Educational guide
California Civil Settlement and Dismissal Filing Checklist
A practical general-information checklist for notifying a California court of a settlement and requesting dismissal of a civil case, based on official California Courts instructions. It is not individualized legal advice and does not determine whether a dismissal should be with or without prejudice.
- Confirm that the parties actually reached a settlement and identify whether it resolves the entire case or only certain parties or claims. Keep the signed agreement and any payment or performance schedule separate from the public court filing unless a court requires otherwise.
- Review the assigned court's docket, case-management orders and local rules before filing. A pending trial, hearing or deadline is not automatically vacated merely because the parties report a settlement.
- For a settlement of the entire case, California Courts instructs parties to tell the court by filing Notice of Settlement of Entire Case, form CM-200. Complete the caption and settlement information accurately and serve the notice as required.
- Calendar the dismissal date stated in the settlement notice and any obligations that must occur first. If payment or another term will take time, do not assume that filing a notice alone ends the lawsuit or removes existing deadlines.
- When it is time to dismiss, use the current Request for Dismissal, form CIV-110. Identify the parties and claims to be dismissed and obtain qualified advice before choosing whether the dismissal is with prejudice or without prejudice because that choice can affect future rights.
- If applicable, use Notice of Entry of Dismissal and Proof of Service, form CIV-120, to notify the other parties after the court enters dismissal. Keep conformed copies and proof of service with the settlement records.
- Check the docket after filing. A rejected form, incomplete caption, unresolved cross-complaint or other procedural issue may prevent the case from closing, so confirm that the clerk entered the requested dismissal.
- Use the official California Courts pages and forms linked below for current instructions. A court self-help center can explain procedure, while advice about settlement terms, liens, releases, taxes, enforceability or the effect of prejudice should come from a qualified lawyer.
Official resources
This guide provides general information only and is not legal or medical advice. Rules and individual circumstances differ. In an emergency, call 911.