Inyo County Family Court

Inyo County Superior Court handles family law cases for this Eastern Sierra region. The court processes divorce, legal separation, child custody, child support, and domestic violence restraining orders. The courthouse is in Independence at 168 N. Edwards Street. All family law filings must be submitted to the clerk's office at this location. The court serves a large geographic area including Lone Pine, Bishop, Big Pine, and Death Valley communities. Court staff can provide basic information about procedures and forms. They cannot give legal advice about your case or tell you what action to take. Family court records are kept at the courthouse and available for viewing during business hours with some restrictions on remote access under California court rules.

Superior Court Operations

Inyo County Superior Court operates one main courthouse in Independence. The address is 168 N. Edwards Street. This location handles all civil filings including family law matters. Court hours are Monday through Friday, generally 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The clerk's office may close for lunch. Call (760) 872-3038 to confirm current hours before making the trip.

The courthouse serves a very large geographic area. Many residents travel long distances to file papers or attend hearings. Plan ahead for travel time. Winter weather can affect access to Independence. Check road conditions during winter months if traveling from mountain areas.

Bring photo ID and all necessary paperwork when visiting the courthouse. The clerk's office processes filings, provides copies of documents, and answers basic procedural questions. Make copies before you arrive as copy services may be limited. The court accepts cash and checks for fees. Ask about other payment options when you call.

Filing Your Case

To file a family law case in Inyo County, complete the required forms for your case type. Dissolution of marriage requires form FL-100, a summons, and additional documents depending on your situation. Forms are available online through the California Courts website at www.courts.ca.gov/forms.htm. You can also request forms from the clerk's office.

Make multiple copies before filing. File the original with the court. Keep one copy for yourself. You need another copy for serving the other party. Take everything to the clerk's office in Independence during business hours. The filing fee is $435 for the first paper in most family law cases. Additional filings like motions cost $60 each.

Request a fee waiver if you cannot afford the filing fee. Form FW-001 is the fee waiver application. Attach proof of income and expenses. The court reviews applications and grants waivers to people who meet state income guidelines. Approved waivers cover filing fees but not service costs.

Service of process must occur after filing. You cannot serve papers yourself. Ask a friend, use a process server, or request service through the sheriff. The server must be over 18 and not a party to the case. Service must happen within 60 days of filing. File proof of service form FL-115 after the other party receives the papers. No further action can occur until proof of service is filed.

Note: At least one party must live in California for six months and in Inyo County for three months before filing for divorce.

Getting Help with Forms

Inyo County Superior Court provides basic assistance for self-represented litigants. Court staff can answer questions about procedures and point you to the right forms. They cannot give legal advice, tell you what to write on forms, or recommend what action to take. Staff can explain general court processes and filing requirements.

The court website is at www.inyo.courts.ca.gov. The site has contact information and links to resources. The California Courts Self-Help Center at www.courts.ca.gov/selfhelp.htm offers videos, instructions, and form help for many family law matters. All resources are free.

Legal aid may be available to Inyo County residents who meet income requirements. Legal Services of Northern California serves some rural counties in this region. Contact them to see if they can help with your family law issue. The State Bar of California lawyer referral service at 1-866-442-2529 can connect you with private attorneys for paid consultations.

Accessing Court Records

Family law case records are stored at the Inyo County courthouse in Independence. California law limits remote access to family court documents. You cannot view most case documents online. Visit the courthouse to see case files. The clerk's office can help you locate records using a case number or party names.

Some documents are confidential by law or court order. These cannot be viewed without permission. Ask the clerk if a document is available for public viewing. Bring photo ID when requesting access to court records. The clerk may ask about your relationship to the case before allowing access to certain files.

Copies cost 50 cents per page. Certified copies add $40 for the certification. You need certified copies for official purposes like proving divorce finalization or custody orders. Request copies at the clerk's window. Payment is required when you pick up copies. The court may be able to mail copies if you cannot return to the courthouse.

Legal Aid and Resources

Legal Services of Northern California may provide free legal help to eligible Inyo County residents. LSNC serves low-income people with family law issues. Call (916) 551-2150 to speak with an intake worker. They will ask about your income and legal problem to see if you qualify. Income limits are based on federal poverty guidelines and household size.

The State Bar of California operates a lawyer referral service that can connect you with attorneys who practice in Inyo County or nearby areas. Call 1-866-442-2529 for referral information. The first consultation costs up to $50 for 30 minutes. If you hire the attorney, normal fees apply. This is not free legal aid but provides access to attorneys at a reduced initial cost.

Domestic violence victims can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233. The hotline operates 24 hours a day and provides crisis support, safety planning, and referrals to local services. If you need immediate help, call 911. The court can issue emergency protective orders in domestic violence cases.

Nearby Counties

If you live near the Inyo County border, check which county has jurisdiction. You must meet residency requirements to file in a county.