We understand that there is a lot of information in this guide and starting a civil lawsuit can be confusing at times. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us and we will direct you to resources that may be helpful.
Click here for hours and partner locations or contact us at refdesk@sdlawlibrary.org or 619-531-3900.
*Please note that reference librarians are unable to give legal advice.
Was this research guide helpful? Please consider giving a tax-deductible donation so we can continue to provide access to legal information.
Thank you for your support!
Legal Aid Society of San Diego - 1-877-534-2524
San Diego County Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service - (800) 464-1529
California Causes of Action - KFC 995.C35 (also available in Lexis and Lexis e-Book Digital Library)
California Elements of an Action - KFC1003.C35 (also available in Westlaw)
California Pleading and Practice - KFC 1010.A65 (also available in Lexis and Lexis e-Book Digital Library)
California Civil Procedure Before Trial - KFC 995.C34 (also available in CEB OnLaw)
California Practice Guide: Civil Procedure Before Trial - KFC 995.W4 (also available in Westlaw)
Represent Yourself in Court - KF8841.B47 - Ch. 3 (also available online in the NOLO database, here).
CEB Action Guide - Handling Claims Against Government Entities - KFC332 .C43 (also available in CEB OnLaw)
California Pretrial Practice and Forms - KFC995.K86 (also available in Lexis)
California Courts Self-Help - Before You Sue and Filing a Lawsuit
California Courts Civil Court Forms
Sacramento Law Library Guide on How to Start a Civil Lawsuit
San Diego Law Library Guides
Service of a Summons and Complaint
Service of Notice and Other Papers
Court Rules - How to Find Them at the San Diego Law Library
Case Management Process - Case Management
Intro and Overview - Writ of Administrative Mandamus Guide