Los Angeles Criminal Court Records are official documents that explain what happened during criminal cases in Los Angeles County. They include details like who was involved, what charges were filed, important court dates, and how the case ended. These records are usually kept by the courts and help show the steps taken during each case. People often look at them to understand legal decisions or to keep track of a case’s progress. Everything is recorded clearly to follow legal rules and maintain accuracy.
These records are useful for personal reference when someone wants to learn more about a past or ongoing criminal case. They may show details such as the outcome of a trial, any plea deals, or sentencing information. Access to official documents like these can often be found through Los Angeles Court Records, offering valuable insight into how the criminal court system operates in Los Angeles. Not all records are open to the public—some may be restricted to protect privacy.
How to Search Criminal Court Records in Los Angeles
Accessing criminal court records in Los Angeles can be done through several official channels provided by the Los Angeles Superior Court. Whether you’re searching online, in person, through kiosks, or by mail, it’s important to follow the correct process to ensure accurate and timely results. Below is a breakdown of each method with clear, reliable instructions.
Use the LA Superior Court Online Case Search
The fastest and most convenient way to search for criminal court records is through the Los Angeles Superior Court’s official website:
👉 www.lacourt.org
How to Search
- By Case Number: If you know the case number, enter it exactly as shown in the system.
- By Defendant’s Name: You can search by last name and first name. A date of birth may help narrow the results.
- By Filing Date: Useful when you know the approximate date the case was filed.
Supported Browsers & Best Practices
- The system is optimized for Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox.
- Disable pop-up blockers to view case details.
- Use a desktop or laptop for best functionality—mobile support may be limited.
- Results may be limited for older or sealed cases.
🛈 Note: Online access is generally limited to basic case summaries. Full records or documents often require a visit to the courthouse or a mail request.
Visit a Criminal Division Courthouse in Person
If you need detailed case files, certified documents, or records not available online, an in-person visit is recommended.
Courthouses That Allow In-Person Searches
The primary criminal courthouse in Los Angeles County is:
Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center
210 West Temple Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Phone: (213) 628-7900
Other district courthouses across LA County may also provide access to local criminal case files.
What to Bring
- A valid government-issued photo ID
- Case number (if known) or full name and date of birth of the defendant
- Any applicable request forms (can be obtained at the clerk’s office)
Requesting Certified Copies
- Ask the clerk for a Record Request Form.
- Certified copies are available for a fee per page and per certification.
- Payments can typically be made by cash, credit/debit card, or money order.
Use Official Public Terminals or Kiosks
Most major courthouses in Los Angeles County offer public access terminals in the clerk’s office or designated public areas.
How to Use Them
- Search by case number, party name, or filing date.
- Terminals provide access to case summaries and sometimes case calendars.
- For full document viewing or printing, a clerk’s assistance may be required.
Tips for Archived or Older Cases
- Cases that are more than 10 years old may be archived.
- Archived records may take several days to retrieve.
- Ask the clerk to request the record from storage if it is not in the main system.
Important: Public terminals may be limited during peak hours. Arriving early can help avoid delays.
Request Records by Mail (Step-by-Step)
If you cannot visit in person or access records online, you can request criminal court records by mail.
Mailing Address
Los Angeles Superior Court – Criminal Records
Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center
210 West Temple Street, Room M-132
Los Angeles, CA 90012
What to Include in Your Request
- A written request with the following:
- Defendant’s full name
- Case number (if known)
- Date of birth
- Type of records requested (e.g., docket, disposition, sentencing)
- A self-addressed stamped envelope (for return mail)
- Photocopy of your ID
- Payment (typically check or money order payable to “Los Angeles Superior Court”)
Fees and Processing Time
- Fees vary by record length and certification status.
- Certified copies cost extra.
- Allow 2 to 4 weeks for processing and delivery, especially for archived cases.
What Information Can You Find in LA Criminal Court Records?
Los Angeles criminal court records contain a comprehensive collection of details related to criminal cases filed within the jurisdiction of Los Angeles County. These records serve as an official account of the legal proceedings and provide critical information for various users including legal professionals, employers, researchers, and the general public. Below is a breakdown of the key types of information typically found in these records:
Arrest and Booking Details
Criminal court records often begin with arrest information. This includes the date and location of the arrest, the arresting agency, and the booking details. Booking records may include photographs (mugshots), fingerprints, and the initial custody status of the defendant. These details provide insight into the circumstances leading to the court case.
Formal Charges and Penal Code References
The core of a criminal court record is the formal charges filed against the defendant. These charges specify the alleged violations of California law, often referencing specific sections of the California Penal Code or other relevant statutes. For example, charges might list “California Penal Code Section 211 – Robbery” or “Section 243(b) – Battery.” This precise legal language helps clarify the nature and severity of the offenses.
Court Appearances and Hearing Dates
Court records document every scheduled court appearance related to the case. This includes arraignments, pre-trial hearings, motion hearings, trial dates, and sentencing hearings. These entries include the dates, times, and courtroom locations, providing a clear timeline of the case progression.
Bail, Plea, and Sentencing Outcomes
Information about bail—whether it was set, the amount, and any bail conditions—is included. Records also reflect plea bargains if the defendant enters a plea other than “not guilty.” Finally, sentencing outcomes detail the judge’s decisions, such as fines, probation terms, jail or prison sentences, community service, or other penalties imposed following conviction or plea agreements.
Probation, Jail, or Prison Information
If the defendant is placed on probation, court records outline the length and specific conditions they must follow. Similarly, if incarceration is ordered, the records provide details about the jail or prison facility and the duration of confinement. This information is critical for understanding the full legal consequences faced by the defendant.
Disposition Codes and Their Meanings
Disposition codes are standardized abbreviations or numerical codes used in court records to summarize case outcomes quickly. Common disposition codes include:
- Convicted – The defendant was found guilty or pled guilty.
- Dismissed – The case was dropped or charges were dismissed.
- Not Guilty – The defendant was acquitted at trial.
- Pending – The case is still active or awaiting resolution.
- Expunged/Sealed – Records are removed from public access following a legal order.
Understanding these codes helps users quickly interpret the status and results of criminal cases.
Who Can Access Los Angeles Criminal Records?
Access to criminal court records in Los Angeles is governed by a combination of state laws and court policies that balance public transparency with individual privacy rights. Understanding who can legally access these records, and under what conditions, is essential for anyone seeking information related to criminal cases.
Public vs. Restricted Access
In general, most criminal court records in Los Angeles are considered public records. This means they are available to the general public, subject to certain restrictions designed to protect sensitive information and uphold privacy laws.
However, not all records are openly accessible. Some records may be restricted or sealed, limiting who can view them and under what circumstances. These restrictions are important to safeguard personal information and comply with legal protections.
Who May Access Criminal Records?
- General Public:
Members of the public have the right to access most criminal court records, including case filings, court rulings, and sentencing details. This access supports transparency in the judicial system and allows individuals to verify legal proceedings or conduct background research. - Attorneys and Legal Professionals:
Lawyers and other legal professionals have full access to criminal court records necessary for case preparation, defense, or prosecution. They can request additional or certified copies as part of their legal duties. - Media and Journalists:
Accredited media outlets can access criminal records for public reporting purposes. The media plays a vital role in informing the community about court activities, while still respecting legal restrictions on sensitive information.
Records Not Accessible to the Public
Certain types of criminal records are not available for public viewing. These include:
- Sealed Records:
Cases that have been legally sealed through court orders are hidden from public databases and general searches. Sealing usually occurs when a record is expunged, or when it involves sensitive circumstances protected by law. - Juvenile Records:
Records related to juvenile cases are generally confidential to protect the privacy of minors. Access to these records is highly restricted and usually limited to the minor, their legal guardians, and authorized legal entities. - Expunged Records:
When a criminal record is expunged, it means the court has ordered that the case be cleared from public view as if it never occurred. Expunged records are removed from public access and are treated as non-existent in most legal contexts.
Laws Governing Access
The right to access Los Angeles criminal court records is primarily regulated by the California Public Records Act (CPRA), which mandates public access to government records while allowing exemptions for privacy and security.
Additionally, California Penal Code § 11105 outlines specific provisions regarding who may access criminal history information and under what conditions. This law restricts certain uses of criminal records and protects individuals’ rights by limiting dissemination and access.
Expunged or Sealed Records – What You Need to Know
When searching Los Angeles criminal court records, it’s important to know that not all cases are publicly available. Some criminal cases may be expunged or sealed, meaning their visibility is either restricted or completely removed from public access. These legal processes exist to protect privacy and support rehabilitation, but they can also create confusion for individuals looking up criminal history information.
What Is an Expungement in California?
An expungement in California is a legal remedy that allows an individual to have a conviction dismissed after successfully completing probation or meeting certain eligibility requirements. This process is authorized under California Penal Code § 1203.4.
Once expunged:
- The conviction is set aside, and the record reflects a dismissal.
- The individual is released from many of the penalties associated with the conviction.
- The record remains in court files but is no longer accessible through standard public searches or background checks.
Expungement is commonly available for misdemeanor and some felony offenses, provided the individual:
- Has completed all terms of probation,
- Has not served time in state prison for the offense, and
- Is not facing new criminal charges.
It’s important to note that expungement does not erase the record entirely, but rather limits its use in most non-governmental situations (e.g., employment).
How Expunged Cases Appear (or Don’t) in Public Records
After expungement, most online court record systems, including the Los Angeles Superior Court’s public access portal, will either remove the case or mark it as dismissed under Penal Code § 1203.4.
In most cases:
- The record will not show up on general background checks run by private employers or landlords.
- Expunged cases are also generally excluded from consumer credit reporting databases.
However, some government agencies — including immigration authorities, law enforcement, and professional licensing boards — may still access the original record in certain legal contexts.
How to Check if a Case Has Been Sealed
A sealed record is one that is physically and digitally hidden from public view, often by court order. In Los Angeles, sealing commonly applies to:
- Juvenile cases
- Arrests not resulting in charges
- Cases dismissed under Penal Code § 851.91
- Victims of human trafficking or those seeking record sealing for safety reasons
To check whether a case has been sealed:
- Visit the court in person and speak with the criminal records clerk (if you are a party to the case)
- Look for a notation in the court docket indicating that the case is sealed (though this may be absent entirely)
- Consult with an attorney, who may be able to file a motion or request a court order to review the record
In many cases, sealed records are not visible in any public-facing database.
Can You Still Access Sealed Records for Legal Defense?
Yes. Defendants and their attorneys are typically allowed to access sealed records when those records are needed for an ongoing case, appeal, or post-conviction relief effort. Access is granted through court order or statutory exceptions.
Other parties who may be granted access (in limited scenarios) include:
- Law enforcement agencies
- Prosecutors
- Regulatory or licensing boards (with legal cause)
Unauthorized access or use of sealed court records is illegal and may result in penalties.
Fees, Processing Time & Legal Requests
Understanding the costs, processing times, and types of record requests involved in accessing Los Angeles criminal court records is essential for planning your search effectively. This section provides clear and accurate information to help you navigate the process smoothly.
Standard Fees for Copies of Criminal Court Records
When requesting copies of criminal court records in Los Angeles, fees may vary depending on the type of document and whether you require a certified or uncertified copy.
- ** uncertified copies** (informational only) are generally less expensive and used for personal reference.
- Certified copies (official, stamped documents) carry a higher fee and are required for legal proceedings or official use.
As of 2025, typical fees include:
- $5 to $15 per page for uncertified copies
- $20 to $30 per certified copy
Fees are subject to change, so it’s advisable to check with the Los Angeles Superior Court website or contact the courthouse directly before submitting your request.
Processing Time for Requests
The time it takes to receive criminal court records depends on the method of your request:
- Online Requests: Results for basic case information or digital documents are often available immediately or within 24 hours, depending on system availability and record status.
- In-Person Requests: When visiting the courthouse, you may be able to access records the same day, but obtaining certified copies typically requires processing time ranging from a few hours to several business days.
- Mail Requests: Requests made by mail generally take between 7 to 14 business days, depending on the volume of requests and postal delivery times.
Planning ahead is recommended, especially for legal or time-sensitive matters.
Fee Waivers for Indigent Individuals
Los Angeles courts recognize that some individuals may face financial hardship when requesting court records. In certain cases, fee waivers or reductions may be available for those who qualify as indigent or low-income.
- To apply for a fee waiver, you typically need to submit a request form demonstrating your financial status.
- Eligibility criteria and application procedures vary, so contact the courthouse or visit the court’s official website for detailed instructions.
Fee waivers can significantly ease the burden for eligible applicants and ensure access to essential court information without financial barriers.
Certified vs. Non-Certified Records: What’s the Difference?
- Non-Certified Records: These copies are for informational purposes only and do not carry official authentication. They can be used for personal review or research but are generally not accepted in legal proceedings.
- Certified Records: These documents are stamped and signed by court officials to verify their authenticity. Certified copies are necessary when presenting evidence in court, applying for employment or licensing, or for any official legal use.
When requesting records, clarify whether you need certified copies, as fees and processing times differ accordingly.
Contact Information
Below is a list of key courthouses in Los Angeles County where criminal cases are handled. You can visit these locations to access records, request certified copies, or get case-related assistance.
Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center
- 📍 210 W Temple St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
- 📞 (213) 628-7900
- 🕒 Mon–Fri: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Handles most felony and misdemeanor cases in central LA.
Compton Courthouse
- 📍 200 W Compton Blvd, Compton, CA 90220
- 📞 (310) 761-4300
- 🕒 Mon–Fri: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Criminal arraignments, trials, and records.
Van Nuys Courthouse West
- 📍 14400 Erwin St Mall, Van Nuys, CA 91401
- 📞 (818) 989-6900
- 🕒 Mon–Fri: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Serves the San Fernando Valley area.
Airport Courthouse (LAX Area)
- 📍 11701 S La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045
- 📞 (310) 725-3000
- 🕒 Mon–Fri: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Criminal hearings and public access services.
Long Beach Courthouse
- 📍 275 Magnolia Ave, Long Beach, CA 90802
- 📞 (562) 256-3100
- 🕒 Mon–Fri: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Felony and misdemeanor records.
Pasadena Courthouse
- 📍 300 E Walnut St, Pasadena, CA 91101
- 📞 (626) 396-3390
- 🕒 Mon–Fri: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Criminal case files and assistance.
FAQ’s
If you’re looking to access Los Angeles Criminal Court Records quickly or have questions about the process, you’re in the right place! This guide covers everything you need to know about searching for criminal cases, dockets, and other public records in Los Angeles.
Are LA criminal records public?
Yes, many Los Angeles County criminal records are public and can be accessed through the court system. Basic case information, including charges, court dates, and outcomes, is typically available unless the case has been sealed, expunged, or involves a juvenile. However, detailed documents or sensitive information may require in-person access or permission. Public access is designed to support transparency, but it follows specific legal limitations to protect privacy in certain situations.
How far back do criminal records go?
Criminal records in Los Angeles County may go back several decades, depending on the case type and outcome. Felony records are often retained permanently, while certain misdemeanors or dismissed cases might have shorter retention periods. Older records may not be available online but can often be requested from the court’s archives. The retention and availability are guided by California’s official court record retention schedules, which vary by the nature of the case.
Can I look up someone’s case for free?
Yes, you can look up someone’s case for free using the Los Angeles Superior Court’s online case search tool. You’ll need basic details such as the person’s full name or case number to start the search. While the system provides public case summaries, it may not include all documents or sensitive content. In some cases, in-person searches at a courthouse terminal may offer more complete information at no cost.
What if I can’t find a case online?
If you can’t find a criminal case online, it may be due to privacy restrictions, sealed records, incorrect search details, or because the case is too old to be included in the online database. Double-check the spelling and case number, and confirm you’re searching in the right court division. Some cases are only accessible in person at the courthouse or through a records request. Contacting the court clerk can help you determine the best next step.
What do disposition codes mean?
Disposition codes in Los Angeles County criminal records indicate how a case was resolved. Common codes include abbreviations like “DISM” for dismissed, “CONV” for convicted, or “ACD” for adjudicated. These codes help summarize the final outcome of a charge or hearing. Understanding disposition codes can clarify whether a case resulted in a conviction, dismissal, or another resolution. A full explanation of codes is usually available from the court or on official documents.