Civil Cases Heard at New Courthouse

The new Palmdale Courthouse opened for business Monday, enabling many Antelope Valley residents to have their civil cases heard much closer to home.

Civil jury trials originating in the Antelope Valley currently are held in Los Angeles because of the overcrowded conditions at Antelope Superior Court in Lancaster, said Judge Frank Y. Jackson, supervising judge of the North District, which includes the Palmdale and Lancaster courthouses.

In addition to civil jury trials--which will not begin until the courthouse parking lot is completed in 30 to 45 days--the court will handle small claims, probate, unlawful detainer and family law.