CA AB515

Requires requests for a statement of decision in court trials to be made in writing (or orally if being transcribed) before the matter is submitted for decision, eliminating the previous 10-day window after tentative decisions

Allows parties 10 days after receiving a statement of decision to file objections, with the statement becoming final after objections are resolved or 30 days after the objection period expires

Authorizes courts to issue statements of decision without a party request and to order parties to prepare draft statements of decision

Extends the deadline for court clerks to enter judgment in bench trials from immediately upon filing to within 30 days after the court's decision (or 30 days after the statement of decision becomes final if one was requested)

Requires the Judicial Council to adopt rules and prepare forms for requesting statements of decision; provisions become operative January 1, 2027