Thursday, October 14, 2010

Court fees going up in California

As part of the Budget Act of 2010, certain filing fees will increase. Each county will begin collection of the new fees at different times based on when they can update their systems. The fees that will increase are outlined below:

1. First appearance in an unlimited action by plaintiff(s) and each defendant will increase to $395. This fee increase applies to all types of filings in which the previous fee was $355 (civil, probate, family, etc.)
2. First appearance in a limited action ($10,000 up to $25,000) by plaintiff(s) and each defendant will increase to $370.
3. First appearance in a limited action (under $10,000) by plaintiff(s) and each defendant will increase to $220.

Note: the above fees do not include the additional fees required for Unlawful Detainer filings (additional $15) or the surcharges imposed in Riverside County, San Bernardino County or the City and County of San Francisco.

4. Motion for Summary Judgment/Adjudication will increase to $500.
5. Application by counsel to appear Pro Hac Vice will increase to $500.
6. Additional $3 penalty to every parking violation.
7. Additional increases in various criminal penalties and traffic fines.

Additionally, the Judicial Council is required to establish a fee for telephonic appearances on or before July 1, 2011 (separate from any fees paid to "Court Call" or other vendors).

These new fees will go into effect immediately upon the Governor's signature on SB857, which is expected to be next week.

(Thanks to OneLegal for providing this information)

Click here to check out my new website, www.CaliforniaLegalSolutions.com 

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

New civil liability for furnishing alcohol to minors

A new California law makes adults legally responsible for damages caused by a minor to whom they provide alcohol. Thus, if your child's friend drinks at your house, and you know it, and the friend drives off and gets into an accident, you will be sued and held liable for the damages. Time to make sure your home owners insurance and umbrella policy are in full force.

Click here to check out my new website, www.CaliforniaLegalSolutions.com