Superior Court

This article helps residents, litigants, jurors, and visitors understand how the Maricopa County AZ Superior Court works—what the court does, how cases move, where to find calendars and records, which departments handle which disputes, and how to navigate key services like forms, jury duty, probation, and specialized dockets. You’ll find plain-English explanations of core divisions (Civil, Criminal, Family, Juvenile, Probate/Mental Health, Tax, and Lower Court & Administrative Appeals), along with quick tips for using official tools and offices. At the end, you’ll see an at-a-glance directory of relevant departments with addresses and phone numbers.

Start here: what the Maricopa County AZ Superior Court actually does

The Superior Court is Arizona’s statewide trial court of general jurisdiction. In Maricopa County—the fourth-largest trial court system in the country—it’s where most significant cases begin and where many are resolved. The court’s mission goes well beyond criminal trials. It hears civil lawsuits, family matters like divorce and parenting time, juvenile cases involving dependency or delinquency, probate and mental health proceedings, property and income tax disputes, and appeals from lower courts and administrative bodies.

When you hear “Superior Court,” think “the main trial court for big matters.” If your dispute involves more than the justice courts’ monetary limits, or if your case is a felony, a divorce, a guardianship, or an appeal from a municipal/justice court, you’re likely in the right place.

To orient yourself to departments, services, and court locations, start at the Judicial Branch of Arizona in Maricopa County homepage, and use the navigation to reach your destination. Try the main Superior Court landing to review departments and mission statements, and follow the topical pages to dive deeper into specific case types. Explore the official Superior Court website for current information and to confirm any particulars before you act.

Use the Judicial Branch of Arizona in Maricopa County homepage to access departments, services, and updates: Judicial Branch of Arizona in Maricopa County

Track hearings and plan your visit: calendars, public proceedings, and holidays

Knowing when and where to appear is half the battle. The court maintains a same-day hearings index so you can verify your time and courtroom. If you’re a party, always confirm the specifics in your minute entries, but the day-of index is a helpful backup. The site also posts a holiday schedule so you don’t make a wasted trip, and lists courthouse locations across the county (Downtown Phoenix, regional centers, and specialty facilities).

See today’s calendar and browse public proceedings: Court Calendar

Check court locations and plan logistics like parking and entry screening from each facility’s page.

Review the holiday schedule on the resources section before scheduling non-urgent errands or expecting a filing to post.

Look up your case: online access to Superior Court records and dockets

If you need to check a case assignment, the next hearing, or the judicial officer’s name, the publicly available case look-up is the fastest route. You can search by party name, case number, or other available fields. This is also where attorneys and self-represented litigants confirm judge/commissioner assignments and see updates that have posted to the docket.

Use Public Access to Court Case Information for civil, criminal, family, juvenile, and probate matters filed in the Superior Court: Search for Court Case Information

Remember that official filings and payments go through the Clerk of the Superior Court, the custodian of records. If you are filing, paying, or ordering certified copies, start with the Clerk’s official site for the latest instructions and service options.

Visit the Clerk of the Superior Court for filing information, records, and payments: Clerk of the Superior Court

File, find, and finish paperwork: forms, e-tools, and self-help

Most court processes are form-driven. Whether you’re starting a case, responding, or asking for a court order, the Superior Court provides court-approved packets grouped by topic (civil, criminal, family, juvenile, and probate). Many users rely on these packets to avoid delays caused by incomplete or incorrect filings.

Browse official Law Library Resource Center packets and guides, including civil, criminal, family, juvenile, and probate forms, plus research aids: Law Library Resource Center

You’ll also see references to “ezCourtForms” for guided interviews in eligible case types, specialty instructions for processes like garnishments and name changes, and links to rules and post-filing checklists where appropriate. When in doubt, look for the forms menu on the relevant department page, then follow topic-specific instructions step by step.

Jury duty made straightforward: respond, check status, and get paid

Superior Court jury service is a civic responsibility, and the court has a dedicated hub where you can respond to your summons, review compensation details, and read instructions tailored to selected jurors. If you received a summons, the fastest way to check reporting requirements and prepare is to use the official jury portal.

Manage your summons, learn what to expect, and review compensation details at Jury Duty: Jury Duty

Bring your summons, arrive early to navigate security, and plan for the day. If your panel isn’t called, you’ll be released in accordance with the court’s procedures. If you are selected, the information provided at check-in will walk you through reporting, parking, and daily logistics.

Civil Department: contracts, injuries, business disputes, and faster tracks to resolution

The Civil Department handles lawsuits between private parties and government entities—everything from contract and real-property disputes to personal injury and medical malpractice. In Maricopa County, civil cases also include specialized programs designed to control costs and move cases efficiently.

Key features you’ll encounter in civil cases:

Compulsory Arbitration: If the amount in controversy falls under the county’s arbitration threshold, your case may be routed to arbitration. This is a streamlined, binding process designed to save time and expense, followed by court procedures to confirm or appeal as the rules allow. Learn how the program works and when it applies on the court’s civil pages.
Explore the arbitration program and eligibility on Arbitration Services: Civil Arbitration

Commercial Court: Complex business disputes benefit from a docket with tailored case management and consistent, business-savvy practices. If your matter arises from commercial transactions or corporate governance issues, review the commercial court criteria and procedures.

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): Mediation and other ADR services can be ordered or requested in civil cases, helping parties explore settlement with a neutral. ADR can dramatically shorten case timelines and reduce risk.

Case Center (digital evidence): For participating divisions, the “Manage Digital Evidence” platform provides a secure, organized way to upload and present exhibits. Check your judge’s practice preferences on your minute entries and departmental pages.

Practical tips for civil litigants:

Confirm which judicial officer (judge or commissioner) is assigned—many routine matters (like garnishments or forcible detainers) fall to commissioners, while dispositive motions and trials are handled by judges.

If you’re a corporation, Arizona requires attorney representation; individuals may self-represent, but you’re responsible for following all rules.

Use the Law Library Resource Center to locate packets (e.g., name change, garnishment, civil complaint) and read the post-filing instructions so you don’t miss required steps.

Criminal Department: felony cases from first appearance to post-conviction

The Criminal Department hears felony cases filed by the State. From release conditions and arraignment through trial, sentencing, and post-conviction relief, the department safeguards due process and public safety.

What to know right away:

Warrants and self-surrender: If you missed a hearing or learned there’s a warrant, act promptly. The court provides official information on warrants, including self-surrender guidance, so you can take the right steps through counsel and the assigned division.
Review official Warrant Information and self-surrender steps: Warrant Information

Case lookup: If you don’t know your attorney of record or the next court date, search your case by name, date of birth, or number, then contact your counsel.
Use Criminal Case Search under the court’s public access portal listed earlier.

Specialized courts: The Superior Court offers therapeutic and specialized tracks—including Veterans Court and Criminal Mental Health—focused on treatment, accountability, and stability where appropriate. Ask your attorney whether your case could qualify for a specialty docket.

Adult Probation Department: Many felony sentences involve probation. The Adult Probation Department supervises compliance, supports rehabilitation, and provides victim services. Conditions are court-ordered; always follow your written terms and communicate with your officer if issues arise.

Getting to court and facilities: The Criminal Department operates from multiple buildings in and around downtown Phoenix, with Intake/Transfer/Release for initial processing and facilities such as the South Court Tower and Central Court Building for hearings and trials. Give yourself extra time for security screening and parking.

Family Department: divorce, parenting time, child support, and conciliation services

The Family Department resolves domestic relations matters—divorce and legal separation, legal decision-making (custody) and parenting time, child and spousal support, and related motions. It also offers Conciliation Services (mediation and counseling) to help families resolve disputes efficiently and in children’s best interests.

Essentials for navigating family cases:

Divorce and Legal Separation: Forms, timelines, and service requirements are all laid out in the official packets. When cases qualify, the Decree on Demand process can help parties finalize certain default matters once statutory waiting periods are satisfied and packets are complete.

Conciliation and Early Resolution: Mediation helps narrow disputed issues. For self-represented parties, the Early Resolution Conference can accelerate settlements and reduce trial needs.

Parenting time and child support: Decisions focus on the child’s best interests. Expect to address parenting plans, decision-making authority, and child support guidelines, with forms and instructions available through the Law Library Resource Center.

Where to go: The Family Department hears cases in multiple regional centers (Downtown Phoenix and regional facilities in Northeast Phoenix, Surprise, and Mesa). Confirm your courtroom and location on your minute entry or by checking the day-of calendar.

Juvenile Department: dependency, delinquency, adoption, guardianship, and emancipation

The Juvenile Department addresses the welfare and accountability of minors—protecting children in dependency cases, providing rehabilitation in delinquency matters, and serving families through adoptions and guardianship processes. It also processes emancipation petitions for qualifying minors.

How juvenile matters typically flow:

Dependency: When a child’s safety is at issue, the court makes placement and services decisions aimed at permanency—reunification where safe, or alternative permanency options.

Delinquency: Proceedings focus on accountability and rehabilitation. Dispositions often include services coordinated with Juvenile Probation and, where necessary, secure detention.

Adoption/Guardianship: These life-changing proceedings have their own packets and procedural safeguards. Expect background checks, consents/notices, and hearings tailored to the type of petition.

Juvenile records: Requests and confidentiality rules differ from adult court. Use official juvenile records request channels for access.

The Juvenile Probation Department supervises youth on diversion or probation, develops case plans, connects families with services, and manages detention services.

Probate and Mental Health: estates, conservatorships, guardianships, and court-ordered treatment

The Probate and Mental Health divisions handle post-death estate administration, trust disputes, and protective proceedings such as guardianships and conservatorships. On the mental health side, the court considers petitions for Court Ordered Evaluation (COE) and Court Ordered Treatment (COT), balancing individual liberty with safety and clinical needs.

When you might be here:

You’re opening a decedent’s estate, seeking to probate a will, or addressing disputes among beneficiaries.

You need a court-appointed guardian or conservator to protect an incapacitated adult’s personal or financial interests.

A mental health professional or family member is petitioning for evaluation or treatment due to a serious mental illness.

Packets and instructions are available through the Law Library Resource Center. Expect to provide notice to interested persons, file inventories/accountings where required, and attend hearings as scheduled.

Tax Department: property and income tax disputes, appeals, and trial

The Tax Department hears property valuation disputes and other tax matters within Superior Court jurisdiction. Typical cases include challenges to property tax assessments, classification disputes, and appeals from administrative decisions. If you’re contesting a valuation or classification, review deadlines carefully; tax cases are deadline-sensitive and often start with administrative protests before court litigation.

The department’s pages also include information on preparing for trial, accessing published tax decisions, and coordinating with the Clerk for filings. When your dispute turns on appraisal methodology or statutory criteria, consider whether expert testimony or stipulations can streamline your case.

Lower Court & Administrative Appeals: how review works in Superior Court

If a municipal court or justice court entered a judgment and you believe there was legal error, the Lower Court and Administrative Appeals division provides a path to review. The same is true for many state or county administrative decisions. The Superior Court’s role is to examine the record and applied law; it isn’t a do-over of your trial, and new evidence may be limited or disallowed depending on the governing rules.

Getting ready to appeal:

Deadlines and record: Appeals are paperwork-intensive and deadline-driven. Make sure you know when the notice of appeal is due and what must be included in the record.

Standards of review: Errors of law are treated differently than findings of fact. Tailor your arguments accordingly.

Outcome range: The Superior Court may affirm, reverse, remand, or modify. The division’s mission is fairness through legal accuracy, not relitigation.

Specialty and problem-solving courts: connecting accountability with services

Maricopa County’s Superior Court offers several specialized dockets that address underlying issues while enforcing accountability:

Veterans Court (Criminal Department): Coordinates with treatment resources and veteran services to address justice-involved veterans’ unique needs.

Criminal Mental Health Court: Oversees treatment-oriented compliance for eligible defendants with serious mental illness.

Regional Homeless Court: Provides pathways to resolve certain warrants and low-level matters for people experiencing homelessness, in coordination with service providers and court partners.

These courts don’t remove consequences—they channel them in ways that promote stability and reduce recidivism. Ask counsel if a referral makes sense for your case.

Alternative ways to resolve disputes: mediation and other ADR options

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is available in multiple case types and can be ordered or requested by parties. In mediation, a neutral helps parties explore options, clarify interests, and craft agreements that can be entered as court orders. ADR is often faster, more private, and less expensive than trial, and it preserves control over outcomes.

Learn how court-connected ADR works and where it’s available: Alternative Dispute Resolution

When ADR results in settlement, parties can file stipulations to resolve issues, narrow trial length, or dismiss the case in full.

Digital tools that actually save time: calendars, e-filing, and managing exhibits

Maricopa County’s Superior Court deploys practical technology to make litigation more predictable:

Calendars and public proceedings: The day-of calendar links to hearing lists and public streams when available, helping you confirm your timing and room assignment.
Re-check the Court Calendar before you head downtown: Court Calendar

Filing information: The Clerk of the Superior Court site walks you through eFiling eligibility, in-person options, and payments. The Clerk maintains official records, records minute entries, and handles certified copies.
Get filing and payment instructions at the Clerk: Clerk of the Superior Court

Case Center (digital evidence): When your division uses the digital evidence platform, follow the departmental link from your judge or the civil department’s quick links to upload exhibits on time and in the right format.

Accessibility, language access, and court security

The Superior Court is committed to ensuring access for all users:

ADA/Accessibility: Accessibility Services support accommodations for qualified individuals so they can participate fully in court proceedings.

Interpretation & Translation: Court-provided interpreters and translation services are available for proceedings and key documents, helping limited-English-proficient users engage meaningfully in their cases.

Security: Courthouses enforce screening to keep everyone safe. Allow extra time to pass through security and follow posted rules on restricted items.

You’ll find detailed explanations and how to request services in the Court Services section of the official site, linked from several department pages.

Evidence, calendars, and attorney tools

Legal professionals and self-represented litigants should be familiar with:

Attorney Calendars (where applicable) for coordination.

Judicial Officer biographies and division pages for practice preferences.

Post-filing checklists and flowcharts in the Civil Department for arbitration and non-arbitration tracks.

Law Library Resource Center research tools, writing aids, and workshops for procedural support.

When you need help beyond your case: probation, victim services, and community engagement

The Superior Court’s probation departments support rehabilitation, accountability, and victim restitution:

Adult Probation supervises felony and certain misdemeanor probationers, connects people to services, monitors compliance, and supports victims through restitution processes.

Juvenile Probation coordinates diversion, detention, case planning, and family services to guide minors toward successful outcomes.

Beyond casework, the Judicial Branch offers public education and engagement opportunities—speakers, courthouse experience programs, volunteer roles (including CASA and court reporters), internships, externships, and workforce opportunities across the branch.

Department-by-department walkthrough: what to expect and what to prepare

Civil: how cases are assigned and who handles what

Cases may be assigned to a judge or a commissioner depending on the issue and stage. Judges typically handle trials, dispositive motions (like summary judgment), temporary restraining orders, and pretrial conferences. Commissioners frequently hear default matters, forcible detainers, garnishments, and name changes. Your minute entry will identify the current judicial officer; confirm it through public case access if needed.

Documents to gather for common civil filings:

Complaint and summons (with exhibits)
Proofs of service
Disclosures and discovery responses
Motions and responses with citations to rules
Proposed forms of order (when required)

Timelines matter—especially for service, discovery cutoffs, and dispositive-motion deadlines. If your case falls into compulsory arbitration, review the arbitration flow chart to understand objections, hearings, and awards.

Criminal: release conditions, hearings, and specialized options

From initial appearance to sentencing, the process includes advisements, probable cause determinations, plea negotiations, trial, and potential post-conviction proceedings. Release conditions—like bond, pretrial supervision, or no-contact orders—are set early and can be modified on motion with good cause. Missed hearings can result in warrants; the official warrant information page explains how to address them.

Documents to keep close:

Release order and conditions
Counsel appointment or notice of appearance
Minute entries (for dates and rulings)
Presentence reports (if applicable)
Probation terms (if sentenced to probation)

Family: default decrees, mediation, and regional venues

After service, statutory waiting periods apply to dissolution cases (the court’s materials explain how “Decree on Demand” works in default situations). Conciliation and Early Resolution Conferences can resolve parenting time, decision-making, and financial issues without trial. Family hearings are held at downtown and regional centers; check your notice for floor and courtroom.

Documents to prepare:

Financial affidavits and child support worksheets
Parenting plans
Decree forms and property allocation exhibits
Proof of service and default packets (for default matters)

Juvenile: timelines and confidentiality

Juvenile matters move quickly and often involve confidential records. Expect periodic review hearings in dependency cases and structured timelines in delinquency. Adoption and guardianship hearings are scheduled with careful attention to notice and consents. Juvenile Probation coordinates services and detention when needed.

Documents to have ready:

Case plans, service logs, and progress notes (dependency)
Petitions and reports (delinquency)
Consents and background checks (adoption/guardianship)

Probate & Mental Health: notice, inventory, and clinical criteria

Probate filings require formal notice to interested persons, with inventories and accountings on a schedule set by rule and order. In mental health cases, petitions for COE and COT are supported by clinical affidavits and follow statutory criteria balancing treatment needs and individual rights.

Documents to assemble:

Death certificate and will (probate)
Letters of appointment and bond (when required)
Physician/clinician affidavits (mental health)
Annual reports in guardianship/conservatorship

Tax: appraisals and deadlines

Tax appeals often turn on appraisal methods and timely filings. Gather valuation notices, prior assessments, photographs, expert reports, and any administrative decisions. Expect status conferences to set discovery and trial dates, and be prepared with stipulations where issues aren’t truly disputed.

Lower Court & Administrative Appeals: build the record, brief the law

Appeals hinge on the record and legal argument. The notice of appeal triggers deadlines for record transmission and briefing. Identify the standard of review (e.g., abuse of discretion, de novo on legal questions) and structure your briefing accordingly. Oral argument may be set depending on the judge’s practice and the issues presented.

Practical courthouse tips that save time (and stress)

Re-confirm day-of details: Before you leave for court, check the Court Calendar for any last-minute changes to time or courtroom.

Arrive early: Security screening and parking can add time. Bring a government-issued ID, your summons (if you’re a juror), and case documents.

Respect filing rules: When eFiling is required, ensure PDFs are text-searchable, properly titled, and within size limits. Serve all parties per the rules.

Use official forms: Packets are designed to meet rule requirements and prevent common mistakes. Substituting unofficial forms can cause delays.

Ask about technology: If your division uses Case Center for exhibits, upload early and verify access in the courtroom.

Superior Court departments and offices (addresses & phone numbers)

Civil Department — 201 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85003 — Phone: (602) 506-1497

Criminal Department — 201 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85003 — Phone: (602) 506-8575

Family Department — 201 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85003 — Phone: (602) 506-1561

Juvenile Department — 201 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85003 — Phone: (602) 506-4533

Probate and Mental Health Department — 201 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85003 — Phone: (602) 506-3668

Tax Department — 201 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85003 — Phone: (602) 506-8288

Lower Court and Administrative Appeals — 201 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85003 — Phone: (602) 506-1497

Regional Homeless Court — 201 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85003 — Phone: (602) 506-0063

Adult Probation Department — 201 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85003 — Phone: (602) 506-3204

Juvenile Probation Department — 3125 W. Durango Street, Phoenix, AZ 85009 — Phone: (602) 506-4011

Law Library Resource Center — 101 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85003 — Phone: (602) 506-7353

Clerk of the Superior Court — 620 W. Jackson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85003 — Phone: (602) 372-5375

Jury Department — 175 W. Madison Street, Phoenix, AZ 85003 — Phone: (602) 506-5879

Interpretation & Translation Services — 201 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85003 — Phone: (602) 506-2045

Electronic Recording Services — 175 W. Madison Street, Phoenix, AZ 85003 — Phone: (602) 506-3269

Security — 201 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85003 — Phone: (602) 506-2045

Intake, Transfer & Release — 2670 S. 28th Drive, Phoenix, AZ 85009 — Phone: (602) 506-8575

Maricopa County Superior Court FAQs

How do I see what’s on the docket today or confirm my hearing time?

Use the official Court Calendar to view today’s settings by case number, name, or location, and to check whether your appearance is in person or virtual. Look for your division, courtroom, and start time under “Today’s Hearings.” Visit Court Calendar.

Where can I look up a case and find the assigned judicial officer?

You can search by name, date of birth, or case number using the Superior Court’s Search for Court Case Information portal. Once you open your case, the assigned judge or commissioner appears in the upper-right area under “JO.” Go to Search for Court Case Information.

Can I e-file documents, and where are the rules posted?

Most attorney filings must be submitted electronically under statewide administrative orders. Technical requirements and accepted case types are outlined on the Clerk’s eFiling Information page, which also links to statewide resources for registered filers. Review eFiling Information.

What if I think there’s a warrant or I need to self-surrender?

The Criminal Department’s Warrant Information page explains warrant types, self-surrender procedures at Intake, Transfer & Release, and how hearings get reset after surrender. Read Warrant Information to understand next steps before appearing.