Court procedures generally refers to the strict processes and procedures the parties to a civil lawsuit must follow during the pretrial, trial, and posttrial phases of civil litigation. These procedures are usually defined and set forth in detail in the applicable rules of civil procedure, rules of court, and local rules.
In California, court procedures for civil litigation are governed by the California Code of Civil Procedure, the California Rules of Court, and local rules specific to each county's superior court. These rules outline the processes for pretrial activities such as filing complaints, serving documents, discovery, and motions. During the trial phase, they dictate the presentation of evidence, witness examination, and jury instructions. Post-trial procedures include the filing of post-trial motions, the process for appeals, and the enforcement of judgments. Adherence to these procedures is crucial for the proper functioning of the legal process, and failure to comply can result in delays, sanctions, or dismissal of a case. It is important for parties involved in civil litigation to understand these rules or consult with an attorney to navigate the complexities of the legal system.