Amended IN Senate June 19, 2017 Amended IN Assembly April 20, 2017 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20172018 REGULAR SESSION Assembly Bill No. 984Introduced by Assembly Member CalderonFebruary 16, 2017 An act to amend and repeal Section 128.5 of the Code of Civil Procedure, relating to courts.LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 984, as amended, Calderon. Courts: frivolous actions or tactics.Existing law, until January 1, 2018, authorizes a trial court to order a party, the partys attorney, or both, to pay the reasonable expenses, including attorneys fees, incurred by another party as a result of bad-faith actions or tactics, as defined, that are frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay. Existing law requires that any sanctions imposed pursuant to those provisions be imposed consistently with the standards, conditions, and procedures set forth in specified provisions relating to sanctions. Existing law requires a party filing a motion pursuant to those provisions to promptly transmit specified information to the California Research Bureau of the California State Library. Existing law requires the bureau to maintain a public record of transmitted information for at least 3 years, or until those provisions are repealed, as specified.This bill would extend indefinitely the authorization of the trial court to order the payment of those reasonable expenses until January 1, 2019. expenses, but would not extend, and instead delete, the requirements on the filing party and the bureau relating to transmitting and maintaining the specified information, respectively. The bill would require the actions or tactics to be part of a civil case that was filed on or after January 1, 2015. The bill would delete the requirement that any sanctions imposed pursuant to these provisions be imposed consistently with the standards, conditions, and procedures set forth in the above-described provisions relating to sanctions, as specified.The bill would, until January 1, 2019, allow a court that issues an order to pay the reasonable expenses incurred by another party as a result of bad-faith actions or tactics to impose an appropriate sanction on the party, the partys attorney, or both. The bill would impose various standards, conditions, and procedures on the imposition of these sanctions, as specified. Existing law requires that any sanctions imposed pursuant to the above provisions be imposed consistently with the standards, conditions, and procedures set forth in specified provisions relating to sanctions.This bill would delete that requirement and would instead impose various conditions and procedures on the sanctions ordered, as specified.Existing law, operative on January 1, 2018, authorizes a trial court to make the above-described order only if the actions or tactics arise from a complaint filed, or a proceeding initiated, on or before December 31, 1994.This bill would delete those provisions.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YESNO Local Program: NO Bill TextThe people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Section 128.5 of the Code of Civil Procedure, as amended by Section 1 of Chapter 425 of the Statutes of 2014, is amended to read:128.5. (a) A trial court may order a party, the partys attorney, or both, to pay the reasonable expenses, including attorneys fees, incurred by another party as a result of actions or tactics, made in bad faith, that are frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay. This section also applies to judicial arbitration proceedings under Chapter 2.5 (commencing with Section 1141.10) of Title 3 of Part 3.(b) For purposes of this section:(1) Actions or tactics include, but are not limited to, the making or opposing of motions or the filing and service of a complaint, cross-complaint, answer, or other responsive pleading. The mere filing of a complaint without service thereof on an opposing party does not constitute actions or tactics for purposes of this section.(2) Frivolous means totally and completely without merit or for the sole purpose of harassing an opposing party.(c) Expenses pursuant to this section shall not be imposed except on notice contained in a partys moving or responding papers or, on the courts own motion, after notice and opportunity to be heard. An order imposing expenses shall be in writing and shall recite in detail the action or tactic or circumstances justifying the order.(d) In addition to any award pursuant to this section for an action or tactic described in subdivision (a), the court may assess punitive damages against the plaintiff on a determination by the court that the plaintiffs action was an action maintained by a person convicted of a felony against the persons victim, or the victims heirs, relatives, estate, or personal representative, for injuries arising from the acts for which the person was convicted of a felony, and that the plaintiff is guilty of fraud, oppression, or malice in maintaining the action.(e) This section shall not apply to disclosures and discovery requests, responses, objections, and motions.(f) Sanctions ordered pursuant to this section shall be ordered pursuant to the following conditions and procedures:(f)(1) If, after notice and a reasonable opportunity to respond, the court issues an order pursuant to subdivision (a), the court may, subject to the conditions stated below, impose an appropriate sanction upon the party, the partys attorneys, or both, for the violation an action or tactic described in subdivision (a). In determining what sanctions, if any, should be ordered, the court shall consider whether a party seeking sanctions has exercised due diligence.(1)(A) A motion for sanctions under this section shall be made separately from other motions or requests and shall describe the specific action or tactic alleged to violate subdivision (a). alleged action or tactic, made in bad faith, that is frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay.(2)(B) If the alleged action or tactic is the making or opposing of a written motion or the filing and service of a complaint, cross-complaint, answer, or other responsive pleading that can be withdrawn or appropriately corrected, a notice of motion shall be served as provided in Section 1010, but shall not be filed with or presented to the court, unless 21 days after service of the motion or any other period as the court may prescribe, the challenged action or tactic is not withdrawn or appropriately corrected.(3)(C) If warranted, the court may award to the party prevailing on the motion the reasonable expenses and attorneys fees incurred in presenting or opposing the motion. Absent exceptional circumstances, a law firm shall be held jointly responsible for violations committed by its partners, associates, and employees.(4)(D) If the alleged action or tactic is the making or opposing of a written motion or the filing and service of a complaint, cross-complaint, answer, or other responsive pleading that can be withdrawn or appropriately corrected, the court on its own motion may enter an order describing the specific action or tactic that violates subdivision (a) tactic, made in bad faith, that is frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay, and direct an attorney, law firm, or party to show cause why it has not violated subdivision (a), made an action or tactic as defined in subdivision (b), unless, within 21 days of service of the order to show cause, the challenged action or tactic is withdrawn or appropriately corrected.(g)A sanction imposed for a violation of subdivision (a)(2) An order for sanctions pursuant to this section shall be limited to what is sufficient to deter repetition of the action or tactic or comparable action or tactic by others similarly situated. Subject to the limitations in paragraphs (1) and (2), the sanction may consist of, or include, directives of a nonmonetary nature, an order to pay a penalty into court, or, if imposed on motion and warranted for effective deterrence, and an order directing payment to the movant of some or all of the reasonable attorneys fees and other expenses incurred as a direct result of the violation. action or tactic described in subdivision (a).(1)(A) Monetary sanctions may not be awarded against a represented party for a violation of presenting a claim, defense, and other legal contentions that are warranted by existing law or by a nonfrivolous argument for the extension, modification, or reversal of existing law or the establishment of new law.(2)(B) Monetary sanctions may not be awarded on the courts motion unless the court issues its order to show cause before a voluntary dismissal or settlement of the claims made by or against the party that is, or whose attorneys are, to be sanctioned.(h)(g) A motion for sanctions brought by a party or a partys attorney primarily for an improper purpose, such as to harass or to cause unnecessary delay or needless increase in the cost of litigation, shall itself be subject to a motion for sanctions. It is the intent of the Legislature that courts shall vigorously use its sanction authority to deter the improper actions or tactics or comparable actions or tactics of others similarly situated. (i)(h) The liability imposed by this section is in addition to any other liability imposed by law for acts or omissions within the purview of this section.(j)(i) This section applies to actions or tactics that were part of a civil case filed on or after January 1, 2015. (k)(1)A party who files a motion pursuant to this section shall, promptly upon filing, transmit to the California Research Bureau of the California State Library, by email, a copy of the endorsed, filed caption page of the motion or opposition, a copy of any related notice of appeal or petition for a writ, and a conformed copy of any order issued pursuant to this section, including any order granting or denying the motion. The party shall also indicate whether a motion for sanctions was made pursuant to Section 128.7.(2)The California Research Bureau shall maintain a public record of information transmitted pursuant to this section for at least three years, or until this section is repealed, whichever occurs first, and may store the information on microfilm or other appropriate electronic media.(l)This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2019, and as of that date is repealed, unless a later enacted statute that is enacted before January 1, 2019, deletes or extends that date.SEC. 2.Section 128.5 of the Code of Civil Procedure, as added by Section 2 of Chapter 425 of the Statutes of 2014, is amended to read:128.5.(a)A trial court may order a party, the partys attorney, or both to pay any reasonable expenses, including attorneys fees, incurred by another party as a result of bad-faith actions or tactics that are frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay. This section also applies to judicial arbitration proceedings under Chapter 2.5 (commencing with Section 1141.10) of Title 3 of Part 3.(b)For purposes of this section:(1)Actions or tactics include, but are not limited to, the making or opposing of motions or the filing and service of a complaint or cross-complaint only if the actions or tactics arise from a complaint filed, or a proceeding initiated, on or before December 31, 1994. The mere filing of a complaint without service thereof on an opposing party does not constitute actions or tactics for purposes of this section.(2)Frivolous means totally and completely without merit or for the sole purpose of harassing an opposing party.(c)Expenses pursuant to this section shall not be imposed except on notice contained in a partys moving or responding papers, or the courts own motion, after notice and opportunity to be heard. An order imposing expenses shall be in writing and shall recite in detail the conduct or circumstances justifying the order.(d)In addition to any award pursuant to this section for conduct described in subdivision (a), the court may assess punitive damages against the plaintiff upon a determination by the court that the plaintiffs action was an action maintained by a person convicted of a felony against the persons victim, or the victims heirs, relatives, estate, or personal representative, for injuries arising from the acts for which the person was convicted of a felony, and that the plaintiff is guilty of fraud, oppression, or malice in maintaining the action.(e)The liability imposed by this section is in addition to any other liability imposed by law for acts or omissions within the purview of this section.(f)This section shall become operative on January 1, 2019.SEC. 2. Section 128.5 of the Code of Civil Procedure, as added by Section 2 of Chapter 425 of the Statutes of 2014, is repealed.128.5.(a)A trial court may order a party, the partys attorney, or both to pay any reasonable expenses, including attorneys fees, incurred by another party as a result of bad-faith actions or tactics that are frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay. This section also applies to judicial arbitration proceedings under Chapter 2.5 (commencing with Section 1141.10) of Title 3 of Part 3.(b)For purposes of this section:(1)Actions or tactics include, but are not limited to, the making or opposing of motions or the filing and service of a complaint or cross-complaint only if the actions or tactics arise from a complaint filed, or a proceeding initiated, on or before December 31, 1994. The mere filing of a complaint without service thereof on an opposing party does not constitute actions or tactics for purposes of this section.(2)Frivolous means totally and completely without merit or for the sole purpose of harassing an opposing party.(c)Expenses pursuant to this section shall not be imposed except on notice contained in a partys moving or responding papers, or the courts own motion, after notice and opportunity to be heard. An order imposing expenses shall be in writing and shall recite in detail the conduct or circumstances justifying the order.(d)In addition to any award pursuant to this section for conduct described in subdivision (a), the court may assess punitive damages against the plaintiff upon a determination by the court that the plaintiffs action was an action maintained by a person convicted of a felony against the persons victim, or the victims heirs, relatives, estate, or personal representative, for injuries arising from the acts for which the person was convicted of a felony, and that the plaintiff is guilty of fraud, oppression, or malice in maintaining the action.(e)The liability imposed by this section is in addition to any other liability imposed by law for acts or omissions within the purview of this section.(f)This section shall become operative on January 1, 2018.
Amended IN Senate June 19, 2017 Amended IN Assembly April 20, 2017 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20172018 REGULAR SESSION Assembly Bill No. 984Introduced by Assembly Member CalderonFebruary 16, 2017 An act to amend and repeal Section 128.5 of the Code of Civil Procedure, relating to courts.LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 984, as amended, Calderon. Courts: frivolous actions or tactics.Existing law, until January 1, 2018, authorizes a trial court to order a party, the partys attorney, or both, to pay the reasonable expenses, including attorneys fees, incurred by another party as a result of bad-faith actions or tactics, as defined, that are frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay. Existing law requires that any sanctions imposed pursuant to those provisions be imposed consistently with the standards, conditions, and procedures set forth in specified provisions relating to sanctions. Existing law requires a party filing a motion pursuant to those provisions to promptly transmit specified information to the California Research Bureau of the California State Library. Existing law requires the bureau to maintain a public record of transmitted information for at least 3 years, or until those provisions are repealed, as specified.This bill would extend indefinitely the authorization of the trial court to order the payment of those reasonable expenses until January 1, 2019. expenses, but would not extend, and instead delete, the requirements on the filing party and the bureau relating to transmitting and maintaining the specified information, respectively. The bill would require the actions or tactics to be part of a civil case that was filed on or after January 1, 2015. The bill would delete the requirement that any sanctions imposed pursuant to these provisions be imposed consistently with the standards, conditions, and procedures set forth in the above-described provisions relating to sanctions, as specified.The bill would, until January 1, 2019, allow a court that issues an order to pay the reasonable expenses incurred by another party as a result of bad-faith actions or tactics to impose an appropriate sanction on the party, the partys attorney, or both. The bill would impose various standards, conditions, and procedures on the imposition of these sanctions, as specified. Existing law requires that any sanctions imposed pursuant to the above provisions be imposed consistently with the standards, conditions, and procedures set forth in specified provisions relating to sanctions.This bill would delete that requirement and would instead impose various conditions and procedures on the sanctions ordered, as specified.Existing law, operative on January 1, 2018, authorizes a trial court to make the above-described order only if the actions or tactics arise from a complaint filed, or a proceeding initiated, on or before December 31, 1994.This bill would delete those provisions.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YESNO Local Program: NO
Amended IN Senate June 19, 2017 Amended IN Assembly April 20, 2017
Amended IN Senate June 19, 2017
Amended IN Assembly April 20, 2017
CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20172018 REGULAR SESSION
Assembly Bill No. 984
Introduced by Assembly Member CalderonFebruary 16, 2017
Introduced by Assembly Member Calderon
February 16, 2017
An act to amend and repeal Section 128.5 of the Code of Civil Procedure, relating to courts.
LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
## LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
AB 984, as amended, Calderon. Courts: frivolous actions or tactics.
Existing law, until January 1, 2018, authorizes a trial court to order a party, the partys attorney, or both, to pay the reasonable expenses, including attorneys fees, incurred by another party as a result of bad-faith actions or tactics, as defined, that are frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay. Existing law requires that any sanctions imposed pursuant to those provisions be imposed consistently with the standards, conditions, and procedures set forth in specified provisions relating to sanctions. Existing law requires a party filing a motion pursuant to those provisions to promptly transmit specified information to the California Research Bureau of the California State Library. Existing law requires the bureau to maintain a public record of transmitted information for at least 3 years, or until those provisions are repealed, as specified.This bill would extend indefinitely the authorization of the trial court to order the payment of those reasonable expenses until January 1, 2019. expenses, but would not extend, and instead delete, the requirements on the filing party and the bureau relating to transmitting and maintaining the specified information, respectively. The bill would require the actions or tactics to be part of a civil case that was filed on or after January 1, 2015. The bill would delete the requirement that any sanctions imposed pursuant to these provisions be imposed consistently with the standards, conditions, and procedures set forth in the above-described provisions relating to sanctions, as specified.The bill would, until January 1, 2019, allow a court that issues an order to pay the reasonable expenses incurred by another party as a result of bad-faith actions or tactics to impose an appropriate sanction on the party, the partys attorney, or both. The bill would impose various standards, conditions, and procedures on the imposition of these sanctions, as specified. Existing law requires that any sanctions imposed pursuant to the above provisions be imposed consistently with the standards, conditions, and procedures set forth in specified provisions relating to sanctions.This bill would delete that requirement and would instead impose various conditions and procedures on the sanctions ordered, as specified.Existing law, operative on January 1, 2018, authorizes a trial court to make the above-described order only if the actions or tactics arise from a complaint filed, or a proceeding initiated, on or before December 31, 1994.This bill would delete those provisions.
Existing law, until January 1, 2018, authorizes a trial court to order a party, the partys attorney, or both, to pay the reasonable expenses, including attorneys fees, incurred by another party as a result of bad-faith actions or tactics, as defined, that are frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay. Existing law requires that any sanctions imposed pursuant to those provisions be imposed consistently with the standards, conditions, and procedures set forth in specified provisions relating to sanctions. Existing law requires a party filing a motion pursuant to those provisions to promptly transmit specified information to the California Research Bureau of the California State Library. Existing law requires the bureau to maintain a public record of transmitted information for at least 3 years, or until those provisions are repealed, as specified.
This bill would extend indefinitely the authorization of the trial court to order the payment of those reasonable expenses until January 1, 2019. expenses, but would not extend, and instead delete, the requirements on the filing party and the bureau relating to transmitting and maintaining the specified information, respectively. The bill would require the actions or tactics to be part of a civil case that was filed on or after January 1, 2015. The bill would delete the requirement that any sanctions imposed pursuant to these provisions be imposed consistently with the standards, conditions, and procedures set forth in the above-described provisions relating to sanctions, as specified.
The bill would, until January 1, 2019, allow a court that issues an order to pay the reasonable expenses incurred by another party as a result of bad-faith actions or tactics to impose an appropriate sanction on the party, the partys attorney, or both. The bill would impose various standards, conditions, and procedures on the imposition of these sanctions, as specified.
Existing law requires that any sanctions imposed pursuant to the above provisions be imposed consistently with the standards, conditions, and procedures set forth in specified provisions relating to sanctions.
This bill would delete that requirement and would instead impose various conditions and procedures on the sanctions ordered, as specified.
Existing law, operative on January 1, 2018, authorizes a trial court to make the above-described order only if the actions or tactics arise from a complaint filed, or a proceeding initiated, on or before December 31, 1994.
This bill would delete those provisions.
## Digest Key
## Bill Text
The people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Section 128.5 of the Code of Civil Procedure, as amended by Section 1 of Chapter 425 of the Statutes of 2014, is amended to read:128.5. (a) A trial court may order a party, the partys attorney, or both, to pay the reasonable expenses, including attorneys fees, incurred by another party as a result of actions or tactics, made in bad faith, that are frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay. This section also applies to judicial arbitration proceedings under Chapter 2.5 (commencing with Section 1141.10) of Title 3 of Part 3.(b) For purposes of this section:(1) Actions or tactics include, but are not limited to, the making or opposing of motions or the filing and service of a complaint, cross-complaint, answer, or other responsive pleading. The mere filing of a complaint without service thereof on an opposing party does not constitute actions or tactics for purposes of this section.(2) Frivolous means totally and completely without merit or for the sole purpose of harassing an opposing party.(c) Expenses pursuant to this section shall not be imposed except on notice contained in a partys moving or responding papers or, on the courts own motion, after notice and opportunity to be heard. An order imposing expenses shall be in writing and shall recite in detail the action or tactic or circumstances justifying the order.(d) In addition to any award pursuant to this section for an action or tactic described in subdivision (a), the court may assess punitive damages against the plaintiff on a determination by the court that the plaintiffs action was an action maintained by a person convicted of a felony against the persons victim, or the victims heirs, relatives, estate, or personal representative, for injuries arising from the acts for which the person was convicted of a felony, and that the plaintiff is guilty of fraud, oppression, or malice in maintaining the action.(e) This section shall not apply to disclosures and discovery requests, responses, objections, and motions.(f) Sanctions ordered pursuant to this section shall be ordered pursuant to the following conditions and procedures:(f)(1) If, after notice and a reasonable opportunity to respond, the court issues an order pursuant to subdivision (a), the court may, subject to the conditions stated below, impose an appropriate sanction upon the party, the partys attorneys, or both, for the violation an action or tactic described in subdivision (a). In determining what sanctions, if any, should be ordered, the court shall consider whether a party seeking sanctions has exercised due diligence.(1)(A) A motion for sanctions under this section shall be made separately from other motions or requests and shall describe the specific action or tactic alleged to violate subdivision (a). alleged action or tactic, made in bad faith, that is frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay.(2)(B) If the alleged action or tactic is the making or opposing of a written motion or the filing and service of a complaint, cross-complaint, answer, or other responsive pleading that can be withdrawn or appropriately corrected, a notice of motion shall be served as provided in Section 1010, but shall not be filed with or presented to the court, unless 21 days after service of the motion or any other period as the court may prescribe, the challenged action or tactic is not withdrawn or appropriately corrected.(3)(C) If warranted, the court may award to the party prevailing on the motion the reasonable expenses and attorneys fees incurred in presenting or opposing the motion. Absent exceptional circumstances, a law firm shall be held jointly responsible for violations committed by its partners, associates, and employees.(4)(D) If the alleged action or tactic is the making or opposing of a written motion or the filing and service of a complaint, cross-complaint, answer, or other responsive pleading that can be withdrawn or appropriately corrected, the court on its own motion may enter an order describing the specific action or tactic that violates subdivision (a) tactic, made in bad faith, that is frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay, and direct an attorney, law firm, or party to show cause why it has not violated subdivision (a), made an action or tactic as defined in subdivision (b), unless, within 21 days of service of the order to show cause, the challenged action or tactic is withdrawn or appropriately corrected.(g)A sanction imposed for a violation of subdivision (a)(2) An order for sanctions pursuant to this section shall be limited to what is sufficient to deter repetition of the action or tactic or comparable action or tactic by others similarly situated. Subject to the limitations in paragraphs (1) and (2), the sanction may consist of, or include, directives of a nonmonetary nature, an order to pay a penalty into court, or, if imposed on motion and warranted for effective deterrence, and an order directing payment to the movant of some or all of the reasonable attorneys fees and other expenses incurred as a direct result of the violation. action or tactic described in subdivision (a).(1)(A) Monetary sanctions may not be awarded against a represented party for a violation of presenting a claim, defense, and other legal contentions that are warranted by existing law or by a nonfrivolous argument for the extension, modification, or reversal of existing law or the establishment of new law.(2)(B) Monetary sanctions may not be awarded on the courts motion unless the court issues its order to show cause before a voluntary dismissal or settlement of the claims made by or against the party that is, or whose attorneys are, to be sanctioned.(h)(g) A motion for sanctions brought by a party or a partys attorney primarily for an improper purpose, such as to harass or to cause unnecessary delay or needless increase in the cost of litigation, shall itself be subject to a motion for sanctions. It is the intent of the Legislature that courts shall vigorously use its sanction authority to deter the improper actions or tactics or comparable actions or tactics of others similarly situated. (i)(h) The liability imposed by this section is in addition to any other liability imposed by law for acts or omissions within the purview of this section.(j)(i) This section applies to actions or tactics that were part of a civil case filed on or after January 1, 2015. (k)(1)A party who files a motion pursuant to this section shall, promptly upon filing, transmit to the California Research Bureau of the California State Library, by email, a copy of the endorsed, filed caption page of the motion or opposition, a copy of any related notice of appeal or petition for a writ, and a conformed copy of any order issued pursuant to this section, including any order granting or denying the motion. The party shall also indicate whether a motion for sanctions was made pursuant to Section 128.7.(2)The California Research Bureau shall maintain a public record of information transmitted pursuant to this section for at least three years, or until this section is repealed, whichever occurs first, and may store the information on microfilm or other appropriate electronic media.(l)This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2019, and as of that date is repealed, unless a later enacted statute that is enacted before January 1, 2019, deletes or extends that date.SEC. 2.Section 128.5 of the Code of Civil Procedure, as added by Section 2 of Chapter 425 of the Statutes of 2014, is amended to read:128.5.(a)A trial court may order a party, the partys attorney, or both to pay any reasonable expenses, including attorneys fees, incurred by another party as a result of bad-faith actions or tactics that are frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay. This section also applies to judicial arbitration proceedings under Chapter 2.5 (commencing with Section 1141.10) of Title 3 of Part 3.(b)For purposes of this section:(1)Actions or tactics include, but are not limited to, the making or opposing of motions or the filing and service of a complaint or cross-complaint only if the actions or tactics arise from a complaint filed, or a proceeding initiated, on or before December 31, 1994. The mere filing of a complaint without service thereof on an opposing party does not constitute actions or tactics for purposes of this section.(2)Frivolous means totally and completely without merit or for the sole purpose of harassing an opposing party.(c)Expenses pursuant to this section shall not be imposed except on notice contained in a partys moving or responding papers, or the courts own motion, after notice and opportunity to be heard. An order imposing expenses shall be in writing and shall recite in detail the conduct or circumstances justifying the order.(d)In addition to any award pursuant to this section for conduct described in subdivision (a), the court may assess punitive damages against the plaintiff upon a determination by the court that the plaintiffs action was an action maintained by a person convicted of a felony against the persons victim, or the victims heirs, relatives, estate, or personal representative, for injuries arising from the acts for which the person was convicted of a felony, and that the plaintiff is guilty of fraud, oppression, or malice in maintaining the action.(e)The liability imposed by this section is in addition to any other liability imposed by law for acts or omissions within the purview of this section.(f)This section shall become operative on January 1, 2019.SEC. 2. Section 128.5 of the Code of Civil Procedure, as added by Section 2 of Chapter 425 of the Statutes of 2014, is repealed.128.5.(a)A trial court may order a party, the partys attorney, or both to pay any reasonable expenses, including attorneys fees, incurred by another party as a result of bad-faith actions or tactics that are frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay. This section also applies to judicial arbitration proceedings under Chapter 2.5 (commencing with Section 1141.10) of Title 3 of Part 3.(b)For purposes of this section:(1)Actions or tactics include, but are not limited to, the making or opposing of motions or the filing and service of a complaint or cross-complaint only if the actions or tactics arise from a complaint filed, or a proceeding initiated, on or before December 31, 1994. The mere filing of a complaint without service thereof on an opposing party does not constitute actions or tactics for purposes of this section.(2)Frivolous means totally and completely without merit or for the sole purpose of harassing an opposing party.(c)Expenses pursuant to this section shall not be imposed except on notice contained in a partys moving or responding papers, or the courts own motion, after notice and opportunity to be heard. An order imposing expenses shall be in writing and shall recite in detail the conduct or circumstances justifying the order.(d)In addition to any award pursuant to this section for conduct described in subdivision (a), the court may assess punitive damages against the plaintiff upon a determination by the court that the plaintiffs action was an action maintained by a person convicted of a felony against the persons victim, or the victims heirs, relatives, estate, or personal representative, for injuries arising from the acts for which the person was convicted of a felony, and that the plaintiff is guilty of fraud, oppression, or malice in maintaining the action.(e)The liability imposed by this section is in addition to any other liability imposed by law for acts or omissions within the purview of this section.(f)This section shall become operative on January 1, 2018.
The people of the State of California do enact as follows:
## The people of the State of California do enact as follows:
SECTION 1. Section 128.5 of the Code of Civil Procedure, as amended by Section 1 of Chapter 425 of the Statutes of 2014, is amended to read:128.5. (a) A trial court may order a party, the partys attorney, or both, to pay the reasonable expenses, including attorneys fees, incurred by another party as a result of actions or tactics, made in bad faith, that are frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay. This section also applies to judicial arbitration proceedings under Chapter 2.5 (commencing with Section 1141.10) of Title 3 of Part 3.(b) For purposes of this section:(1) Actions or tactics include, but are not limited to, the making or opposing of motions or the filing and service of a complaint, cross-complaint, answer, or other responsive pleading. The mere filing of a complaint without service thereof on an opposing party does not constitute actions or tactics for purposes of this section.(2) Frivolous means totally and completely without merit or for the sole purpose of harassing an opposing party.(c) Expenses pursuant to this section shall not be imposed except on notice contained in a partys moving or responding papers or, on the courts own motion, after notice and opportunity to be heard. An order imposing expenses shall be in writing and shall recite in detail the action or tactic or circumstances justifying the order.(d) In addition to any award pursuant to this section for an action or tactic described in subdivision (a), the court may assess punitive damages against the plaintiff on a determination by the court that the plaintiffs action was an action maintained by a person convicted of a felony against the persons victim, or the victims heirs, relatives, estate, or personal representative, for injuries arising from the acts for which the person was convicted of a felony, and that the plaintiff is guilty of fraud, oppression, or malice in maintaining the action.(e) This section shall not apply to disclosures and discovery requests, responses, objections, and motions.(f) Sanctions ordered pursuant to this section shall be ordered pursuant to the following conditions and procedures:(f)(1) If, after notice and a reasonable opportunity to respond, the court issues an order pursuant to subdivision (a), the court may, subject to the conditions stated below, impose an appropriate sanction upon the party, the partys attorneys, or both, for the violation an action or tactic described in subdivision (a). In determining what sanctions, if any, should be ordered, the court shall consider whether a party seeking sanctions has exercised due diligence.(1)(A) A motion for sanctions under this section shall be made separately from other motions or requests and shall describe the specific action or tactic alleged to violate subdivision (a). alleged action or tactic, made in bad faith, that is frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay.(2)(B) If the alleged action or tactic is the making or opposing of a written motion or the filing and service of a complaint, cross-complaint, answer, or other responsive pleading that can be withdrawn or appropriately corrected, a notice of motion shall be served as provided in Section 1010, but shall not be filed with or presented to the court, unless 21 days after service of the motion or any other period as the court may prescribe, the challenged action or tactic is not withdrawn or appropriately corrected.(3)(C) If warranted, the court may award to the party prevailing on the motion the reasonable expenses and attorneys fees incurred in presenting or opposing the motion. Absent exceptional circumstances, a law firm shall be held jointly responsible for violations committed by its partners, associates, and employees.(4)(D) If the alleged action or tactic is the making or opposing of a written motion or the filing and service of a complaint, cross-complaint, answer, or other responsive pleading that can be withdrawn or appropriately corrected, the court on its own motion may enter an order describing the specific action or tactic that violates subdivision (a) tactic, made in bad faith, that is frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay, and direct an attorney, law firm, or party to show cause why it has not violated subdivision (a), made an action or tactic as defined in subdivision (b), unless, within 21 days of service of the order to show cause, the challenged action or tactic is withdrawn or appropriately corrected.(g)A sanction imposed for a violation of subdivision (a)(2) An order for sanctions pursuant to this section shall be limited to what is sufficient to deter repetition of the action or tactic or comparable action or tactic by others similarly situated. Subject to the limitations in paragraphs (1) and (2), the sanction may consist of, or include, directives of a nonmonetary nature, an order to pay a penalty into court, or, if imposed on motion and warranted for effective deterrence, and an order directing payment to the movant of some or all of the reasonable attorneys fees and other expenses incurred as a direct result of the violation. action or tactic described in subdivision (a).(1)(A) Monetary sanctions may not be awarded against a represented party for a violation of presenting a claim, defense, and other legal contentions that are warranted by existing law or by a nonfrivolous argument for the extension, modification, or reversal of existing law or the establishment of new law.(2)(B) Monetary sanctions may not be awarded on the courts motion unless the court issues its order to show cause before a voluntary dismissal or settlement of the claims made by or against the party that is, or whose attorneys are, to be sanctioned.(h)(g) A motion for sanctions brought by a party or a partys attorney primarily for an improper purpose, such as to harass or to cause unnecessary delay or needless increase in the cost of litigation, shall itself be subject to a motion for sanctions. It is the intent of the Legislature that courts shall vigorously use its sanction authority to deter the improper actions or tactics or comparable actions or tactics of others similarly situated. (i)(h) The liability imposed by this section is in addition to any other liability imposed by law for acts or omissions within the purview of this section.(j)(i) This section applies to actions or tactics that were part of a civil case filed on or after January 1, 2015. (k)(1)A party who files a motion pursuant to this section shall, promptly upon filing, transmit to the California Research Bureau of the California State Library, by email, a copy of the endorsed, filed caption page of the motion or opposition, a copy of any related notice of appeal or petition for a writ, and a conformed copy of any order issued pursuant to this section, including any order granting or denying the motion. The party shall also indicate whether a motion for sanctions was made pursuant to Section 128.7.(2)The California Research Bureau shall maintain a public record of information transmitted pursuant to this section for at least three years, or until this section is repealed, whichever occurs first, and may store the information on microfilm or other appropriate electronic media.(l)This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2019, and as of that date is repealed, unless a later enacted statute that is enacted before January 1, 2019, deletes or extends that date.
SECTION 1. Section 128.5 of the Code of Civil Procedure, as amended by Section 1 of Chapter 425 of the Statutes of 2014, is amended to read:
### SECTION 1.
128.5. (a) A trial court may order a party, the partys attorney, or both, to pay the reasonable expenses, including attorneys fees, incurred by another party as a result of actions or tactics, made in bad faith, that are frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay. This section also applies to judicial arbitration proceedings under Chapter 2.5 (commencing with Section 1141.10) of Title 3 of Part 3.(b) For purposes of this section:(1) Actions or tactics include, but are not limited to, the making or opposing of motions or the filing and service of a complaint, cross-complaint, answer, or other responsive pleading. The mere filing of a complaint without service thereof on an opposing party does not constitute actions or tactics for purposes of this section.(2) Frivolous means totally and completely without merit or for the sole purpose of harassing an opposing party.(c) Expenses pursuant to this section shall not be imposed except on notice contained in a partys moving or responding papers or, on the courts own motion, after notice and opportunity to be heard. An order imposing expenses shall be in writing and shall recite in detail the action or tactic or circumstances justifying the order.(d) In addition to any award pursuant to this section for an action or tactic described in subdivision (a), the court may assess punitive damages against the plaintiff on a determination by the court that the plaintiffs action was an action maintained by a person convicted of a felony against the persons victim, or the victims heirs, relatives, estate, or personal representative, for injuries arising from the acts for which the person was convicted of a felony, and that the plaintiff is guilty of fraud, oppression, or malice in maintaining the action.(e) This section shall not apply to disclosures and discovery requests, responses, objections, and motions.(f) Sanctions ordered pursuant to this section shall be ordered pursuant to the following conditions and procedures:(f)(1) If, after notice and a reasonable opportunity to respond, the court issues an order pursuant to subdivision (a), the court may, subject to the conditions stated below, impose an appropriate sanction upon the party, the partys attorneys, or both, for the violation an action or tactic described in subdivision (a). In determining what sanctions, if any, should be ordered, the court shall consider whether a party seeking sanctions has exercised due diligence.(1)(A) A motion for sanctions under this section shall be made separately from other motions or requests and shall describe the specific action or tactic alleged to violate subdivision (a). alleged action or tactic, made in bad faith, that is frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay.(2)(B) If the alleged action or tactic is the making or opposing of a written motion or the filing and service of a complaint, cross-complaint, answer, or other responsive pleading that can be withdrawn or appropriately corrected, a notice of motion shall be served as provided in Section 1010, but shall not be filed with or presented to the court, unless 21 days after service of the motion or any other period as the court may prescribe, the challenged action or tactic is not withdrawn or appropriately corrected.(3)(C) If warranted, the court may award to the party prevailing on the motion the reasonable expenses and attorneys fees incurred in presenting or opposing the motion. Absent exceptional circumstances, a law firm shall be held jointly responsible for violations committed by its partners, associates, and employees.(4)(D) If the alleged action or tactic is the making or opposing of a written motion or the filing and service of a complaint, cross-complaint, answer, or other responsive pleading that can be withdrawn or appropriately corrected, the court on its own motion may enter an order describing the specific action or tactic that violates subdivision (a) tactic, made in bad faith, that is frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay, and direct an attorney, law firm, or party to show cause why it has not violated subdivision (a), made an action or tactic as defined in subdivision (b), unless, within 21 days of service of the order to show cause, the challenged action or tactic is withdrawn or appropriately corrected.(g)A sanction imposed for a violation of subdivision (a)(2) An order for sanctions pursuant to this section shall be limited to what is sufficient to deter repetition of the action or tactic or comparable action or tactic by others similarly situated. Subject to the limitations in paragraphs (1) and (2), the sanction may consist of, or include, directives of a nonmonetary nature, an order to pay a penalty into court, or, if imposed on motion and warranted for effective deterrence, and an order directing payment to the movant of some or all of the reasonable attorneys fees and other expenses incurred as a direct result of the violation. action or tactic described in subdivision (a).(1)(A) Monetary sanctions may not be awarded against a represented party for a violation of presenting a claim, defense, and other legal contentions that are warranted by existing law or by a nonfrivolous argument for the extension, modification, or reversal of existing law or the establishment of new law.(2)(B) Monetary sanctions may not be awarded on the courts motion unless the court issues its order to show cause before a voluntary dismissal or settlement of the claims made by or against the party that is, or whose attorneys are, to be sanctioned.(h)(g) A motion for sanctions brought by a party or a partys attorney primarily for an improper purpose, such as to harass or to cause unnecessary delay or needless increase in the cost of litigation, shall itself be subject to a motion for sanctions. It is the intent of the Legislature that courts shall vigorously use its sanction authority to deter the improper actions or tactics or comparable actions or tactics of others similarly situated. (i)(h) The liability imposed by this section is in addition to any other liability imposed by law for acts or omissions within the purview of this section.(j)(i) This section applies to actions or tactics that were part of a civil case filed on or after January 1, 2015. (k)(1)A party who files a motion pursuant to this section shall, promptly upon filing, transmit to the California Research Bureau of the California State Library, by email, a copy of the endorsed, filed caption page of the motion or opposition, a copy of any related notice of appeal or petition for a writ, and a conformed copy of any order issued pursuant to this section, including any order granting or denying the motion. The party shall also indicate whether a motion for sanctions was made pursuant to Section 128.7.(2)The California Research Bureau shall maintain a public record of information transmitted pursuant to this section for at least three years, or until this section is repealed, whichever occurs first, and may store the information on microfilm or other appropriate electronic media.(l)This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2019, and as of that date is repealed, unless a later enacted statute that is enacted before January 1, 2019, deletes or extends that date.
128.5. (a) A trial court may order a party, the partys attorney, or both, to pay the reasonable expenses, including attorneys fees, incurred by another party as a result of actions or tactics, made in bad faith, that are frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay. This section also applies to judicial arbitration proceedings under Chapter 2.5 (commencing with Section 1141.10) of Title 3 of Part 3.(b) For purposes of this section:(1) Actions or tactics include, but are not limited to, the making or opposing of motions or the filing and service of a complaint, cross-complaint, answer, or other responsive pleading. The mere filing of a complaint without service thereof on an opposing party does not constitute actions or tactics for purposes of this section.(2) Frivolous means totally and completely without merit or for the sole purpose of harassing an opposing party.(c) Expenses pursuant to this section shall not be imposed except on notice contained in a partys moving or responding papers or, on the courts own motion, after notice and opportunity to be heard. An order imposing expenses shall be in writing and shall recite in detail the action or tactic or circumstances justifying the order.(d) In addition to any award pursuant to this section for an action or tactic described in subdivision (a), the court may assess punitive damages against the plaintiff on a determination by the court that the plaintiffs action was an action maintained by a person convicted of a felony against the persons victim, or the victims heirs, relatives, estate, or personal representative, for injuries arising from the acts for which the person was convicted of a felony, and that the plaintiff is guilty of fraud, oppression, or malice in maintaining the action.(e) This section shall not apply to disclosures and discovery requests, responses, objections, and motions.(f) Sanctions ordered pursuant to this section shall be ordered pursuant to the following conditions and procedures:(f)(1) If, after notice and a reasonable opportunity to respond, the court issues an order pursuant to subdivision (a), the court may, subject to the conditions stated below, impose an appropriate sanction upon the party, the partys attorneys, or both, for the violation an action or tactic described in subdivision (a). In determining what sanctions, if any, should be ordered, the court shall consider whether a party seeking sanctions has exercised due diligence.(1)(A) A motion for sanctions under this section shall be made separately from other motions or requests and shall describe the specific action or tactic alleged to violate subdivision (a). alleged action or tactic, made in bad faith, that is frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay.(2)(B) If the alleged action or tactic is the making or opposing of a written motion or the filing and service of a complaint, cross-complaint, answer, or other responsive pleading that can be withdrawn or appropriately corrected, a notice of motion shall be served as provided in Section 1010, but shall not be filed with or presented to the court, unless 21 days after service of the motion or any other period as the court may prescribe, the challenged action or tactic is not withdrawn or appropriately corrected.(3)(C) If warranted, the court may award to the party prevailing on the motion the reasonable expenses and attorneys fees incurred in presenting or opposing the motion. Absent exceptional circumstances, a law firm shall be held jointly responsible for violations committed by its partners, associates, and employees.(4)(D) If the alleged action or tactic is the making or opposing of a written motion or the filing and service of a complaint, cross-complaint, answer, or other responsive pleading that can be withdrawn or appropriately corrected, the court on its own motion may enter an order describing the specific action or tactic that violates subdivision (a) tactic, made in bad faith, that is frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay, and direct an attorney, law firm, or party to show cause why it has not violated subdivision (a), made an action or tactic as defined in subdivision (b), unless, within 21 days of service of the order to show cause, the challenged action or tactic is withdrawn or appropriately corrected.(g)A sanction imposed for a violation of subdivision (a)(2) An order for sanctions pursuant to this section shall be limited to what is sufficient to deter repetition of the action or tactic or comparable action or tactic by others similarly situated. Subject to the limitations in paragraphs (1) and (2), the sanction may consist of, or include, directives of a nonmonetary nature, an order to pay a penalty into court, or, if imposed on motion and warranted for effective deterrence, and an order directing payment to the movant of some or all of the reasonable attorneys fees and other expenses incurred as a direct result of the violation. action or tactic described in subdivision (a).(1)(A) Monetary sanctions may not be awarded against a represented party for a violation of presenting a claim, defense, and other legal contentions that are warranted by existing law or by a nonfrivolous argument for the extension, modification, or reversal of existing law or the establishment of new law.(2)(B) Monetary sanctions may not be awarded on the courts motion unless the court issues its order to show cause before a voluntary dismissal or settlement of the claims made by or against the party that is, or whose attorneys are, to be sanctioned.(h)(g) A motion for sanctions brought by a party or a partys attorney primarily for an improper purpose, such as to harass or to cause unnecessary delay or needless increase in the cost of litigation, shall itself be subject to a motion for sanctions. It is the intent of the Legislature that courts shall vigorously use its sanction authority to deter the improper actions or tactics or comparable actions or tactics of others similarly situated. (i)(h) The liability imposed by this section is in addition to any other liability imposed by law for acts or omissions within the purview of this section.(j)(i) This section applies to actions or tactics that were part of a civil case filed on or after January 1, 2015. (k)(1)A party who files a motion pursuant to this section shall, promptly upon filing, transmit to the California Research Bureau of the California State Library, by email, a copy of the endorsed, filed caption page of the motion or opposition, a copy of any related notice of appeal or petition for a writ, and a conformed copy of any order issued pursuant to this section, including any order granting or denying the motion. The party shall also indicate whether a motion for sanctions was made pursuant to Section 128.7.(2)The California Research Bureau shall maintain a public record of information transmitted pursuant to this section for at least three years, or until this section is repealed, whichever occurs first, and may store the information on microfilm or other appropriate electronic media.(l)This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2019, and as of that date is repealed, unless a later enacted statute that is enacted before January 1, 2019, deletes or extends that date.
128.5. (a) A trial court may order a party, the partys attorney, or both, to pay the reasonable expenses, including attorneys fees, incurred by another party as a result of actions or tactics, made in bad faith, that are frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay. This section also applies to judicial arbitration proceedings under Chapter 2.5 (commencing with Section 1141.10) of Title 3 of Part 3.(b) For purposes of this section:(1) Actions or tactics include, but are not limited to, the making or opposing of motions or the filing and service of a complaint, cross-complaint, answer, or other responsive pleading. The mere filing of a complaint without service thereof on an opposing party does not constitute actions or tactics for purposes of this section.(2) Frivolous means totally and completely without merit or for the sole purpose of harassing an opposing party.(c) Expenses pursuant to this section shall not be imposed except on notice contained in a partys moving or responding papers or, on the courts own motion, after notice and opportunity to be heard. An order imposing expenses shall be in writing and shall recite in detail the action or tactic or circumstances justifying the order.(d) In addition to any award pursuant to this section for an action or tactic described in subdivision (a), the court may assess punitive damages against the plaintiff on a determination by the court that the plaintiffs action was an action maintained by a person convicted of a felony against the persons victim, or the victims heirs, relatives, estate, or personal representative, for injuries arising from the acts for which the person was convicted of a felony, and that the plaintiff is guilty of fraud, oppression, or malice in maintaining the action.(e) This section shall not apply to disclosures and discovery requests, responses, objections, and motions.(f) Sanctions ordered pursuant to this section shall be ordered pursuant to the following conditions and procedures:(f)(1) If, after notice and a reasonable opportunity to respond, the court issues an order pursuant to subdivision (a), the court may, subject to the conditions stated below, impose an appropriate sanction upon the party, the partys attorneys, or both, for the violation an action or tactic described in subdivision (a). In determining what sanctions, if any, should be ordered, the court shall consider whether a party seeking sanctions has exercised due diligence.(1)(A) A motion for sanctions under this section shall be made separately from other motions or requests and shall describe the specific action or tactic alleged to violate subdivision (a). alleged action or tactic, made in bad faith, that is frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay.(2)(B) If the alleged action or tactic is the making or opposing of a written motion or the filing and service of a complaint, cross-complaint, answer, or other responsive pleading that can be withdrawn or appropriately corrected, a notice of motion shall be served as provided in Section 1010, but shall not be filed with or presented to the court, unless 21 days after service of the motion or any other period as the court may prescribe, the challenged action or tactic is not withdrawn or appropriately corrected.(3)(C) If warranted, the court may award to the party prevailing on the motion the reasonable expenses and attorneys fees incurred in presenting or opposing the motion. Absent exceptional circumstances, a law firm shall be held jointly responsible for violations committed by its partners, associates, and employees.(4)(D) If the alleged action or tactic is the making or opposing of a written motion or the filing and service of a complaint, cross-complaint, answer, or other responsive pleading that can be withdrawn or appropriately corrected, the court on its own motion may enter an order describing the specific action or tactic that violates subdivision (a) tactic, made in bad faith, that is frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay, and direct an attorney, law firm, or party to show cause why it has not violated subdivision (a), made an action or tactic as defined in subdivision (b), unless, within 21 days of service of the order to show cause, the challenged action or tactic is withdrawn or appropriately corrected.(g)A sanction imposed for a violation of subdivision (a)(2) An order for sanctions pursuant to this section shall be limited to what is sufficient to deter repetition of the action or tactic or comparable action or tactic by others similarly situated. Subject to the limitations in paragraphs (1) and (2), the sanction may consist of, or include, directives of a nonmonetary nature, an order to pay a penalty into court, or, if imposed on motion and warranted for effective deterrence, and an order directing payment to the movant of some or all of the reasonable attorneys fees and other expenses incurred as a direct result of the violation. action or tactic described in subdivision (a).(1)(A) Monetary sanctions may not be awarded against a represented party for a violation of presenting a claim, defense, and other legal contentions that are warranted by existing law or by a nonfrivolous argument for the extension, modification, or reversal of existing law or the establishment of new law.(2)(B) Monetary sanctions may not be awarded on the courts motion unless the court issues its order to show cause before a voluntary dismissal or settlement of the claims made by or against the party that is, or whose attorneys are, to be sanctioned.(h)(g) A motion for sanctions brought by a party or a partys attorney primarily for an improper purpose, such as to harass or to cause unnecessary delay or needless increase in the cost of litigation, shall itself be subject to a motion for sanctions. It is the intent of the Legislature that courts shall vigorously use its sanction authority to deter the improper actions or tactics or comparable actions or tactics of others similarly situated. (i)(h) The liability imposed by this section is in addition to any other liability imposed by law for acts or omissions within the purview of this section.(j)(i) This section applies to actions or tactics that were part of a civil case filed on or after January 1, 2015. (k)(1)A party who files a motion pursuant to this section shall, promptly upon filing, transmit to the California Research Bureau of the California State Library, by email, a copy of the endorsed, filed caption page of the motion or opposition, a copy of any related notice of appeal or petition for a writ, and a conformed copy of any order issued pursuant to this section, including any order granting or denying the motion. The party shall also indicate whether a motion for sanctions was made pursuant to Section 128.7.(2)The California Research Bureau shall maintain a public record of information transmitted pursuant to this section for at least three years, or until this section is repealed, whichever occurs first, and may store the information on microfilm or other appropriate electronic media.(l)This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2019, and as of that date is repealed, unless a later enacted statute that is enacted before January 1, 2019, deletes or extends that date.
128.5. (a) A trial court may order a party, the partys attorney, or both, to pay the reasonable expenses, including attorneys fees, incurred by another party as a result of actions or tactics, made in bad faith, that are frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay. This section also applies to judicial arbitration proceedings under Chapter 2.5 (commencing with Section 1141.10) of Title 3 of Part 3.
(b) For purposes of this section:
(1) Actions or tactics include, but are not limited to, the making or opposing of motions or the filing and service of a complaint, cross-complaint, answer, or other responsive pleading. The mere filing of a complaint without service thereof on an opposing party does not constitute actions or tactics for purposes of this section.
(2) Frivolous means totally and completely without merit or for the sole purpose of harassing an opposing party.
(c) Expenses pursuant to this section shall not be imposed except on notice contained in a partys moving or responding papers or, on the courts own motion, after notice and opportunity to be heard. An order imposing expenses shall be in writing and shall recite in detail the action or tactic or circumstances justifying the order.
(d) In addition to any award pursuant to this section for an action or tactic described in subdivision (a), the court may assess punitive damages against the plaintiff on a determination by the court that the plaintiffs action was an action maintained by a person convicted of a felony against the persons victim, or the victims heirs, relatives, estate, or personal representative, for injuries arising from the acts for which the person was convicted of a felony, and that the plaintiff is guilty of fraud, oppression, or malice in maintaining the action.
(e) This section shall not apply to disclosures and discovery requests, responses, objections, and motions.
(f) Sanctions ordered pursuant to this section shall be ordered pursuant to the following conditions and procedures:
(f)
(1) If, after notice and a reasonable opportunity to respond, the court issues an order pursuant to subdivision (a), the court may, subject to the conditions stated below, impose an appropriate sanction upon the party, the partys attorneys, or both, for the violation an action or tactic described in subdivision (a). In determining what sanctions, if any, should be ordered, the court shall consider whether a party seeking sanctions has exercised due diligence.
(1)
(A) A motion for sanctions under this section shall be made separately from other motions or requests and shall describe the specific action or tactic alleged to violate subdivision (a). alleged action or tactic, made in bad faith, that is frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay.
(2)
(B) If the alleged action or tactic is the making or opposing of a written motion or the filing and service of a complaint, cross-complaint, answer, or other responsive pleading that can be withdrawn or appropriately corrected, a notice of motion shall be served as provided in Section 1010, but shall not be filed with or presented to the court, unless 21 days after service of the motion or any other period as the court may prescribe, the challenged action or tactic is not withdrawn or appropriately corrected.
(3)
(C) If warranted, the court may award to the party prevailing on the motion the reasonable expenses and attorneys fees incurred in presenting or opposing the motion. Absent exceptional circumstances, a law firm shall be held jointly responsible for violations committed by its partners, associates, and employees.
(4)
(D) If the alleged action or tactic is the making or opposing of a written motion or the filing and service of a complaint, cross-complaint, answer, or other responsive pleading that can be withdrawn or appropriately corrected, the court on its own motion may enter an order describing the specific action or tactic that violates subdivision (a) tactic, made in bad faith, that is frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay, and direct an attorney, law firm, or party to show cause why it has not violated subdivision (a), made an action or tactic as defined in subdivision (b), unless, within 21 days of service of the order to show cause, the challenged action or tactic is withdrawn or appropriately corrected.
(g)A sanction imposed for a violation of subdivision (a)
(2) An order for sanctions pursuant to this section shall be limited to what is sufficient to deter repetition of the action or tactic or comparable action or tactic by others similarly situated. Subject to the limitations in paragraphs (1) and (2), the sanction may consist of, or include, directives of a nonmonetary nature, an order to pay a penalty into court, or, if imposed on motion and warranted for effective deterrence, and an order directing payment to the movant of some or all of the reasonable attorneys fees and other expenses incurred as a direct result of the violation. action or tactic described in subdivision (a).
(1)
(A) Monetary sanctions may not be awarded against a represented party for a violation of presenting a claim, defense, and other legal contentions that are warranted by existing law or by a nonfrivolous argument for the extension, modification, or reversal of existing law or the establishment of new law.
(2)
(B) Monetary sanctions may not be awarded on the courts motion unless the court issues its order to show cause before a voluntary dismissal or settlement of the claims made by or against the party that is, or whose attorneys are, to be sanctioned.
(h)
(g) A motion for sanctions brought by a party or a partys attorney primarily for an improper purpose, such as to harass or to cause unnecessary delay or needless increase in the cost of litigation, shall itself be subject to a motion for sanctions. It is the intent of the Legislature that courts shall vigorously use its sanction authority to deter the improper actions or tactics or comparable actions or tactics of others similarly situated.
(i)
(h) The liability imposed by this section is in addition to any other liability imposed by law for acts or omissions within the purview of this section.
(j)
(i) This section applies to actions or tactics that were part of a civil case filed on or after January 1, 2015.
(k)(1)A party who files a motion pursuant to this section shall, promptly upon filing, transmit to the California Research Bureau of the California State Library, by email, a copy of the endorsed, filed caption page of the motion or opposition, a copy of any related notice of appeal or petition for a writ, and a conformed copy of any order issued pursuant to this section, including any order granting or denying the motion. The party shall also indicate whether a motion for sanctions was made pursuant to Section 128.7.
(2)The California Research Bureau shall maintain a public record of information transmitted pursuant to this section for at least three years, or until this section is repealed, whichever occurs first, and may store the information on microfilm or other appropriate electronic media.
(l)This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2019, and as of that date is repealed, unless a later enacted statute that is enacted before January 1, 2019, deletes or extends that date.
(a)A trial court may order a party, the partys attorney, or both to pay any reasonable expenses, including attorneys fees, incurred by another party as a result of bad-faith actions or tactics that are frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay. This section also applies to judicial arbitration proceedings under Chapter 2.5 (commencing with Section 1141.10) of Title 3 of Part 3.
(b)For purposes of this section:
(1)Actions or tactics include, but are not limited to, the making or opposing of motions or the filing and service of a complaint or cross-complaint only if the actions or tactics arise from a complaint filed, or a proceeding initiated, on or before December 31, 1994. The mere filing of a complaint without service thereof on an opposing party does not constitute actions or tactics for purposes of this section.
(2)Frivolous means totally and completely without merit or for the sole purpose of harassing an opposing party.
(c)Expenses pursuant to this section shall not be imposed except on notice contained in a partys moving or responding papers, or the courts own motion, after notice and opportunity to be heard. An order imposing expenses shall be in writing and shall recite in detail the conduct or circumstances justifying the order.
(d)In addition to any award pursuant to this section for conduct described in subdivision (a), the court may assess punitive damages against the plaintiff upon a determination by the court that the plaintiffs action was an action maintained by a person convicted of a felony against the persons victim, or the victims heirs, relatives, estate, or personal representative, for injuries arising from the acts for which the person was convicted of a felony, and that the plaintiff is guilty of fraud, oppression, or malice in maintaining the action.
(e)The liability imposed by this section is in addition to any other liability imposed by law for acts or omissions within the purview of this section.
(f)This section shall become operative on January 1, 2019.
SEC. 2. Section 128.5 of the Code of Civil Procedure, as added by Section 2 of Chapter 425 of the Statutes of 2014, is repealed.128.5.(a)A trial court may order a party, the partys attorney, or both to pay any reasonable expenses, including attorneys fees, incurred by another party as a result of bad-faith actions or tactics that are frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay. This section also applies to judicial arbitration proceedings under Chapter 2.5 (commencing with Section 1141.10) of Title 3 of Part 3.(b)For purposes of this section:(1)Actions or tactics include, but are not limited to, the making or opposing of motions or the filing and service of a complaint or cross-complaint only if the actions or tactics arise from a complaint filed, or a proceeding initiated, on or before December 31, 1994. The mere filing of a complaint without service thereof on an opposing party does not constitute actions or tactics for purposes of this section.(2)Frivolous means totally and completely without merit or for the sole purpose of harassing an opposing party.(c)Expenses pursuant to this section shall not be imposed except on notice contained in a partys moving or responding papers, or the courts own motion, after notice and opportunity to be heard. An order imposing expenses shall be in writing and shall recite in detail the conduct or circumstances justifying the order.(d)In addition to any award pursuant to this section for conduct described in subdivision (a), the court may assess punitive damages against the plaintiff upon a determination by the court that the plaintiffs action was an action maintained by a person convicted of a felony against the persons victim, or the victims heirs, relatives, estate, or personal representative, for injuries arising from the acts for which the person was convicted of a felony, and that the plaintiff is guilty of fraud, oppression, or malice in maintaining the action.(e)The liability imposed by this section is in addition to any other liability imposed by law for acts or omissions within the purview of this section.(f)This section shall become operative on January 1, 2018.
SEC. 2. Section 128.5 of the Code of Civil Procedure, as added by Section 2 of Chapter 425 of the Statutes of 2014, is repealed.
### SEC. 2.
128.5.(a)A trial court may order a party, the partys attorney, or both to pay any reasonable expenses, including attorneys fees, incurred by another party as a result of bad-faith actions or tactics that are frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay. This section also applies to judicial arbitration proceedings under Chapter 2.5 (commencing with Section 1141.10) of Title 3 of Part 3.(b)For purposes of this section:(1)Actions or tactics include, but are not limited to, the making or opposing of motions or the filing and service of a complaint or cross-complaint only if the actions or tactics arise from a complaint filed, or a proceeding initiated, on or before December 31, 1994. The mere filing of a complaint without service thereof on an opposing party does not constitute actions or tactics for purposes of this section.(2)Frivolous means totally and completely without merit or for the sole purpose of harassing an opposing party.(c)Expenses pursuant to this section shall not be imposed except on notice contained in a partys moving or responding papers, or the courts own motion, after notice and opportunity to be heard. An order imposing expenses shall be in writing and shall recite in detail the conduct or circumstances justifying the order.(d)In addition to any award pursuant to this section for conduct described in subdivision (a), the court may assess punitive damages against the plaintiff upon a determination by the court that the plaintiffs action was an action maintained by a person convicted of a felony against the persons victim, or the victims heirs, relatives, estate, or personal representative, for injuries arising from the acts for which the person was convicted of a felony, and that the plaintiff is guilty of fraud, oppression, or malice in maintaining the action.(e)The liability imposed by this section is in addition to any other liability imposed by law for acts or omissions within the purview of this section.(f)This section shall become operative on January 1, 2018.
(a)A trial court may order a party, the partys attorney, or both to pay any reasonable expenses, including attorneys fees, incurred by another party as a result of bad-faith actions or tactics that are frivolous or solely intended to cause unnecessary delay. This section also applies to judicial arbitration proceedings under Chapter 2.5 (commencing with Section 1141.10) of Title 3 of Part 3.
(b)For purposes of this section:
(1)Actions or tactics include, but are not limited to, the making or opposing of motions or the filing and service of a complaint or cross-complaint only if the actions or tactics arise from a complaint filed, or a proceeding initiated, on or before December 31, 1994. The mere filing of a complaint without service thereof on an opposing party does not constitute actions or tactics for purposes of this section.
(2)Frivolous means totally and completely without merit or for the sole purpose of harassing an opposing party.
(c)Expenses pursuant to this section shall not be imposed except on notice contained in a partys moving or responding papers, or the courts own motion, after notice and opportunity to be heard. An order imposing expenses shall be in writing and shall recite in detail the conduct or circumstances justifying the order.
(d)In addition to any award pursuant to this section for conduct described in subdivision (a), the court may assess punitive damages against the plaintiff upon a determination by the court that the plaintiffs action was an action maintained by a person convicted of a felony against the persons victim, or the victims heirs, relatives, estate, or personal representative, for injuries arising from the acts for which the person was convicted of a felony, and that the plaintiff is guilty of fraud, oppression, or malice in maintaining the action.
(e)The liability imposed by this section is in addition to any other liability imposed by law for acts or omissions within the purview of this section.
(f)This section shall become operative on January 1, 2018.