Mistakes happen in the course of a civil lawsuit. For example, a defendant may fail to respond to a lawsuit within the required time, resulting in a "default," which terminates the rights of the defendant to dispute the allegations. Or, a plaintiff may fail to respond to a defense motion, resulting in dismissal of the lawsuit. In this class, learn how to get back on track by asking a judge to "set aside" (or undo) defaults and other mistakes in California state courts.

A civil lawsuit starts with the filing and service of a written complaint; the defendant must then file an answer or other response. These are called pleadings, and they set the stage for all that comes afterward in the lawsuit. In this class, learn how to prepare, file, serve and respond to civil case pleadings in California state court.

 A motion is how you request that a court order someone to do something in your lawsuit. Motions are made to obtain many types of orders: to postpone a trial to a later date, to modify an order for child support, to get a judgment without going to trial, to get a rehearing or a new trial, or for sanctions when a party breaks the rules (just to name a few). A motion for any of these orders can have a huge impact on your case. This class is intended to give an overview of how motions work in California state court and the rules of procedure that apply to making, filing, serving and opposing motions.

Many people can't afford a lawyer to handle their legal issues, which can make child custody and support problems daunting. In this class, learn how courts determine who gets child custody, who pays child support and how child support is calculated, plus where to go when you need help or further information. Learning important fundamentals about custody and support can make your legal journey easier and more successful.

Even though the proceedings are simplified, going to small claims court can be intimidating. You have to know certain basic information to win your claim or defend against someone else's. This class provides information you need to go to small claims court with confidence. You will also learn about free resources available to help. Learning important legal fundamentals about small claims court can make your legal journey easier and more successful.