How to File a Lawsuit in California

A BRIEF PRIMER ON FILING CASES IN CALIFORNIA

Say you are have been damaged by the acts or omissions of a person or company and want to file a lawsuit. Which court do you file that lawsuit in, and do you get the right to a jury trial? This article will answer these questions.

STATE OR FEDERAL COURT

California has courts that are both state and federal. Federal courts typically hear only cases that involve federal law, or actions between citizens of different states, called diversity jurisdiction, and involve damages of at least $75,000. All other cases are decided in state courts.

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