Divisions

An appeal is a review of the trial court's decision by another court. A party may appeal an unfavorable judgment and certain orders.

The Civil Division of the court handles cases where one party sues another to recover money or property, enforce a contract, collect damages, or protect civil rights.

Collaborative justice courts-also known as problem-solving courts- combine judicial supervision with rehabilitation services that are rigorously monitored and focused on recovery to reduce recidivism and improve offender outcomes.

The Monterey County Superior Court Criminal Division has jurisdiction over adult felony and misdemeanor cases.

Family Law Courts have jurisdiction over all cases involving dissolution of marriage, legal separation, nullity, paternity, domestic violence, child custody, visitation and support.

The right to a trial by jury is a privilege that applies to both criminal and civil cases and is recognized as the foundation of the American court system, guaranteed by both the United States and California Constitutions.

The judges in Juvenile Court hear delinquency cases involving minors (persons under 18 years of age) charged with violations of the law and dependency cases involving minors who have been neglected or abused.

Mediation is an informal, confidential, and flexible process of alternative dispute resolution in which a mediator (neutral third person) helps the parties reach a voluntary resolution of a dispute.

The Probate Court is responsible for handling decedent estates, guardianships, conservatorships, trust cases and other miscellaneous protective proceedings.

Small claims is a court within the Superior Court where disputes are resolved quickly and inexpensively. Attorneys are not permitted to represent either party in the dispute (except on appeal).

This division has jurisdiction over vehicle code violations, and processes adult and juvenile traffic and minor offense matters.

Court case files are public records and subject to public inspection. California Rules of Court, rule 2.400(a) states that all papers in the court files may be inspected by the public in the office of the clerk.