Alpine County Superior Court
Overview of Alpine County Superior Court
History and establishment
The Alpine County Superior Court is the trial court of general jurisdiction for Alpine County, California. Alpine County was established in 1864 shortly after silver was discovered in the region. As one of California’s original 27 counties, Alpine County was required to establish a county superior court following statehood in 1850. The Alpine County Superior Court traces its origins back over 150 years to the early development of California’s court system.
In an effort to streamline the legal process and unify judicial responsibilities, on July 1, 1998, the separate entities of the Municipal and Superior Courts of Alpine County were combined to form one singular Superior Court.
As a superior court, it is part of the judicial branch of California’s government and operates under the authority of California’s court system and Judicial Council. The court hears felony criminal cases, civil cases exceeding $25,000, family law matters like divorce, and appeals from lower courts. Superior courts are California’s courts of general jurisdiction and the core of the state’s judicial system.
Jurisdiction and caseload
Given Alpine County’s small population of just over 1,000 residents, the Alpine County Superior Court has a very limited caseload compared to other superior courts in more populated counties. In recent years, the court has handled approximately 50 total filings annually, consisting primarily of civil cases and a small number of criminal felony and juvenile cases.
With only around 50 cases filed per year, judges and court staff are able to devote more time and attention to each case. The limited caseload also allows the court to resolve cases in a timely manner. However, resources are also much more restricted given the court’s small scale and remote location.
Alpine County Superior Court locations
The Alpine County Superior Court is headquartered at the Alpine County Courthouse located at 99 Water Street in the county seat of Markleeville, California. This historic courthouse built in 1911 is where all superior court proceedings take place. With Alpine County encompassing only around 700 square miles of rural mountainous terrain, this single courthouse location is sufficient to serve the entire county.
Location Details
The court is located at 14777 State Route 89, Markleeville, CA 96120. A historical landmark, this building is both a functional space and a symbol of Markleeville’s rich heritage.
Court Organization and Personnel
Judges of Alpine County Superior Court
The Alpine County Superior Court has only one sitting judge who oversees all court operations and proceedings. The position of superior court judge is an elected office with a term of six years. The current sole judge is Hon. David R. Adler, who has served on the bench since his election in 2018.
Given the small scale of the court, there are no commissioners, pro tem judges, or other judicial officers. The elected superior court judge handles all case assignments and presides over trials, hearings, arraignments, and other proceedings. The judge also has responsibility for the court’s administrative activities, budgets, policies, and procedures.
Alpine County Superior Court Court clerk and staff
All court clerical operations and day-to-day administration are overseen by the court executive officer/clerk Scott Wingo. The court clerk assists the judge, maintains court records, accepts filings, coordinates court calendars, and handles other essential clerical court functions.
In addition to the court clerk, the staff consists of only two deputy clerks given the court’s limited personnel needs. The small staff is responsible for providing customer service, processing paperwork, answering phones, and supporting core court administrative operations.
County counsel
Legal advice and representation for civil matters involving Alpine County are provided by the Office of the Alpine County Counsel. The county counsel serves as the attorney for the county government and advises county officials and departments on legal issues. The office has one attorney who handles the legal needs of the small rural county.
For criminal prosecutions, Alpine County relies on the Alpine County District Attorney’s office. The DA is responsible for reviewing law enforcement investigations and filing criminal charges on behalf of the state against individuals accused of committing crimes within the county.
Case Information and Filing
Case records and online access
Given its small size, the Alpine County Superior Court maintains case files and records manually rather than having an electronic case management system. The public can request to view case files directly at the courthouse, but files cannot leave the premises.
Many counties offer online court records access, but Alpine Court does not have an online portal or website to search or view case files remotely. The only way to get information on specific cases is through in-person file review at the courthouse clerk’s office.
Filing fees and waivers
To file a civil lawsuit in Alpine County Superior Court, plaintiffs must pay a standard filing fee based on the amount of damages sought. Fees range from $225 for cases under $10,000 up to $450 for cases over $25,000. Additional motion and appearance fees may also apply.
Low-income litigants who cannot afford filing fees may request a fee waiver from the court. The court evaluates fee waiver applications based on receipt of certain means-tested benefits or household income thresholds.
E-filing system
Unlike many county superior courts, the Alpine County Superior Court does not yet have an electronic filing (e-filing) system for the submission of case documents. All filings must be submitted in paper format directly through the court clerk’s office.
The lack of e-filing capabilities is due to the court’s limited financial resources and small caseload. However, transitioning to an electronic filing system remains a goal for improving efficiency and expanding access. The court is exploring options to implement basic e-filing functionality in the future.
Importance of Alpine County Superior Court
Imagine a town without its courthouse. It’s like a body without its beating heart, right? The Superior Court is crucial for the maintenance of law and order in Markleeville.
Scott W. Souers: Superior Court Judge
Behind every great institution are its dedicated individuals. And for our Superior Court, it’s Judge Scott W. Souers.
Background and Achievements
Though details about his early life remain reserved, what’s undeniable is the influence and respect Judge Souers commands in the courtroom.
Role and Responsibilities
As a Superior Court Judge, Souers dons multiple hats. From presiding over cases to ensuring the court’s smooth operation, his role is as diverse as it is significant.
Rick Meyer: Presiding Court Judge
Another stalwart of the Superior Court is Rick Meyer, the presiding judge.
His Journey to the Position
Becoming a presiding judge is no easy feat. It demands years of legal experience, a stellar track record, and an unwavering commitment to justice. And Judge Meyer possesses them all.
What a Presiding Judge Does
Ever wondered what’s different for a presiding judge? Well, they’re essentially the chief judicial officer of a court, overseeing its overall function and administration.
Court Services and Resources
Self-help and information services
Given its small scale and budget constraints, the Alpine County Superior Court has very limited self-help and information services available for the public. The court does not have a family law facilitator, self-help center, access center, or other assistance programs.
However, the court clerk is able to provide basic information and forms for common case types like divorces, small claims lawsuits, and restraining orders. Clerk staff will also answer general questions about court rules, procedures and filings to assist self-represented litigants.
Mediation and arbitration
To resolve disputes out of court, the Alpine County Superior Court makes mediation services available for child custody, visitation and some civil cases. Mediators are independent professionals who help parties negotiate settlement agreements. This can save time and costs compared to contested litigation.
The court may also refer civil lawsuits to non-binding arbitration overseen by an independent arbitrator. If dissatisfied with the arbitration outcome, parties can request a trial de novo before the court. However, this process often prompts a settlement.
Interpreters
Upon request, the Alpine County Superior Court provides interpreters for courtroom proceedings at no cost for parties with limited English proficiency. Spanish interpreters are most commonly requested given the region’s demographics. Other languages may require remote telephonic interpretation services.
Alpine County Superior Court Jury Duty and Selection
Jury summons and qualification
Residents of Alpine County may receive a jury summons in the mail ordering them to report for jury duty at the courthouse. Potential jurors must be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old, and proficient in English. Anyone with a felony conviction is disqualified.
When summoned, citizens have a civic obligation to report for jury selection unless they have a valid excuse or postponement. Employers are also required to provide time off for employee jury service.
Exemptions and excusals
Certain groups may request an excuse from jury service, such as active military, police, health care providers, and sole caregivers of dependents. In a small county like Alpine, exemptions are liberally granted if participation would impose undue hardship.
Citizens over age 70 can voluntarily excuse themselves from jury duty. Deferrals are also routinely granted for vacations, childcare issues, business travel, and students away at school.
Voir dire and selection
In the courtroom, potential jurors are questioned in a process called voir dire to evaluate their suitability to serve. The judge and attorneys ask about biases, hardships, and relevant experiences to choose fair and impartial jurors. Peremptory challenges allow final removal of jurors without cause.
Once the voir dire questioning is complete, the final panel of jurors is randomly selected and sworn in. 12 jurors are seated for felony criminal trials. The jury pool is much smaller in Alpine County, so selection may only take a few hours compared to multiple days in larger counties.
Specialty Courts and Programs
Drug court
Alpine County does not currently have an adult drug court program. These specialty courts provide supervised treatment and community resources as an alternative to incarceration for drug-related offenses. Smaller courts often lack the budget and caseload needed to operate a drug court.
Veterans treatment court
Similarly, Alpine County has not established a veterans treatment court. These courts assist military veterans charged with crimes by addressing Servicer elated trauma, substance abuse, mental health issues and other root causes. The county’s small veteran population makes operating a dedicated veterans court infeasible.
Traffic and DUI Court
Judges in Alpine County handle routine traffic infraction and misdemeanor DUI arraignments as part of the general court calendar. For those charged with DUI, the court orders installation of ignition interlock devices to prevent drunk driving. Jail time, fines, license suspension, and DUI classes may also be imposed.
Services Provided by Alpine County Superior Court
As the trial court for the county, the Alpine County Superior Court provides a variety of services. These include:
- Hearing civil lawsuits and small claims cases
- Conducting felony and misdemeanor criminal trials
- Processing traffic citations and infractions
- Handling family law matters like divorce, child custody disputes, and adoptions
- Probate proceedings for wills, trusts, conservatorships, and estates
- Issuing restraining orders
- Processing passport applications
- Providing court reporters
- Collecting fines and fees
- Civil Matters: The court handles the processing of civil filings and manages the proceedings related to civil dissolutions.
- Criminal Proceedings: All criminal proceedings, including the oversight of misdemeanors and felonies, fall under the jurisdiction of this court.
- Specialized Courts: The Superior Court is responsible for managing juvenile court cases, probate court matters, and the administration of the small claims court.
- Grand Jury Assistance: The court plays a vital role in aiding the Grand Jury with their proceedings.
- Infractions and Violations: The court deals with a variety of infractions including, but not limited to, traffic tickets, Fish and Game violations, and non-traffic related infractions.
This Superior Court plays an integral role in upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice is served within the Alpine County community.
The courthouse has staff available to help visitors access records, submit paperwork, find information, and more. Self-help resources are also available for certain case types.
Website for Alpine County Superior Court
The Alpine County Superior Court maintains a website with helpful information and resources. The website can be accessed at:
On this court website, you can find contact information, hours of operation, local rules and forms, online payment options, and more details on accessing services and records. Announcements and closures are also posted online.
Alpine County Superior Court Contact Information
- Alpine County Superior Court 99 Water Street Markleeville, CA 96120 Phone: (530) 694-2113
Address Details
You can reach the court via mail at P.O. Box 518, Markleeville, CA 96120.
Available Communication Channels
Apart from traditional mail, you can also reach the court via phone at 530-694-2113 or fax your queries to 530-694-2119.
So in summary, the Alpine County Superior Court is the smallest superior court in California, handling about 50 cases a year in the rural county. Operations are overseen by a single elected judge and a very small staff. The court lacks many of the services and technologies found in larger courts but continues to provide essential justice services to local residents.
Court Calendar and Schedules
Daily court calendars with scheduled hearings and trial dates are posted on the court website. The clerk’s office is open from 9 am to 12 pm and 1 pm to 4 pm, Monday through Friday. Individual departments like the traffic division may have different counter hours.
Online Services Offered by the Court
Through the website, you can pay traffic tickets, submit jury forms electronically, and request civil harassment restraining orders online. Court records can also be searched if you have a case number, party name, or are an attorney of record.
Accessing Court Records
Much of the information filed at the Alpine County Superior Court is available to the public. Here’s an overview of accessing records:
Public Records Available
Case files, calendars, and indexes are open for public viewing. You can search records online and access them in person at the clerk’s office if permitted. Exceptions include sealed or confidential cases.
Online Records Access
Limited civil, criminal, family law, and probate records can be searched on the case access portal on the court’s website. You’ll need specifics like the case number, party names, or attorney details to pull up records here.
Conclusion
Despite having the smallest population of any California county, the Alpine County Superior Court maintains a fully functioning court system for this remote mountain region. The court efficiently fulfills its role in providing justice through limited resources, a one-judge bench, and a small cohort of dedicated staff members. Simple processes allow the court to handle its small caseload effectively. While lacking some amenities of larger courts, the dedicated Alpine County Superior Court remains committed to serving local residents.
FAQs
Where is the Alpine County Superior Court located?
The sole courthouse location is in Markleeville, California, the county seat of Alpine County. It is located at 99 Water Street, Markleeville, CA 96120.
How many judges preside in the court?
There is only one sitting Superior Court Judge, Hon. David R. Adler, who oversees all court operations and proceedings.
What is the caseload per year?
Approximately 50 total cases are filed per year, including civil claims and a small number of criminal and juvenile cases.
What court services are available?
Limited services like mediation, interpreters, and self-help forms are available. But there are no specialty courts or innovative programs due to minimal resources.
Is electronic filing available?
No, e-filing is not yet available. The court still relies on paper filings submitted in person at the courthouse.
What types of cases does Alpine County Superior Court handle?
The court handles criminal cases, civil lawsuits, family law, juvenile cases, probate, mental health, and traffic matters arising within Alpine County. It is the trial court for general jurisdiction.
How can I access public records for the Alpine County Superior Court?
Many records can be searched and accessed through the court’s website. You can also contact the Clerk’s Office by phone or in-person to request copies of records. Fees may apply.
Where do jury trials take place for the Alpine County Superior Court?
Jury trials are held in the sole courtroom located inside the Alpine County Courthouse in Markleeville, California. Jury deliberations occur next door at the county library.
How can I file documents for my court case at Alpine County Superior Court?
You can file documents in-person at the clerk’s office, by mail, via an attorney, or using the court’s electronic filing system if eligible. Instructions and fees are on the website.
Who makes up the staff and leadership of Alpine County Superior Court?
The court has one judge, Hon. Donald E. Byrd, as well as a court executive officer, clerks, court reporters, bailiffs, court services staff, and other personnel who facilitate operations.
How do I pay a traffic ticket issued in Alpine County?
You can pay traffic fines online through the court’s website. Traffic school can also be requested electronically for eligible tickets.
What are the court hours for family law filings?
Family law documents can be submitted at the clerk’s office from 9am to 12pm and 1pm to 4pm, Monday through Friday.
Can I access my divorce records online?
Yes, you can view divorce cases online through the court’s portal if you have the case number and are listed on the case. Confidential information may be redacted.
What is the process for serving court paperwork?
You can hire a registered process server to serve documents in Alpine County. The sheriff’s office and clerk’s office may also be able to assist with service in some situations.
Where can I find civil forms to file a small claims case?
Civil and small claims forms approved for use in Alpine County Superior Court are available on the California Courts website. The clerk’s office may also provide forms.
The Alpine County Superior Court serves the smallest county in California but provides essential services and justice system access. The court’s location in Markleeville houses resources like the clerk’s office and self-help center to assist the public. By using the court’s website, you can get information, submit documents, and stay updated on the Alpine County Superior Court.
