Los Angeles County Court Records are documents that show what happened during different legal cases in the county. They include information from many types of cases, such as criminal charges, civil disputes, family matters, and traffic issues. Each record explains the steps taken in a case, like court dates, decisions, and final outcomes. These records help keep track of what took place in the courtroom. People often use them to understand a case better or look back at past events.
The records are sorted by the type of case and the court where it was handled, making it easier to follow how things moved forward. They may include documents like case filings, hearing notes, decisions, and daily court schedules. These details give a clear timeline of the case from beginning to end. For anyone wanting to check on a legal matter or learn more about how a case developed, these records can be a helpful source of information.
What Are Los Angeles County Court Records?
Los Angeles County court records are publicly available documents that provide information about legal proceedings handled within the county court system. These may include records from civil, criminal, traffic, family, or probate matters. These public records can be accessed by individuals for personal informational purposes, such as reviewing the outcome of a case or learning more about a court proceeding.
Types of Court Records
Court records vary depending on the type of case and its progress. Common categories include:
- Case Filings: Initial paperwork such as petitions, motions, or complaints submitted to begin or respond to legal actions.
- Dockets: Chronological logs summarizing actions, events, and filings associated with a particular case.
- Judgments and Court Orders: Official decisions or directives issued by the court.
- Hearing Calendars: Schedules of upcoming court dates and proceedings.
Why Court Records Are Publicly Accessible
Court records support transparency and accessibility in the judicial system. Members of the public may access this information to better understand legal outcomes or review matters of public interest. For example, someone might look up a traffic ticket case or review a finalized divorce judgment for personal reasons.
Types of Court Records Available in LA County
Los Angeles County maintains a broad and structured archive of court records, each categorized by case type. Understanding these categories helps individuals identify which records may be relevant to their search. Whether you’re seeking legal documents for research, clarification, or general awareness, this section outlines the main types of court records available in LA County.
Criminal Court Records
These records relate to violations of state or local criminal laws. They are frequently accessed by legal professionals, researchers, and the public.
Key contents may include:
- Arrest and booking information
- Court hearing dates and outcomes
- Formal charges and case numbers
- Sentencing details and probation terms
- Plea deals or dismissed charges
People often use Los Angeles criminal court records to track case progress or verify legal history.
Civil Court Records
Civil court records involve disputes between individuals, businesses, or other entities. These cases typically cover matters such as contract disputes, personal injury claims, landlord-tenant disagreements, property damage, and small monetary claims. Civil filings contain information like complaints, responses, motions, judgments, and settlement agreements. These records are valuable for reviewing legal outcomes and understanding how civil matters are resolved in court.
Family and Divorce Records
These records relate to sensitive family matters that are handled in LA County’s family court system. They are typically accessed by involved parties, lawyers, or court-authorized individuals.
These records may cover:
- Divorce filings and settlements
- Child custody and visitation orders
- Spousal or child support rulings
- Legal guardianship arrangements
- Domestic partnerships and adoptions
Individuals commonly access these records for personal documentation or ongoing legal concerns.
Traffic Violations and Citations
Traffic court records document infractions and offenses related to vehicle operation within Los Angeles County. These may include speeding tickets, driving under the influence (DUI), failure to appear violations, red light camera tickets, and more. The records usually show citation numbers, court dates, fines, and final judgments. Individuals may review these records to confirm payment status, court appearance requirements, or the resolution of a traffic case.
Probate and Estate Records
Probate court records involve the legal handling of estates, wills, and trusts following an individual’s passing. These records may also include conservatorships, guardianships for incapacitated adults, and administration of estates without a will. Probate records are useful for family members, executors, and legal representatives who need insight into how a person’s assets and debts were managed through the court system.
Small Claims Records
Small claims court records involve civil disputes that typically concern relatively low financial amounts, often below a set limit defined by California law. These cases may include disagreements over unpaid bills, property damage, security deposits, or other financial claims. The records include filed claims, defendant responses, court judgments, and hearing details. They are useful for resolving minor disputes quickly and are often utilized by individuals and small businesses.
Inmate and Jail Records
Inmate records cover individuals currently or previously held in county correctional facilities. These records may include booking dates, charges, custody status, release information, and facility location. They are often accessed by family members, legal professionals, or researchers seeking historical or active incarceration details. Jail records provide insight into the movement and status of inmates within the LA County correctional system.
How to Search Los Angeles County Court Records
Accessing court records in Los Angeles County has become increasingly convenient, thanks to a combination of online platforms and in-person services offered by the local judiciary. Whether you’re researching a past case, checking your court date, or verifying a record for legal or personal reasons, understanding how the search process works is essential. This guide provides a clear overview for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with any official government agency.
Official Search Platforms
The primary and most reliable source for searching court records in Los Angeles County is the Los Angeles Superior Court’s official website. It offers a series of online tools for different types of records, depending on the nature of the case (civil, criminal, traffic, family, probate, etc.). Users can search for available public records, review case details, and view court calendars when permitted under California law.
There are additional access points via:
- On-site courthouse public terminals
- Mail-in or in-person requests for certified copies
- Online court calendar tools for hearing dates
Please note: While many records are available online, some case types—especially those involving minors or sealed proceedings—may be restricted from public view.
Search Methods Available
You can search Los Angeles County court records using one of the following key details:
1. By Case Number
This is often the most accurate and direct way to find a case.
Steps:
- Go to the relevant section of the LA Superior Court website based on case type.
- Select “Search by Case Number.”
- Enter the full case number, including all formatting characters (e.g., 22STCV12345 for a civil case).
- Review the case summary, docket entries, and available court actions.
When to Use: If you already have the case number from a court notice, legal filing, or attorney correspondence.
2. By Party Name
You can search cases involving an individual or organization.
Steps:
- Navigate to the court’s online search portal for the specific case type.
- Choose “Search by Party Name.”
- Enter the person’s full legal name or the business entity name (e.g., John A. Smith or Acme Corporation).
- Use filters if available (e.g., case type, date range) to narrow results.
- Click on the relevant case to view available information.
Important Tip: Double-check spelling and variations of the name to avoid missed results.
3. By Filing Date
If you don’t know the exact party name or case number, you can search by the date the case was filed.
Steps:
- Access the portal that allows filtering by filing date.
- Choose the court location (if known).
- Enter a date range (e.g., all filings between January 1 and March 31, 2023).
- Browse results by case type or other available filters.
Best For: Users doing broad research, journalists, or those investigating specific time periods.
Basic Walkthrough: How a Search Might Look
To give you a clearer picture of what to expect, here’s an example walkthrough of a basic civil court records search:
- Visit the Los Angeles Superior Court website.
- Navigate to the Civil Case Summary page.
- Select “Search by Party Name.”
- Type in the full name: Jane Doe.
- Enter an optional filing year: 2023.
- Click “Search” to view a list of matching results.
- Select a case to view a summary, such as case status, judge assignment, hearing dates, and docket history (if public).
If you were to search using a case number like 22STCV12345, you’d go directly to that case’s record without browsing through multiple entries.
Court Record Access by Case Type
Accessing court records in Los Angeles County depends on the type of case involved. Each court division—criminal, civil, family, traffic, probate, small claims, and inmate records—has distinct procedures and public access rules. Below is a clear overview of each case type and how users can navigate to the appropriate information source.
Criminal Court Records
Criminal court records in Los Angeles County involve cases where individuals are charged with violations of criminal law, including felonies, misdemeanors, and infractions. These records may include case filings, court minutes, plea agreements, and sentencing details.
To access criminal court records:
- Search by defendant name or case number through the official LA Superior Court’s criminal division portal.
- In-person requests may be made at the courthouse where the case was filed.
- Older or archived records may require special request procedures.
Civil Court Records
Civil court records cover legal disputes between individuals, businesses, or entities where no criminal charges are involved. Common civil cases include personal injury claims, property disputes, contract issues, and small business lawsuits.
To access civil case records:
- Use the LA Superior Court’s civil case search portal to look up cases by name, case number, or filing date.
- Court records typically show case status, parties involved, documents filed, and scheduled hearings.
Records may be limited in certain cases involving privacy restrictions or sealed filings.
Family Court Records
Family law cases relate to domestic relationships and legal obligations between individuals, including divorce, child custody, guardianship, and support. Access to family court records is more restricted than civil or criminal cases due to the sensitivity of the information.
How to access family court records:
- Some non-confidential case information is available online using party name or case number.
- Requests for certified or detailed records may need to be made in person.
- Access to documents involving children, domestic violence, or adoption is typically restricted to authorized individuals.
Relevant topics such as custody disputes and guardianship can be found in the family law section:
Traffic Court Records
Traffic court handles citations and violations including speeding tickets, DUIs, and vehicle-related infractions. These records include citation numbers, court dates, and resolution outcomes.
How to access traffic records:
- Use the online traffic ticket system with a citation number or driver’s license information.
- Users can check the status of their ticket, payment deadlines, and whether traffic school is an option.
- For in-person inquiries, visit the traffic clerk’s office at the courthouse listed on the citation.
Probate Court Records
Probate records relate to the legal process of managing a deceased person’s estate. This includes wills, trusts, guardianships, and conservatorship proceedings.
To access probate records in LA County:
- Use the online probate case summary tool available via the LA Superior Court.
- Documents may include probate notes, filings, and letters of administration.
- Certified copies often require an in-person visit or mail request.
Small Claims Court Records
Small claims court handles cases involving lower monetary amounts, typically under $10,000. These cases are often between individuals or small businesses seeking quick resolutions to financial disputes.
To search for small claims court records:
- Use the LA County case access system, searching by party name or case number.
- Online access may include hearing outcomes, settlement details, and payment orders.
Inmate & Jail Records
Inmate and jail records provide information about individuals currently or previously held in custody in LA County facilities. These records can include:
- Booking details
- Charges
- Court dates
- Custody status
Inmate searches are separate from court case lookups and are typically accessed through the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department or related jail portals.
Where to Access Court Records in Person
If you prefer to access Los Angeles County court records in person, multiple courthouses across the region offer on-site public record services. These locations allow individuals to view and request copies of court case files, certified documents, and public registers directly from the courthouse. Access is generally provided through self-service public terminals or by submitting a request at the records or clerk’s office.
Below is a list of major courthouses in Los Angeles County where records can typically be accessed:
Stanley Mosk Courthouse – Central District
- Address: 111 N Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
- Departments: Civil, Probate, Small Claims, Family Law
- Public Access: Civil case files, probate notes, divorce records, small claims filings
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Note: One of the busiest courthouses; early arrival is recommended for walk-ins.
Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center
- Address: 210 W Temple St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
- Departments: Criminal Felony & Misdemeanor
- Public Access: Criminal case files, court dockets, arrest and sentencing records
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Note: Identification may be required to access certain records.
Michael Antonovich Antelope Valley Courthouse
- Address: 42011 4th St W, Lancaster, CA 93534
- Departments: Civil, Criminal, Family, Small Claims, Traffic
- Public Access: All major record types across departments
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Long Beach Courthouse
- Address: 275 Magnolia Ave, Long Beach, CA 90802
- Departments: Civil, Family Law, Traffic, Small Claims
- Public Access: Court filings and judgments, traffic ticket information, custody case details
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Van Nuys Courthouse East
- Address: 6230 Sylmar Ave, Van Nuys, CA 91401
- Departments: Criminal, Civil, Family Law, Small Claims
- Public Access: Records related to local filings including restraining orders, family court cases, and civil disputes
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
What You Can Access On-Site
When visiting any LA County courthouse in person, you may typically access:
- Public civil or criminal case files
- Family law documents (some may be restricted)
- Small claims filings and outcomes
- Traffic citations and hearing results
- Probate court documents
- Certified copies (may require a formal request and fee)
Each courthouse may have its own process for requesting physical or electronic copies, and certain sensitive or sealed records may not be available without court authorization.
Online vs In-Person Record Requests
Accessing Los Angeles County court records can be done either online or in person, depending on the type of record, its level of access, and your specific needs. Understanding the differences between these two methods helps ensure you retrieve the correct documents efficiently and lawfully.
Online Record Access: Benefits and Limitations
Online access is often the most convenient way to retrieve many types of court records in Los Angeles County. Through the official LA County Superior Court portals, users can search public case summaries, track court proceedings, and view Register of Actions (case activity logs) for various court types including civil, small claims, family, probate, and criminal (limited access).
Benefits of Online Access:
- 24/7 Availability: Users can search court records anytime without needing to visit a courthouse.
- Quick Case Lookup: Allows you to search by party name, case number, or filing date.
- Free Basic Access: Viewing certain case summaries and docket activity is typically free.
- Digital Format: Records can often be downloaded in PDF format for review or personal use.
Limitations of Online Access:
- Restricted Content: Sensitive information (e.g., juvenile records, mental health cases, sealed documents) is not available online.
- No Certified Copies: Electronic copies downloaded online are not considered certified and may not be accepted for official purposes such as immigration or legal filings.
- Partial Case Records: Some records only provide docket summaries and not the full case file.
In-Person Record Requests: When and Why
Certain circumstances require individuals to visit a courthouse in person or request records through mail. This applies primarily to requests for certified copies, access to older court files, or records that are not available through public online portals.
When In-Person Access is Required:
- Certified Copies: Required for legal use, such as adoption, probate, immigration, or court filings.
- Historical Records: Older files that have been archived or not digitized.
- Confidential Records: Accessing sealed cases or records involving minors may require court approval and in-person handling.
- Complex Cases: For cases with extensive filings or multi-party litigation, accessing physical case files may be more effective.
What to Bring for In-Person Requests:
- Valid identification
- Case number or party name (if known)
- Payment for copy fees or certification
- Court location details (to ensure you’re visiting the correct department)
How to Use the Online Register of Actions
The Register of Actions provides a chronological list of all filings and events in a court case. It acts as a real-time digital docket that helps users understand what actions have been taken in a case.
Steps to Access the Register of Actions Online:
- Visit the Los Angeles Superior Court’s online case access portal (official site).
- Select the court division (e.g., Civil, Criminal, Family, Probate).
- Choose the Case Access or Search option.
- Enter the case number or party name.
- Once the case loads, locate the Register of Actions tab or section.
- View details such as filings, hearings, judgments, motions, and party updates.
Note: The Register of Actions is informational only and cannot be used as a substitute for certified court documents. For legal or official use, certified copies must be requested in person or by mail from the clerk’s office.
Fees and Required Forms
If you’re preparing to access court records or file documents in Los Angeles County, understanding the required court fees is essential. These fees vary depending on the action you take—whether it’s requesting copies of documents, obtaining certified versions, or filing new cases.
Common Court-Related Fees Include
- Copy Fees
Standard photocopies of court records may cost between $0.50 to $1.00 per page, depending on the document type and delivery method. - Certified Copy Fees
Certified copies include an official court seal and signature and typically cost $20 to $25 per document, in addition to standard copy fees. - Filing Fees
Filing a case (e.g., civil, family, probate) involves mandatory filing charges:- Civil filings: Typically $225–$435+
- Small Claims: $30–$75, based on the amount in dispute
- Family Law: Varies depending on petition type
- eFiling Convenience Fees
Some electronic filing service providers (EFSPs) charge a processing fee, usually between $2 to $10, in addition to the court’s official filing fees.
Need to Appear in Court
Navigating a court appearance in Los Angeles County requires an understanding of the basic expectations, whether you’re attending in person or participating virtually. This section provides clear, reliable information to help individuals prepare for their scheduled appearances, reduce confusion, and meet courtroom standards.
In-Person vs. Virtual Court Appearances
Depending on the case type and courtroom assignment, individuals in Los Angeles County may be required to appear either in person or remotely. It’s important to confirm your appearance type by reviewing your official court notice or checking the court’s online schedule.
In-Person Appearances
For many criminal, probate, and certain family law cases, personal attendance is required. If you are instructed to appear in person:
- Arrive at least 30 minutes early to allow time for security screening and locating your assigned department.
- Bring identification and any case-related documents or forms.
- Check your case number and courtroom assignment in advance via the LA County Court Calendar (available on the Superior Court’s official website).
Virtual Appearances (Remote Hearings)
The Los Angeles Superior Court offers remote appearance options for many civil, small claims, traffic, and some family law matters. These hearings may be conducted via video conferencing platforms such as Microsoft Teams or Zoom, depending on the court’s designation.
To attend remotely:
- Review your case’s remote access link and login credentials provided in your court notice.
- Ensure a stable internet connection, a working camera, and microphone.
- Log in 10–15 minutes early to address any technical issues before your hearing begins.
Understanding Court Calendar Rules
Court calendars vary by department and case type. Here are key points to keep in mind:
- Most court sessions begin between 8:30 AM and 9:00 AM.
- Calendar listings typically include the case number, party names, hearing type, and courtroom number.
- You can find your scheduled hearing by searching the Court Calendar tool or checking your Register of Actions entry for court dates.
For daily operations, closures, and updated calendar availability, always refer to the official Los Angeles Superior Court website for accurate and up-to-date information.
Proper Attire and Etiquette
Court is a formal setting, whether attended in person or remotely. Appropriate appearance and behavior demonstrate respect for the judicial process and can influence how you’re perceived by the judge and court staff.
In-Person Dress Code
- Men: Slacks or dress pants, collared shirt (tie or jacket optional).
- Women: Conservative dress, blouse with slacks/skirt, or business-casual attire.
- Avoid: Hats (unless for religious reasons), shorts, tank tops, flip-flops, or clothing with offensive messages.
Virtual Etiquette
- Dress as if attending in person.
- Sit in a quiet, well-lit location with a neutral background.
- Mute your microphone when not speaking.
- Address the judge respectfully and wait to be called upon before speaking.
(FAQs)
If you’re looking to access Los Angeles County Court Records quickly or have any questions about the process, you’re in the right place! Here’s everything you need to know about searching for court cases, dockets, and other public records in Los Angeles County.
Where can I search Los Angeles County court records for free?
You can search Los Angeles County court records for free through the official Los Angeles Superior Court website. They offer an online case access portal where you can look up civil, criminal, family, and traffic case information. Additionally, public terminals at the courthouse provide free access for in-person searches. It’s important to use official sources to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information you retrieve.
Can I access LA court records online?
Yes, many Los Angeles County court records are accessible online through the Los Angeles Superior Court’s case access system. This platform allows you to search by case number, party name, or case type. However, some sensitive or sealed records may not be available online to protect privacy. Always verify the information directly from the court’s website to ensure it’s up to date and accurate.
How do I find case information using a case number?
To find case information using a case number, visit the Los Angeles Superior Court’s online case search portal and enter the full case number exactly as it appears on your documents. The system will display detailed information about the case status, upcoming hearings, filings, and decisions. Having the correct case number speeds up the search process and provides precise results for your inquiry.
What are the rules for accessing sealed or expunged records?
Sealed or expunged court records in Los Angeles County are restricted to protect individuals’ privacy. Generally, these records are not available to the public and require a court order or special permission for access. You may need to consult an attorney or file a formal request to review sealed or expunged documents. It’s important to understand that unauthorized access to these records can result in legal consequences.
Can I view family law records remotely?
Some family law records in Los Angeles County can be viewed remotely through the court’s online case access system, but access may be limited due to privacy concerns. Sensitive information related to custody, divorce, or domestic violence cases is often restricted. To obtain full access, you might need to visit the courthouse in person or submit a formal request. Always check the court’s guidelines for remote access to ensure compliance with privacy rules.