Domestic Violence in Orange County: Which Court Handles Your Case?

Domestic Violence and Orange County Courts

Criminal domestic violence cases are filed at the justice center for the city where the incident occurred. PC 273.5 and 243(e)(1) carry mandatory minimums. Having an attorney who knows the local judges and prosecutors is critical.

• Central Justice Center (Santa Ana) — Santa Ana, Orange, Tustin, and Villa Park
• Harbor Justice Center (Newport Beach) — Newport Beach, Irvine, Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, Aliso Viejo, San Clemente, and the rest of south county
• North Justice Center (Fullerton) — Anaheim, Brea, Buena Park, Fullerton, La Habra, La Palma, Placentia, and Yorba Linda
• West Justice Center (Westminster) — Costa Mesa, Cypress, Fountain Valley, Garden Grove, Huntington Beach, Los Alamitos, Seal Beach, Stanton, and Westminster

Restraining Orders Are Heard at Lamoreaux

A domestic violence restraining order request is a separate family court case, heard at the Lamoreaux Justice Center in Orange for every city in the county. It can run at the same time as the criminal case, and what you say at the restraining order hearing can be used against you in the criminal case. See how to fight a restraining order.