Mariposa County, California is situated in the western foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, and is north of Fresno, east of Merced, and southeast of Stockton. The eastern section of Mariposa county makes up the central portion of Yosemite National Park. According to the 2010 census, Mariposa County is home to 18,251 residents. 

There are no incorporated cities, although there are some communities that are recognized as census designated locations for statistical purposes. The county seat is Mariposa, and as an interesting fact, there are no permanent traffic lights located anywhere within the county.

Although Mariposa County was once California’s largest county, the land was parceled out over time to form all or part of twelve other counties. Because of this, Mariposa County is commonly referred to as the “Mother of Counties.” The county is named for a large cluster of butterflies found in the Sierra foothills, and the first weekend in May marks the annual arrival of migrating monarch butterflies. The residents of Mariposa County hold Butterfly Days, which consists of a festival and parade.

Due to the fact that there are no incorporated cities, and no traffic lights, most of the residents of Mariposa County live in rural areas. There are various opportunities for outdoor recreation as the county is made up of hills and alpine-like mountains. Mariposa County frequently hosts outdoor festivals. The courthouse is the oldest courthouse still in use in California, and features a tower and bell which chimes every hour, on the hour. 

Information About the Legal System in Mariposa County, CA

As with most counties in California, Mariposa County maintains a Superior Court system. This court essentially has general jurisdiction, and handles both civil and criminal cases. They hear and determine any civil or criminal case not specifically designated to be heard in some other court, or before a governmental agency. Superior courts are the lowest level of state courts in California, and hear cases involving everything from traffic violations to mental health issues.

Mariposa County most commonly handles the following cases:

• Collections;
• Criminal Law;
• Family and Juvenile Law;
• Probate, Conservatorship, and Guardianship;
• Small Claims; and
• Traffic violations.

Under California law, the amount in controversy may also help determine which court will hear your case. For example, the following is a list of courts as organized by the amount in controversy:

• Small Claims Courts: Small claim courts are courts of limited jurisdiction, which means that they can only hear cases where the amount in dispute is less than $10,000;
• California Superior Courts: Superior Courts also have limited jurisdiction, and are allowed to hear cases where the amount in controversy is less than $25,000. However, superior courts have exclusive jurisdiction in most cases where the amount in controversy exceeds $25,000; and
• Specific Courts: Courts such as a bankruptcy court, or probate court, have exclusive subject matter jurisdiction, which means certain legal issues fall specifically in those courts.

Connect With an Attorney in Mariposa County, CA

If you are involved in a legal issue in Mariposa County, you will want to connect with an experienced local attorney who has a thorough understanding of California’s Superior Court system. LegalMatch.com can simplify this process by suggesting attorneys who have been pre-screened and are bar certified.