What is Section 877.6 of the California Code of Civil Procedure?

Asked by: Kailee Buckridge  |  Last update: June 26, 2026
Score: 4.7/5 (9 votes)

Section 877.6 of the California Code of Civil Procedure (CCP) establishes a legal procedure for determining whether a settlement between a plaintiff and one or more joint tortfeasors (or co-obligors) was made in "good faith".

What is the Civil Procedure 877.6 in California?

(a)(1) Any party to an action in which it is alleged that two or more parties are joint tortfeasors or co-obligors on a contract debt shall be entitled to a hearing on the issue of the good faith of a settlement entered into by the plaintiff or other claimant and one or more alleged tortfeasors or co-obligors, upon ...

What is a good faith settlement offer?

A good faith settlement offer is a sincere proposal made during legal disputes to resolve a case, typically reflecting a reasonable estimate of a defendant's proportional liability. It must be realistic, not merely a token amount, and often aims to secure a dismissal from the case.

What is Section 877 of the Code of Civil Procedure?

One of the most important protections under Section 877 involves the reduction of claims against non-settling defendants. When a plaintiff accepts a settlement from one defendant, the claims against remaining defendants must be reduced.

What is the 5 year dismissal rule in California?

If the action is not brought to trial within five years, dismissal is mandatory on the motion of any party or on the court's own motion. The court makes no determination as to the merits of the case or on the evidence. The dismissal is based solely on a failure to move the case to trial in five years.

24 related questions found

What is it called when a judge ignores evidence?

When a judge ignores evidence, it is typically categorized on appeal as an error of law, an abuse of discretion, or an irregularity in the proceedings. If the evidence was legally admissible but ignored, it may also be described as a violation of due process.

How long do you go to jail for indecent exposure in California?

California Penal Code § 314 PC prohibits indecent exposure, which is willfully exposing your naked genitals to others who could be offended or annoyed by it. Most first-time indecent exposure convictions are misdemeanors carrying up to six months in jail and/or $1,000.

When not to accept a settlement offer?

Knowing when to say no protects you from accepting less than your case is worth. The following situations often justify refusing an offer: The settlement offer doesn't cover your medical expenses. If the settlement won't pay for treatment you've already received or care you'll need in the future, it's too low.

How much is a good faith payment?

Earnest money amounts may be negotiated as part of the offer process, but they're typically 1% to 2% of the sale price. Earnest money is usually paid immediately or soon after the purchase contract is signed, and is held in an escrow account until closing.

How can you prove good faith?

Depending on the exact setting, good faith may require an honest belief or purpose, faithful performance of duties, observance of fair dealing standards, or an absence of fraudulent intent.

How is a good faith settlement determined in California?

A good faith settlement determination in California (CCP § 877.6) is a court process that confirms a settlement between a plaintiff and one or more, but not all, defendants is reasonable and non-collusive. This determination bars other non-settling tortfeasors from pursuing the settling party for equitable comparative contribution or indemnity.

Can I refuse to show my ID in California?

In California, you can generally refuse to show ID if you are not being detained or arrested, as the state has no "stop and identify" statute. However, you must show a driver’s license if you are driving and pulled over, and you must identify yourself if lawfully arrested.

What is section 877?

The expatriation tax provisions under Internal Revenue Code (IRC) sections 877 and 877A apply to U.S. citizens who have renounced their citizenship and long-term residents (as defined in IRC 877(e)) who have ended their U.S. resident status for federal tax purposes.

What is the 7 minute rule in California?

The 7-minute rule, or quarter-hour rounding, allows California employers to round employee time punches to the nearest 15-minute interval (e.g., 8:07 AM becomes 8:00 AM; 8:08 AM becomes 8:15 AM). While permitted under federal law and some CA scenarios, it is highly discouraged in California due to strict requirements that it must not, over time, undercompensate employees.

What are three types of civil damages?

Civil damages refers to how much money you may get in a settlement or court award (Kenton, 2020). There are three types of damage that form the foundation of most civil lawsuits: compensatory, nominal, and punitive. An attorney can estimate how much your claim may be worth based on your damages.

What is the new divorce law in California 2026?

Starting January 1, 2026, California introduces a Joint Petition for Dissolution (Senate Bill 1427), allowing couples to file for divorce together as a team rather than using the traditional "Petitioner vs. Respondent" format. This creates a more cooperative, less adversarial process for couples with children or assets.