The Civil Division handles non-criminal lawsuits among individuals and/or corporations brought to enforce, redress, or protect private rights. The largest division in the San Francisco Superior Court, the Civil Division conducts civil trials and manages civil filings, records, small claims cases, appeals, probate matters, unlawful detainers, defaults, case management, dispute resolution, name changes, and civil restraining orders to prevent harassment and elder abuse.

The Criminal Court has jurisdiction over infraction, misdemeanor and felony cases. The Criminal Court conducts arraignments, preliminary hearings, trials, motions, probation hearings, mental health proceedings, and other types of criminal proceedings.

The San Francisco Superior Court seeks to provide the most efficient and convenient jury service experience for criminal and civil trials. Daily reporting instructions, frequently asked questions, maps, parking information, and directions to the Courthouse locations are available to assist you with your service.

The objectives of the Delinquency Court are to provide for the protection and safety of the public and each minor; to preserve and strengthen the minor’s family ties whenever possible; give care, treatment and guidance to the minor; and hold them accountable for their behavior when they commit delinquent acts.

The Probate Court deals directly with the everyday personal and financial matters of San Franciscans. Probate handles diverse matters, including wills, the financial affairs of people who have died, guardianships of children, conservatorships of adults, mental health treatment, trusts, elder abuse and dependent adult restraining orders.

Disputes are resolved quickly and inexpensively in Small Claims Court, where the rules are simple and informal. Litigants may not be represented by an attorney. Generally claims are limited to $5,000. Corporations, partnerships, governmental entities and other legal entities cannot claim more than $5,000. Individuals may file unlimited claims for up to $2,500 each in a year. However, individuals may only file two claims a year that seek more than $2,500.

Violations of traffic laws, municipal code violations and county ordinances are heard in Traffic Court.

Unified Family Court (UFC) is comprised of Juvenile Dependency, Juvenile Delinquency and Family Law. UFC handles divorce, legal separation and nullity; parentage; domestic abuse restraining orders; child, spousal and family support; child custody and visitation; mediation and self-help services; child abuse and neglect; and minors’ violations of criminal law.