Locations, divisions, filing procedures, and what to expect in San Diego's courthouse system
By John Quigley · Updated April 29, 2026
| Division | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Central (Downtown) | 1100 Union Street, San Diego, CA 92101 | (619) 450-7060 |
| North County (Vista) | 325 S. Melrose Drive, Vista, CA 92081 | (760) 201-8600 |
| East County (El Cajon) | 250 E. Main Street, El Cajon, CA 92020 | (619) 456-4100 |
| South County (Chula Vista) | 500 3rd Avenue, Chula Vista, CA 91910 | (619) 746-6060 |
| Madge Bradley (Family) | 1555 6th Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101 | (619) 450-7100 |
| Kearny Mesa (Traffic) | 8950 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92123 | (619) 450-5700 |
| El Centro (Imperial Valley) | 939 W. Main Street, El Centro, CA 92243 | (442) 265-1050 |
Most San Diego Superior Court locations are open Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (clerks' windows). Court hearings typically begin at 8:30 a.m. The court is closed on California state holidays. Confirm hours with the specific courthouse before visiting as they can vary by division.
General civil cases (personal injury, contracts, property disputes) are filed at the courthouse serving the area where the defendant lives or the incident occurred. Cases involving $10,000 or less go to Small Claims Court (no attorney representation allowed). Unlimited Civil cases ($35,000+) are handled at Central, North County, East County, or South County divisions.
Criminal cases are assigned to the courthouse serving the geographic area where the crime allegedly occurred:
Family law cases (divorce, child custody, domestic violence restraining orders) are primarily handled at the Madge Bradley Building (Family Court) at 1555 6th Avenue in San Diego. North County family matters are handled at the Vista courthouse. San Diego Family Court Services (FCS) provides mandatory mediation for contested custody disputes before judicial hearings.
Probate, estate administration, guardianship, and conservatorship cases are handled at the Central Division. Probate hearings are held on specific calendar days — check with the clerk's office for the current schedule.
San Diego Superior Court participates in California's Odyssey e-filing system. Most civil, family, and probate documents can be filed electronically through approved e-filing service providers. The court's official e-filing portal is through Tyler Technologies' Odyssey File & Serve.
| Case Type | Initial Filing Fee |
|---|---|
| Unlimited Civil (over $35,000) | $435 |
| Limited Civil ($10,001–$35,000) | $225 |
| Small Claims (under $10,000) | $30–$75 depending on amount |
| Petition for Dissolution of Marriage | $435 |
| Response to Petition for Dissolution | $435 |
| Domestic Violence TRO (Petitioner) | No fee |
| Probate Petition | $435 |
Fee waivers are available for litigants who meet income guidelines (FW-001 form). The court cannot deny you access to justice due to inability to pay filing fees.
Small Claims Court allows individuals and businesses to resolve disputes up to $12,500 (individuals) or $6,250 (businesses) per case without an attorney. Landlord-tenant security deposit disputes, car damage claims, and consumer disputes are common small claims matters.
Filing locations mirror the Superior Court division structure — file at the division serving your geographic area. Small claims cases are typically heard within 30–70 days of filing.
San Diego Superior Court draws its jury pool from registered voters and licensed drivers in the county. Jurors report to the Central Courthouse (Hall of Justice) or to the courthouse for the division their case is assigned to. Juror pay is $15/day after the first day, plus mileage. Use the court's online portal to confirm, postpone, or request exemption from jury service.
San Diego Superior Court operates a Self-Help Center for unrepresented litigants at the Central Courthouse (1100 Union Street). Staff attorneys provide limited assistance with forms and procedures for family law, restraining orders, small claims, and landlord-tenant matters — but cannot give legal advice. The center is particularly busy; arrive early.
An experienced local attorney knows the San Diego Superior Court judges, clerks, and procedures. Get a free consultation today.
Find San Diego Attorneys Near YouThis article is for informational purposes only. Court procedures, fees, and hours change frequently. Verify all information directly with San Diego Superior Court at sdcourt.ca.gov. SDAttorneyFinder is not a law firm.