The California Supreme Court held yesterday that a dependency court may not terminate parental rights, at a permanency hearing held after the children at issue have been declared wards of the court, based solely on a finding that the minors are likely to be adopted.

The Butte County Superior Court will recognize Law Day on Friday, May 1, with an Elementary School Mock Trial Program at the North Butte County Courthouse in Chico. Two local 5th-grade classes will participate in a theater-style mock trial of a criminal case using a script written by Chico High School students.

(Subscription required) California Court of Appeal Associate Justice Elena J. Duarte will retire from the 3rd District at the end of May, concluding 15 years on the appellate bench and more than 19 years of judicial service.

(Subscription required) A pilot program launched at the Compton Courthouse aims to resolve eviction cases through mediation and financial assistance to cover back rent without a trial, the Los Angeles County Superior Court announced Monday. The court issued a standing order requiring plaintiffs filing qualifying unlawful detainer cases in Compton to serve a notice informing defendants about the program.