Best Litigation Lawyers in Bakersfield, CA

Bakersfield, CA Litigation FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Bakersfield, California?

  The non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Bakersfield is 661-327-7111.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Bakersfield, California?

  You can get a copy of police reports through the following methods:

  • Online: Go to https://bakersfieldca.justfoia.com/publicportal/home/track
  • In-Person: Visit the Police Department Monday through Friday between the hours of 8 am and 3 pm.
  • Mail: Submit a written request to the Bakersfield Police Department at 1601 Truxtun Avenue, Headquarters, Bakersfield, CA 93301-5109.

• How much time does a defendant in a civil case in Bakersfield have to reply to a complaint?

  The defendant in a civil case in Bakersfield has 30 days from the date of service of the complaint to file a response, which can be either an answer or a demurrer. The initial exchange of legal arguments occurs at this stage, which also establishes the tone for the rest of the litigation.

• Can Bakersfield residents sue someone for unpaid debts?

  Yes, Bakersfield residents have the right to file a lawsuit against a person, company, or governmental body they believe owes them money. Small claims court is responsible for handling this, and there is a $10,000 or $5,000 cap on the amount that can be sued for by an individual. Before appearing in court, individuals may seek legal counsel from an attorney. However, when they attend court proceedings, they are generally not allowed to be accompanied by their lawyer.

• What happens if the defendant is absent from the small claims court hearing in Bakersfield?

  The small claims court in Bakersfield could hear and decide the matter without the defendant if they don't show up to the hearing. The judge may make a decision in the case without hearing the defendant's side of the argument unless they present, even though the plaintiff must still demonstrate what damages they are entitled to get from the defendant.

• Can defendants in Bakersfield request postponement of hearings in small claims court?

  Yes, defendants in Bakersfield civil litigation may ask for the postponement or continuance of a hearing in small claims court to a later time. They can prepare and submit a formal Request to Postpone Trial (Small Claims) (Form SC-150), which they must copy to the opposing party and file with the small claims court clerk. A minimum of 10 days before the trial, the request must be submitted.

• What reason is acceptable for the postponement of court hearings in Bakersfield?

  Hearings are typically postponed by the court in Bakersfield under the following circumstances:

  • The plaintiff fails to serve the defendant.
  • Insufficient time has elapsed for the defendant to be served before the hearing.
  • The defendant files a counterclaim, and the plaintiff wasn't served with it at least five days before the hearing.
  • The involved parties express a desire to pursue mediation or alternative dispute resolution.