Appearing in Court at the Harbor Justice Center in Newport Beach: What to Expect

The Harbor Justice Center is located at 4601 Jamboree Rd. in Newport Beach, CA. From the 405 freeway, exit at Jamboree and head west for about a mile. From the 73 toll road, exit at Bristol and head east on Jamboree for a mile.

The Harbor courthouse hears criminal matters from Aliso Viejo, Irvine, Dana Point, Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Woods, Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, Newport Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano.

There is a large lot with free parking, but it fills up quickly. Arrive early, or else plan to circle the lot for a while.

If you need to make a payment or speak with a clerk about your case, you can do so at the outdoor walk-up window, located next door to the building's main entrance. The walk-up window allows many people to quickly and conveniently handle their matters without going through the security screening process.

Like all the other courts in Orange County, security screening includes metal detectors and x-rays of any bags. They will not allow you to bring weapons, tools, sporting equipment, skateboards or cigarette lighters into the building.

Once you're inside the building, find your name on the electronic display board, near the stairs. The board will direct you to the appropriate courtroom. If your name is not on the monitor, speak to the clerk.

Most misdemeanor arraignments are heard upstairs, in department H-8. For more information about what to expect at a misdemeanor arraignment, see my previous post about appearing in the North Justice Center.

If you plead "not guilty" at your arraignment in a misdemeanor case, your subsequent pre-trial conferences will be conducted across the hall, in department H-1.

Most felony arraignments are now being heard in department H-7, but check the monitor to be safe.

Remember to dress appropriately -- no hats, sandals, shorts or tank-tops. Silence your phone or turn it off completely so that it doesn't ring in the courtroom.

There is no cafeteria inside the Harbor Justice Center, but there are plenty of places to eat in the area.

If you or a loved one has a court date at the Harbor Justice Center, call us for a free consultation.  (714) 449 3335. Ask for John.

Thanks for reading.

Newport Beach Criminal Defense Attorney