Rule 3.401 Complex case designation

If you are filing a lawsuit that you think is a complex case, you can officially label it that way from the very start. You do this by filling out a form called the Civil Case Cover Sheet (form CM-010) and checking the box that marks it as complex. You file this form at the same time you file your complaint, and you also send a copy to the other side.

Marking a case as complex can affect how it gets handled by the court, including which judge oversees it and how the schedule is set up. Getting this label right at the beginning helps the court prepare for a case that may take more time and resources than a typical lawsuit.