Contra Costa County Family Law Resource Guide
If you are facing a family law matter in Contra Costa County, it is essential to understand your local resources, courthouse location, and available support services. As a dedicated California family law firm, we have compiled this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the legal process with confidence.
Contra Costa County Family Law Courthouse
Spinetta Family Law Center
751 Pine Street
Martinez, CA 94553
Phone: (925) 608-1000
All family law paperwork must be filed at the Family Law Center in Martinez.
Court Records
If you need to obtain copies of court records, you can do so at the following location:
Court Records Department
1111 Ward Street
Martinez, CA 94553
The Court Records Department can assist with requests for copies of case files, judgments, and other official documents related to your family law matter.
Remote Appearances
Contra Costa County Superior Court offers options for remote appearances in many family law matters. Remote appearances can be conducted via video or telephone, allowing you to participate in hearings without coming to the courthouse.
How to Request a Remote Appearance:
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Check your hearing notice or contact the Family Law Clerk's Office to confirm if your hearing is eligible for remote appearance.
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Register for remote appearance in advance, following the instructions provided by the court.
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Make sure you have a reliable internet connection and a quiet location for your hearing.
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If you need technical assistance, contact the court before your hearing date.
Important:
Not all hearings are eligible for remote appearance. Some matters, such as trials or evidentiary hearings, may require in-person attendance. Always confirm with the court or your attorney.
Family Court Services (Mediation/Child Custody Recommending Counseling)
Family Court Services (FCS) provides free mediation appointments for parties involved in child custody or visitation disputes in Contra Costa County.
Family Court Services (FCS)
Spinetta Family Law Center
751 Pine Street
Martinez, CA 94553
Phone: (925) 608-2065
How Family Court Services Mediation Works
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If parents cannot agree on child custody or visitation, they must attend a Family Court Services mediation appointment before a judge can make any permanent orders regarding these issues.
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Mediation is confidential and focused on helping parents reach an agreement about how best to raise their children.
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The mediator is neutral and does not represent either party.
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Before mediation, parents must complete an online orientation and intake form at least five days prior to their appointment.
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During mediation, parents discuss parenting plans, including schedules and decision-making for their children.
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If there are allegations of domestic violence, parents may request separate mediation sessions for safety.
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If parents reach an agreement, it is submitted to the court for approval. If no agreement is reached, the mediator may provide a recommendation to the court regarding custody and visitation.
Family Law Facilitator's Office
The Family Law Facilitator's Office provides free procedural assistance to self-represented individuals in divorce, child custody, visitation, child support, spousal support, and paternity cases. They do not provide legal advice but can help with forms, procedural questions, and referrals.
Location:
Peter Spinetta Family Law Building
751 Pine Street, Martinez, CA 94553
Phone: (925) 608-2067
Live Chat and Voicemail available; check the court website for hours.
Key Services:
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Assistance with family law forms and court procedures
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Free interpretation services (request in advance)
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Information and referrals for additional support
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Online forms preparation
Note: You must not have an attorney to use the Self-Help Center or Family Law Facilitator's services.
Contact Us
If you need legal representation or have questions about your family law case in Contra Costa County, contact our experienced team today for a confidential consultation. We are here to guide you through every step of your family law matter.
