The San Bernardino Superior Court records hold crucial details about legal actions within the county. These records document official court actions, judgments, and filings. Public access to these records supports transparency in the judicial system. People search these records for various reasons, including legal research, tracking case progress, or personal history checks.
The San Bernardino County Superior Court is California’s trial court for the county. It handles a wide array of cases, from major civil disputes to serious criminal offenses. The court also deals with family law matters, probate proceedings, and specialized cases involving juvenile issues, mental health, and drug offenses. The court’s role is to uphold citizen rights and provide fair ways to settle disagreements.
Types of Cases in San Bernardino Superior Court
The San Bernardino Superior Court has authority over many case types. These include civil cases, which can be limited (for damages under $35,000) or unlimited (for damages over $35,000). The court also hears felony criminal cases, ranging from minor offenses (misdemeanors) to serious crimes with penalties like jail time or fines. Misdemeanor offenses usually mean a fine or a county jail sentence.
Specialized divisions of the San Bernardino Superior Court handle specific legal areas. These divisions include Appeals, Family Court Services, Family Law, Juvenile Court, Mental Health Court, Probate, Small Claims, and Traffic. Each division focuses on its area of law, ensuring specialized attention to complex matters.
How to Search San Bernardino Superior Court Records
There are several methods to search for San Bernardino Superior Court records. Each method offers different levels of access and convenience.
Online Searches for San Bernardino Superior Court Records
The San Bernardino Superior Court offers an online portal for public access to case information. This portal, called the Court Access Portal (CAP), allows people to view case indexes, calendars, and basic case details remotely. It is important to remember that not all sensitive court records, like certain divorce, child custody, civil harassment, and criminal court cases, are available online.
To search online:
- Visit the San Bernardino Superior Court website.
- Look for the “Access Court Case Information” link, usually in the “How Do I?” section.
- Read and accept the terms of service.
- Select a search option, such as case number, party name, business name, or citation number.
- Enter the search details and complete any security checks.
- Review the results. Note that searching by party or business name may require logging in and using search credits.
The court is converting paper records to electronic files. While online electronic records are believed accurate, they are provided “as is” without guarantees. Case data for cases filed before 1998 may be limited online.
In-Person Requests for San Bernardino Superior Court Records
For records not available online, or for older cases, an in-person visit to a courthouse is an option. It is helpful to know which court district handled the case. The San Bernardino Superior Court website provides a list of courthouse locations and addresses.
When visiting:
- Most courthouses are open Monday through Friday, typically from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m..
- Be ready to submit a written request. Include the case number (if known), names of parties, and the type of case.
- Copies of records cost $0.50 per printed side, plus any mailing, certification, or research fees.
- Valid photo identification is often required.
- Accepted payments can include cash, credit card, debit card, check, or money order.
Public computer terminals are available at courthouses for searching case details, filings, judgments, and upcoming court dates. If a file needs to be ordered from a records center, it may take up to a week for delivery to the courthouse.
Mail-in Requests for San Bernardino Superior Court Records
Mail-in requests are useful for those unable to visit the courthouse. The process requires identifying the correct court district.
To submit a mail-in request:
- Obtain the mailing address for the relevant courthouse from the San Bernardino Superior Court website.
- Fill out a request form. Include the case number, names of parties, and specific documents needed.
- Plain copies cost $0.50 per printed side. Additional charges may apply for mailing, certification, and research.
- Confirm accepted payment methods, often checks or money orders.
- Send the completed form, a copy of approved identification, payment, and a self-addressed, stamped, business-size envelope to the courthouse.
San Bernardino Superior Court Case Lookup by Name
To search San Bernardino Superior Court records by name, the Court Access Portal (CAP) is the primary method. A registered account is needed to use the “Party Search” feature.
To perform a name-based search:
- Log in to the Court Access Portal (CAP).
- Select the “Party Search” section.
- Enter the first and last name of the party.
- Adding a middle name can narrow results. Leaving it blank broadens the search.
- Input a date range if known.
- Submit the search to view results.
San Bernardino Superior Court Docket Search
A court docket shows a detailed list of actions and events in a case. This includes upcoming hearings, motions filed, and rulings made. Dockets help parties and attorneys stay current on case progress.
To view a case docket:
- Visit the Court Access Portal (CAP) page.
- Select “Calendars” and choose a specific Courthouse District.
- Pick a Court Date and Case Category.
- This will show departments handling specific types of cases.
- Click on a department to see a list of upcoming cases.
- Details like case information, parties, events, hearings, and financial aspects appear by clicking on each docket folder.
E-Filing and Related Processes in San Bernardino Superior Court
Electronic filing, or e-filing, allows court users to submit documents securely online. This service is available 24/7 through approved electronic service providers (EFSPs).
Mandatory E-Filing
Effective September 2, 2025, the San Bernardino Superior Court requires e-filing for all documents submitted by attorneys in general civil case types. This includes unlimited civil, limited civil, complex civil cases, and specific civil petitions. Self-represented litigants are not required to e-file but can choose to do so.
Probate cases will have mandatory e-filing starting June 16, 2025, with similar exemptions. Family Law and Landlord Tenant cases currently have voluntary e-filing.
Documents for e-filing must be in a non-editable PDF format and meet size limits (25 MB per document, 50 MB per upload). Certain documents, such as those filed under seal or appeal documents, are not eligible for e-filing.
Filing Fees
Filing fees vary by case type and document. Fees for e-filing are capped at $25,000 due to system limits. If fees exceed this amount, a “Notice of Filing Fees Due” will be issued, and the remaining balance must be paid through other methods like phone, check by mail, or in-person. A fee schedule is available on the court’s website.
Specific Record Types in San Bernardino Superior Court
The San Bernardino Superior Court maintains a variety of records covering different legal areas.
Criminal Records Search
San Bernardino Superior Court criminal records detail criminal judicial proceedings, felony/misdemeanor prosecutions, and evidence from cases. These records include items such as appearance letters, jail release forms, arrest and booking details, charging documents, petitions, court calendars, trial transcripts, and plea bargains.
Criminal history checks (rap sheets) are not done through the county court. The California Department of Justice handles criminal history records. Access to these is typically limited to authorized applicants and law enforcement. However, individuals can request a copy of their own criminal history from the Department of Justice. For criminal court records specifically, the county court access portal can be used to search by case number.
Civil Case Records
Civil case records cover disputes between parties, such as contract disagreements, civil harassment, and other non-criminal matters. These records contain documents like contract agreements, motions, court transcripts, and case files. Remote access to civil case document images is available through the court’s online service for $0.50 per page, up to $50 per document.
Divorce Records Search
San Bernardino Superior Court divorce records are publicly available under the California Public Records Act. These records include divorce hearing files, divorce decrees, and certificates. They show details like names of the couple, court information, grounds for divorce, judge’s name, filing date, and judgment date.
While most details are public, certain sensitive information like custody reports, protective orders, medical/educational reports of minors, and financial details are restricted. Only parties involved, their lawyers, or those with a court order can view restricted records.
Divorce records can be found online through the Superior Court Case Information and Document Sales platform, using case number, name, parties, or citation number. Copies can also be requested from the Clerk of the Superior Court in the Family Law Division.
Probate Records
San Bernardino Superior Court probate records involve matters related to the estates of deceased persons, trusts, and conservatorships. These records are public unless sealed by the court or confidential by law. The Probate Department also handles petitions to prove marriage, birth, death, and elder abuse allegations.
Public probate records, such as probate notes, briefs, and case records, are available through the Court Access Portal (CAP). Free document previews and paid downloads are offered, with prices starting at $1 per page. Electronic filings made after January 31, 2006, are accessible. However, private subjects like conservatorship and guardianship case files are not publicly accessible online. Probate matters are heard in the Fontana and Victorville Districts, with some specific petitions heard in the Needles District.
Family Law Case Search
Family law cases cover domestic matters such as divorce, annulment, legal separation, paternity actions, child custody, spousal and child support, and restraining orders. The San Bernardino Family Court is a division within the County Superior Court. The e-Court Public Portal provides access to most family court case data, including docket information and basic case details. Certified copies of family court records can be downloaded for a fee. In-person requests can be made at the family division of the superior court.
Traffic Ticket Lookup
Information regarding traffic tickets can be looked up through the San Bernardino Superior Court’s online services. The court’s Public Portal may offer options for traffic payments and case information. Payments for traffic infractions might be unavailable during system maintenance hours (e.g., 12:00 AM to 3:00 AM). Phone payment systems are an alternative for traffic fines.
Requesting Transcripts from San Bernardino Superior Court
Official court reporter transcripts can be requested directly from the court reporter.
To request a transcript:
- Email the court reporter directly.
- Include your name and phone number (required).
- Provide the case name, case number, date of proceedings, judge’s name, courtroom number, and courthouse location.
- Use “Transcript Request” in the email subject line.
The court reporter will provide a cost estimate. After payment arrangements, the transcript will be prepared. Allow one week for contact regarding the estimate. If no contact, call the court district and ask for the Court Reporter Coordinator.
Expunging Records in San Bernardino Superior Court
Expungement is a legal process to clear a criminal conviction from a person’s record. This process can make it so the conviction does not appear on most background checks. While the San Bernardino Superior Court handles criminal cases, the process for expungement involves specific legal steps and forms.
To begin the expungement process, a petition must be filed with the court. Eligibility for expungement depends on several factors, including the type of offense, completion of probation, and whether new offenses have occurred. It is advisable to consult with legal counsel or the court’s self-help resources for detailed instructions and eligibility criteria. The court’s website or self-help centers may offer forms and information on criminal record remedies.
San Bernardino Superior Court Hours and Locations
The San Bernardino Superior Court operates several courthouses across the county, each with specific hours and handling certain case types.
Most clerk’s offices are open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.. Court public operating hours may differ slightly, often from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.. It is always best to check the specific courthouse’s hours before visiting.
Key locations include:
- San Bernardino Justice Center: 351 North Arrowhead Avenue, San Bernardino, CA 92415.
- Fontana District: 17780 Arrow Boulevard, Fontana, CA 92335.
- Barstow District: 235 East Mountain View Street, Barstow, CA 92311.
- Rancho Cucamonga District: 8303 Haven Avenue, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730.
- Victorville District: 14455 Civic Drive, Victorville, CA 92392.
- Joshua Tree District: 6527 White Feather Road, Joshua Tree, CA 92252.
A full list of locations and the types of filings accepted at each can be found on the Superior Court of California, County of San Bernardino website.
San Bernardino Superior Court Clerk Contact
For general questions about cases or court processes, contacting the clerk’s office is appropriate.
General Information Line: (909) 708-8678.
Specific phone numbers for different districts and divisions are available on the San Bernardino Superior Court website. For example:
- San Bernardino Justice Center: (909) 521-3136.
- Fontana District: (909) 350-9322.
- Criminal Division of the San Bernardino District: (909) 384-1888.
- Family Law Division of the San Bernardino District: (909) 521-3136.
The clerk’s office cannot provide legal advice.
Public Court Records Search in San Bernardino County
Public court records in San Bernardino County are broadly accessible under the California Public Records Act. This means many court documents are open for public viewing, though some are confidential or have restricted online access due to privacy laws.
The primary method for searching public records is the San Bernardino Superior Court’s Court Access Portal (CAP). For records not available online, in-person visits to the relevant courthouse or mail-in requests are options.
The county does not maintain a centralized record-keeping system for all public records. Requests for other county public records, not specifically court-related, should be directed to the responsible department.
How to Request Copies of Court Records San Bernardino
To request copies of San Bernardino Superior Court records:
- Online: For documents available remotely, use the San Bernardino Superior Court’s online portal. Fees may apply per page.
- In-Person: Visit the clerk’s office at the courthouse where the case was heard. Bring a written request with case details and photo ID. Copies cost $0.50 per printed side.
- By Mail: Send a completed copy request form, payment (check or money order), a copy of ID, and a self-addressed stamped envelope to the appropriate courthouse.
The court provides a specific “Copy Request Form” that should be used for mail-in requests.
San Bernardino Courthouse Case Access Online
Online access to San Bernardino Superior Court case information is provided through the Court Access Portal (CAP). This portal allows users to search for cases by various criteria and view basic details. For document images from civil cases, remote access is available for a fee.
Registration on the CAP may be required for certain search functions, such as party or business name searches. The portal also offers instructional videos and FAQs to help users.
It is important to remember that the information on the portal is a service to the public and does not always constitute the official court record. It should not be a substitute for legal advice.
Official Information and Contact
- San Bernardino Superior Court Official Website: sb-court.org
- General Information Phone: (909) 708-8678
- Main Courthouse Address: 351 North Arrowhead Avenue, San Bernardino, CA 92415
- Typical Clerk’s Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (Confirm specific location hours online or by phone)
Frequently Asked Questions About San Bernardino Superior Court Records
Here are common questions about obtaining and using San Bernardino Superior Court records, offering clarity on various procedures and requirements.
Can I search San Bernardino Superior Court records for free?
Yes, basic case information and indexes are available for free through the Court Access Portal (CAP) on the San Bernardino Superior Court’s official website. This allows a preliminary search by case number, party name (with login), or citation number. While viewing basic case details is free, there are often fees for downloading specific document images, which cost $0.50 per page, up to a maximum of $50 per document. Certified copies and extensive research requests may also involve additional costs. For older cases, especially those filed before 1998, online information may be limited, requiring in-person inquiries which could incur research fees.
What is the difference between public and confidential records in San Bernardino Superior Court?
Public records in San Bernardino Superior Court are generally open for anyone to view, following the California Public Records Act. These include most civil and criminal case filings, judgments, and dockets. Confidential records, however, contain sensitive information that is protected by law and only accessible to specific parties. Examples of confidential information include child custody reports, protective orders, medical records, financial details in divorce cases, and certain juvenile records. Access to these is typically limited to the parties involved in the case, their legal representatives, or individuals with a direct court order permitting access. The court redacts or seals such information to protect privacy.
How far back do San Bernardino Superior Court records go online?
The online availability of San Bernardino Superior Court records varies. For many case types, electronic records are available for cases filed from a certain date forward. For example, electronic filings for probate records are generally accessible if made after January 31, 2006. However, case data for cases filed before 1998 may be limited or not available through the online portal. For older cases, it is usually necessary to contact the specific court district where the case was heard or visit in person. The court is actively converting older paper records to electronic format, but this is an ongoing process.
Can I get legal advice from the San Bernardino Superior Court clerk’s office?
No, the San Bernardino Superior Court clerk’s office staff cannot provide legal advice. Court clerks are there to help with court procedures, forms, and general information about cases. They can explain how the court works, where to find forms, and the steps to file documents. However, they are legally restricted from offering opinions, recommending specific actions, or interpreting laws. If you need legal advice, you should consult with a qualified attorney or seek assistance from a legal aid service or the court’s self-help center, which offers resources but not legal representation.
What if I cannot find a specific case record online?
If a specific San Bernardino Superior Court record is not found through the online Court Access Portal, there are several steps to take. First, double-check the search criteria, including names, case numbers, and date ranges for any typos or missing information. Remember that some sensitive records are not available online, and older cases may have limited online data. If the online search fails, consider visiting the specific courthouse where the case was heard. Public computer terminals are available for searching, and staff at the clerk’s office can help guide you. Mail-in requests are another option, especially if an in-person visit is not possible. Providing as much detail as possible in your request will help the court staff locate the desired record.
Are traffic tickets considered San Bernardino Superior Court records?
Yes, traffic tickets are considered part of San Bernardino Superior Court records. When a traffic citation is issued, it initiates a case within the Superior Court system. These records document the alleged violation, court dates, fines, and any judgments or actions taken, such as attending traffic school or paying a fine. You can typically look up information related to traffic tickets through the court’s online public portal by citation number or case number. The court’s website also provides information on how to pay traffic tickets and details about remote traffic arraignments. However, online payment services may have temporary interruptions for system maintenance.
What are the rules for e-filing documents in San Bernardino Superior Court?
The San Bernardino Superior Court has specific rules for e-filing documents. As of September 2, 2025, e-filing is mandatory for attorneys in general civil cases, while self-represented litigants can choose to e-file voluntarily. Documents must be submitted in a non-editable Portable Document Format (PDF) and cannot exceed 25 MB per document or 50 MB per file upload. Certain documents, such as appeals or those filed under seal, are ineligible for e-filing and must be submitted in paper format. Users must comply with the court’s e-filing requirements and local rules, which are available on the court’s website. Fees for e-filing are capped at $25,000 per transaction, with any excess requiring alternative payment methods.