The California court system uses forms. This guide has information about:
The California court system uses forms to ensure everyone’s information is complete so the judge can make a decision.
Most forms are published by the Judicial Council and used across the state, but it’s also common for county Superior Courts to have one or two local forms that they require you to use.
Many forms are mandatory, meaning the court will only accept this form if you want to do certain things. Check the bottom left corner of the form, it will say mandatory or optional. If it says optional, you can choose to write your own filing.
If there isn’t a form for what you need to do, you will need to write your own court papers, in the right format and follow the court's rules. The California Rules of Court, starting with rule 2.100, tell you what is required for any documents you file with the court.
Start with "pleading paper." Download a Microsoft Word template for pleading paper. You can also ask your court's Self-Help Center or public law library for a sample or blank pleading paper.
You can fill out forms in 3 ways:
Use the current version of the form. Forms on this page are always up to date. You can also ask your court clerk or Self-Help Center if your form is the latest version.
If you use a pen, use blue or black ink and print clearly.
Fill out the caption - the name, address, phone number, court’s address, parties, and case number at the top of the form.
If your address changes, you will need to let the court and other parties in the case know. You can use Notice of Change of Address or other Contact Information (form MC-040). Then, use the new address on anything you file.
Most court forms have some basic instructions, and some common ones have a related INFO form you can get that has detailed instructions.
Court Self-Help Center or public law library offer free workshops and other help with filling out forms as well.