Los Angeles County Court

Status as of 5/18/2020

On May 6, 2020 the Los Angeles County Court launched a new tool for online dispute resolution (ODR) on the Modria platform to help parents resolve child custody disputes without going to court. This announcement states in part, “Effective May 18, an attorney, or a parent who is self-represented or represented by an attorney, may initiate a negotiation invitation through the ODR program. The other party will then receive an email invite to participate. The other parent or attorney then has the option to provide a response. Once the parents agree on a plan, the ODR tool will generate a Parenting Plan Agreement, which the parents may file with the court via fax, U.S. mail or drop box outside the courthouse. If accepted, the plan becomes the order of the court.” For those unable to resolve the issues using the ODR program, they will be required to attend a Family Court Services mediation appointment at a future date.

On May 13, 2020 the Los Angeles County Court presiding Judge announced that all courts would remain closed until June 10, 2020 except for time sensitive essential functions, however, for courthouses that have been closed, the clerks office will not reopen until June 15, 2020 and hearings for all courthouses will not resume until June 22, 2020. This means that if you have a hearing scheduled prior to June 22, 2020, it will be continued. For now, documents at Stanley Mosk are still able to be filed by mail, fax, or via the drop boxes located at court entrances.

Upon reopening, with limited exceptions, face coverings will need to be worn by all judicial officers, employees, and all court visitors. Social distancing will be enforced, hand sanitizer and wipes will be provided at all entrances and high traffic areas, and there will be enhanced disinfectant cleaning of all areas such as restrooms, elevators, courtrooms, clerks offices etc.

For the most up to date information, please visit here.