Description
This collection contains historical court case files, minute
books, and supporting materials, dating from 1850-1910, from Los Angeles area courts
that have been placed on long-term deposit at the Huntington Library.
Background
The California Judiciary Act of 1851 established a court system that consisted of
District, County, and Justice of the Peace courts. Los Angeles was a part of a
district that also included San Bernardino and San Diego Counties. District courts
had jurisdiction in civil cases where the disputed value exceed two hundred dollars,
criminal cases, and probate disputes. The State Constitution 1879 replaced the
district system with Supreme Court, District Courts of Appeal, and Superior Courts
established for each county in the state. Justices of the peace and county justices
served in different city and county courts, including Justices courts and county
courts.
Extent
4,484 boxes + 541 bound volumes
Restrictions
The Huntington Library does not require that researchers request permission to
quote from or publish images of this material, nor does it charge fees for such
activities. The responsibility for identifying the copyright holder, if there is
one, and obtaining necessary permissions rests with the researcher.
Availability
Members of the general public may schedule appointments to view case files on-site
during regular Huntington business hours by e-mailing
readerregistration@huntington.org or by calling 626-405-2191. Access is granted for
one case file at a time. Please note: appointments are required to view material
from this collection and scheduling is subject to availability. Walk-ins are not
permitted. Researchers should identify court case numbers and other pertinent
information prior to making an appointment.