Family Law Courthouse

What forms do I need to file my Family Law case?

Different forms are required for different case types, contact the court to see which forms are required for your case type. If you need assistance in filing or legal advice you will need to contact an attorney, the court will only provide you with legal information. You may also be able to get assistance from the Contra Costa Superior Court Family Law Facilitator (see Family Law Facilitator section below). Legal information, such as the information on the website is NOT legal advice. Only an attorney can provide legal advice. NOTE: Take special care when filling out the forms, verify all information, including names are correct, a small typo can possibly delay your case. Always keep copies of all documents for your own records.

What is a Family Law Facilator?

Contra Costa Superior Court provides a Family Law Facilitator who is a licensed attorney. They act as neutral third party who can further assist you with your Family Law matters. Please contact the Contra Costa Superior Court (see contact info on this page) to find out how to meet with a Family Law Facilitator. A Family Law Facilitator is able to provide general legal information, assistance in filling out court forms, and answer general legal questions. The Family Law Facilitator is NOT your attorney, NOTE: The Family Law Facilitator is only able to give legal information, they are not able to give legal advice. If you need legal advice you need to contact an attorney.

Are my court case records public?

For the most part, yes. Every court order and file are public record. Any person can go to the Contra Costa Superior Court and request to see any court record.
There are 3 exceptions. First, if the case itself is confidential (ie. juvenile (under 18 years) case, or an adoption). Second exception is the confidential portion of a family law file, an example would be child custody evaluations and recommendations. The third exception is when a party requests and is granted an order to mark a document as confidenial or sealed. If you are unsure about what is confidential and what is not, ask the Contra Costa Superior Court clerk.

What type of cases are handled in the Contra Costa County Family Law Court?

The Contra Costa County Family Law court handles all cases concerning family-related matters and domestic relations including legal separation, domestic violence, spousal support, dissolution of marriage (divorce), child visitation and custody, child support and restraining orders. All of these matters are handled in the Contra Costa Superior Court Family Law Division.

Contra Costa Superior Court serves the following cities and towns: El Cerrito, Hercules, Pinole, Richmond, San Pablo, Bayview-Montalvin, Crockett, East Richmond Heights, El Sobrante, Hasford Heights, Kensington, North Richmond, Port Costa, Rodeo, Rollingwood, Tara Hills, Clayton, Concord, Danville, Lafayette, Martinez, Moraga, Orinda, Pleasant Hill, San Ramon, Walnut Creek, Acalanes Ridge, Alamo, Alhambra Valley, Blackhawk, Camino Tassajara, Canyon, Castle Hill, Clyde, Contra Costa Centre, Diablo, Mountain View, Norris Canyon, North Gate, Pacheco, Reliez Valley, San Miguel, Shell Ridge, Vine Hill, Antioch, Brentwood, Oakley, Pittsburg, Bay Point, Bethel Island, Byron, Discovery Bay, Knightsen.

Who can I ask if I have questions about my case?

For legal information specific to your case, see Family Law Facilitator information above. For general court or case information, the best place to seek answers is the Contra Costa Superior Court Clerk. The job of the court clerk is to maintain the files and records of the court. They are also available to provide information and assist you with manners regarding your case. This is often the best place to seek answers for your particular matter. NOTE: The court clerk is only able to give legal information, they are not able to give legal advice. If you need legal advice you need to contact an attorney.

Are there any requirements for filing for Divorce in Contra Costa Superior Court?

There is a residency requirement where you OR your spouse must have lived in California for the last six (6) months, AND have lived in Contra Costa County for the last three (3) months.

Can I hire an attorney?

Yes, you can hire an attorney to represent you, but you are not required to do so.

Contra Costa Superior Court Family Law Location

• Peter Spinetta Family Law Center

  Address: 751 Pine Street Martinez, CA 94553
  Phone: (925) 646-4099
  Fax: (925) 957-7980
  Phone Hours: 8:00am – 1:00pm
  Office Hours: 8:00am – 1:00pm
  Calendar Clerk Phone: 925-646-4099
  Family Law Facilitator Phone: 925-646-4099