Lawyer Legion
Lawyer Legion
Home> California

Attorneys in California

Lawyer Legion California Information Center

Search Directory for Lawyers in California

Change your query below to search for lawyers in other areas. *results are limited to 250 per query

Lawyers by Practice Area

More Practice Areas

Board Certified Lawyers by Specialty

Lawyers by County

{FullName}

Best Attorneys in California

Lawyer Legion Top Picks for 2024

The following list was determined using a number of factors including both objective and subjective criteria. Lawyers were selected based on their career accomplishments, high profile and famous cases, professional involvement, community leadership, and board certifications. This list represents some of the most highly accomplished lawyers currently practicing in California, including criminal law, civil law, personal injury law and family law

When reviewing this list, please be aware of each of the following:

  • Lawyers cannot pay to be included in this list.
  • Only lawyers who are active on Lawyer Legion were selected.
  • It is impossible to accurately determine a statewide shortlist of attorneys who are actually “the best” at practicing law.
  • It is difficult to compare lawyers who practice in different areas of the law.
Bruce A Broillet
Bruce A Broillet
Personal Injury and Motor Vehicle Accidents Lawyer
Santa Monica, CA
View Profile
Craig Rene McClellan
Craig Rene McClellan
Personal Injury and Motor Vehicle Accidents Lawyer
San Diego, CA
View Profile
Gilbert Lynn Purcell
Gilbert Lynn Purcell
Personal Injury and Civil Trial Lawyer
Novato, CA
View Profile
Virginia Louise Landry
Virginia Louise Landry
Criminal Defense and DUI / DWI Lawyer
Laguna Hills, CA
View Profile
Jeremy Carl Brehmer
Jeremy Carl Brehmer
DUI / DWI Lawyer
Bakersfield, CA
View Profile
J. Lynn Gorelick
J. Lynn Gorelick
DUI / DWI and Criminal Defense Lawyer
Hayward, CA
View Profile
Cynthia Bernet McGuinn
Cynthia Bernet McGuinn
Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Lawyer
San Francisco, CA
View Profile
John Michael Goralka
John Michael Goralka
Estate and Probate Law and Tax Lawyer
Sacramento, CA
View Profile
Jacqueline Goodman
Jacqueline Goodman
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Fullerton, CA
View Profile
Daniel R Perlman
Daniel R Perlman
Criminal Defense and Marijuana Lawyer
Los Angeles, CA
View Profile
Jenny Lynn Doling
Jenny Lynn Doling
Bankruptcy Lawyer
Palm Desert, CA
View Profile
John Philip Blumberg
John Philip Blumberg
Medical Malpractice and Personal Injury Lawyer
Long Beach, CA
View Profile

More Noteworthy California Attorneys

California Legal Resources

Helpful Videos

Los Angeles Criminal Attorney Daniel R. Perlman on Fox News
Brand Video Bisnar Chase Personal Injury Attorneys
Tax Attorney Newport Beach - Daniel W. Layton, Esq.

Attorney Licensing in California

The State Bar of California - The State Bar of California enforces the bar rules that govern professional conduct. Approved by the California Supreme Court, the bar rules are binding upon all lawyers licensed to practice in California. One of the first states to unify its bar and make it mandatory, California requires all attorneys licensed to practice law must belong to the State Bar of California, sometimes called the "California Bar Association."

California Bar Associations and Legal Organizations

CLA - California Lawyers Association - The California Lawyers Association (CLA) is a nonprofit, voluntary organization that acts as the home for the Sections of the State Bar of California and the California Young Lawyers Association. As an organization independent from the State Bar of California, the California Lawyers Association (CLA) is focused on the professional advancement of attorneys practicing in the state of California. The CLA is a powerful network of 100,000 members.
CAOC - Consumer Attorneys of California - The CAOC is a nonprofit professional association for attorneys who focus on personal injury, wrongful death, and product safety. Founded in 1961, the Consumer Attorneys of California is an organization that provides resources and education to lawyers practicing in civil courts throughout California. The CAOC is also an advocacy organization that opposes legislation that would limit access to the civil courts.
CACJ - California Attorneys for Criminal Justice - The California Attorneys for Criminal Justice (CACJ) was formed in 1973 and is the country's largest statewide organization of criminal defense lawyers . The CACJ works to defend the rights and due process of the accused while providing quality continuing legal education to its members. Since strengthening its presence in the California State Capitol, CACJ provides the criminal defense bar with a more unified voice on legislative matters.
ACAL - Academy of California Adoption-ART Lawyers - The ACAL is an invitation-only society of family formation law attorneys who are licensed to practice law in California and have demonstrated extensive experience in adoption law and assisted reproduction (ART) cases. Members of the Academy of California Adoption-ART Lawyers practice with the highest standards of ethics and professional competence in this area of law.
ABTL - Association of Business Trial Lawyers - The ABTL is a nonprofit professional organization of lawyers practicing in the areas of business law and commercial litigation across California. The mission of the ABTL is to promote competence, excellence and professionalism within this area of practice. The Association of Business Trial Lawyers has five chapters across the state in Los Angeles, Northern California, San Diego, Orange County and the San Joaquin Valley.
CAAA - California Applicants’ Attorneys Association - The CAAA is a nonprofit professional association that serves California's injured workers and the attorneys who represent them in workers' compensation cases. The California Applicants' Attorneys Association's goals are to provide fair compensation benefits to injured workers and their families. The organization also advocates for gender equality, immigrant rights, and government accountability in workers' compensation cases.
CLA - California Lawyers for the Arts - The CLA is a professional association of lawyers who represent artists with intellectual property law, business law and contracts. Founded in 1974, the California Lawyers for the Arts provides resources and education to attorneys while advocating for the best interest of the artistic community. The organization assists the public with mediation services and referrals to attorneys while advocating for the best interests of artists and innovators.
CDLA - California DUI Lawyers Association - The California DUI Lawyers Association (CDLA) was founded in 1989. Attorneys in the CDLA promote the rights of the accused to encourage a fair criminal justice system with a focus on DUI charges. The CDLA uses its influence to advocate for legislative changes in the criminal justice system. The California DUI Lawyers Association (CDLA) is an affiliate of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL) and the DUI Defense Lawyers Association (DUIDLA).
ACFLS - Association of Certified Family Law Specialists - The ACFLS is an independent nonprofit organization of lawyers who have earned board certification as a family law specialist by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization. The organization is dedicated to preserving and improving the practice of family law while promoting board certification for the specialty area of family law and family relations law. The ACFLS is made up of some of the best family law attorneys practicing in the state of California.
CELA - California Employment Lawyers Association - The CELA is a nonprofit association of lawyers representing plaintiffs in employment law cases against their employers. Many of California's top employment law attorneys are members. The California Employment Lawyers Association (CELA) is an affiliate of the National Employment Lawyers Association (NELA). The organization provides education and resources to practicing attorneys while advocating for labor issues that are in the interest of workers across California.
California Bar Rules for Lawyer Advertising - The State Bar of California has established stringent advertising rules for legal professionals. These guidelines aim to ensure transparency, accuracy, and ethical standards in attorney advertising. Attorneys must avoid misleading statements, uphold confidentiality, and provide verifiable information about their credentials. These regulations foster consumer protection and maintain the integrity of legal advertising within the state.
Lawyer Referral Services in California - Find a list of Lawyer Referral Services offered at the local and county level in California. These programs are certified by The State Bar of California as LRS. Many of the most popular Lawyer Referral Services are managed by County-level bar associations. Others are managed by local and regional bar associations. To qualify, the services must conform with the standards adopted by the California Supreme Court in Section 6155 of the Business and Professions Code.
Legal Associations in California - Find a comprehensive list of bar associations and legal organizations in California, including local and county bar associations, multicultural bar associations, and practice area-specific specialty legal associations. These nonprofit organizations help shape policy at the state and local level and work to improve the legal profession. They also provide education and resources to lawyers practicing in certain areas of law and/or jurisdictions in California.

County Level Bar Associations in California

LACBA - Los Angeles County Bar Association - The LACBA is one of the largest voluntary bar associations in California and the United States. The Los Angeles County Bar Association serves over 20,000 legal professionals throughout their career, providing lawyers with education and resources to assist their practice. The organization has a long history of public service in and around Los Angeles County such as pro bono services and public awareness campaigns.
SDCBA - San Diego County Bar Association - The SDCBA is a nonprofit professional association of lawyers practicing in San Diego County, California. The organization provides resources and education to attorneys to improve their practice. The San Diego County Bar Association provides a Lawyer Referral Service (LRS) to assist the public with finding a qualified attorney to handle their case. The organization also advocates for issues that are important to the local community in San Diego.
OCBA - Orange County Bar Association - The OCBA is a professional organization for lawyers in the community of Orange County, CA. The Orange County Bar Association encourages growth within its members and involvement in the community of Orange County. The association strives to enhance the justice system, support the lawyers serving it, and aid the community served by it. The OCBA also assists the public with finding a lawyer through their Lawyer Referral Service (LRS).

Multicultural Bar Associations in California

California Association of Black Lawyers (CABL) - The CABL is a nonprofit professional association representing over 6,000 African-American attorneys, judges, law professors and law students. The mission of the California Association of Black Lawyers is to advance equality and reform the laws to improve the administration of justice. The association challenges inequalities in the legal system and works to assist their members by providing education and resources.
California Women Lawyers (CWL) - The CWL is a non-profit organization that promote and advocate for the professional advancement of women lawyers. Membership among California Women Lawyers includes lawyers, educators, judges and students. Founded in 1974, the mission of the organization is to advance women in the profession of law, improve the administration of justice and to eliminate inequalities based on gender.
La Raza Lawyers of California - California La Raza Lawyers Association is an independent unincorporated association of lawyers supporting Chicano and Latino attorneys practicing in California. The organization is an affiliate of the Hispanic National Bar Association and represents over 2,000 attorneys practicing across the state. The organization's members include lawyers, judges, law students, and other legal professionals.

State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization (CBLS)

California Board of Legal Specialization (CBLS) - The State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization (CBLS) includes eleven areas of specialization certified directly by the State Bar of California with an additional eleven areas certified by five different national organizations that have been accredited by the American Bar Association. One of the goals of the CBLS is to give consumers another tool to use in selecting an attorney. The Standards for Certification in each specialty area was adopted by the Board of Governors.

Specialty Areas

Admiralty and Maritime Law - Admiralty and Maritime Law is the practice of law dealing with substantive and procedural aspects of the law that governs vessels, navigation, and shipping. The term "admiralty and maritime law" also includes personal injury claims, marine pollutions, and much more. Attorneys in California who are board-certified specialists have demonstrated dedication and experience in the field of Admiralty and Maritime Law.
Appellate Law - Attorneys who are board certified in Appellate Law by The State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization have demonstrated significant knowledge and experience in the areas of civil and criminal appeals. Lawyers represent people throughout the appellate law process in both state and federal appellate courts, including the California Court of Appeals, the Federal Court of Appeals, the California Supreme Court, or the United States Supreme Court.
Bankruptcy Law - Bankruptcy Law is under the jurisdiction of the federal government, and bankruptcy matters are heard in federal court. There are both national and state-specific certifications. In California, the board certification for bankruptcy law is awarded by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization (CBLS). The bankruptcy attorney must demonstrate substantial involvement in the practice of bankruptcy law to earn the board-certified specialist distinction.
Criminal Law - In California, attorneys can become certified as a Criminal Law Specialist by the State Bar of California's Board of Legal Specialization (CBLS). Board-certified attorneys include criminal defense attorneys in private practice, public defenders, or prosecutors. These attorneys work within the criminal justice system at the local, state, or federal level.
Estate Planning, Trust and Probate Law - For California's Board Certification program the term "estate planning, trust, and probate law" is the practice of law that includes multiple areas, for instance, creating a will or trust, and protecting assets. A trust and estate attorney who applies for board certification in California must demonstrate that within the specified period he or she has been substantially involved in the practice of estate planning, trust, and probate law. Furthermore, an attorney who is a certified specialist has demonstrated proficiency in this specialized field of law.
Family Law - Only attorneys board certified in family law can advertise or identify themselves as "certified specialists" or "board certified" in California for that field. Furthermore, the board certification for family law is awarded by the CBLS. A certified family law specialist has experience performing various types of legal matters (e.g., marital settlement agreements, legal separation dissolution, etc.)
Franchise and Distribution Law - An attorney who is a franchise and distribution law specialist assists their clients with the operation of their franchise, general business issues, and problems that come up when looking to buy or sell a franchise. Furthermore, a board-certified specialist lawyer has met the rigorous requirements of the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization (CBLS), such as passing the legal specialist examination, demonstrate substantial involvement, and complete continuing education requirements.
Immigration Law - An immigration specialist is an attorney who has been board certified by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization (CBLS). He or she has demonstrated substantial involvement in the practice of immigration law. The immigration system is extraordinarily complex with many difficult issues, therefore, it is important that an attorney has an understanding of it. Immigration Specialists have met the rigorous application requirements by passing exams, demonstrating experience, and participating in the field amongst other requirements.
Legal Malpractice - Legal malpractice lawyers represent the clients in lawsuits against their former attorneys. In the state of California, an attorney can become specialized in the field of Legal Malpractice. The board certification for legal malpractice law is awarded by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization (CBLS). An attorney seeking certification in legal malpractice must demonstrate that during the specified time period he or she has been substantially involved in the practice area.
Taxation Law - Board certification attorneys are highly qualified attorneys who have met many requirements such as passing the legal specialist examination, demonstrate substantial involvement, and completed continuing education. Tax laws are changing every year, a specialist must understand the changes that are made to any regulations. A tax specialist is required to demonstrate involvement in the practice of taxation law and this can include handling individual income tax, real estate income tax, and/or corporate income tax.
Workers' Compensation Law - Worker’s compensation is a system designed to manage workplace injuries. Attorneys that focus on workers' compensation law involves employees' rights, employers' defenses, and benefits provided for workplace accidents. Workers' compensation law includes activities before the state administrative agencies that regulate workers' compensation claims, as well as jury trials and appellate practice. An attorney seeking board certification in Worker's Compensation Law must demonstrate that within the applicable time period the attorney has substantially involved in the specialty practice area of the law.

Law Schools in California

California Western School of Law - California Western School of Law is an ABA-approved law school located in San Diego, California. Founded in 1924, California Western School of Law is a Private school with approximately 676 students currently enrolled. The Juris Doctor or J.D. is the degree program offered for law students wishing to enter the legal profession and pass the bar exam to become licensed to practice law. View the Lawyer Legion profile and browse the alumni directory for this law school to learn more.
Chapman University Dale E. Fowler School of Law - Chapman University Dale E. Fowler School of Law is an ABA-approved law school located in Orange, California. Founded in 1995, Chapman University Dale E. Fowler School of Law is a Private school with approximately 460 students currently enrolled. The Juris Doctor or J.D. is the degree program offered for law students wishing to enter the legal profession and pass the bar exam to become licensed to practice law. View the Lawyer Legion profile and browse the alumni directory for this law school to learn more.
Golden Gate University School of Law - Golden Gate University School of Law is an ABA-approved law school located in San Francisco, California. Founded in 1901, Golden Gate University School of Law is a Private school with approximately 489 students currently enrolled. The Juris Doctor or J.D. is the degree program offered for law students wishing to enter the legal profession and pass the bar exam to become licensed to practice law. View the Lawyer Legion profile and browse the alumni directory for this law school to learn more.
Loyola Law School - Loyola Law School is an ABA-approved law school located in Los Angeles, California. Founded in 1920, Loyola Law School is a Private school with approximately 1027 students currently enrolled. The Juris Doctor or J.D. is the degree program offered for law students wishing to enter the legal profession and pass the bar exam to become licensed to practice law. View the Lawyer Legion profile and browse the alumni directory for this law school to learn more.
Pepperdine University Rick J. Caruso School of Law - Pepperdine University Rick J. Caruso School of Law is an ABA-approved law school located in Malibu, California. Founded in 1971, Pepperdine University Rick J. Caruso School of Law is a Private school with approximately 492 students currently enrolled. The Juris Doctor or J.D. is the degree program offered for law students wishing to enter the legal profession and pass the bar exam to become licensed to practice law. View the Lawyer Legion profile and browse the alumni directory for this law school to learn more.
Santa Clara University School of Law - Santa Clara Law is an ABA-approved law school located in Santa Clara, California. Founded in 1912, Santa Clara University School of Law is a Private school with approximately 707 students currently enrolled. The Juris Doctor or J.D. is the degree program offered for law students wishing to enter the legal profession and pass the bar exam to become licensed to practice law. View the Lawyer Legion profile and browse the alumni directory for this law school to learn more.
Southwestern Law School - SW Law is an ABA-approved law school located in Los Angeles, California. Founded in 1911, Southwestern Law School is a Private school with approximately 805 students currently enrolled. The Juris Doctor or J.D. is the degree program offered for law students wishing to enter the legal profession and pass the bar exam to become licensed to practice law. View the Lawyer Legion profile and browse the alumni directory for this law school to learn more.
Stanford Law School - Stanford Law is an ABA-approved law school located in Stanford, California. Founded in 1893, Stanford Law School is a Private school with approximately 567 students currently enrolled. The Juris Doctor or J.D. is the degree program offered for law students wishing to enter the legal profession and pass the bar exam to become licensed to practice law. View the Lawyer Legion profile and browse the alumni directory for this law school to learn more.
University of California Berkeley School of Law - Berkeley Law is an ABA-approved law school located in Berkeley, California. Founded in 1894, University of California Berkeley School of Law is a Public school with approximately 986 students currently enrolled. The Juris Doctor or J.D. is the degree program offered for law students wishing to enter the legal profession and pass the bar exam to become licensed to practice law. View the Lawyer Legion profile and browse the alumni directory for this law school to learn more.
University of California Davis School of Law - UC Davis Law is an ABA-approved law school located in Davis, California. Founded in 1965, University of California Davis School of Law is a Public school with approximately 592 students currently enrolled. The Juris Doctor or J.D. is the degree program offered for law students wishing to enter the legal profession and pass the bar exam to become licensed to practice law. View the Lawyer Legion profile and browse the alumni directory for this law school to learn more.
University of California Hastings College of the Law - University of California Hastings College of the Law is an ABA-approved law school located in San Francisco, California. Founded in 1878, University of California Hastings College of the Law is a Public school with approximately 945 students currently enrolled. The Juris Doctor or J.D. is the degree program offered for law students wishing to enter the legal profession and pass the bar exam to become licensed to practice law. View the Lawyer Legion profile and browse the alumni directory for this law school to learn more.
University of California Irvine School of Law - UCI Law is an ABA-approved law school located in Irvine, California. Founded in 2009, University of California Irvine School of Law is a Public school with approximately 519 students currently enrolled. The Juris Doctor or J.D. is the degree program offered for law students wishing to enter the legal profession and pass the bar exam to become licensed to practice law. View the Lawyer Legion profile and browse the alumni directory for this law school to learn more.
University of California Los Angeles School of Law - UCLA Law is an ABA-approved law school located in Los Angeles, California. Founded in 1949, University of California Los Angeles School of Law is a Public school with approximately 975 students currently enrolled. The Juris Doctor or J.D. is the degree program offered for law students wishing to enter the legal profession and pass the bar exam to become licensed to practice law. View the Lawyer Legion profile and browse the alumni directory for this law school to learn more.
University of La Verne College of Law - Law Verne Law is an ABA-approved law school located in Ontario, California. Founded in 1970, University of La Verne College of Law is a Private school with approximately 288 students currently enrolled. The Juris Doctor or J.D. is the degree program offered for law students wishing to enter the legal profession and pass the bar exam to become licensed to practice law. View the Lawyer Legion profile and browse the alumni directory for this law school to learn more.
University of San Diego School of Law - USD School of Law is an ABA-approved law school located in San Diego, California. Founded in 1954, University of San Diego School of Law is a Private school with approximately 742 students currently enrolled. The Juris Doctor or J.D. is the degree program offered for law students wishing to enter the legal profession and pass the bar exam to become licensed to practice law. View the Lawyer Legion profile and browse the alumni directory for this law school to learn more.
University of San Francisco School of Law - USF Law is an ABA-approved law school located in San Francisco, California. Founded in 1912, University of San Francisco School of Law is a Private school with approximately 400 students currently enrolled. The Juris Doctor or J.D. is the degree program offered for law students wishing to enter the legal profession and pass the bar exam to become licensed to practice law. View the Lawyer Legion profile and browse the alumni directory for this law school to learn more.
University of Southern California Gould School of Law - USC Gould is an ABA-approved law school located in Los Angeles, California. Founded in 1896, University of Southern California Gould School of Law is a Private school with approximately 590 students currently enrolled. The Juris Doctor or J.D. is the degree program offered for law students wishing to enter the legal profession and pass the bar exam to become licensed to practice law. View the Lawyer Legion profile and browse the alumni directory for this law school to learn more.
University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law - University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law is an ABA-approved law school located in Sacramento, California. Founded in 1924, University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law is a Private school with approximately 516 students currently enrolled. The Juris Doctor or J.D. is the degree program offered for law students wishing to enter the legal profession and pass the bar exam to become licensed to practice law. View the Lawyer Legion profile and browse the alumni directory for this law school to learn more.
Western State College of Law at Westcliff University - Western State College of Law is an ABA-approved law school located in Irvine, California. Founded in 1966, Western State College of Law at Westcliff University is a Private school with approximately 231 students currently enrolled. The Juris Doctor or J.D. is the degree program offered for law students wishing to enter the legal profession and pass the bar exam to become licensed to practice law. View the Lawyer Legion profile for this law school to learn more.

California Government and Court Resources

California Attorney General

California Attorney General - California's Office of the Attorney General was created in 1850. The Attorney General oversees lawyers, officers, investigators, and law enforcement agencies. The responsibilities and duties are detailed in California's Constitution and state government codes. Also, the Officer is the head of the Department of Justice. Under the state Constitution, some of the responsibilities include safeguarding the public from criminals, support criminal investigations, and much more. One of the missions of the Attorney General's Office is to enforce and apply all of California's laws fairly and impartially.
Rob Bonta
Rob Bonta
34th Attorney General of California

California Attorney General's Office
350 McAllister Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
Phone: 916-210-6276

California Department of Social Services

California Department of Social Services - The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) is responsible for administering and overseeing a wide range of social service programs aimed at supporting the well-being and economic security of individuals and families throughout the state. CDSS manages programs such as foster care and adoption services, child welfare services, adult protective services, refugee assistance, childcare licensing, and various programs for individuals experiencing homelessness. The department's key responsibilities include providing essential support, advocacy, and resources to promote self-sufficiency, protect vulnerable populations, and enhance the quality of life for Californians in need.

California Judicial Branch

California Judicial Branch - In 1926, the Judicial Branch was created by the constitutional amendment. The power to govern is divided into the executive, legislative and judicial branches. Additionally, the power of the judicial branch is given to the Supreme Court, Courts of Appeals, and superior courts. The judicial branch interprets the laws of the State of California, protects the rights of individuals, "provides for the orderly settlement of disputes between parties in controversy," and determines the guilt or innocence of those accused of violating the laws.

California Labor & Workforce Development Agency

California Labor & Workforce Development Agency - The California Labor & Workforce Development Agency oversees and coordinates various departments and entities related to labor and workforce development in the state. Its primary duties encompass the promotion of a fair and efficient labor market, ensuring compliance with labor laws, and advancing workforce development initiatives. The agency focuses on enforcing labor laws to protect workers' rights, including wage and hour regulations, occupational safety, and health standards. Additionally, it supports workforce development programs, job training, and employment services to enhance job opportunities and skill development for Californians.

California Office of the State Public Defender

California Office of the State Public Defender - The Office of the Public Defender in California is a pivotal force for justice, providing expert legal representation to underserved individuals. With a dedicated team of defense attorneys, it ensures equitable trials and upholds the principle that quality legal advocacy is a fundamental right for everyone, regardless of their circumstances. By championing fairness, the office contributes significantly to the integrity of the legal system and the protection of constitutional rights.

California State Legislature

California State Legislature - The California State Assembly is the governing body responsible for making laws and overseeing the state's policies. It is a bicameral institution, comprising the State Assembly, which has 80 members serving two-year terms, and the State Senate, consisting of 40 members with four-year terms. The Legislature convenes to propose, debate, and pass legislation on a wide range of issues, including education, healthcare, transportation, and the state budget. Its primary duties involve crafting and passing laws that shape the governance and well-being of California.

Supreme Court of California

Supreme Court of California - California's Supreme Court is the state's highest court, consisting of one chief justice and six associate justices. The chief justice and the associate justices are appointed or nominated by the Governor. California's Constitution gives the Supreme Court of California jurisdiction in all cases imposing capital punishment within the state. It also has the authority to review decisions by the California Courts of Appeals and by the Public Utilities Commission (Cal. Const., art. VI, § 11). The court chooses cases that address legal matters that are significant and relevant in the state.
Patricia Guerrero
Patricia Guerrero
29th Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of California

Supreme Court of California
350 McAllister Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
Phone: 415-865-7000

Federal Courts in California

United States District Court - Central District of California - Active members who are in good standing of the Bar of California can apply for admission to the Bar of the United States District Court Central District of California. There are twenty-eight (28) judicial positions in the Court. It serves people in southern and central California. The United States District Court Central District of California is one of ninety-four (94) United States District Courts. Additionally, the court has original jurisdiction over civil and criminal cases that fall under federal law.
United States District Court - Eastern District of California - The Eastern District of California was formed on September 18, 1966. It is part of the Ninth Federal Circuit, and it expands north to south from the Oregon border to the Tehachapis and from west to east from the Coastal Range to the Nevada border. The district's headquarters is at the Sacramento Courthouse Office. They strive to provide "public safety and the fair administration of justice through professional and progressive" actions.
United States District Court - Northern District of California - On September 28, 1850, the United States District Court for the Northern District of California was established. The court obtained its first courthouse five years later. Before the establishment of the United District Courts for the Eastern and Central Districts of California, the court had influence in the Central Valley and the eastern mountainous regions of the state. Currently, the court encompasses fifteen (15) counties, it has four (4) courthouses, fourteen (14) district judgeships, and twelve (12) magistrate judgeships.
United States District Court - Southern District of California - The Southern District Court encompasses the counties of Imperial and San Diego. The court is one of four (4) federal district courts in California. There are thirteen (13) judicial positions, the district has three courthouses in San Diego and one in El Centro. Additionally, the court tackles civil and criminal matters that fall under federal laws. The criminal division of the Southern District is organized into six sections; appellate, major crimes, organized crime drug enforcement task force, fraud and public corruption, national security and cybercrimes, and the forfeiture and financial litigation unit.

Overview of California Law

The California Codes make up California’s state laws, currently there are 29 codes enacted by California State Legislature. Below are the codes currently in effect by the California State Legislature:

  • California Constitution – CONS
  • Business and Profession Code – BPC
  • Civil Code – CIV
  • Code of Civil Procedure – CCP
  • Commercial Code – COM
  • Corporations Code – CORP
  • Education Code – EDC
  • Elections Code – ELEC
  • Evidence Code – EVID
  • Family Code – FAM
  • Financial Code – FIN
  • Fish and Game Code – FGC
  • Food and Agriculture Code – FAC
  • Government Code – GOV
  • Harbors and Navigation Code – HNC
  • Health and Safety Code – HSC
  • Insurance Code – INS
  • Labor Code – LAB
  • Military and Veterans Code – MVC
  • Penal Code – PEN
  • Probate Code – PROB
  • Public Contract Code – PCC
  • Public Resources Code – PRC
  • Public Utilities Code – PUC
  • Revenue and Taxation Code – RTC 
  • Streets and Highways Code – SHC
  • Unemployment Insurance Code – UIC
  • Vehicle Code – VEH
  • Water Code – WAT
  • Welfare and Institutions Code – WIC

Common Questions & Answers

How long does the Governor in California have to sign a bill?

After receiving a bill, the Governor has 12 days to sign, approve without signing, or veto a bill. However, if the bill was submitted to the Governor when the annual winter recess is near, the Governor has 30 days to sign the bill into law, allow it to become law without their signature, or to veto it. A Governor’s veto can be overridden by a two-thirds vote in each house. If the bill is signed or is allowed to come into law without the governor’s signature, it goes to the Secretary of State to be chaptered. 

What does California’s Legislative Branch do?

The Legislative Branch of California State Government consist of the State Senate, State Assembly, and various other departments. The State Senate is made up of 40 members and the State Assembly is made up of 80 members. Members of the State Senate are elected for a four-year term while State Assembly are elected two-year term limit.   

How is California State government structured?

The California State government is composed of three branches: the executive, the legislative, and the judicial branch. The executive branch consists of appointed officers and offices, such as the Governor of California, the legislative branch consists of the State Legislature which includes the State Senate and the State Assembly. Finally, the judicial branch consists of the Supreme Court of California and lower courts. 

California state also has local governments which consist of counties, cities, districts, and other government entities and offices. There are 58 counties and 482 incorporated cities. The counties and incorporated cities have the power to provide services to their residents and to enact local ordinances such as city codes and county codes. 

California Information Center
Directory Top Picks Resources Overview

Suggest an Edit

Thanks, your suggestion has been sent to our support team
loading...
Saving...