CM200 – Notice of Settlement of Entire Case

Jurisdiction: Country: United States | Province or State: California

If you have resolved your lawsuit, the CM200 – Notice of Settlement of Entire Case is the form that tells the court the dispute has been settled. It is a short but important filing used in California civil cases. By submitting it, you inform the court that all parties have reached an agreement that resolves the entire case.

This form does not explain the terms of your settlement. Instead, it alerts the court that the case no longer needs trial time or further hearings. It helps the court manage its calendar and move other cases forward.

You may encounter this form after negotiations, mediation, or direct discussions with the other side. Once everyone agrees to settle, the court expects to be notified promptly.

If you are representing yourself, this document can feel procedural and easy to overlook. In reality, it plays a key role in formally closing out your case.

What is CM200 – Notice of Settlement of Entire Case?

Clear definition

The CM200 – Notice of Settlement of Entire Case is a court filing used in California civil cases to inform the Superior Court that all claims between all parties have been resolved. It states that the entire case has been settled, not just part of it.

The form typically identifies the parties, the case number, and the court where the case is pending. It also indicates whether a request for dismissal will be filed and when.

This document does not describe the settlement terms. It does not attach the agreement. It simply notifies the court that the matter has been resolved outside of trial.

Who typically uses this form?

This form is commonly used by plaintiffs, defendants, or their attorneys in civil lawsuits. Either side may file it, depending on who takes responsibility for notifying the court.

Self-represented litigants also use this form when they reach a settlement. If you filed the lawsuit yourself and later resolve it, you may be the one completing and submitting the notice.

It is used in a wide range of civil matters, including contract disputes, personal injury claims, property disputes, and other non-criminal cases handled by the Superior Court of California.

Why might you need this form?

You may need this form after signing a settlement agreement that resolves all issues in your case. Courts expect to be informed once a case no longer requires judicial action.

If a trial date or case management conference is scheduled, filing this notice signals that those events may no longer be necessary. This helps prevent wasted court time.

In many situations, the court will require a dismissal to be filed within a certain period after the settlement. This form often includes a statement about when that dismissal will occur.

Filing this document can also create a clear record that the dispute has been resolved, which may be useful if questions arise later about the status of the case.

Typical real-life scenarios

• You file a lawsuit for unpaid services. After several months of negotiation, the other party agrees to pay a reduced amount in exchange for dismissing the case. Once the agreement is signed, you file the notice to inform the court that the matter has been settled.
• You are sued for property damage. Before trial, both sides attend mediation and reach a written agreement. The attorneys sign the settlement and notify the court using this form.
• Two business partners are in a contract dispute. They resolve all claims through direct negotiation. One party files the notice to inform the court that no further hearings are needed.
• A personal injury case settles shortly before trial. Because court time has already been reserved, the notice is filed quickly so the judge and court staff can release the trial date.

When would you use CM200 – Notice of Settlement of Entire Case?

You would use this form after all parties agree to settle the entire case. “Entire case” means every claim by every party has been resolved. If only some claims are settled, a different type of notice may be required.

This filing is typically made soon after the settlement agreement is signed. In some situations, the court may set a deadline for filing a dismissal once the settlement is complete. The notice helps bridge the time between settlement and dismissal.

If you are the plaintiff and plan to request dismissal after receiving payment, you might file this form to notify the court that the case will be dismissed once payment is made. If you are the defendant and the plaintiff agrees to dismiss the case, either side may handle the notice, depending on the agreement.

It is also used when a trial date is approaching. Informing the court promptly allows it to reassign that time to other cases.

If enforcement terms remain, such as installment payments, the notice may still be filed to show the case has settled, even if final dismissal will occur later.

Legal characteristics of CM200 – Notice of Settlement of Entire Case

This form is procedural in nature. Its main legal effect is to notify the court that the case has been resolved. It does not, by itself, end the case. A separate dismissal filing is usually required to formally close the case.

For the form to be effective, it must include accurate case information. This typically includes the correct court name, case number, and party names. Errors in these details can delay processing or create confusion in the court record.

The filing must clearly state that the entire case has been settled. If there are cross-complaints or multiple parties, the statement must reflect that all disputes have been resolved. If the case is only partially settled, using this form may not be appropriate.

Common problems include missing signatures, incorrect case numbers, or filing the notice in the wrong courthouse location. Incomplete sections may lead the clerk to reject the document for correction.

Procedural expectations can vary slightly depending on the specific Superior Court handling the case. Some courts may require electronic submission, while others may accept paper filings. The underlying purpose of the form remains the same across California civil courts.

It is important to understand what this form does not do. It does not create the settlement agreement. It does not enforce the agreement. It does not replace a request for dismissal. It simply informs the court that the dispute has been resolved.

Is it legally binding?

The notice itself is not the settlement contract. The legally binding agreement is the written or oral settlement reached between the parties. The notice is a representation to the court that such an agreement exists.

By signing and filing the notice, you are formally stating that the entire case has been settled. This statement becomes part of the official court record.

If the parties later disagree about the terms of the settlement, the binding effect usually depends on the underlying agreement, not on the notice. The notice does not spell out payment amounts, deadlines, or other obligations.

However, filing the notice can have procedural consequences. Courts may vacate hearings or trial dates based on the representation that the case is resolved. Failing to follow through with a dismissal after filing the notice may lead to further court action to clarify the case status.

How to fill out CM200 – Notice of Settlement of Entire Case

Step 1 – Identify the court and parties

Begin by entering the full name of the Superior Court handling your case. Include the court’s address if the form requests it. Then list the names of the plaintiff and defendant exactly as they appear in prior filings. Consistency matters. The case number must match the number assigned when the lawsuit was first filed.

Step 2 – Provide your contact information

Fill in your name, address, phone number, and, if applicable, email address in the space provided for the attorney or party without an attorney. If you are representing yourself, indicate that clearly. This ensures the court knows who submitted the notice and how to reach you if needed.

Step 3 – Confirm that the entire case has been settled

Locate the section that asks whether the entire case has been settled. Mark or complete the statement confirming that all claims and causes of action between all parties have been resolved. Read this carefully before completing it. The form is intended for full settlements, not partial ones.

Step 4 – Indicate the expected date of dismissal

The form typically asks when a request for dismissal will be filed. Enter the expected date, if known. This may depend on when settlement terms, such as payment, are completed. Providing a clear timeframe helps the court track the case.

Step 5 – Address any scheduled hearings or trial dates

Review the section that refers to upcoming hearings, conferences, or trial dates. If any are scheduled, the notice informs the court that they may no longer be necessary. Ensure the dates listed are accurate so the court can update its calendar properly.

Step 6 – Sign and date the form

Sign your name in the designated signature line. Print your name below the signature if required. Add the date you signed the form. If you are an attorney, indicate your role. Your signature confirms that the information provided is accurate to the best of your knowledge.

Step 7 – Prepare for filing and service

Make a copy of the completed form for your records. File the original with the Superior Court handling your case, following the court’s standard filing process. Provide a copy to the other parties as required in civil cases, and complete any required proof of service form so the court record reflects that notice was given.

Legal terms you might encounter in CM200 – Notice of Settlement of Entire Case

1. Entire Case: This means all claims, cross-claims, and issues between all parties have been resolved. On this form, you are confirming that nothing remains for the court to decide. If even one claim is still open, the case is not considered an “entire case” settlement.
2. Dismissal: A dismissal formally ends the case in court. In this document, you state the expected date you will file a dismissal. The court relies on that date to manage its calendar.
3. Without Prejudice: This means a claim can be filed again in the future. While this specific phrase does not appear directly on the notice itself, it often relates to the dismissal that follows. You should understand whether your upcoming dismissal will be with or without prejudice.
4. With Prejudice: This means the claim cannot be filed again. The settlement agreement usually states this. The notice alerts the court that a dismissal consistent with that agreement is coming.
5. Proof of Service: This confirms that you gave a copy of the filed document to all other parties. You must complete and file proof of service with this notice. Without it, the court may not accept your filing.
6. Party: A party is anyone directly involved in the case, such as a plaintiff, defendant, petitioner, or respondent. Every named party must be accounted for in an entire case settlement.
7. Counsel of Record: This refers to an attorney who has officially appeared in the case for a party. If a party has counsel of record, you must serve the attorney rather than the party directly.
8. Trial Date: This is the date set by the court for trial. The form asks you to address any scheduled trial or hearing dates so the court can vacate them if the case is settled.
9. Jurisdiction: This refers to the court’s authority over the case. Once a dismissal is filed and entered, the court generally loses jurisdiction, except for limited purposes such as enforcing a settlement if properly requested.
10. Calendar Management: Courts manage thousands of cases. By filing this notice, you help the court remove your case from active scheduling. This prevents unnecessary hearings and wasted court time.

FAQs

Do I need to attach the settlement agreement to this form?

No. You do not attach your private settlement agreement when filing this document. The court only needs to know that the entire case has been resolved and when you expect to file a dismissal. Keep your settlement agreement for your records unless a judge specifically orders it to be filed.

What date should I enter as the expected date of dismissal?

Enter the realistic date by which you plan to file the dismissal. Check your settlement terms first. Some agreements require payment or another action before dismissal. Do not guess. Choose a date you can meet, because the court may follow up if no dismissal is filed by that date.

What happens if I miss the dismissal deadline I listed?

If you miss the date, the court may schedule a status conference or issue a notice asking why the dismissal has not been filed. This can delay closure and require you to appear. If circumstances change, act quickly and file the dismissal as soon as the settlement conditions are satisfied.

Who is allowed to sign CM200 – Notice of Settlement of Entire Case?

A party that is self-represented may sign it. If a party has an attorney, the attorney of record usually signs. The signer must have authority to confirm that the entire case has been settled. Do not sign on behalf of someone else unless you are legally authorized to do so.

Does filing this form automatically close my case?

No. This form tells the court that a settlement has occurred, but the case is not officially closed until a dismissal is filed and entered. You must complete that separate step. Check the court docket to confirm the dismissal has been processed.

Do I still need to attend a scheduled hearing after filing this document?

If a hearing or trial is scheduled before your expected dismissal date, check the court’s response. The court may vacate the date after receiving the notice. Until you see confirmation, assume the hearing remains on the calendar and monitor your case status carefully.

What if only some parties have settled?

This document is for the settlement of the entire case. If some claims or parties remain active, this form is not appropriate. Review your case caption and confirm that every party and every claim is resolved before filing.

Will the public record show the terms of my settlement after I file CM200 – Notice of Settlement of Entire Case?

No. The public record will show that the case was settled and later dismissed. It does not automatically include the settlement amount or detailed terms. Only documents actually filed with the court become part of the public case file.

Checklist: Before, During, and After CM200 – Notice of Settlement of Entire Case

Before

• Confirm that all claims and cross-claims between all parties are resolved.
• Review your written settlement agreement for any conditions tied to dismissal.
• Verify the correct case number and court name from your most recent court document.
• Check whether any hearings or trial dates are currently scheduled.
• Identify all parties and their attorneys of record for proper service.
• Decide on a realistic date by which you will file the dismissal.
• Make sure you have the correct and most current version of the form.

During

• Enter the full case name exactly as it appears on prior court filings.
• Write the case number carefully and double-check for typos.
• Clearly indicate that the entire case has been settled.
• Fill in the expected dismissal date based on your agreement.
• Address any upcoming hearings or trial dates as requested on the form.
• Provide complete contact information, including mailing address.
• Sign and date the form in the appropriate section.
• Complete the proof of service accurately, listing all parties served.

After

• Make copies of the signed form for your records.
• File the original with the Superior Court of California handling your case.
• File the completed proof of service if it is separate.
• Serve copies on all parties or their attorneys as required.
• Confirm that the court has accepted and entered the filing.
• Monitor the case docket for any court notices or changes.
• Prepare and file the dismissal by the date you listed.
• Keep your settlement agreement and filed documents together in a safe place.

Common mistakes to avoid with CM200 – Notice of Settlement of Entire Case

• Mistake: Filing the notice before all parties agree to settlement, which often happens when discussions feel final but paperwork is incomplete, leading to confusion and possible court inquiries; do not forget to confirm that every party has agreed and signed where required.
• Mistake: Entering the wrong case number because you rely on memory or an old document, which can result in rejection or misfiling; do not forget to copy the case number directly from the latest court notice.
• Mistake: Listing an unrealistic dismissal date to close the matter quickly, which can trigger court follow-up if you miss it; do not forget to align the date with any payment or performance deadlines in your agreement.
• Mistake: Failing to serve all parties or their attorneys because you assume electronic notice is automatic, which can delay acceptance; do not forget to complete and file a proper proof of service.
• Mistake: Assuming the case is closed after filing the notice, which leads to ignoring further court communications; do not forget that a dismissal must still be filed and entered.
• Mistake: Using this form when only part of the case is settled, often due to misunderstanding what “entire case” means, which can create procedural issues; do not forget to confirm that no claims remain active.
• Mistake: Forgetting to sign and date the form, which happens when preparing multiple documents at once and causes rejection by the clerk; do not forget to review the signature line before filing.
• Mistake: Not checking the court docket after filing, assuming everything processed correctly, which may leave unnoticed errors; do not forget to verify acceptance and calendar updates.

What to do after filling out CM200 – Notice of Settlement of Entire Case

Once you complete the form, your focus shifts to proper filing, service, and follow-through. Accuracy and timing matter. You want the court’s record to reflect the settlement clearly and without delay.

• Step 1: Review the completed form line by line for accuracy, including names, case number, and the expected dismissal date.
• Step 2: Make at least two copies of the signed document—one for your records and one for service on the other party.
• Step 3: File the original with the Superior Court of California where your case is pending, following that court’s accepted filing method.
• Step 4: Ensure that proof of service is completed and filed if required at the same time.
• Step 5: Confirm that the clerk has accepted the filing by checking your copy for a file stamp or reviewing the court docket.
• Step 6: Calendar the dismissal deadline you listed so you do not miss it.
• Step 7: Monitor any scheduled hearings or trial dates to see whether the court vacates them.
• Step 8: Complete and file the appropriate dismissal form by the date you stated.
• Step 9: After filing the dismissal, verify that it has been entered in the court record.
• Step 10: Organize your final settlement agreement, filed notice, proof of service, and dismissal together for long-term recordkeeping.

Keep all documents in a secure place. Even after the case is closed, you may need proof of settlement or dismissal for financial, tax, or compliance reasons. Staying organized now saves time later.