The Fresno County Court, also known as the Fresno County Superior Court, is a superior court in California with jurisdiction over Fresno County. The court is responsible for handling a wide range of cases, including civil, criminal, family, and probate matters. With a population of over 994,000 people, Fresno County is one of the largest counties in California, and its court system plays a critical role in upholding the law and ensuring justice is served.
History of the Fresno County Court
The Fresno County Court was established in 1856, shortly after California became a state. The court’s early years were marked by significant growth and development, with the construction of a new courthouse in 1875. Over the years, the court has undergone several expansions and renovations, with the most recent being the opening of the new Fresno County Courthouse in 2006. This state-of-the-art facility features modern amenities and technology, allowing the court to operate more efficiently and effectively.
Court Structure and Organization
The Fresno County Court is divided into several divisions, each with its own specific jurisdiction and responsibilities. The court’s structure includes:
- Civil Division: handles civil cases, including lawsuits, small claims, and unlawful detainer actions
- Criminal Division: handles felony and misdemeanor cases, including trials, sentencing, and probation
- Family Law Division: handles family law cases, including divorce, child custody, and support
- Probate Division: handles probate cases, including estate administration, guardianships, and conservatorships
- Juvenile Division: handles juvenile cases, including delinquency, dependency, and traffic matters
The court is led by a presiding judge, who is responsible for overseeing the court’s operations and ensuring the efficient administration of justice. The court also has a number of supporting staff, including court clerks, bailiffs, and court reporters.
| Division | Number of Judges | Number of Staff |
|---|---|---|
| Civil Division | 10 | 50 |
| Criminal Division | 15 | 75 |
| Family Law Division | 8 | 30 |
| Probate Division | 5 | 20 |
| Juvenile Division | 10 | 40 |
Court Services and Resources
The Fresno County Court offers a range of services and resources to support the community, including:
- Self-Help Centers: provide assistance with court forms, procedures, and legal information
- Interpreter Services: provide language interpretation and translation services for court proceedings
- Online Resources: provide access to court forms, rules, and procedures, as well as online payment options
- Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution: provide alternative methods for resolving disputes, including mediation and arbitration
The court also partners with a number of community organizations, including the Fresno County Bar Association, the Fresno County Public Defender’s Office, and the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office, to provide additional resources and support to the community.
Access to Justice Initiatives
The Fresno County Court is committed to improving access to justice for all members of the community. The court has implemented a number of initiatives, including:
- Online Court Portal: allows individuals to access court information, submit forms, and make payments online
- Self-Represented Litigant Program: provides assistance and resources for individuals who are representing themselves in court
- Language Access Plan: ensures that court services are accessible to individuals with limited English proficiency
These initiatives aim to increase access to justice, reduce barriers, and improve outcomes for all members of the community.
What are the hours of operation for the Fresno County Court?
+The Fresno County Court is open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.
How do I file a small claims case in the Fresno County Court?
+To file a small claims case, you will need to complete a small claims complaint form and file it with the court, along with the required filing fee. You can obtain the form and instructions from the court’s website or by visiting the court in person.
Can I represent myself in court, or do I need to hire an attorney?
+While it is possible to represent yourself in court, it is generally recommended that you hire an attorney, especially for complex or high-stakes cases. The court offers a self-represented litigant program, which provides assistance and resources for individuals who are representing themselves in court.
