Welfare and Institutions Code section 5973

(a)

Proceedings under this part may be commenced in any of the following:

(1)

The county in which the respondent resides.

(2)

The county where the respondent is found.

(3)

The county where the respondent is facing criminal or civil proceedings.

(b)

If the respondent does not reside in the county in which proceedings are initiated under this subdivision, as determined in accordance with Section 244 of the Government Code, except as provided in subdivision (f) of Section 5982, and this part is operative in the respondent’s county of residence, the proceeding shall, with the respondent’s consent, be transferred to the county of residence as soon as reasonably feasible. Should the respondent not consent to the transfer, the proceedings shall continue in the county where the respondent was found.

Source: Section 5973, https://leginfo.­legislature.­ca.­gov/faces/codes_displaySection.­xhtml?lawCode=WIC§ionNum=5973.­ (updated Sep. 30, 2023; accessed Dec. 15, 2025).

Green check means up to date. Up to date

Verified:
Dec. 15, 2025

§ 5973's source at ca​.gov