Bill > AB515

This bill modifies the procedures for statements of decision in California superior court trials, making several key changes to how courts handle trial decisions. The bill requires that requests for a statement of decision (which explains the court's factual and legal reasoning) must now be made in writing or orally if an official transcript is being made, and before the matter is submitted for decision. The statement of decision must be served on all parties who appeared at the trial, and courts are now authorized to issue a written statement of decision even without a party's request. The bill introduces a new process for parties to file objections to the statement of decision within 10 days of service, with specific rules about how those objections are handled. Additionally, the bill extends the timeline for court clerks to enter judgments, giving them 30 days after the court's decision or 30 days after the statement of decision becomes final to enter the judgment. The Judicial Council is required to adopt new court rules and prepare forms to implement these changes. Notably, these provisions will not become operative until January 1, 2027, giving courts and legal professionals time to prepare for the new procedures.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB515