2018 State of the Court

STATE OF THE COURT REPORT | 2018 EDITION

CIVIL Civil cases involve disputes between people or businesses over money or some injury to personal rights. Limited Civil cases concern a sum of money that amounts to $25,000 or less. Unlimited civil cases involve an amount of money that exceeds $25,000. Unlawful Detainer cases consist of disputes between landlords and tenants over the possession of a unit and unpaid rent. Small Claims cases are heard in a distinct civil court designed to allow litigants to resolve disputes quickly, inexpensively, and without the involvement of lawyers. Small Claims litigants may only pursue up to $10,000. ADDITIONAL COURTROOM FOR LIMITED CIVIL EXPANDS ACCESS TO JUSTICE Aligned with the SBCSC’s 2018-2023 Strategic Plan, a second limited civil courtroom was added at the San Bernardino Justice Center in September 2018, to rebalance the workload of over 10,000 active cases. As of November 2018, this new department had a caseload of over 5,000 cases. As a result, parties can reserve a motion date and have their case heard sooner than before.

CIVIL

CASE FILINGS

FY 2017/2018

10,747

UNLIMITED CIVIL

19,051

LIMITED CIVIL

11,350

UNLAWFUL DETAINER

EXPRESS WALK-UP WINDOWS ALLOW FOR QUICK TRANSACTIONS WITHOUT ENTERING THE COURTHOUSE

11,044

SMALL CLAIMS

In February 2018, the San Bernardino Justice Center opened an additional “express” walk-up window option for civil and probate matters. In July 2018, the Barstow Courthouse opened its first “express” walk-up window option for small claims and unlawful detainer matters. Individuals who use the express walk-up windows can quickly file or purchase documents and avoid the security screening process by remaining outside of the building. Ideal for simple transactions, this service also reduces courthouse congestion while benefiting those seeking additional assistance from the clerk’s office with complex filings.

52,192

TOTAL FILINGS

SAN BERNARDINO JUSTICE CENTER

COURTHOUSES THAT HANDLE CIVIL

13

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