At Moore Family Law Group, we understand that navigating the court system for family law matters can be daunting. That’s why we’ve created this guide to help you understand the Orange County courthouses, with a particular focus on the Harbor Justice Center in Newport Beach. Whether you’re filing for divorce, seeking custody arrangements, or need information on court services, this guide provides essential details to streamline your experience.
The Orange County Superior Court handles a variety of family law cases, including divorce, custody, and support matters. The primary courthouse for these cases is the Lamoreaux Justice Center, located in Orange. However, for residents of Newport Beach and surrounding areas, the Harbor Justice Center also manages family law proceedings, offering a convenient local option. If you’re located in the Inland Empire, explore our services at our office in Corona.
Family Law Services at Newport Beach Courthouse
The Harbor Justice Center, located at 4601 Jamboree Road in Newport Beach, is a key facility within the Orange County courthouse system that handles family law cases. It features a dedicated family law department, specifically department H13, presided over by Judge/Commissioner Renee E. Wilson, where hearings for divorce, custody, and other family law matters are conducted.
While the Lamoreaux Justice Center serves as the main hub for family law filings and comprehensive services, the Harbor Justice Center provides local access to court proceedings for Newport Beach residents. This is particularly helpful for attending hearings or consulting court personnel without traveling to Orange.
Services at the Harbor Justice Center include hearings for divorce, legal separation, child custody, child support, spousal support, and domestic violence restraining orders. For detailed information on available services, we recommend contacting the court directly or visiting the Superior Court of California, County of Orange website.
Filing Procedures for Divorce and Custody
Filing for divorce or custody in Orange County requires submitting paperwork at the Lamoreaux Justice Center in Orange, the primary location for family law court system filings.
Below, we outline the steps to file for divorce and custody, ensuring you have the information needed to proceed confidently. For expert assistance with child custody services, Moore Family Law Group is here to guide you.
Filing for Divorce
To initiate a divorce in Orange County, follow these steps:
- Meet Residency Requirements: You must have lived in California for at least six months and in Orange County for at least three months before filing. This ensures eligibility to file in the Orange County courthouse.
- Prepare Necessary Forms: Complete the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage (FL-100), available at the California Courts Self-Help Center. Additional forms may be required based on your case, such as those for property division or child custody.
- File the Forms: Submit the original forms and two copies to the family law clerk at the Lamoreaux Justice Center, located at 341 The City Drive South, Orange, CA. A filing fee of $435 is required, though you can request a fee waiver if eligible.
- Serve Your Spouse: Have a third party or certified mail deliver copies of the filed documents to your spouse. This step is critical to proceed with the case.
- Await Response: Your spouse has 30 days to respond. If they do not, you may proceed with a default judgment, allowing the court to finalize the divorce.
Filing for Custody
To request custody or visitation orders, follow these steps:
- Check for an Existing Case: If you have an open family law case (e.g., divorce or paternity), file a Request for Order (FL-300) to request custody and visitation orders.
- Open a New Case if Needed: If no case exists, file a petition to establish parentage or another relevant action to open a case at the Lamoreaux Justice Center.
- Prepare and File Forms: Complete the Request for Order (FL-300) and any supporting declarations, available through the California Courts Self-Help Center.
- Serve the Other Parent: Ensure the other parent receives copies of the filed documents, either through a third party or certified mail.
- Attend the Hearing: The court will schedule a hearing where both parties can present their case. The judge will decide based on the child’s best interests, considering factors like safety and stability.
For detailed forms and instructions, visit the California Courts Self-Help Center. The Orange County courthouse system also offers a Self-Help Center at the Lamoreaux Justice Center to assist with form preparation and procedural guidance.
Contact and Hours of Operation
To help you plan your visit or inquiry, we’ve compiled the contact details and operating hours for the key courthouses handling family law court system matters in Orange County:
| Courthouse | Address | Hours | Phone | Services |
| Lamoreaux Justice Center | 341 The City Drive South, Orange, CA 92868-3205 | 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Mon-Fri | (657) 622-6069 | Main hub for family law filings and services |
| Harbor Justice Center | 4601 Jamboree Road, Newport Beach, CA 92660 | 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Mon-Fri | (657) 622-5400 | Family law hearings and local court access |
The Lamoreaux Justice Center is the primary location for filing divorce, custody, and other family law documents, offering comprehensive services like the Self-Help Center and Family Law Facilitator.
The Harbor Justice Center in Newport Beach provides a local venue for hearings, making it easier for residents to access the Newport Beach court system. For specific inquiries, contact the courthouses directly or visit the Superior Court of California, County of Orange website.
If you need expert legal support for your family law case, Moore Family Law Group is here to assist. With offices in Corona and Newport Beach, we provide personalized guidance to navigate the Orange County courthouse system. Learn more about our child custody services to ensure your family’s needs are met.
Conclusion
Navigating the family law court system in Orange County can be complex, but understanding the roles of the Lamoreaux Justice Center and Harbor Justice Center simplifies the process. The Lamoreaux Justice Center serves as the primary location for filing and managing family law cases, while the Harbor Justice Center offers convenient access for Newport Beach residents attending hearings.
By following the outlined filing procedures and leveraging available resources, you can effectively manage your case. For professional assistance, Moore Family Law Group stands ready to guide you through every step, ensuring the best possible outcome for your family.