The OCBA is looking to feature a Legal Humor Column in an upcoming issue of the OC Lawyer magazine.
Submission Deadline: Friday, August 22, 2025
The Orange County Superior Court is pleased to announce the expansion of electronic fee payment processing to include complex cases, effective June 27th, 2025.
Governor Gavin Newsom announced his appointment of 16 Superior Court Judges, which include one in Orange County.
The OCBA is deeply saddened by the passing of Christopher B. Mears.
The Court is pleased to announce that the recruitment for highly qualified attorneys to serve as Temporary Judges for the term beginning July 01, 2026, through June 30, 2029, is now open.
The Orange County Superior Court is excited to announce the launch of a new Civil Unlimited Pilot Program dedicated to promptly resolving discovery motions and reducing law and motion hearing delays in the participating departments. This initiative, set to begin on June 30, 2025, is part of the Court’s ongoing delay reduction efforts.
Effective July 1, 2025, counsel for all represented parties in family law cases will now be served electronically. The Orange County Superior Court (“Court”) will use the application eService to transmit, deliver, or serve required documents from the Court in Family Law matters.
Governor Gavin Newsom announced his nomination of three Court of Appeal Justices. He also announced appointment of 12 Superior Court Judges, which include one in Orange County.
The OCBA mourns the passing of Chief Bankruptcy Judge Theodor C. Albert.
Governor Gavin Newsom announced his appointment of 10 Superior Court Judges, which include one in Orange County.
The Orange County Superior Court is pleased to announce the launch of our upgraded mobile application for Civil and Probate cases, effective March 14th, 2025.
The Rules and Forms Committee of the Superior Court of California, County of Orange, has proposed revisions to the Local Rules of Court. Pursuant to California Rules of Court, rule 10.613, the Court invites you to comment on the following proposed changes to the local rule. If approved, the proposed changes will be effective July 1, 2025.
In recent days, we have all watched with deep concern and sorrow as devastating fires have swept through Los Angeles and surrounding areas. The impact on our neighbors in Los Angeles County has been profound, with countless families, businesses, and communities affected by these tragic events.
The licensing fee bill, AB 3279, increased 2025 licensing costs for active and inactive licensees. Additionally, dates and deadlines to pay your fees and complete annual compliance requirements are changing.
Effective January 1, 2025, pursuant to Local Rule 714, Orange County Superior Court will mandate attorney use of the Electronic Evidence Portal for trials and specially set evidentiary hearings in the Family Law Case type, unless otherwise ordered by the court.
The OCBA is proud to announce four newly appointed Board Members.
The results of the OCBA Young Lawyers Division annual election are in!
Governor Gavin Newsom announced his nomination of two Court of Appeal Justices and appointment of 10 Superior Court Judges, which includes one in Orange County.
The Central District of California will launch the Opt-Out Civil Consent to Magistrate Judges Program on December 1, 2024. Pursuant to that Program, a certain portion of new civil filings will be assigned directly to Magistrate Judges.
Grant Application Deadline: Friday, December 6, 2024
The OCBA Charitable Fund is now accepting applications for its 2024 Grant Cycle.
On August 30, 2024, Orange County Superior Court piloted a new process for Civil cases at the West and North Justice Centers, where jury fees can be paid using the court’s mobile application or on-line via the Court’s website.
The OCBA announces this year's Appointments Committee.
Governor Gavin Newsom announced his appointment of 18 Superior Court Judges, which include two in Orange County.
The Orange County Bar Association recently announced Trudy C. Levindofske as this year’s Harmon G. Scoville Award recipient. The award will be presented during the OCBA Big Thanks Event celebrating OCBA member volunteers on October 28, 2024.
To Register for the Judicial Mentor Program: CLICK HERE.
Constitutional Rights Foundation-Orange County is inviting attorneys to participate in scoring this year’s CRF-OC High School Mock Trial Competition.
The OCBA's annual Board of Directors Election closed at 2:30 p.m. on Monday, September 23, 2024. In accordance with the OCBA bylaws, 2024 President-Elect Mei Tsang (Umberg Zipser LLP) will succeed to the Presidency in 2025.
Santa Ana, Calif. – Hon. Maria D. Hernandez was reelected Presiding Judge, and Hon. Sheila F. Hanson was elected Assistant Presiding Judge in an uncontested election for the two top posts of the Superior Court of California, County of Orange.
Nominations Deadline: Friday, Nov. 1, 2024
Click here to download the nomination form.
Effective September 01, 2024, under revised Local Rule 704, Domestic Violence Ex Parte applications must be filed by 2:00 p.m. for same-day rulings.
The Rules and Forms Committee of the Superior Court of California, County of Orange, has proposed revisions to the Local Rules of Court. Pursuant to California Rules of Court, rule 10.613, the Court invites you to comment on proposed new and revised changes to local rules.
All comments concerning a proposed rule must be submitted no later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, October 7, 2024.
On April 24, 2024, the State Bar of California filed a request to approve amendments to California Rules of Court, rules 9.40 and 9.43. The request is granted.
The “dog days of summer” refer to the hot days between July 3 and August 11 surrounding the moment when Sirius—the Dog Star—rises and sets with the sun.
The online election will open for voting on Tuesday, Sept. 3, 2024, and close at 2:30 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 23, 2024. Only active attorney members will be eligible to vote (no law students, retired, or honorary members).
Governor Gavin Newsom announced his appointment of 11 Superior Court Judges, which include two in Orange County.
All attorneys admitted to practice before the Court are reminded of the requirement to maintain accurate contact information in CM/ECF.
An Invitation to Comment on the proposed amendmentto Local Rule 704 to effect this change was published on June 17, 2024. The Invitationto Comment period runs through Thursday, August 1, 2024. Posted June 24, 2024.
The Orange County Superior Court is introducing the Ability to Pay (ATP) Program. MyCitations is an online application that offers individuals the option to request a reduction for their infraction citation, particularly in cases where there is financial need. The new application will be available on June 27, 2024.
All comments must be submitted no later than 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 1, 2024.
For your awareness, the electronic evidence portal will be unavailable from Friday, May 31, 2024, through Sunday, June 2, 2024, to allow for the configuration and testing of the physical evidence application.
The OCBA Charitable Fund is pleased to announce the results of its 40th Annual Judge Kenneth Lae Charity Golf Scramble, which was held Monday, May 13, 2024, at The Huntington Club in Huntington Beach
The Orange County Superior Court will celebrate Juror Appreciation Week, May 13-17, to recognize the service and participation of jurors from our community.
Pursuant to Welfare and Institutions Code section 246 and California Rules of Court, rule 10.603(b)(1)(A) and (c)(1), the Court hereby cross-designates Judge Maria D. Hernandez, Judge Kimberly Menninger, Judge Lewis W. Clapp and Judge Antony C. Ufland as judges of the Juvenile Court for the 2024 calendar year as is necessary for the prompt disposition of the judicial business before the juvenile court.
Governor Gavin Newsom today announced his appointment of 18 Superior Court Judges, which includes one in Orange County.
The Orange County Superior Court, Technology Department, will be performing a significant hardware upgrade to ensure the continued performance, reliability, and security of our computer and information technology systems. This upgrade is scheduled to occur on Friday, May 17, 2024, beginning at 6:00 p.m. and continuing through Sunday, May 19, 2024. During this time, network and online services will be down and unavailable. Network and online services will be available again beginning on Sunday, May 19, 2024, after 8:00 p.m.
The following members have been appointed by OCBA President-Elect Mei Tsang, Umberg Zipser LLP, to serve on the 2024 Nominating Committee.
Please find newly adopted and amended rule(s) with the effective date of April 1, 2024. These rules were adopted by the Judicial Council at its September 19, 2023 and March 15, 2024 business meetings.
The United States District Court, Central District of California, is currently accepting applications from qualified individuals.
The OCBA mourns the passing of Maurice L. Evans, 1997 Franklin G. West honoree.
It's with great sadness that the OCBA shares the passing of Judge Francisco P. Briseño (Ret.), 2010 Franklin G. West honoree.
At its recent Mid-Year Meeting, the American Bar Association (ABA) House of Delegates (House) unanimously approved Resolution 500 urging lawyers and all interested parties to increase the informed and voluntary use of Early Dispute Resolution (EDR).
The OCBA's Future of the Profession Task Force, co-chaired by Nikki Miliband, Scott Garner and Dan Robinson, has highlighted a proposal by the State Bar of California to increase attorney dues.
The Rules and Forms Committee of the Superior Court of California, County of Orange, has proposed new and revised Local Rules of Court. Pursuant to California Rules of Court, rule 10.613, the Court invites you to comment on the following changes to the local rules. If approved, the proposed changes will be effective July 1, 2024.
Governor Gavin Newsom announced his appointment of 16 Superior Court Judges, which includes one in Orange County.
The Family Law division of Orange County Superior Court has opened the application process to establish a list of available counsel for appointment of pro bono services.
Effective January 2, 2024, the Orange County Superior Court will expand mandatory eFiling for attorneys in Family Law cases to include all ex-parte filings. In addition, form L-1124 Declaration Re Notice of Ex-Parte Application has been updated for use.
Veterans Legal Institute has been named the OC Register’s top choice for year-end giving in 2023.
Governor Gavin Newsom today announced his appointment of 18 Superior Court Judges, which includes three in Orange County.
OCHBA new members will receive a 2025 HBA Membership 50% off, and the rest of December 2023 is free! Joining now will allow new members the opportunity to vote for the 2024 HBA Board of Directors!
The OCBA is pleased to announce Nikki Presley Miliband as the next Franklin G. West Award recipient.
Effective November 13, 2023, the Court is adopting new guidelines for participation in remote proceedings and partially remote proceedings pursuant to Code Civ. Proc. §367.75, Rules of Court 3.672 and 367.75, and Local Rule 375.
Deadline to submit nominations: Monday, November 20, 2023
Complete the application and submit nominations to: info@thurgoodmarshallbarassociation.org.
Governor Gavin Newsom today announced his appointment of 8 Superior Court Judges, which includes two in Orange County.
UPDATE: The OCBA has submitted a public comment letter to the State Bar of California.
The State Bar seeks comment on a proposal, created by a working group formed at the direction of the Board of Trustees, which describes an alternative pathway to attorney licensure that does not include the two-day bar exam. Length of comment period: 30 days. Deadline: October 25, 2023, 11:59 p.m.
Governor Gavin Newsom today announced his appointment of 15 Superior Court Judges, which includes one in Orange County.
The OCBA's annual Board of Directors Election closed at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 26, 2023. In accordance with the OCBA bylaws, 2023 President-Elect Christina M. Zabat-Fran (Lanvin Group) will succeed to the Presidency in 2024.
Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero, chair of the Commission on Judicial Appointments, announced that the commission today confirmed Judge Martha Gooding as an associate justice of the Fourth District Court of Appeal, Division Three (Santa Ana).
The Orange County Bar Association announced Cherrie I. Tsai, Kaiser Aluminum Corporation, as this year’s Harmon G. Scoville Award recipient.
The Superior Court is accepting volunteer applications for those interested in becoming a SUPERIOR COURT AMBASSADOR.
The Judicial Council recently adopted a new rule (rule 10.1014 of the California Rules of Court) that becomes effective on September 1, 2023.
The OCBA leadership election is now open for online voting.
The Rules and Forms Committee of the Superior Court of California, County of Orange, has proposed revisions to the Local Rules of Court. Pursuant to California Rules of Court, rule 10.613, the Court invites you to comment on the following proposed changes to the local rule. If approved, the proposed changes will be effective January 1, 2024.
Governor Gavin Newsom today announced his appointment of 10 Superior Court Judges, which include two in Orange County.
The United States District Court, Central District of California, is currently accepting applications from qualified attorneys interested in serving on the Central District’s Magistrate Judge Merit Selection Panel.
Amended rule(s) with the effective date of September 1, 2023. These rules were adopted by the Judicial Council at its May 12, 2023 and July 21, 2023, business meetings.
The online election will open for voting on Tuesday, Sept. 5, 2023, and close at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023. Only active attorney members will be eligible to vote (no law students, retired, or honorary members).
Second Amended Administrative Order No. 20/10 is hereby rescinded, effective July 18, 2023.
The California Supreme Court has approved a new rule of professional conduct, rule 8.3 of the California Rules of Professional Conduct, that requires California attorneys to report any lawyer who commits a criminal act, engages in fraud.
Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero appointed three new voting members and six new advisory (non-voting) members to the Judicial Council. Four voting members were also reappointed.
Governor Gavin Newsom today announced his appointment of 15 Superior Court Judges, which include one in Orange County.
Governor Gavin Newsom today announced his nomination of three Court of Appeal Justices: Justice Brian Currey as Presiding Justice of the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Four; Judge Helen Zukin as an Associate Justice of the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Four; and Judge Martha Gooding as an Associate Justice of the Fourth District Court of Appeal, Division Three.
The Governor also announced his appointment of 27 Superior Court Judges, which include one in Orange County.
It's with great sadness that the OCBA announces the passing of Danni R. Murphy, 2001 President.
The new and amended local rules listed below will become effective June 1, 2023.
State Bar of California seeks comments regarding two approaches to Proposed Fee Increases. Comment Deadline: Monday, May 15, 2023 at 11:59 p.m.
New local form titled Statement of Compliance QDRO/Other Retirement Plan – L0750.
The OCBA Charitable Fund is pleased to announce the results of its 39th Annual Judge Kenneth Lae Charity Golf Scramble, which was held Thursday, April 20, 2023, at Pelican Hill Golf Club in Newport Coast.
Who Should Attend? Internet Users - Everyone from teens to senior citizens are on the Internet more now than ever - whether for work, school, personal banking, keeping up with friends and family or other social media purposes.
This order supersedes First Amended Administrative Order No. 20/17, issued on April 8, 2022. This order is effective immediately and will remain in effect until amended or repealed.
The Orange County Superior Court announced significant monetary recruitment and retention incentives for Court Reporters following an agreement with the Orange County Employees Association (OCEA).
The United States District Court, Central District of California, is currently accepting applications from qualified individuals interested in serving as Ninth Circuit Judicial Conference Lawyer Representatives.
Amended rule(s) with the effective date of April 1, 2023. These rules were adopted by the Judicial Council at its March 24. 2023, business meeting.
Pursuant to Government Code section 68106 and California Rules of Court, rule 10.620, the Superior Court of California, County of Orange is providing notice of the change in court location for Probate/Mental Health and Small Claims matters heard.
The public comment period ends April 10, 2023, at 11:59 p.m.
In light of the Chief Justice's Advisory on COVID-19 and Court Operations, and pursuant to Penal Code section 1270, the Presiding Judge of the Superior Court of California, County of Orange is hereby issuing an administrative order permitting own recognizance release for persons charged with low level misdemeanors, and felony crimes punishable pursuant to Penal Code section 1170(h), not inconsistent with the current PARS Eligibility Guidelines and Orange County Sheriff Department's No Cite and Release policy for warrants.
Court announces Orange County Superior Court judicial mentor upcoming March 14, 2023, workshop and accepting applications for 2023 mentorship year.
The Orange County Superior Court is introducing a mobile phone application for the existing Automated Check-in Program to facilitate the use of Zoom for selected calendars in Civil Unlimited/Complex courtroom and some Limited/Small Claims courtrooms, at zero cost to the public.
All comments concerning a proposed rule must be submitted no later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, April 3, 2023.
Governor Gavin Newsom announced his appointment of eight Superior Court Judges, which include two in Orange County.
Thursday, April 20, 2023 Pelican Hill Golf Club, Newport Coast
To donate to AAAJ’s fundraiser for the Monterey Park Shooting, please visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/monterey-park-lunar-new-year-victims-fund.
2022 Summary of Court-Related Legislation prepared by the Judicial Council Governmental Affairs
The Superior Court of California, County of Orange, has adopted new and revised local rules.
Governor Gavin Newsom announced his appointment of 15 Superior Court Judges, which include two in Orange County.
Deadline to submit public comments: Tuesday, January 31, 2023.
Beginning in December 2022, attorneys will be able to fulfill their reporting requirements through My State Bar Profile; law firms and organizations will be able to provide account information for attorneys through agency billing.
Judge Matthew Anderson will be hosting a Graduation Ceremony on December 13, 2022, honoring five successful participants, and celebrating 1,000+ graduates from the Harbor Justice Center DUI Treatment Court since 2004.
The Orange County Superior Court has developed a new tool to provide retained and conflict attorneys’ information on cases they have before the Court, by mailing a copy of any notice or correspondence sent to the client also to the attorney of record.
The OCBA is pleased to announce Mark E. Minyard as the next Franklin G. West Award recipient.
Clarifying the record: there is a court reporter shortage crisis in California.
Grant Application Deadline: Friday, December 2, 2022
The OCBA Charitable Fund is now accepting applications for its 2022 Grant Cycle.
The OCBA mourns the passing of Hon. Frances Munoz, Ret. Judge Munoz recently passed away at the age of 92.
The Superior Court of California, County of Orange, will be closed on Monday, June 19, 2023, in observation of the Juneteenth Day holiday.
In order to promote timely and effective resolution of child custody, domestic violence, and Department of Child Support (DCSS) matters; to ensure compliance with legal requirements; and to accurately record and reflect matters heard by the Family Law panel, effective January 1, 2023, the following procedures apply.
The OCBA announces this year's Appointments Committee!
Nominations Deadline: Friday, November 4, 2022
Nominations are now being accepted for the 2022 Franklin G. West Award. Click here to download the nomination form.
The OCBA's annual Board of Directors Election closed at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, September 27, 2022. In accordance with the OCBA bylaws, 2022 President-Elect Michael A. Gregg (Littler Mendelson P.C.) will succeed to the Presidency in 2023.
The Superior Court of California, County of Orange, will be closed on Friday, Sept. 23, 2022, in celebration of Native American Day holiday.
Hon. Maria D. Hernandez was elected Presiding Judge, and Hon. Cheri T. Pham Assistant Presiding Judge in an uncontested election for the two top posts of the Superior Court of California, County of Orange.
Orange County Hispanic Bar Association's 2023 Bar Stipend will grant a maximum of one – two (1-2) stipend awards and a maximum of $1,500.00 will be distributed among the scholarship winners.
Orange County Hispanic Bar Association's Wally Davis Scholarship Fund will award a maximum of one – four (1-4) scholarships and up to $20,000.00 will be distributed among the scholarship winners.
In light of the State of Emergency declared in the State of California, the Chief Justice's Advisory on COVID-19 and Court Operations, and pursuant to Penal Code section 1270, the Presiding Judge of the Superior Court of California, County of Orange is hereby issuing an amended administrative order.
The Orange County Bar Association announced Richard J. McNeil, Partner at Crowell & Moring LLP, as this year’s Harmon G. Scoville Award recipient.
The OCBA mourns the passing of James W. Obrien.
The dog days of summer refer to the hot days between July 3 and August 11. The “dog” references Sirius, the Dog Star. During this period, the sun and Sirius— the Dog Star—rise and set together.
Governor Gavin Newsom today announced his nomination of Supreme Court Associate Justice Patricia Guerrero to serve as California’s next Chief Justice after Chief Justice Tani Cantil-Sakauye concludes her current term of office on January 2, 2023.
The OCBA and its State Bar Task Force have endeavored over the past few years to keep OCBA members apprised of ongoing changes within the State Bar of California.
Governor Gavin Newsom announced his nomination of Judge Thomas Delaney to serve as an Associate Justice of the Fourth District Court of Appeal, Division Three, and his appointment of a new Superior Court judge in Orange County.
The Orange County Superior Court recently discovered the Court’s Night Judge issued a number of warrants while outside the United States.
The Court is pleased to announce the opening of the recruitment process for highly qualified attorneys to serve as temporary judges for the new term beginning the fiscal year of July 01, 2023, through June 30, 2026. If you are interested in becoming a temporary judge, please read the APPLICATION LETTER and complete the TEMPORARY JUDGE APPLICATION.
The online election will open for voting on Tuesday, Sept. 6, 2022, and close at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 27, 2022. Only active attorney members will be eligible to vote (no law students, retired, or honorary members).
Due to the increase in COVID-19 cases, causing Orange County to move to “HIGH” community transmission status, the Orange County Superior Court strongly recommends everyone entering Court facilities to wear N95 or KN95 masks.
Roe vs. Wade Statement from OCHBA.
Effective July 1, 2022, the Zoom program will be expanded to include Civil Limited proceedings.
The Court is pleased to announce the opening of the recruitment process for highly qualified attorneys to serve as temporary judges for the new term beginning the fiscal year of July 01, 2023, through June 30, 2026.
Governor Gavin Newsom announced the appointment of Superior Court judge in Orange County.
This order is effective May 24, 2022.
Congratulations to all the tournament and contest winners!
This order is effective May 17, 2022, and will remain in effect through December 31, 2022, or until amended or repealed.
As a public service to assist the voters in Orange County, the Orange County Bar Association (“OCBA”) has conducted a review and evaluation of the 24 candidates running for Superior Court Judge in the June 7 election.
Governor Gavin Newsom today announced his nomination of Judge Joanne Motoike to serve as an Associate Justice of the Fourth District Court of Appeal, Division Three. The Governor also announced his appointment of one Superior Court Judge in Orange County.
Orange County Superior Court’s Judicial Mentor Program is hosting a virtual workshop at 12:15 PM, on May 18, 2022, via ZOOM.
The following members have been appointed by OCBA President-Elect Michael Gregg, Littler Mendelson, to serve on the 2022 Nominating Committee.