Traffic Courts

  The agency provides court services for individuals in Los Angeles County. Services include civil state trial courts, court records, criminal history records, criminal state trial courts, divorce records, jury selection, name change assistance, probate courts, process services, small claims courts, state trial courts, and traffic courts. There are no geographic restrictions; however, the court only hears small claims cases within their jurisdiction.

  The court has jurisdiction over civil cases over $25,000 and limited civil cases up to $25,000, criminal misdemeanor and felony offenses, as well as infractions and other traffic offenses.

  The small claims division hears only civil cases which involve claims of $5,000 or less. The hearing is informal; no attorneys are permitted to represent either party. The judge hears both sides and renders a judgement. Defendants being sued must live in the city of Los Angeles or the cause for the claim must have occurred within the city of Los Angeles.

  The Probate Court has jurisdiction over decedents' estates, trust proceedings, guardianship, conservatorship proceedings, and minors compromises. Probate attorneys may also be reached at district offices throughout the County; see the separate entries.

  Veterans Court will allow veterans who suffer from mental health problems stemming from military service to receive treatment as an alternative to incarceration for nonviolent felonies. The defendant must meet program guidelines, and all parties must agree to refer the veteran for further evaluation.