Stanley Mosk is the central court in Los Angeles County for civil cases. Thousands of cases are heard each year at the Hill Street courthouse. In addition, due to changes a few years ago, all personal injury cases are initially filed at Stanley Mosk. It is referred to as the personal injury hub.
Prior to February 2016, there were a few ways to file a case. One way -- the old fashion way -- was to walk it in and file it in person with the civil clerk in Room 102. A plaintiff could also file by mailing in the lawsuit, with a check for the filing fee. Finally, fax filing was an option as well. No more, however. Cases no longer can be filed by fax.
Personal injury cases can now be e-filed! It appears that e-filing may be rolled out for all civil cases, but as of now, it is limited to personal injury causes of action.
The technological change is welcomed. Los Angeles County falls behind Orange County and San Diego County with respect to e-filing. Los Angeles County certainly handles larger volumes of cases but one way to increase productivity and efficiency is to embrace technology.
Initiation of a personal injury case requires a complaint, summons, and cover sheet. A complaint is a legal document that contains the claims made against the defendant. It is meant to provide notice of why the plaintiff is seeking monetary damages. The summons is a procedural document that gives information as to the pending litigation against the defendant. It obligates the defendant to respond to the allegations made. The cover sheet helps the clerk determine where to assign the case.
If you or someone you know has a potential case, it is prudent to consult with a personal injury attorney. One should not e-file a case pro per unless they understand the ramifications of proceeding forward without representation.