Divisions

The Appeals Division is responsible for the filing of all appeals in civil, family law, adoption, probate, conservatorship, guardianship, juvenile dependency, juvenile delinquency, felony, misdemeanor, traffic and unlawful detainer cases.

The Civil Division processes all civil matters, including general civil, civil harassment restraining orders, unlawful detainers, ADR, limited and unlimited civil cases.

The Criminal Division files, processes and maintains criminal records of all felonies and misdemeanors. This Division also maintains an index of filings and record of criminal dispositions.

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

California law states that when parents cannot reach an agreement, they must first meet with a professional mediator (Child Custody Recommending Counselor) before they can go to court.

The right to trial by a jury is the privilege of every person in the United States. This right is guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution. Jurors are essential to the administration of justice.

The Juvenile Courts handle cases of children under 18 years of age who violate any law, or any children who are abused or neglected.

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

The Small Claims Division handles cases that do not exceed $12,500 and are resolved quickly and inexpensively with relatively simple and informal rules.

El Dorado County offers collaborative courts which provide tools, treatments and monitoring. The courts address drug-related offenses, alcohol abuse, juvenile drug/alcohol abuse and mental illnesses

The Traffic Division handles adult and minor traffic violations, minor offenses, Fish & Game violations, local, city and county ordinances, boating and dog/animal citations.