claim should be attached.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 108
|SectionRule 4.32 Nature and Form of Claims, subsection B.1
FormattingMandatory

All probate accounts, including guardianship, conservatorship, and trust accounts, must be typewritten and conform to the specified California Rules of Court and Probate Code provisions.

Court's wording

All accounts filed in probate proceedings, which include guardianship, conservatorship, and trust accounts, must be typewritten and must conform to the California Rules of Court (CRC) adopted by the Judicial Council, including without limitation California Rules of Court, Rules 7.550, 7.901 and 7.902 and the California Probate Code, including sections 1060-1064, 2620-2633, 10900-11051, and 16060-16064.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 114
|SectionRule 4.48 In General

Document Filing Requirements280 rules

Filing RequirementsMandatory

The brief must include a certificate stating the number of words in the brief as required under CRC, rule 8.883(b).

Document
Brief

Must include

  • Word count
localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 44
|SectionDiv I – Appellate Division Rules — Briefs — Length
Filing RequirementsMandatory

A CEQA mandamus petition or complaint must state on its face that it is filed pursuant to CEQA.

Document
CEQA petition or complaint

Must include

  • Filed pursuant to “CEQA”

Court's wording

If a petition for writ of mandate or complaint includes claims under CEQA (Public Resources Code section 21000 et. seq.), the case will be assigned to a judge designated to hear CEQA actions pursuant to Public Resources Code section 21167.1. Plaintiff shall identify the petition or complaint as being filed pursuant to “CEQA” on the face of the petition or complaint.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 50
|SectionRule 2.1.3 California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
Filing RequirementsMandatory

A party filing a discovery motion must lodge and not file any confidential documents with the Court. All such documents must be clearly labeled “Confidential discovery documents lodged with the Court pursuant to Local Rule 2.1.9.”

Filing RequirementsMandatory

Before delivery of proposed jury instructions to the trial judge and opposing counsel, counsel shall fill in all blanks, make all strikeouts, insertions and modifications therein which are appropriate to the case.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 54
|SectionRule 2.7.2 Duty Of Counsel with Respect to Jury Instructions
Filing RequirementsMandatory

and a clean copy of the instructions to be given to the jury.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 54
|SectionRule 2.7.2 Duty Of Counsel with Respect to Jury Instructions
Filing RequirementsMandatory

If a requested instruction is withdrawn, counsel shall so indicate by writing "withdrawn" and signing or initialing such instruction.

Document
Requested jury instruction

Must include

  • Withdrawn
localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 55
|SectionRule 2.7.5 Jury Instruction Conference
Filing RequirementsMandatory

If juror questionnaires are proposed by any party, the requesting party must provide a copy of the proposed questionnaire to all parties and they must meet and confer to agree on a questionnaire that will be distributed to prospective jurors.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 55
|SectionRule 2.7.7 Juror Questionnaires
Filing RequirementsMandatory

The juror questionnaire must be presented to the trial judge on the day of trial at the very latest.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 55
|SectionRule 2.7.7 Juror Questionnaires
Filing RequirementsMandatory

The proposed questionnaire shall be presented to the trial judge for review and approval prior to it being used.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 55
|SectionRule 2.7.7 Juror Questionnaires
Filing RequirementsMandatory

The trial judge will then discuss with counsel:

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 55
|SectionRule 2.7.5 Jury Instruction Conference
Filing RequirementsMandatory

A fee-waiver recipient seeking a verbatim trial record must notify the court in writing by filing Judicial Council Form FW-020.

Court's wording

Fee waiver recipients who want a verbatim record of a trial court proceedings must notify the Court in writing by filing Judicial Council form FW-020 at least 10 calendar days in advance of the scheduled hearing or trial date.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 57
|Section2.12 Court Reporter Availability in Civil Actions
Filing RequirementsMandatory

A request for an official court reporter must be made using Local Form CV-69.

Court's wording

Local Court Form CV-69, Request for an Official Court Reporter for Civil Court Proceedings, must be filed at least 10 calendar days prior to the scheduled hearing or trial date for which you are requesting an official court reporter.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 57
|Section2.12 Court Reporter Availability in Civil Actions
Filing RequirementsMandatory

The Judicial Officer must sign Form CV-68 appointing the reporter pro tempore before the reporter may report the proceeding.

Court's wording

The Judicial Officer must sign Local Form CV-68 (Appointment of Official Court Reporter Pro Tempore) appointing the reporter as an official reporter pro tempore, before the reporter may report the proceeding.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 58
|Section2.12 Court Reporter Availability in Civil Actions
Filing RequirementsMandatory

A party requesting appointment of an official reporter pro tempore must complete and have signed by the official reporter pro tempore Local Form CV-68 (Appointment of Official Court Reporter Pro Tempore), and provide it to the Judicial Officer at the commencement of the proceeding.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 58
|Section2.12 Court Reporter Availability in Civil Actions
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Upon assignment of a jury case to a trial department, each party must file its in limine motions and responses, trial briefs, a concise non-argumentative jury statement, and a possible-witness list.

Court's wording

Upon assignment to a trial department for trial by a jury, each party shall file with that department the following: (1) Any in limine motions and response thereto; (2) Any trial briefs; (3) A concise non-argumentative statement of the case to be read to the jury; and (4) A list of possible witness who may testify in the trial to be read to the jury panel by the court.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 60
|SectionRule 2.20 Trial Motions, Briefs, Statements, and Witness Lists
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Any party intending to offer any exhibit at the time of trial shall be prepared, by the time of assignment to a trial department, with an original and sufficient copies of each such exhibit for all other parties and the court.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 60
|SectionRule 2.22 Production of Exhibits
Filing RequirementsMandatory

If notice is given by email, the contesting party must state in the subject line of the email the case name and case number. In the text of the email, the contesting party must state the specific motion, the party contesting, and the time estimate of counsel for oral argument by all parties. All emails must be sent in at least 12 point type.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 71
|SectionCivil Law & Motion
Filing RequirementsMandatory

A party contesting a tentative ruling must notify all counsel of record, self-represented parties, and the assigned Civil Department by 4:00 p.m. on the court day before the hearing, by email with contemporaneous copies to all parties or by telephone.

Court's wording

A party intending to appear in order to contest the tentative ruling on a law and motion matter calendared for hearing must notify all counsel of record, self-represented parties, and the Civil Department of the Civil Judge assigned to that civil case by 4:00 p.m. on the court day before the hearing either by (A) emailing that Civil Department with that email contemporaneously copied to all parties or their counsel of record, or (B) by telephoning that Civil Department at the telephone number listed on the Court’s website.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 71
|SectionCivil Law & Motion
Filing RequirementsMandatory

The prevailing party on a tentative ruling is required to prepare a proposed order repeating verbatim the tentative ruling.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 71
|SectionCivil Law & Motion
Filing RequirementsMandatory

If a request to change a hearing date is granted, the original moving party shall immediately file and serve an Amended Notice of the motion or other matter reflecting the new hearing date.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 72
|SectionRule 3.404 Off Calendar or Continuance of Civil Law & Motion Matters
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Failure to present a proposed order at the time of presentation of the ex parte application will result in denial of the ex parte application.

Document
Ex parte application

Include

  • Proposed order
localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 72
|SectionRule 3.500 Ex Parte Applications in General Civil
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Except as ordered by the court under subdivision (d), applicants seeking an ex parte order may appear remotely provided that the moving papers, including a proposed order, have been served on all parties, and submitted in paper form to the assigned judge, and the fee paid to the clerk’s office, by at least 10:00 a.m. two court days before the ex parte appearance.

Document
Ex parte moving papers

Include

  • Proposed order
localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 73
|SectionRule 3.672 — Remote Appearance
Filing RequirementsMandatory

All communications to any Civil Department email address must include in the header “subject line” the Case Number and Name of Case (e.g., 20CIV04321 Smith v. Jones).

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 73
|SectionRule 3.600(b) — Mandatory Email Header
Filing RequirementsMandatory

It shall include on the first line (i) the case name and number, (ii) the date and time reserved by the parties for the Informal Discovery Conference, and (iii) the estimated length of the IDC session.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 74
|SectionRule 3.700(f)(i) — Email Correspondence Detailing Discovery Dispute
Filing RequirementsMandatory

An Informal Discovery Conference request must identify the case, requesting party, reserved conference date and time, and estimated session length.

Court's wording

Any party requesting an Informal Discovery Conference shall identify the case name and number, the name of the party requesting the Informal Discovery Conference, the date and time reserved by that party for the Informal Discovery Conference, and the estimated length of the IDC session.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 74
|SectionRule 3.700(d)(i) — Request for Informal Discovery Conference
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Pursuant to CRC Rule 3.725, all parties must file and serve a Case Management Statement (form CM-110) at least fifteen (15) calendar days prior to the date set for the initial Case Management Conference.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 77
|SectionRule 3.805 — Initial Case Management Conference Requirements
Filing RequirementsMandatory

If the Case Management Conference is continued, all parties must file and serve a new CM-110, individually or jointly, at least 15 calendar days before the latest conference.

Court's wording

If the Case Management Conference is continued, all parties must file and serve a Div III 313 Revised 1/1/2026 ===== PAGE 78 ===== Superior Court of California, County of San Mateo new Case Management Statement (form CM-110), individually or jointly, at least fifteen (15) calendar days prior to the date of the latest Case Management Conference.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 78
|SectionRule 3.805 — Initial Case Management Conference Requirements
Filing RequirementsMandatory

If prior to the initial filing of the complaint a matter has been submitted to arbitration pursuant to uninsured motorist insurance, the plaintiff shall identify the case as “Auto Tort Uninsured Motorist” on the Civil Case Cover Sheet and shall file a notice to that effect with the Court at the time of filing the complaint.

Document
Civil case cover sheet

Must include

  • Auto Tort Uninsured Motorist
localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 78
|SectionRule 3.902 — Uninsured Motorist Cases
Filing RequirementsMandatory

(i) notified both the judicial arbitration and ADR coordinators

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 79
|SectionRule 3.903 Stipulation to Judicial Arbitration
Filing RequirementsMandatory

A request to change from judicial arbitration to another ADR process must be made using local form ADR-CSARB and a copy contemporaneously emailed to the ADR Director.

Court's wording

Parties who wish to change their ADR process from judicial arbitration to another form of ADR must file a Stipulation and [Proposed] Order to Mediation in Lieu of Court-Ordered Judicial Arbitration (local form ADR-CSARB) with the Court, with a copy contemporaneously emailed to the ADR Director at ADR@sanmateocourt.org.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 79
|SectionRule 3.903 Stipulation to Judicial Arbitration
Filing RequirementsMandatory

(ii) cancelled the judicial arbitration hearing:

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 79
|SectionRule 3.903 Stipulation to Judicial Arbitration
Filing RequirementsMandatory

(iv) stipulated to a date for Trial Setting Conference, which is not more than six (6) months from the previously scheduled judicial arbitration hearing.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 79
|SectionRule 3.903 Stipulation to Judicial Arbitration
Filing RequirementsMandatory

(iii) scheduled the ADR session within five months of the previously scheduled judicial arbitration hearing;

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 79
|SectionRule 3.903 Stipulation to Judicial Arbitration
Filing RequirementsMandatory

If ADR does not resolve all disputes, the parties must sign and file Statement of Nonagreement form ADR-CV-11.

Court's wording

Upon the completion of the selected ADR process, if not all disputes are resolved, parties shall sign and file a Statement of Nonagreement (ADR-CV-11) to facilitate the setting of the post-ADR Case Management and Trial Setting Conference before the assigned Civil Judge.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 80
|SectionRule 3.905 Completion of ADR Process
Filing RequirementsMandatory

After non-judicial ADR resolves all disputes, the parties must file and serve one of four specified resolution documents, using a settlement-approval motion when required by law.

Court's wording

Upon the completion of the selected ADR process, other than judicial arbitration, if a resolution of disputes is achieved, the parties shall file and serve either (i) a Notice of Settlement; (ii) a Request for Dismissal; (iii) a Stipulated Judgment; or (iv) a motion for approval of settlement, if a motion is required by law.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 80
|SectionRule 3.905 Completion of ADR Process
Filing RequirementsMandatory

The Case Management and Trial Setting Conference Statement shall also include information as to the status of completion of production of documents, the status of completion of party and witness depositions, and the status of expert witness discovery.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 81
|SectionDivision III — Court Management - Superior Court
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Counsel must meet and confer in person or by telephone at least seven calendar days before trial, and noncompliance may result in monetary sanctions.

Court's wording

4. Counsel shall meet and confer either in person or by telephone at least 7 calendar days before the day of the trial to resolve as many issues as possible and to specify those matters to be litigated. Failure to comply with these requirements shall subject offending counsel to monetary sanctions.

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 165
|SectionDivision V - Family Law Department and Family Court Services
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Trial briefs shall be exchanged as set forth in Appendix “2” (See Rule 5.394 of the California Rules of Court).

localrules · Jul 2026 · p. 166
|SectionDivision V - Family Law Department and Family Court Services
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCivil cases

Counsel must also present a proposed protocol for the presentation of hearing exhibits to witnesses during their hearing testimony, and for use of any impeachment documents with a witness.

procedure for zoom appearances for trial · p. 3
|SectionWITNESSES AND PRESENTATION OF TESTIMONY.

Filing & Service rules

Electronic Filing Rules

Except for self-represented litigants, electronic filing is mandatory in all Unlawful Detainer actions.

(5) Except for self-represented litigants, all parties are required to electronically file documents in all Unlawful Detainer actions brought under Code of Civil Procedure Sections 1159 through 1179a.

Page 51 | Rule 2.1.7(a)(5)

Except for self-represented litigants, electronic filing is mandatory in all Family Code and Probate Code actions or proceedings.

(1) Except for self-represented litigants, all parties are required to electronically file documents in all actions or proceedings brought under the Family Code, and all actions or proceedings to which the Probate Code applies, pursuant to CRC Rule 7.802.

Page 51 | Rule 2.1.7(a)(1)

Except for self-represented litigants, electronic filing is mandatory in all Civil Limited and Civil Unlimited cases.

(2) Except for self-represented litigants, all parties are required to electronically file documents in all Civil Limited cases and in all Civil Unlimited cases.

Page 51 | Rule 2.1.7(a)(2)

Except for self-represented litigants, electronic filing is mandatory in all Small Claims Court actions.

(4) Except for self-represented litigants, all parties are required to electronically file documents in all actions under the jurisdiction of the Small Claims Court, pursuant to Code of Civil Procedure Section 116.110 et seq.

Page 51 | Rule 2.1.7(a)(4)

Except for self-represented litigants, electronic filing is mandatory in specified civil class, coordinated, and complex actions.

(3) Except for self-represented litigants, all parties are required to electronically file documents in all civil class actions, civil coordinated actions, civil actions provisionally complex under CRC Rule 3.400(c), and civil actions deemed complex pursuant to CRC Rule 3.403.

Page 51 | Rule 2.1.7(a)(3)

Documents may not be transmitted directly to the Court and must be electronically filed through an authorized Electronic Filing Service Provider.

(c) No direct electronic transmission to the Court of any document for filing is allowed. Electronic filing of documents must be done through one of this Court’s authorized Electronic Filing Service Providers.

Page 51 | Rule 2.1.5

Except for self-represented litigants and Traffic Court cases, all documents filed after the complaint must be electronically filed in felony, misdemeanor, and infraction criminal actions.

(6) Except for self-represented litigants, all parties are required to electronically file all documents, subsequent to the filing of the Complaint, in all felony, misdemeanor, and infraction Criminal actions, except for Traffic Court cases.

Page 52 | Rule 2.1.7(a)(6)

The rule requires paper filing of specified ex parte filings, exhibits, records, writs, process documents, probate filings, Certificate of Fact forms, pre-complaint criminal documents, and specified family-law challenges.

At present, documents that cannot be electronically filed (or lodged) and must be submitted in paper form, include the following: (a) In All Actions: Ex parte applications (except probate ex parte filings that comply with Local Rule 4.7) and all other ex parte filings; trial exhibits; administrative records; writs; abstracts; subpoenas; bonds and undertakings; out-of-state commissions; out-of-state judgments; subpoenas for out-of-state actions; (b) In Probate actions: Wills; codicils; estate planning documents; documents lodged pursuant to Probate Code section 2620; letters of administration; letters of testamentary; certified copy of death certificate; letters of conservatorship, guardianship, or temporary guardianship or conservatorship; (c) In General Civil actions: Certificate of Fact form DL30; (d) In Criminal actions: documents filed before the Complaint; (e) In Family Law actions: Section 170.1 judicial challenge for cause.

Page 52 | Rule 2.1.8

Except for self-represented litigants, electronic filing is mandatory in all Adoption and Juvenile Court actions.

(7) Except for self-represented litigants, all parties are required to electronically file all documents in all actions for Adoption, and all actions under the jurisdiction of the Juvenile Court.

Page 52 | Rule 2.1.7(a)(7)

Documents specified by Rule 2.1.8 cannot be electronically filed or lodged and must be submitted in paper form.

As an exception to Rule 2.1.5 and Rule 2.1.7, certain documents cannot be electronically filed (or lodged) with the Court, and must be filed by conventional means, i.e., paper documents.

Page 52 | Rule 2.1.8

Ex parte filings must be submitted and filed in paper form; electronic filing is prohibited.

Ex parte applications, ex parte oppositions, and all other ex parte filings must be submitted and filed in paper form, and cannot be electronically filed.

Page 67 | 3.19 Ex Parte Applications and Orders

Ex parte applications, ex parte oppositions, and other ex parte filings must be electronically filed, but unrepresented individuals may file them in paper or electronic form.

Ex parte applications, ex parte oppositions, and all other ex parte filings must be electronically filed, except that unrepresented individuals may submit and file such documents in paper form or electronically.

Page 72 | Rule 3.500 Ex Parte Applications in General Civil

The moving papers for a remote ex parte appearance must be submitted to the assigned judge in paper form.

Except as ordered by the court under subdivision (d), applicants seeking an ex parte order may appear remotely provided that the moving papers, including a proposed order, have been served on all parties, and submitted in paper form to the assigned judge, and the fee paid to the clerk’s office, by at least 10:00 a.m. two court days before the ex parte appearance.

Page 73 | Rule 3.672 — Remote Appearance

Contested or potentially contested Unlawful Detainer ex parte filings must be filed in paper form and may not be electronically filed.

Ex parte applications, ex parte oppositions, and all other ex parte filings in Unlawful Detainer actions on contested or potentially contested applications/requests/motions must be submitted and filed in paper form, and cannot be electronically filed.

Page 84 | Rule 3.1202 Ex Parte Applications in Unlawful Detainer Actions

A represented party must have the regular-conservator petition electronically filed and accepted before filing the temporary-conservatorship petition.

Represented parties must ensure that the separate petition for the appointment of a regular conservator has been e-filed and accepted, prior to filing the petition for temporary conservatorship.

Page 120 | Rule 4.76 Temporary Conservatorships, subsection B(1)

Temporary and permanent conservatorship petitions and later filings must be filed at the Probate Clerk's office before presentation to the court.

Both temporary and permanent conservatorship petitions and subsequent filings must be filed at the Probate Clerk’s office before presentation to the Court.

Page 120 | Rule 4.76 Temporary Conservatorships, subsection B(1)

Represented parties must have the separate regular-conservator petition e-filed and accepted before filing for temporary conservatorship, while self-represented parties may present both sets at the clerk’s office.

Represented parties must ensure that the separate petition for the appointment of a regular conservator has been e-filed and accepted, prior to filing the petition for temporary conservatorship. Self-represented parties may present both sets of documents at the clerk’s office.

Page 126 | Rule 4.77.14 Temporary Guardianship - Emergency Situations Only, E. Filing and Prior Review of Documents

All documents shall be filed with the Court Clerk’s Office, Room A, at the Probate counter at 400 County Center, 1st floor, Redwood City.

All documents shall be filed with the Court Clerk’s Office, Room A, at the Probate counter at 400 County Center, 1st floor, Redwood City.

Page 126 | Rule 4.77.14 Temporary Guardianship - Emergency Situations Only, E. Filing and Prior Review of Documents

Informal Discovery Conference correspondence, including IDC briefs, off-calendar requests, and rescheduling requests, must be submitted electronically rather than on paper.

All correspondence regarding any Informal Discovery Conference, such as IDC letter briefs, requests to take matters off calendar, and requests for rescheduling, shall be submitted electronically, rather than paper, to the department email address for the Family Law Commissioner.

Page 154 | Division V - Rules - 503 - Rule 5.4(i)(ii)

The Court does not permit optional electronic filing in case types not covered by the mandatory rule.

(a) The Court does not presently have permissive electronic filing in other types of cases. (See Local Rule 2.1.7 for mandatory electronic filing of documents.)

Page 51 | Rule 2.1.5

A party subject to mandatory electronic filing must submit form EFS-007 and obtain a court order to receive an exemption.

(d) A party that is subject to mandatory electronic filing may seek to be excused therefrom by submitting a Request for Exemption from Mandatory Electronic Filing and Service, Judicial Council form EFS-007, and obtaining a court order granting the request.

Page 52 | Rule 2.1.7(d)

Failure to bookmark exhibits may result in rejection of the party’s e-filing or continuance of the hearing on the related motion.

Failure to bookmark exhibits to electronically filed documents may result in rejection of the party’s e-filing by the Clerk of the Court or in continuance of the hearing by the Court on the related motion.

Page 64 | Division III — Rule 3.3 Form of Papers

The court electronically transmits the completed clerk’s transcript by PDF or document link and does not produce a paper copy.

The completed, official Clerk’s Transcript will be electronically transmitted to the attorney(s) of record and/or appellant, via PDF or a link to the document. No paper copy will be produced by the court.

Page 43 | Div I – Appellate Division Rules — Criminal Appeals — Clerk’s Transcript

Filing Timing and Cure Windows

The parties must wait for transmission of the appellate record and the Appellate Division’s notice, then file briefs within the periods specified in CRC rule 8.882(a).

After the record on appeal has been transmitted, the Appellate Division will notify the parties. The parties shall file briefs in accordance with the time periods specified in CRC rule 8.882(a).

Page 44 | Div I – Appellate Division Rules — Briefs — Time for Filing

The oral-argument date is set after briefing is completed, with written notice generally due at least 20 days before the hearing unless the Presiding Judge shortens the period for good cause.

The date for oral argument will be set after briefing is completed. The hearing date will be subject to written notice to the parties by the Clerk of the Appellate Division at least 20 days prior to the hearing date, unless the Presiding Judge shortens the notice period for good cause.

Page 45 | Div I – Appellate Division Rules, 1.6(a)(1) Oral Argument — Date

An application to certify a case must be filed within 15 days after the judgment is pronounced or modified.

An application to certify shall be filed within 15 days after the judgment is pronounced or modified.

Page 46 | Div I – Appellate Division Rules, 1.7(d)(3) Decision — Certification

An electronic filer may submit an electronic copy of a document requiring an original if the original is filed within 10 calendar days.

(b) Pursuant to CRC Rule 2.252(e), in a proceeding that requires the filing of an original document, an electronic filer may file an electronic copy of a document if the original document is then filed with the court within 10 calendar days.

Page 52 | Rule 2.1.7(b)

A request for an official court reporter must be filed at least 10 calendar days before the scheduled hearing or trial.

Local Court Form CV-69, Request for an Official Court Reporter for Civil Court Proceedings, must be filed at least 10 calendar days prior to the scheduled hearing or trial date for which you are requesting an official court reporter.

Page 57 | 2.12 Court Reporter Availability in Civil Actions

A fee-waiver recipient seeking a verbatim trial record must file Form FW-020 at least 10 calendar days before the hearing or trial.

Fee waiver recipients who want a verbatim record of a trial court proceedings must notify the Court in writing by filing Judicial Council form FW-020 at least 10 calendar days in advance of the scheduled hearing or trial date.

Page 57 | 2.12 Court Reporter Availability in Civil Actions

The courtroom clerk must receive the ex parte application and proof of payment by 2:15 p.m. on the hearing date.

Ex parte applications and proof of payment must be received directly by the courtroom clerk for the Department of the Presiding Judge no later than 2:15 p.m. on the date of the ex parte hearing.

Page 67 | 3.19 Ex Parte Applications and Orders

The courtroom clerk for the assigned Civil Judge’s Department must receive ex parte applications and proof of payment no later than 15 minutes from the time set for ex parte hearings.

Ex parte applications and proof of payment must be received directly by the courtroom clerk for the Department of the assigned Civil Judge no later than 15 minutes from the time set for ex parte hearings.

Page 72 | Rule 3.500 Ex Parte Applications in General Civil

The ex parte moving papers and clerk’s-office fee must be submitted by 10:00 a.m. two court days before the ex parte appearance.

Except as ordered by the court under subdivision (d), applicants seeking an ex parte order may appear remotely provided that the moving papers, including a proposed order, have been served on all parties, and submitted in paper form to the assigned judge, and the fee paid to the clerk’s office, by at least 10:00 a.m. two court days before the ex parte appearance.

Page 73 | Rule 3.672 — Remote Appearance

An Informal Discovery Conference must be requested before the statutory deadline for the motion to compel or other discovery motion expires.

All requests for Informal Discovery Conference must be made prior to the expiration of the statutory time to bring a motion to compel or other discovery motions.

Page 74 | Rule 3.700(e) — Tolling of Deadline to File Motion

The requested Informal Discovery Conference session must be scheduled between 10 and 29 calendar days after the request, using an available date listed on the Court website.

To reserve a date and time for the Informal Discovery Conference, the requesting party shall consult the Informal Discovery Conference Calendar Availability section of the Court’s website at www.sanmateo.courts.ca.gov, and request in the email (under subsection (e)(i) above) an available IDC session for a date that is, at least, ten calendar days, but no later than 29 calendar days, from the date of the request for Informal Discovery Conference.

Page 74 | Rule 3.700(d)(ii) — Request for Informal Discovery Conference

The deadline to file a motion to compel or other discovery motion is tolled beginning when a party emails the Court to request an Informal Discovery Conference.

By agreeing to engage in an Informal Discovery Conference, parties agree that the time for bringing any motion to compel or other discovery motion is tolled, starting on the date a party makes the email request for an Informal Discovery Conference to the Court.

Page 74 | Rule 3.700(e) — Tolling of Deadline to File Motion

Proofs of service on all named defendants must be filed with the court within 60 days after filing the complaint.

proofs of service of process upon all named defendants, must be filed with the Court within sixty (60) days after filing of the complaint.

Page 76 | Rule 3.803 Complex Civil Cases

All proofs of service of process must be filed no later than 10 days before the initial Case Management Conference.

All proofs of service of process must be filed no later than ten (10) days prior to the initial Case Management Conference.

Page 77 | Rule 3.805 — Initial Case Management Conference Requirements

The initial Case Management Conference filing deadline for the CM-110 is 15 calendar days before the conference.

Pursuant to CRC Rule 3.725, all parties must file and serve a Case Management Statement (form CM-110) at least fifteen (15) calendar days prior to the date set for the initial Case Management Conference.

Page 77 | Rule 3.805 — Initial Case Management Conference Requirements

A new CM-110 for a continued Case Management Conference must be filed at least 15 calendar days before the latest conference.

If the Case Management Conference is continued, all parties must file and serve a Div III 313 Revised 1/1/2026 ===== PAGE 78 ===== Superior Court of California, County of San Mateo new Case Management Statement (form CM-110), individually or jointly, at least fifteen (15) calendar days prior to the date of the latest Case Management Conference.

Page 78 | Rule 3.805 — Initial Case Management Conference Requirements

A written stipulation to judicial arbitration must be filed at least 12 calendar days before the Case Management Conference, with a copy immediately emailed to the Case Management Coordinator.

In order to avoid any need to appear thereat, a written stipulation to judicial arbitration must be filed with the Court and a copy immediately emailed to the Case Management Coordinator at CMC@sanmateocourt.org at least the twelve (12) calendar days before the Case Management Conference.

Page 79 | Rule 3.903 Stipulation to Judicial Arbitration

Each side has 10 calendar days to file any written rejection of an arbitrator.

Each side will have ten (10) calendar days to file any written rejection.

Page 79 | Rule 3.903 Stipulation to Judicial Arbitration

The arbitrator must file the arbitration award within 10 days after the arbitration hearing concludes.

Within ten (10) days after the conclusion of the arbitration hearing, the arbitrator must file the arbitration award with the Court, including proof of service on each party to the arbitration, pursuant to CRC Rule 3.825.

Page 79 | Rule 3.903 Stipulation to Judicial Arbitration

A completed Stipulation and Order to ADR must be filed at least 12 calendar days before the Case Management Conference, after which the conference will be vacated.

If a case is at-issue and all counsel and self-represented parties stipulate in writing to an ADR process, and file a completed Stipulation and Order to ADR with the Court at least twelve (12) calendar days before the Case Management Conference, that conference shall be vacated.

Page 80 | Rule 3.904 Stipulations to Private Appropriate Dispute Resolution

Counsel and self-represented parties must sign and submit the formal Stipulation and Order to ADR within 21 days after issuance of the ADR order.

Counsel and self-represented parties shall sign and submit a formal Stipulation and Order to ADR within 21 days from the date of issuance of the ADR order.

Page 80 | Rule 3.904 Stipulations to Private Appropriate Dispute Resolution

At least 15 calendar days before the Case Management and Trial Setting Conference, counsel and self-represented parties must jointly or individually file and serve a written conference statement in prose and in detail, rather than using Judicial Council form CM-110.

At least fifteen (15) calendar days before the date of the Case Management and Trial Setting Conference, counsel for the parties and any self-represented parties shall file and serve, jointly or individually, a written Case Management and Trial Setting Conference in prose and in detail, not using the standardized Judicial Council form CM-110.

Page 81 | Division III — Court Management - Superior Court

Each party must lodge and serve a Mandatory Settlement Conference Statement containing the information, facts, and details required by CRC Rule 3.1380(c) no later than five court days before the initial conference date.

No later than five (5) court days before the initial date set for the Mandatory Settlement Conference, each party shall lodge with the Court and serve on all other parties a Mandatory Settlement Conference Statement containing any and all information, facts, and details as required by CRC Rule 3.1380(c).

Page 82 | Division III — Court Management - Superior Court

Service and Proof of Service Rules

A proof of service for mail service must use the language prescribed by Code of Civil Procedure section 1013(a).

When service is made by mail, Section 1013(a) of the Code of Civil Procedure provides the language to be used in the proof of service.

Page 36 | Rule 0.8 Contents of Proof of Service

An unopposed motion accompanied by defective proof of service may be continued, placed off calendar, or denied.

In the absence of opposition, a motion accompanied by a defective proof of service will be continued, placed off calendar, or denied.

Page 36 | Rule 0.8 Contents of Proof of Service

A declaration that merely states that the declarant caused papers to be served through a messenger is inadequate proof of service.

A declaration which simply recites that the declarant “caused the papers to be served” by handing them to a messenger is not adequate proof of service.

Page 36 | Rule 0.8 Contents of Proof of Service

Fax service must comply with California Rules of Court rule 2.306.

When service is by FAX, CRC 2.306 must be complied with.

Page 36 | Rule 0.8 Contents of Proof of Service

For personal service, the person who actually accomplished service must sign the declaration of service.

When service is by personal delivery (CCP 1011), the declaration of service must be signed by the person who actually accomplished service.

Page 36 | Rule 0.8 Contents of Proof of Service

The proof of service must show service on every party who has appeared in the action, not merely the party to whom the motion is directed.

The proof of service must show service on all parties who have appeared in the action, not just the party to whom the motion is directed.

Page 36 | Rule 0.8 Contents of Proof of Service

Supersedeas petitions and oppositions must be served under the cited rules, and supersedeas petitions must include proof of service when filed.

(B) Service. Petitions for writ of supersedeas shall be served in accordance with CRC rule 8.824 and shall be accompanied by proof of service at the time of filing. Petitions and oppositions shall be filed and served pursuant to LCR rule 1.8.

Page 41 | Div I – Appellate Division Rules

Stay-order applications must be filed with the Appellate Division clerk and served on opposing counsel under LCR Rule 1.8.

(B) Applications for stay orders shall be filed with the clerk of the Appellate Division and served on opposing counsel in accord with LCR Rule 1.8.

Page 41 | Div I – Appellate Division Rules

A request for a temporary stay may be included in the supersedeas petition or filed separately with notice to the respondent.

2) A request for temporary stay may be incorporated into a petition for writ of supersedeas or filed separately with notice to the respondent. (CRC rule 8.824(c).)

Page 41 | Div I – Appellate Division Rules

Proof of service on the opposing party or counsel must be filed with the Appellate Division.

Proof of service on the opposing party or their counsel, must also be filed with the Appellate Division.

Page 44 | Div I – Appellate Division Rules — Briefs — Service

Service of an appellate brief requires the original for the Appellate Division clerk, one copy for the trial court, and one copy for opposing counsel.

Briefs shall be served as follows: the original on the Clerk of the Appellate Division, one copy on the trial court, and one copy on opposing counsel.

Page 44 | Div I – Appellate Division Rules — Briefs — Service

A petition for rehearing must be served and filed with proof of service.

Any petition for rehearing shall be served and filed with proof of service as provided in CRC rule 8.889(b)(1).

Page 45 | Div I – Appellate Division Rules, 1.7(d)(1) Decision — Rehearing

Written motions concerning non-routine matters must be served on every party and filed in the Appellate Division.

Written motions in connection with all non-routine matters shall be served on all parties and shall be filed in the Appellate Division.

Page 46 | Div I – Appellate Division Rules, 1.8(b) Applications and Motions — Motions

Routine applications must be served on opposing counsel and submitted to the Appellate Division.

Routine applications shall be served on opposing counsel and submitted to the Appellate Division.

Page 46 | Div I – Appellate Division Rules, 1.8(a) Applications and Motions — Routine Applications

Briefs for writs of mandate or prohibition must be served with the original and three copies for the Appellate Division Clerk, one copy for the trial court, and one copy for opposing counsel.

Briefs relating to a petition for writ of mandate or prohibition shall be served as follows: the original and three copies on the Clerk of the Appellate Division, one copy on the trial court, and one copy on opposing counsel. (See CRC rule 8.931(c)(3).)

Page 47 | Division I – Appellate Department Rules

In limine motions must be served on opposing counsel at least five days before trial.

Any in limine motions shall be served upon opposing counsel not less than five (5) days prior to trial.

Page 60 | Rule 2.21 In Limine Motions

A response to an in limine motion must be served on the motion's proponent no later than the first appearance before the Presiding Judge's Department for trial assignment.

Any response shall be served upon the proponent of the motion not later than the first appearance in the Department of the Presiding Judge for trial assignment.

Page 60 | Rule 2.21 In Limine Motions

Discovery requests and discovery responses in complex civil cases must be served electronically on counsel for the parties.

All discovery methods (C.C.P. § 2019.010), including but not limited to notice of deposition, special interrogatories, form interrogatories, requests for production of documents, and requests for admissions, shall be served electronically upon counsel for the parties. All discovery responses by a party in response to a discovery method by another party shall be served electronically upon counsel for the parties.

Page 69 | Division III — Civil Law and Motion - Superior Court

In complex civil cases, all parties and counsel must serve all documents electronically and accept electronic service, unless personal service is required by statute.

Pursuant to Code of Civil Procedure Section 1010.6(c), and California Rules of Court, Rule 2.253(c) and Rule 2.251(c), all parties and their counsel in complex civil cases shall serve all documents electronically, and accept service of documents electronically from all other parties, in conformity with Code of Civil Procedure Section 1010.6 and the California Rules of Court, except when personal service is required by statute.

Page 69 | Division III — Civil Law and Motion - Superior Court

Civil Department electronic correspondence must simultaneously be sent to all opposing counsel or opposing self-represented parties.

All electronic correspondence with the Department of any Civil Judge must also be contemporaneously sent to opposing counsel or opposing self-represented parties.

Page 73 | Rule 3.600(a) — Correspondence with Civil Departments

A party intending to appear remotely must give notice to the court and to every person entitled to notice of the ex parte proceeding.

Notice of intent to appear remotely must be given to the court and to all parties or persons entitled to receive notice of the proceedings.

Page 73 | Rule 3.672 — Remote Appearance

In limine motions on Local Court form FL-10 must be filed with the court and served at least five court days before trial.

3. File with the court and serve in limine motions (see Local Court form FL-10]

Page 182 | APPENDIX 2 — LONG CAUSE TRIAL RULES CHECKLIST

Filing Fees and Waivers

Transcript preparation begins after the reporter receives a notice of appeal and the appellant deposits $325.00 for each half day or $650.00 for each full day of trial included in the transcript.

Pursuant to CRC 8.130, the reporter shall commence preparation of the transcript on appeal when a notice of appeal from the Appellate Clerk is received and after deposit by appellant with the Appellate clerk of a sum of $325.00 for each half day and $650.00 for each full day of trial included in the reporter’s transcript on appeal.

Page 36 | Rule 0.5 Civil Appeals Fees

Filing fees required by Government Code § 70621 must be paid in the trial court.

Filing fees required by Government Code § 70621 shall be paid in the trial court.

Page 40 | 1.1 NOTICE OF APPEAL (d)(1)

Qualifying litigants may seek a filing-fee waiver, and the fee, waiver order, or waiver application must be filed in the trial court with the notice of appeal or within 15 days afterward.

For litigants who qualify, the court may waive filing fees. Filing fees, orders for fee waivers, or applications for fee waivers shall be filed in the trial court at the time of filing the notice of appeal or within fifteen (15) days thereafter.

Page 40 | 1.1 NOTICE OF APPEAL (d)(2)

An appellant must arrange payment of the required clerk’s-transcript preparation fees within ten days after receiving notice of the estimated cost.

(2) Clerk’s Transcript. Within ten days of notification by the clerk of the trial court’s appeals division of the estimate of the cost of the preparation of the clerk’s transcript, appellant shall make arrangement for payment of the required fees.

Page 42 | Div I – Appellate Division Rules

An appellant choosing a reporter’s transcript must timely file the election and deposit the estimated preparation cost unless payment is waived by law or court order.

If appellant intends to present the evidentiary record by a reporter’s transcript, appellant shall note that fact in his or her notice of election filed within the time requirements specified in CRC rule 8.864(b), and shall deposit with the clerk the estimated cost for preparing the transcript as provided in CRC rule 8.866(a)(2)(C), unless payment is waived by law or by court order.

Page 43 | Div I – Appellate Division Rules — Criminal Appeals — Reporter’s Transcript

An ex parte application filing fee must be paid to the Clerk before presentation to the Presiding Judge, except for specified restraining-order applications and applicants with a previously granted fee waiver.

Except for ex parte applications seeking Civil Harassment or Workplace Violence Temporary Restraining Orders, or where the ex parte applicant has previously been granted a fee waiver, the applicant shall pay the ex parte application filing fee to the Clerk of the Court, located in Room A on the first floor of the Hall of Justice in Redwood City, prior to presenting the ex parte application to the Presiding Judge.

Page 67 | 3.19 Ex Parte Applications and Orders

Plaintiffs and defendants in a provisionally complex civil case must pay the complex case fee and first appearance fee when filing their first paper.

Pursuant to Government Code Section 70616(a) and (b), the complex case fee and the first appearance fee must be paid at the time of the filing of the first paper by plaintiff and by defendant in a provisionally complex civil case.

Page 69 | Division III — Civil Law and Motion - Superior Court

The applicant must pay any required ex parte application filing fee before presenting the application to the Civil Judge.

The applicant shall pay any ex parte application filing fee due to the Clerk of the Court prior to presenting the ex parte application to the Civil Judge. See the court’s website for further information regarding payment of fees.

Page 72 | Rule 3.500 Ex Parte Applications in General Civil

A fee must be paid to the clerk’s office by 10:00 a.m. two court days before the ex parte appearance as a condition of the applicant’s remote appearance.

Except as ordered by the court under subdivision (d), applicants seeking an ex parte order may appear remotely provided that the moving papers, including a proposed order, have been served on all parties, and submitted in paper form to the assigned judge, and the fee paid to the clerk’s office, by at least 10:00 a.m. two court days before the ex parte appearance.

Page 73 | Rule 3.672 — Remote Appearance

An ex parte applicant must pay the filing fee before presentation unless the applicant already has a fee waiver.

Except where the ex parte applicant has previously been granted a fee waiver, the applicant shall pay the ex parte application filing fee to the Clerk of the Court prior to presenting the ex parte application to the Civil Judge.

Page 84 | Rule 3.1202 Ex Parte Applications in Unlawful Detainer Actions

Attorney fees for a guardian of the person or estate that are to be paid from the ward's estate require court approval and are governed by California Rules of Court, Rule 7.751.

Attorney’s fees for guardian of the person and/or estate which are to be paid from the estate of the ward are subject to court approval and shall be computed and paid as set forth herein at California Rules of Court, Rule7.751.

Page 127 | Rule 4.77.16 Fees for Guardian and for Attorney for Guardian

All parties must pay applicable ex parte application filing fees before presentation for review unless they have obtained a Fee Waiver Order.

All parties are required to pay all applicable filing fees associated with filing Ex Parte Applications as required by law, unless the party has obtained a Fee Waiver Order. The filing fee must be paid prior to the application being presented to the appropriate Department for review and determination.

Page 155 | Rule 5.6

Reporter’s transcript fee applications are filed with the trial court clerk and, if denied, may be renewed in the Appellate Division under LCR Rule 1.8 without a hearing.

Applications to cover the cost of reporter’s transcript shall be made in the trial court at the clerk’s office. If the application is denied, appellant may apply to the Appellate Division. The application shall comply with LCR Rule 1.8, and will be ruled upon without hearing.

Page 43 | Div I – Appellate Division Rules — Criminal Appeals — Waiver of Reporter’s Fees

All documents in cases ordered transferred to another county’s Superior Court must be sent to the receiving county on an electronic storage device, accompanied by required filing fees or fee waiver forms.

All documents in cases that are ordered transferred to the jurisdiction of the Superior Court of another county will be sent to the receiving county on a device used to store electronic media (e.g., thumb drive). The device will be accompanied by any required filing fees or fee waiver forms.

Page 59 | Rule 2.15 Transfer out of non-criminal cases

A Court Investigation fee will be assessed unless the court defers or waives it, and the order appointing the guardian must specify the fee amount.

A fee will be assessed for Court Investigation unless deferred or waived by the court. The amount of the fee shall be specified in the order appointing guardian.

Page 125 | Rule 4.77.10 Order Appointing Guardian

Each counsel must pay the mandated statutory court-reporter fee for every half-day of trial.

2. Each counsel must pay the mandated statutory court reporter fee for each half day of trial.

Page 182 | APPENDIX 2 — LONG CAUSE TRIAL RULES CHECKLIST

The trial court clerk prepares the clerk’s transcript upon filing of a notice of appeal without a written request or fee from the appellant.

Upon filing of a Notice of Appeal, the clerk’s transcript is prepared by the trial court Clerk without written request or payment of fees by the appellant. (CRC rules 8.861 through 8.863.)

Page 43 | Div I – Appellate Division Rules — Criminal Appeals — Clerk’s Transcript

Fees for services connected with filing a spousal property petition are not subject to court approval except as provided by Probate Code Section 13600.

Pursuant to Probate Code Section 13600, fees for services connected with filing a spousal property petition are not subject to court approval, except as provided in that section.

Page 101 | Rule 4.15 Fees

Only one filing fee is required for sibling guardianship cases filed at the same time.

For sibling cases filed at the same time, only one filing fee will be required.

Page 123 | Rule 4.77.6 Multiple Wards

When there is no guardianship of the estate, attorney fees for a guardian of the person are determined by contract and are not subject to court supervision.

Fees for attorneys for guardian of the person, when there is no guardianship of the estate, shall be a matter of contract between the attorney and the guardian and not subject to court supervision.

Page 127 | Rule 4.77.16 Fees for Guardian and for Attorney for Guardian

A $500 investigation fee applies to all AAS conservatorship investigations, regardless of whether the case is assigned to the Public Guardian, unless deferred or waived by the Court.

B. Conservatorships and guardianships will be assessed a fee of $500.00 for all conservatorship investigations performed by the Aging and Adult Services (AAS), whether or not the case is ultimately assigned to the Public Guardian, unless the fee is deferred or waived by the Court.

Page 141 | Rule 4.88 Court Investigation Assessments

All guardianships and conservatorships are assessed the fee specified in the Court's Fee Schedule unless the Court defers or waives it.

A. Unless deferred or waived by the Court, all guardianships and conservatorships shall be assessed a fee pursuant to Probate Code §§1513.1 and 1851.5 as stated in the Court’s Fee Schedule that is available in the Court Clerk’s Office public counter or on the Court’s website at www.sanmateo.courts.ca.gov.

Page 141 | Rule 4.88 Court Investigation Assessments

Courtesy Copy Requirements

A courtesy copy of every ex parte filing must be emailed to the assigned judge's department or provided in hard copy at the hearing.

A courtesy copy of all ex parte applications, ex parte oppositions, and all other ex parte filings must either be emailed to the department of the single assigned judge or provided in hard copy at the time of the hearing.

Page 72 | Rule 3.500 Ex Parte Applications in General Civil

Family Court Services must provide the other parent with one courtesy copy of the Complaint Form, who may submit a written response.

e) A courtesy copy of the Complaint Form shall be provided to the other parent by Family Court Services. The other parent may submit a written response.

Page 172 | 9. Complaints and Requests to Change Counselors (pursuant to Family Code 3163)

Courtesy copies of all relevant moving or responsive papers are advised and encouraged for the hearing, with parties directed to check the hearing department’s preferred delivery method and timing.

Counsel and parties are advised to bring a courtesy copy of all relevant moving or responsive papers to the hearing. Due to last-minute filings and the volume of business, the court file may be incomplete at the time of the hearing. Courtesy copies are welcomed and encouraged. Parties shall check with individual departments that will be hearing the motion for preferences regarding providing hard copies, email, or facsimilies and the time frame within which to provide the courtesy copies.

Page 157 | Rule 5.7 A.2 Courtesy Copies of Moving and Responsive Papers

Sealing & Redaction Procedures

The Guardianship Declaration and Confidential Guardian Screening Form remain confidential unless the court orders otherwise, while the other guardianship documents become part of the public record.

All documents will become part of the public record, with the exception of the Guardianship Declaration (PR-18) and the Confidential Guardian Screening Form (JC-GC 212) (confidential except by court order – see California Rules of Court, Rule 7.1001).

Page 122 | Rule 4.77.1 Petition for General Guardianship

A party seeking to file or present juvenile case files or child welfare agency records in Family Court must first request permission to file them under seal.

Any party who seeks to file with or present to the Family Court any juvenile case file or child welfare agency document or record must first present a request to file such documents under seal pursuant to Cal. Rules, Rules 2.550 and 2.551.

Page 178 | Rule 5.16.6 Use of Confidential Juvenile Case Files or Child Welfare Agency Records in Family Court Matters

Law-enforcement, arrest, and investigative reports containing confidential witness or victim information must be sealed when filed or lodged to support criminal charges or a search or arrest warrant.

Law Enforcement, arrest or investigative reports that contain confidential personal information regarding a witness or victim are to be sealed pursuant to Penal Code section 964(a). These reports will be sealed once they are filed or lodged with the Court if they are submitted for the following purposes: a) If the report is being submitted by a prosecutor in support of a criminal complaint, indictment, or information, or b) If the report is submitted by the prosecutor or law enforcement officer in support of a search or arrest warrant.

Page 201 | Rule 9.8 Confidentiality Of Victim Or Witness Information In Law Enforcement, Arrest Or Investigative Reports

A petitioner may request that estate planning documents be filed confidentially through an ex parte request.

F. Confidential Filings: Petitioner may requests that estate planning documents be filed as confidential documents. The request may be made on an ex parte basis.

Page 139 | Rule 4.82

The victim-or-witness confidentiality sealing procedure preserves specified disclosure provisions, informant and search-warrant procedures, authorized defense access to unredacted reports, and documents submitted in support of civil complaints.

Pursuant to Penal Code §964(c), this procedure will not be construed to impair or affect any of the following: a) Provisions of Chapter 10 of Title 6 of Part 2 (commencing with Penal Code §1054); b) Procedures regarding informant disclosure provided by Evidence Code §§ 1040 to 1042 inclusive, or as altering procedures regarding sealed search warrant affidavits as provided by People vs. Hobbs (1994) 7 Cal4th 948; or c) A criminal defense counsel’s access to unredacted reports otherwise authorized by law, or the submission of documents in support of a civil complaint.

Page 202 | Rule 9.8 Confidentiality Of Victim Or Witness Information In Law Enforcement, Arrest Or Investigative Reports

Confidential discovery documents lodged under Rule 2.1.9 will not be sealed because they are exempt from the sealing rules.

Because such documents are exempt from California Rules of Court, rules 2.550 and 2.551, they will not be sealed, but will be destroyed if

Page 52 | Rule 2.1.9

Pre-Motion Conference Requirements

Counsel must obtain opposing counsel’s written consent before requesting an Informal Discovery Conference from the Court.

Prior to making a request with the Court, counsel shall obtain the consent of the opposing counsel(s) in writing to engage in an informal discovery conference.

Page 74 | Rule 3.700(e) — Tolling of Deadline to File Motion

After responsive papers are filed, the moving party must arrange a pre-hearing meet-and-confer, personally or by telephone, and all parties must negotiate in good faith; harassment and domestic-violence matters are exempt, and noncompliance may result in attorney’s fees or sanctions.

Once responsive papers have been filed, the moving party shall contact the opposing party prior to the scheduled hearing and arrange to meet and confer (personally or by telephone) prior to the hearing. All parties and counsel are to make good faith efforts to resolve the issues pending before the court, and to inspect documents and exchange information so that issues may be resolved, facts agreed to by stipulation, and those issues remaining for determination be clearly delineated and expeditiously presented to the court at the time of the hearing. Failure to comply with the meet and confer requirements in good faith may result in the award of attorney’s fees and/or sanctions against the non-cooperating counsel or party. The inability of counsel to get along or communicate effectively is not an excuse for failure to meet and confer. The professional obligation of counsel to meet and confer in an effort to resolve disputes is an obligation owed to clients, the court, witnesses, children, and other litigants. This rule does not apply to harassment or domestic violence matters (See Rule 5.98 of the California Rules of Court).

Page 158 | Rule 5.7 F.1 Meet and Confer Requirements

A party opposing an ex parte order may appear remotely unless the court orders otherwise under subdivision (d).

Parties opposing an ex parte order may appear remotely except as ordered by the court under subdivision (d).

Page 73 | Rule 3.672 — Remote Appearance

General civil Informal Discovery Conferences must be conducted remotely by Zoom and may not be recorded by a party or reported by a court reporter.

Informal Discovery Conferences in general civil cases are conducted remote only by Zoom, and are not recorded by any party and are not reported by any court reporter.

Page 74 | Rule 3.700(c) — Informal Discovery Conferences

Parties are encouraged to hold an informal discovery conference before a motion to compel or another discovery motion, and counsel must exhaust all meet-and-confer obligations first.

In all probate cases, parties and non-parties are encouraged to hold an Informal Discovery Conference with the Court prior to filing a motion to compel or any other discovery motion. Counsel must have exhausted all meet and confer obligations before the Informed Discovery Conference.

Page 94 | Rule 4.2.1 Informal Discovery Conference

Parties are encouraged to hold an informal discovery conference before filing a discovery motion, but counsel must exhaust all meet-and-confer obligations before the conference.

(a) Informal Discovery Conference. In all family law proceedings as defined by CRC Rule 5.2(b)(3), parties are encouraged to hold an Informal Discovery Conference with the Court prior to filing a motion to compel or any other discovery motion. Counsel must have exhausted all meet and confer obligations before the Informal Discovery Conference.

Page 152 | Rule 5.4.1 — Informal Discovery Conferences in Family Law Proceedings

Family law informal discovery conferences must be conducted remotely by Zoom and may not be recorded by a party or reported by a court reporter.

(d) Remote Only. Informal Discovery Conferences in family law cases are conducted remote only by Zoom, and are not recorded by any party and are not reported by any court reporter.

Page 152 | Rule 5.4.1 — Informal Discovery Conferences in Family Law Proceedings

Section 170.6 does not apply to an Informal Discovery Conference, and the conference outcome neither bars a later discovery motion nor prejudices its disposition.

As an Informal Discovery Conference does not involve the adjudication of any issue of disputed law or fact by the Family Law Commissioner, Code of Civil Procedure Section 170.6 does not apply. The outcome of an Informal Discovery Conference does not bar a party from subsequently filing a discovery motion

Page 73 | Rule 3.700(b) — Informal Discovery Conferences

Informal Discovery Conferences are scheduled and conducted by the Civil Commissioner.

Informal Discovery Conferences will be scheduled with and conducted by the Civil Commissioner.

Page 73 | Rule 3.700(b) — Informal Discovery Conferences

Parties and non-parties are encouraged, but not required, to hold an Informal Discovery Conference before filing a discovery motion or motion to compel in a general civil case.

In all general civil cases as defined by CRC Rule 1.6(4), parties and non-parties are encouraged to hold an Informal Discovery Conference with the Court prior to filing a motion to compel or any other discovery motion.

Page 73 | Rule 3.700(a) — Informal Discovery Conferences

Parties participating in an Informal Discovery Conference need not file a Code of Civil Procedure section 2016.040 meet-and-confer declaration before the conference.

The Court waives any requirement for the parties involved in the discovery dispute to file “meet and confer” declarations pursuant to Code of Civil Procedure Sections 2016.040 prior to the Informal Discovery Conference.

Page 74 | Rule 3.700(g) — Statutory Declaration Waived

If the Informal Discovery Conference does not resolve a dispute, a party may proceed with a discovery motion in the assigned judge’s department.

If any discovery dispute is not resolved following the Informal Discovery Conference, any party may proceed to file and calendar hearing on a motion to compel or other discovery motion in the department of the Judge assigned to that probate case.

Page 96 | Division IV — Probate Department

The Family Law Commissioner schedules and conducts informal discovery conferences; the conference does not adjudicate disputed facts or law, and its outcome does not bar or prejudice a later discovery motion.

(c) Conducted by Family Law Commissioner. Informal Discovery Conferences will be scheduled with and conducted by the Family Law Commissioner. As an Informal Discovery Conference does not involve the adjudication of any issue of disputed law or fact by the Family Law Commissioner, Code of Civil Procedure Section 170.6 does not apply. The outcome of an Informal Discovery Conference does not bar a party from subsequently filing a discovery motion or prejudice the disposition of a discovery motion.

Page 152 | Rule 5.4.1 — Informal Discovery Conferences in Family Law Proceedings

Informal discovery conferences are permitted for discovery disputes involving non-parties under the same procedures that apply to party disputes.

(b) Permissive Informal Discovery Conference with Third Parties. Informal Discovery Conferences are permitted for discovery disputes with non-parties as well, pursuant to the same procedures described below.

Page 152 | Rule 5.4.1 — Informal Discovery Conferences in Family Law Proceedings

Adjournment & Extension Requirements

An oral-argument continuance may be granted only upon a showing of good cause.

Continuances will only be granted upon a showing of good cause.

Page 45 | Div I – Appellate Division Rules, 1.6(c) Oral Argument — Continuances

A request to change the hearing date of a civil law and motion matter must be in writing.

Any request to change the hearing date of a law and motion matter already set for hearing on the Civil Law & Motion Calendar of a Civil Department must be in writing.

Page 72 | Rule 3.404 Off Calendar or Continuance of Civil Law & Motion Matters

Failure to notify the court at least three court days before a hearing that the hearing will not proceed may result in monetary sanctions, except when the matter settles or resolves within the three-day period.

Failure to advise the Court at least three court days before the hearing of the fact that the hearing will not proceed as scheduled, for any reason other than settlement of the case or resolution of the issue within the three-day period, may be deemed by the Court to be a violation of an order of the Court, punishable by money sanctions payable to the County Clerk of the Court pursuant to Code of Civil Procedure Section 177.5.

Page 72 | Rule 3.404 Off Calendar or Continuance of Civil Law & Motion Matters

A continuance request must establish adequate grounds and good cause.

Continuances without adequate grounds and good cause will not be considered.

Page 79 | Rule 3.903 Stipulation to Judicial Arbitration

A request to continue a judicial arbitration hearing after the jurisdictional time frame must be made using the specified local form and emailed contemporaneously to ADR staff.

Parties who wish to continue the arbitration hearing after the jurisdictional time frame must filed local form Ex Parte Motion and Stipulation for Continuance of Judicial Arbitration Hearing with the Court, with a copy contemporaneously emailed to the ADR staff at CMC@sanmateocourt.org.

Page 79 | Rule 3.903 Stipulation to Judicial Arbitration

A Mandatory Settlement Conference may not be continued without the consent of the assigned Civil Judge.

No Mandatory Settlement Conference may be continued without the consent of the assigned Civil Judge.

Page 82 | Division III — Court Management - Superior Court

Requests for continuances should be directed to the clerk’s office via facsimile, email or in person, no later than 12:00 Noon the court day before the scheduled hearing.

Requests for continuances should be directed to the clerk’s office via facsimile, email or in person, no later than 12:00 Noon the court day before the scheduled hearing.

Page 158 | Rule 5.7 E.1 Stipulated continuances prior to hearing

A contempt-related Order to Show Cause continuance must be requested in open court with the citee present or supported by a written stipulation signed by the citee and filed by the original hearing time.

Continuances of Orders to Show Cause re: Contempt must be requested in open court (with the citee present), or obtained by written stipulation including a signed consent by the citee to the continuance. The stipulation shall be filed with the court at or before the time set for the original hearing.

Page 158 | Rule 5.7 E.3 Continuances of Orders to Show Cause re: Contempt

A stipulated continuance requested after noon on the preceding court day requires an appearance; it may be obtained from the assigned courtroom clerk before calendar call or granted at calendar call using the specified local form.

An appearance is required for stipulated continuances made after 12 Noon the court day prior to the hearing. Stipulated continuances may be obtained from the courtroom clerk in the assigned department before the calendar call. The court may also grant stipulated continuances at the calendar call. Parties may submit the local court form “Stipulation and Order Re: Continuance” to request a continuance.

Page 158 | Rule 5.7 E.2

A timely stipulated continuance is granted only after proper service, unanimous agreement to a specific new date, written confirmation to the clerk, and payment of the proper fees or arrangements for payment.

If timely made, the Clerk will grant the continuance provided that: a. proper service was effected; b. the requesting party represents that all parties have agreed to a continuance; c. all parties have agreed to continue the matter to a specific date which is provided to the Clerk at the time of the request (counsel and parties are reminded that available dates may be obtained from the court’s hotline (650) 261-5018); d. the parties send written confirmation to the Clerk by letter or using local court form “Stipulation and Order Re: Continuance”; and e. the proper fees have been paid or arrangements for payment have been made.

Page 158 | Rule 5.7 E.1 Stipulated continuances prior to hearing

After a matter is set for hearing, no more than two continuances may be granted without good cause, and the court may remove an unready case from the calendar after the second continuance if good cause is absent.

Once a matter has been set for hearing, no more than two continuances shall be granted unless good cause is shown. Absent good cause, if a case is not ready to proceed to hearing on the date established as a result of the second continuance the court may take the matter off calendar.

Page 158 | Rule 5.7 E. Continuances

Each party may request one Status Conference continuance by giving at least 15 calendar days' notice before the scheduled conference date.

Each party may request one continuance from the assigned department at least 15 calendar days prior to the scheduled conference date.

Page 162 | Division V - Rules — C. Status Conference, paragraph 7

Additional Status Conference continuances may be requested for good cause, which may include significant progress toward settlement or other resolution, and both counsel and the parties must agree to the continuance.

Additional continuances may be requested for good cause. Good cause may consist of, but is not limited to, a showing that significant progress has been made toward a resolution of the case through settlement, mediation, collaborative law, and/or reconciliation. Both counsel and parties must agree that the status conference should be continued.

Page 162 | Division V - Rules — C. Status Conference, paragraph 7

Counsel must call the assigned department clerk at least five court days before the MSC to confirm the conference or request a continuance.

Counsel shall call the clerk of the assigned department at least 5 court days in advance of the MSC to confirm that the MSC will go forward or to request a continuance.

Page 163 | Division V - Rules

An MSC continuance requires good cause and cannot be granted on the scheduled conference day.

An MSC will only be continued for good cause. No continuances shall be granted on the day of the scheduled conference.

Page 163 | Division V - Rules

A stipulated short-cause continuance may be requested by phone with 24 hours’ notice or in open court; no more than one may be granted without a court order and good cause, and a case not ready on the continued date may be removed from calendar absent good cause.

2. Continuances: One stipulated continuance of a short cause trial may be granted by phone with 24 hours’ notice, or in open court. No more than one continuance shall be granted without court order and for good cause shown. If a case is not ready to proceed to hearing on the date established as a result of the continuance, the court shall, absent good cause shown, take the matter off calendar.

Page 165 | Division V - Family Law Department and Family Court Services

Juvenile dependency hearing time waivers and continuances are permitted only when exceptional circumstances are shown.

Time waivers will be accepted and continuances granted only on a showing of exceptional circumstances.

Page 186 | Rule 6.3 Attorneys for Parties in Dependency Proceedings

A later hearing date for a misdemeanor pretrial motion is permitted only if a written declaration showing good cause is filed and approved; the declaration should be filed before the pretrial conference and served on the opposing party.

When such motions cannot be so calendared, a later hearing date will be permitted only when a written declaration setting forth good cause for the late hearing has been filed and approved. Such declarations should be filed prior to the date of the pretrial conference and served on the opposing party.

Page 900 | Rule 9.1 Pretrial Motions in Criminal Cases

An extension request for filing appellate briefs must be submitted to the Appellate Division under LCR rule 1.8.

Applications for extensions of time to file briefs shall be filed in the Appellate Division in accordance with LCR rule 1.8.

Page 44 | Div I – Appellate Division Rules — Briefs — Extension of Time

If a continuance is granted, the court imposes a new deadline for completing judicial arbitration.

If the request is granted, the Court will impose a new deadline by which the judicial arbitration must be completed.

Page 79 | Rule 3.903 Stipulation to Judicial Arbitration

The ADR process must be completed within 90 days unless a continuance is requested through the court's online extension-request process.

The ADR process shall be completed within ninety (90) days, unless a request for continuance is made by submitting an extension request online at www.sanmateo.courts.ca.gov/divisions/appropriate-dispute-resolution-programs/civil-adr-program/request-extension-time-adr.

Page 80 | Rule 3.904 Stipulations to Private Appropriate Dispute Resolution

Conservatorship and guardianship continuance requests should be made as early as possible for an investigator-approved date; attorney or pro se requests may be granted for good cause, stipulations require probate judge approval, and repeated continuances require an appearance subject to hearing-specific limits.

C. Continuances in Conservatorship and Guardianship Matters: A request for continuance should be made at the earliest possible time prior to the hearing and must be to a date approved by the Probate Court Investigator. Continuances requested by the attorney of record, or petitioner in pro per, may be granted upon a showing of good cause. Continuances by stipulation are subject to the approval of the Probate Judge. An appearance will be required by the attorney or the self- represented conservator or guardian, before the Court will consider granting a continuance more than once for a General Plan and/or Inventory and Appraisement hearing, or more than twice for any other conservatorship or guardianship matter. Nothing herein shall prevent the Probate Court Investigator from continuing a matter as necessary to complete their investigation or review.

Page 92 | Division IV — Probate Department, Rule 4.1 General Provisions, C. Continuances in Conservatorship and Guardianship Matters

Chambers Communication Rules

Correspondence with a Civil Judge’s department concerning assigned civil actions must be sent by email to that department instead of on paper.

Correspondence to the Department of any Civil Judge, such as requested letter briefs, requests to take matters off calendar, and requests for rescheduling, regarding civil actions assigned to a Civil Judge shall be submitted electronically, rather than paper, by e-mail addressed to that Civil Department.

Page 73 | Rule 3.600(a) — Correspondence with Civil Departments

Within five calendar days after the initial request, the disputing parties must send the Court and all parties a joint or separate attachment-free email letter summarizing the discovery disputes.

Within five (5) calendar days of the initial email request to the Court for an Informal Discovery Request, the disputing parties shall, jointly or separately, email correspondence to the Court at IDC@sanmateocourt.org, and contemporaneously to all parties, an electronic letter of no more than five (5) pages, without attachments, summarizing the discovery dispute(s).

Page 74 | Rule 3.700(f)(i) — Email Correspondence Detailing Discovery Dispute

A request for an Informal Discovery Conference must be emailed to the Court and contemporaneously copied to all parties’ counsel and any self-represented party.

To request an Informal Discovery Conference, counsel must contact the Court by email at IDC@sanmateocourt.org, which email must be contemporaneously copied to counsel for all parties to the action and any self-represented parties.

Page 74 | Rule 3.700(d)(i) — Request for Informal Discovery Conference

Before filing the initial application or motion in a long-cause matter, counsel or a self-represented party must contact the Probate Department clerk for a special hearing date and time.

Counsel/self-represented parties shall contact the clerk of the court in the Probate Department to obtain a special set hearing date and time prior to filing the initial application or motion to be set for hearing.

Page 96 | Division IV — Probate Department

Counsel must obtain opposing counsel's written consent before requesting an Informal Discovery Conference.

Prior to making a request with the department, counsel shall obtain the consent of opposing counsel in writing to engage in an Informal Discovery Conference.

Page 153 | Division V - Rules - 503 - Rule 5.4(e)(i)

Requests for an Informal Discovery Conference must be sent by email to the Family Law Commissioner and contemporaneously copied to all parties and self-represented parties.

To request an Informal Discovery Conference, counsel must contact the Department of the Family Law Commissioner by email which email must be contemporaneously copied to counsel for all parties to the action and any self-represented parties.

Page 153 | Division V - Rules - 503 - Rule 5.4(e)(i)

The Civil Department email address is limited to sending and receiving notices contesting tentative rulings, is not for back-and-forth communications with the court, and messages are retained for at least 90 days before possible deletion.

The Civil Department’s email address is for the sending and receiving of notices to contest tentative ruling, and is not a venue for back-and-forth communications with the Court. Communications to the Civil Department email address is not part of the official court files – just like a paper letter, they are not “filed” documents – and will be retained for at least 90 days and then be subject to deletion (destruction) thereafter.

Page 71 | Civil Law & Motion

Civil Department email is not for back-and-forth communication with the judge, does not create a filed document or official court record, and is retained for at least 90 days before becoming subject to deletion.

The Department’s email address is for the sending and receiving of correspondence, and is not a venue for back-and-forth communications with the Civil Judge. Communications to the Civil Department email address is not part of the official court files – just like a paper letter, they are not “filed” documents – and will be retained for at least 90 days and then be subject to deletion (destruction) thereafter.

Page 73 | Rule 3.600(a) — Correspondence with Civil Departments

Correspondence concerning an Informal Discovery Conference must be submitted by email to the IDC address rather than on paper.

All correspondence regarding any Informal Discovery Conference, such as IDC letter briefs, requests to take matters off calendar, and requests for rescheduling, shall be submitted electronically, rather than paper, by e-mail addressed to IDC@sanmateocourt.org.

Page 75 | Civil Law and Motion - Superior Court

Communications to the IDC email address must include the case number and case name in the subject line.

All communications to the IDC@sanmateocourt.org email address must include in the header “subject line” the Case Number and Name of Case (e.g., 19CIV06543 Smith v. Jones).

Page 75 | Civil Law and Motion - Superior Court

Parties are encouraged to email unfiled documents to PCI@sanmateocourt.org ahead of screening or call 650-261-5068.

It is recommended that an appointment for screening of the petition by the Court Investigator be made by emailing a copy of the unfiled documents ahead of time to PCI@sanmateocourt.org, parties may also call 650-261-5068.

Page 120 | Rule 4.76 Temporary Conservatorships, subsection B(2)

Parties may call 650-261-5068 regarding appointment of the petition for Court Investigator screening.

parties may also call 650-261-5068.

Page 120 | Rule 4.76 Temporary Conservatorships, subsection B(2)

The Court recommends scheduling Court Investigator screening in advance by emailing the unfiled documents to PCI@sanmateocourt.org.

It is recommended that an appointment for screening of the petition by the Court Investigator be made by emailing a copy of the unfiled documents ahead of time to PCI@sanmateocourt.org

Page 126 | Rule 4.77.14 Temporary Guardianship - Emergency Situations Only, E. Filing and Prior Review of Documents

Litigants and attorneys may obtain telephone assistance regarding remote appearances.

The Court will provide a telephone number on the website (www.sanmateo.courts.ca.gov) for litigants and attorneys to obtain assistance regarding remote appearances.

Page 159 | Division V — Family Law Department and Family Court Services

The remote-appearance assistance telephone line opens 30 minutes before the hearing and remains open throughout the court session.

The telephone line will be open 30 minutes before the start of a court hearing and will remain open for the duration of the court session.

Page 159 | Division V — Family Law Department and Family Court Services

Common questions about San Mateo Superior Court rules

Are courtesy copies required in San Mateo Superior Court?

Courtesy-copy rule applies for ex parte applications, ex parte oppositions, and ex parte filings. Details: by email. A courtesy copy of every ex parte filing must be emailed to the assigned judge's department or provided in hard copy at the hearing.

View ruleSource: page 72, section Rule 3.500 Ex Parte Applications in General Civil

Does San Mateo Superior Court require a pre-motion conference or letter before filing a motion?

Counsel must obtain opposing counsel’s written consent before requesting an Informal Discovery Conference from the Court.

View ruleSource: page 74, section Rule 3.700(e) — Tolling of Deadline to File Motion

What page or word limits apply to brief in San Mateo Superior Court?

San Mateo Superior Court's rule states these limits: 6800 words. Excludes table of contents and table of authorities. Appellate briefs are limited to 6,800 words absent prior Appellate Division approval; tables of contents and authorities are excluded, while footnotes count toward the limit.

View ruleSource: page 44, section Div I – Appellate Division Rules — Briefs — Length

What page or word limits apply to discovery dispute summary in San Mateo Superior Court?

San Mateo Superior Court's rule states these limits: 5 pages. The electronic letter summarizing the discovery dispute may not exceed five pages.

View ruleSource: page 74, section Rule 3.700(f)(i) — Email Correspondence Detailing Discovery Dispute

What formatting rules apply to filings in San Mateo Superior Court?

San Mateo Superior Court's formatting rule includes 1.5 spacing and the one-and-a-half-spacing requirement does not apply to footnotes or block quotations.. Except for footnotes and block quotations, text lines in appellate briefs must be spaced at least one and one-half lines.

View ruleSource: page 44, section Div I – Appellate Division Rules — Briefs — Content and Format

What must be included with trial brief filings in San Mateo Superior Court?

Long-cause trial briefs must be exchanged in the manner specified in Appendix 2 and California Rules of Court Rule 5.394.

View ruleSource: page 166, section Division V - Family Law Department and Family Court Services

What must be included with short cause trial preparation filings in San Mateo Superior Court?

Counsel must meet and confer in person or by telephone at least seven calendar days before trial, and noncompliance may result in monetary sanctions.

View ruleSource: page 165, section Division V - Family Law Department and Family Court Services

How may parties contact San Mateo Superior Court?

Requests for an Informal Discovery Conference must be sent by email to the Family Law Commissioner and contemporaneously copied to all parties and self-represented parties.

View ruleSource: page 153, section Division V - Rules - 503 - Rule 5.4(e)(i)

How does San Mateo Superior Court handle sealed or redacted filings?

The Guardianship Declaration and Confidential Guardian Screening Form remain confidential unless the court orders otherwise, while the other guardianship documents become part of the public record.

View ruleSource: page 122, section Rule 4.77.1 Petition for General Guardianship

How do I request an adjournment or extension in San Mateo Superior Court?

Requests should be made at least 24 hours in advance when this rule applies in San Mateo Superior Court. A stipulated short-cause continuance may be requested by phone with 24 hours’ notice or in open court; no more than one may be granted without a court order and good cause, and a case not ready on the continued date may be removed from calendar absent good cause.

View ruleSource: page 165, section Division V - Family Law Department and Family Court Services

Is electronic filing required in San Mateo Superior Court?

No. Electronic filing is prohibited for the covered filings. Documents specified by Rule 2.1.8 cannot be electronically filed or lodged and must be submitted in paper form.

View ruleSource: page 52, section Rule 2.1.8

Are filing fees or waivers addressed in San Mateo Superior Court?

A fee is required for covered filings. Transcript preparation begins after the reporter receives a notice of appeal and the appellant deposits $325.00 for each half day or $650.00 for each full day of trial included in the transcript.

View ruleSource: page 36, section Rule 0.5 Civil Appeals Fees

What filing deadlines apply to brief filings in San Mateo Superior Court?

The parties must wait for transmission of the appellate record and the Appellate Division’s notice, then file briefs within the periods specified in CRC rule 8.882(a).

View ruleSource: page 44, section Div I – Appellate Division Rules — Briefs — Time for Filing

What rule applies to service for in limine motion in San Mateo Superior Court?

Details: timing: before hearing. In limine motions on Local Court form FL-10 must be filed with the court and served at least five court days before trial.

View ruleSource: page 182, section APPENDIX 2 — LONG CAUSE TRIAL RULES CHECKLIST
Complete rules summary for San Mateo Superior Court

The court may permit proposed jury instructions to be sent into the jury room in Booklet Form.

Long-cause trial briefs must be exchanged in the manner specified in Appendix 2 and California Rules of Court Rule 5.394.

Requests for an Informal Discovery Conference must be sent by email to the Family Law Commissioner and contemporaneously copied to all parties and self-represented parties.

A stipulated short-cause continuance may be requested by phone with 24 hours’ notice or in open court; no more than one may be granted without a court order and good cause, and a case not ready on the continued date may be removed from calendar absent good cause.

When a case is assigned to a temporary judge, litigants are asked to sign a consent stipulation; without consent, the case must be reassigned that day or continued.

Counsel must meet and confer in person or by telephone at least seven calendar days before trial, and noncompliance may result in monetary sanctions.

When custody or visitation is at issue, the parties must meet with Family Court Services early enough for a recommendation to be prepared and filed at least five calendar days before trial.

Counsel must prepare a short-cause trial statement and, when financial matters are at issue, an income-and-expense declaration.

Documents specified by Rule 2.1.8 cannot be electronically filed or lodged and must be submitted in paper form.

The defendant or attorney must make the informal discovery request in writing and file the original with the police agency that issued the citation.

In limine motions on Local Court form FL-10 must be filed with the court and served at least five court days before trial.

The trial judge will then discuss with counsel:

A response to an in limine motion must be served on the motion's proponent no later than the first appearance before the Presiding Judge's Department for trial assignment.

The original short-cause documents and any income-and-expense declaration must be filed with the family-law clerk, with copies served on the opposing party, no later than five calendar days before the earlier of the Mandatory Settlement Conference or trial date.

The rule requires paper filing of specified ex parte filings, exhibits, records, writs, process documents, probate filings, Certificate of Fact forms, pre-complaint criminal documents, and specified family-law challenges.

Ex parte applications and proof of payment must reach the Department’s courtroom clerk no later than 15 minutes from the time set for ex parte hearings.

The court may prescribe or dispense with notice in probate matters.

The Notice of ADR Options must be filed and served with specified family-law pleadings unless one was filed within the preceding 180 days.

A fee-waiver recipient seeking a verbatim trial record must notify the court in writing by filing Judicial Council Form FW-020.

Fax service must comply with California Rules of Court rule 2.306.

Transcript preparation begins after the reporter receives a notice of appeal and the appellant deposits $325.00 for each half day or $650.00 for each full day of trial included in the transcript.

A proof of service for mail service must use the language prescribed by Code of Civil Procedure section 1013(a).

For personal service, the person who actually accomplished service must sign the declaration of service.

A declaration that merely states that the declarant caused papers to be served through a messenger is inadequate proof of service.

An unopposed motion accompanied by defective proof of service may be continued, placed off calendar, or denied.

The proof of service must show service on every party who has appeared in the action, not merely the party to whom the motion is directed.

Qualifying litigants may seek a filing-fee waiver, and the fee, waiver order, or waiver application must be filed in the trial court with the notice of appeal or within 15 days afterward.

Supersedeas petitions and oppositions must be served under the cited rules, and supersedeas petitions must include proof of service when filed.

A request for a temporary stay may be included in the supersedeas petition or filed separately with notice to the respondent.

Stay-order applications must be filed with the Appellate Division clerk and served on opposing counsel under LCR Rule 1.8.

More Judges in San Mateo Superior Court

David A. Silberman
Judge
Mark A. McCannon
Judge
Michael L. Mau
Judge
Nancy L. Fineman
Judge
Nicole S. Healy
Judge
Timothy E. Elliott
Judge