The San Mateo County Superior Court serves as the primary trial court for all legal matters within San Mateo County, California. This court handles a wide range of cases, ensuring justice for residents across civil, criminal, family law, probate, and other specialized areas. It stands as an important part of the state’s judicial system, where cases begin and evidence is presented for review. The court’s operations focus on providing fair legal processes and making court records available to the public when allowed by law. Citizens interact with the San Mateo County Superior Court for many reasons, from resolving disputes to addressing traffic violations.
The San Mateo County Superior Court works to offer equal access to justice, maintaining public trust and confidence. The court provides various services, including case filing, record requests, and self-help resources. Many services are available online, making it easier for people to find case information, pay fines, and access forms. The court also has physical locations across the county to serve its diverse population.
San Mateo Superior Court Records
San Mateo Superior Court records show details about cases handled by the court. These records include important documents like pleadings, motions, and final judgments. They also contain charge sheets, hearing dates, and information about the parties involved in a case. These records are kept by the court clerk and are public for most cases.
There are several ways to look up San Mateo Superior Court cases. The official court website offers online search tools. These tools help people find cases using a name, case number, or filing date. While many records are public, some case types, like juvenile, adoption, and mental health cases, have restricted access. For these cases, or for certified copies, a direct request to the clerk’s office is usually necessary.
How to Find San Mateo Court Records Online
Finding San Mateo court records online is a common way for people to get case information. The San Mateo Superior Court offers online portals for this purpose. These portals allow users to search for cases and view certain documents from a computer or mobile device. This online access helps the public stay informed about court proceedings and case outcomes.
- Odyssey Public Portal: This portal allows anyone to view non-confidential and non-sealed case information and documents. It shows a list of actions for civil, criminal, family law, probate, small claims, and traffic cases. Some documents are also available for these case types.
- MIDX – San Mateo County Superior Court Records Index: MIDX is an index that lets you search San Mateo Superior Court’s non-confidential and non-sealed cases by case number, party name, or case filing date. It provides basic index information like case number, party type, case name, case file date, and source of the index.
When using these online tools, a “wildcard” search with an asterisk () can help if the exact name or case number is not known. For example, searching “Generic Co” might find “Generic Company, Inc.”. It is important to remember that not all case types or documents are available online due to privacy rules. For cases filed before 1993, especially criminal cases, contacting the Criminal Court Clerk’s Office directly is advised.
Requesting Public Records In Person or By Mail
For those who prefer to or need to request public records in person, the Records Management Division is available at the Hall of Justice in Redwood City. Visitors can view public case files for civil, criminal, small claims, family law, probate, and unlawful detainer cases. The office is open Monday through Friday during specific hours. There is a limit of five files that can be viewed at one time.
To get copies of records, people can request them at the counter or have them mailed for an extra charge. For more than one copy of a file, payment in advance is required, and the court provides a date when copies will be ready.
San Mateo Superior Court Case Search
A San Mateo Superior Court case search helps people find details about specific legal actions. This search can reveal important steps in a case, such as when it was filed, motions made, rulings, and final judgments. The court keeps these records to show the progress of each case.
The court’s website provides a Smart Search portal where people can look for cases using a record number or a party’s name. There are no fees for online searches through this portal. For detailed searches or official copies, direct contact with the clerk’s office might be necessary.
San Mateo Superior Court Case Number Search
A case number search is a direct way to find specific case information. Each case in the San Mateo Superior Court receives a unique number when it is filed. This number acts like an identifier for all documents and proceedings related to that case.
On the San Mateo County Superior Court Records Index (MIDX) and the Odyssey Public Portal, users can enter a case number to quickly pull up case details. For older cases, especially those filed between January 1, 2000, and June 15, 2016, case numbers often start with letters like “FAM” for family law, “CIV” or “CLJ” for civil, “PRO” for probate, “SCS” for small claims, or “NM,” “NF,” “SC,” “SF,” or “SM” for criminal cases. Cases filed after June 15, 2016, typically begin with the two-digit filing year, followed by a three-character case type prefix, then a number (e.g., 16CIV00123).
San Mateo Superior Court Case Search by Name
Searching for cases by name is also possible through the court clerk’s office or online. When searching online through the Odyssey Portal, people can use a person’s first, middle, or last name. If a common name is used, providing more details like a date of birth or address can help narrow down the results.
The MIDX system also allows searches by person name. For a name search, at least two characters in each field (first and last name) are needed. A wildcard search using an asterisk () can also be used if the full name is not known.
San Mateo Superior Court Docket Lookup
San Mateo Superior Court dockets are official records that list all events in a court case in order. A docket entry shows what happened in a case from when it started to when it ended. This includes filing dates, motions, rulings, orders, and hearing dates. Looking at a court docket helps people keep track of a case’s progress. It also helps with legal research and finding documents filed in the case.
Court dockets can be viewed through the Superior Court Clerk’s office. They are also available online through the court’s Online Case Access platform, which links to the Odyssey Public Portal. The Odyssey Public Portal shows a register of actions for civil, criminal, family law, probate, small claims, and traffic cases.
San Mateo Courthouse Address CA and Locations
The San Mateo County Superior Court operates from several locations across the county to serve the public. Each location handles specific types of cases or provides particular services. Knowing the correct address and hours for each branch helps people get the assistance they need.
Redwood City Hall of Justice and Records (Southern Branch)
This is a main location for the San Mateo County Superior Court. It houses various divisions and courtrooms.
- Address: 400 County Center, Redwood City, CA 94063
- Main Phone: (650) 261-5100
- Records Management Division: 1st Floor, Room A
- Office Hours: Generally Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (Clerk’s Office)
- Records Management Counter Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
This branch handles many case types, including civil, criminal, family law, probate, and small claims. Parking is available, with a jury parking map for specific juror parking. Visitors can find metered street parking or use the Government Center Parking Structure. Parking in the structure costs $1.00 per hour with a four-hour limit. Payment can be made with debit/credit cards, coins, or paper bills. First-floor parking is free after 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and all day on weekends.
Central Branch
The Central Branch also serves the county’s legal needs.
- Address: 800 North Humboldt Street, San Mateo, CA 94401
- Phone: (650) 261-5100
- Office Hours: Generally Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Free street parking is often available near this courthouse.
Northern Branch
The Northern Branch provides court services in South San Francisco.
- Address: 1050 Mission Road, South San Francisco, CA 94080
- Phone: (650) 261-5100
As of early 2026, the Northern Branch has been temporarily closed to the general public. There is free parking in a lot next to this courthouse. Small claims hearings sometimes take place at this branch.
Juvenile Branch
This branch is dedicated to cases involving minors.
- Address: 222 Paul Scannell Drive, San Mateo, CA 94402
- Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (Clerk’s Office)
Parking for the Juvenile Court is available on the right, in front of the Youth Services Center, with additional parking across the street on the left.
San Mateo Civil Case Filing Procedure
The San Mateo County Superior Court handles civil cases, which involve disputes between parties, such as contract issues, personal injury claims, or property disagreements. Filing a civil case starts a legal process to resolve these issues.
A general civil lawsuit begins when a plaintiff files three main forms: a Civil Case Cover Sheet (CM-010), a Summons (SUM-100), and a Complaint (PLD-C-001 or PLD-PI-001). The Civil Case Cover Sheet gives basic information about the case, including the type of case, names of parties, and what the plaintiff is seeking. The Summons is a notice that tells the defendant about the lawsuit. The Complaint form explains how the plaintiff was harmed, who caused the harm, and the amount of damages.
The court requires “jurisdiction” over the defendant to hear the case. Generally, a lawsuit must be filed where the incident happened, where a contract was made, or where the defendant resides.
There are different types of civil cases based on the amount of money involved:
- Limited Jurisdiction: Cases asking for $10,000 up to $35,000.
- Unlimited Jurisdiction: Cases asking for $35,000 or more.
Attorneys are generally required to e-file documents in civil cases. As of August 11, 2025, paper judgment packets will not be accepted from attorneys; only self-represented parties may submit them.
San Mateo Criminal Case Information
The San Mateo County Superior Court addresses criminal matters, including both serious felonies and less serious misdemeanor offenses. These cases involve actions taken against individuals accused of breaking the law.
Information regarding criminal cases can be found through the court’s online index (MIDX) and the Odyssey Public Portal. These tools allow the public to search for case information, though access to certain details might be limited for privacy reasons. For criminal cases filed before 1993, people should contact the Criminal Court Clerk’s Office for information.
Attorneys, law enforcement agencies, and bail bond companies must electronically file (e-file) all documents in criminal cases after the initial complaint, as of June 1, 2020.
San Mateo Family Law Court Records
San Mateo family law court records pertain to cases involving family relationships. This includes divorce, child visitation and custody, domestic violence restraining orders, child support, paternity, and adoption. These records contain sensitive personal information.
While some family law case information is available through the Odyssey Public Portal, specific family law documents are often restricted from online display due to privacy rules. For these records, or for certified copies, requests must be made directly to the Clerk’s Office or the Records Management Division.
Attorneys are required to e-file into Family Law cases as of January 21, 2020. The Family Law Division also offers self-help resources, including information on divorce, child custody, child support, and restraining orders. The Family Law Clerk’s Office has specific phone hours, typically Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
San Mateo Small Claims Court Filing
San Mateo small claims court handles disputes over smaller amounts of money, allowing people to resolve issues quickly and without the need for a lawyer in most cases. This court has simpler rules and procedures.
Individuals can sue for up to $12,500 in small claims court. Businesses and other entities can sue for up to $6,250. Common small claims cases include disputes over security deposits, car repairs, unpaid loans, or contractor work.
To start a small claims case, a “Plaintiff’s Claim and Order to Go to Small Claims Court” form (SC-100) must be filled out and filed with the clerk’s office. The filing fee for a small claims case is generally $30 for claims up to $1,500, $50 for claims between $1,500.01 and $5,000, and $75 for claims over $5,000. If more than 12 claims have been filed in the past 12 months, the fee is $100 for any claim amount. These fees can change, so checking the current fee schedule is important.
The San Mateo County Superior Court offers a Small Claims Advisor program. This program helps people with their small claims cases through telephone appointments. Attorneys are generally required to e-file small claims documents. Small Claims hearings may occur at the Hall of Justice in Redwood City or the Northern Branch in South San Francisco.
San Mateo Court Clerk Contact
The San Mateo Court Clerk’s office helps the public with court procedures, forms, and records. Contacting the clerk is important for many court-related tasks.
- Main Court Information Phone: (650) 261-5100
- Phone Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. for Civil, Family Law, Probate Records.
- Small Claims Clerk’s Office Phone: (650) 261-5100, option 6
- Small Claims Phone Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
- Criminal Court Clerk’s Office: (650) 261-5100, option 1 (for criminal cases filed before 1993)
For questions specific to a case, the court’s website often provides an email link to the clerk’s office for the relevant division.
Access San Mateo Court Documents PDF
Accessing San Mateo court documents in PDF format is often possible through the court’s online portals. The Odyssey Public Portal allows viewing of non-confidential and non-sealed case information and documents, which may be available as PDFs.
For self-represented individuals, the court offers a “Self-Prep and File” service. This free service helps fill out court forms through an interview process. Once completed, these forms can be printed or, for some case types, e-filed with the court.
When documents are served electronically (eService), individuals receive an email with an access link, username (email address), and a unique, time-sensitive access code. After entering the code, a second verification email with a one-time code is sent. Once verified, the document can be viewed and downloaded. This eService is used for civil, small claims, unlawful detainer, family law, and probate cases.
Search San Mateo Court Calendar Hearings
The San Mateo Superior Court provides ways to search for court calendar hearings, allowing parties and the public to know when cases are scheduled.
- Law & Motion Calendar: This calendar shows available dates for Law and Motion Hearings. The information is updated often, showing how many slots are open for different types of hearings.
- Tentative Rulings: Tentative rulings for cases are kept on the court’s website for five calendar days.
- Court Date Text Reminders: People can sign up for text reminders for court dates using their name, date of birth, and case number. This service is available for criminal, traffic, and family law cases.
Family Law Direct Calendars and Family Law Remote Proceedings Protocols are also available on the Family Law Division page. Ex parte hearings for unlawful detainer actions are heard on Tuesdays and Fridays at 1:30 p.m. in Department 30, Courtroom H of the Central Branch.
How to Request Certified Copies San Mateo
Certified copies of court records are official copies stamped and verified by the court clerk. These copies are often required for legal matters outside the courthouse, such as for government agencies or other court proceedings.
To request certified copies from the San Mateo Superior Court, people typically visit the Records Management Division at the Hall of Justice in Redwood City. They can also request copies by mail. While the court aims to make records available, large requests might require advance payment and a waiting period. There is a fee for certifying a copy of a document on file, which is $40.00.
San Mateo Superior Court Filing Fees
San Mateo Superior Court filing fees are charges for submitting legal documents and starting cases. These fees help cover the costs of court operations. The fees vary depending on the type of case and the amount of money involved.
As of January 1, 2024, the jurisdictional amounts for civil and small claims cases changed. Unlimited civil cases now cover amounts over $35,000, and limited civil cases are for amounts between $12,500 and $35,000. Small claims cases are for amounts up to $12,500 for individuals and $6,250 for businesses.
For unlimited civil cases, the initial filing fee for a complaint or other first paper is $435. For small claims, fees range from $30 to $100 depending on the claim amount and filing history. A statewide civil fee schedule is available on the court’s website, effective January 1, 2024.
San Mateo Court Records Expungement Process
The San Mateo court records expungement process allows certain past criminal convictions to be set aside or dismissed. This can help individuals with their employment, housing, and other opportunities by removing the conviction from their public record.
In California, an expungement does not erase the record completely. Instead, it changes the record to show that the conviction was dismissed. This process generally applies to misdemeanor and felony convictions where probation was successfully completed, or other conditions were met. People seeking expungement usually need to file a petition with the court. The court reviews the petition and decides if the person meets the legal requirements for expungement. It is often helpful to get legal advice for this process.
San Mateo County Courthouse Parking Directions
Parking at the San Mateo County courthouses can vary by location. It is important to know the parking options and directions before visiting.
- Redwood City Hall of Justice and Records (Southern Branch): Located at 400 County Center, Redwood City, CA 94063. The Government Center Parking Structure provides convenient parking for visitors. Parking costs $1.00 per hour, with a four-hour maximum. Payment methods include debit/credit cards, coins, and paper bills. First-floor parking is free after 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and all day on weekends. Metered street parking is also available. Electric vehicle charging stations are available on the 1st and 2nd floors of the parking garage at 440 Middlefield Road.
- Central Branch: Located at 800 North Humboldt Street, San Mateo, CA 94401. Free street parking is often available nearby.
- Northern Branch: Located at 1050 Mission Road, South San Francisco, CA 94080. There is free parking in a lot next to the courthouse.
- Juvenile Branch: Located at 222 Paul Scannell Drive, San Mateo, CA 94402. Parking is on the right, in front of the Youth Services Center, with additional parking across the street on the left.
Public transportation, such as CalTrain and SamTrans, also serves the areas around the courthouses.
San Mateo Court Records Online Portal
The San Mateo court records online portal provides a way for the public to access court information remotely. This portal is part of the court’s effort to make legal information more readily available.
The main online access point is the Odyssey Public Portal. This portal allows users to search case records and view specific documents for civil, criminal, family law, probate, small claims, and traffic cases. The portal also has a “Smart Search” link for case searches and a “Make Payments” link for fees.
Another key tool is the MIDX – San Mateo County Superior Court Records Index, which provides index information for non-confidential cases. While these portals offer significant access, some sensitive information, like adoption, juvenile, paternity, and mental health case details, is not available online. For such cases, or for full case files, direct contact with the clerk’s office is needed.
Official San Mateo County Superior Court Information
For direct assistance and the most current information, please use the official contact details for the San Mateo County Superior Court.
- Official Website: sanmateo.courts.ca.gov
- Main Court Information Phone: (650) 261-5100
- General Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (Varies by division)
- Hall of Justice and Records Address: 400 County Center, Redwood City, CA 94063
Frequently Asked Questions About San Mateo County Superior Court
Many people have questions about how the San Mateo County Superior Court works, how to find information, or how to handle their legal matters. This section answers some common questions to help clarify court processes and public access to records and services.
What types of cases does the San Mateo County Superior Court handle?
The San Mateo County Superior Court handles a broad range of legal cases, serving as the main trial court for the county. This includes civil cases, which cover disputes like contract disagreements, personal injury claims, property issues, and medical malpractice. The court also manages family law matters, such as divorce, child custody, child support, and domestic violence restraining orders. Criminal cases, both felonies and misdemeanors, are heard here, as are probate matters related to wills, estates, guardianships, and conservatorships. Additionally, the court has specialized divisions for juvenile cases involving minors and traffic court for violations. This wide jurisdiction means the court is the central point for almost all legal proceedings within San Mateo County.
Can I file court documents electronically with the San Mateo Superior Court?
Yes, electronic filing, known as e-filing, is mandatory for attorneys in many case types at the San Mateo Superior Court. This includes civil, complex civil, small claims, criminal, family law, and probate cases. For criminal cases, all attorneys and justice partners must e-file documents after the initial complaint. Self-represented parties (pro-per litigants) may also have the option to e-file for certain case types or use the “Self-Prep and File” service to prepare forms for electronic submission. However, some documents, like abstracts of judgment or writs of execution, may still need to be filed in hard copy. It is important to check the specific rules for each case type to ensure proper filing.
How do I pay a traffic ticket issued in San Mateo County?
Traffic tickets issued in San Mateo County can often be paid online through the San Mateo Superior Court’s online services. The court provides a system where people can use their citation or case number and other identifying information to pay their ticket. In some cases, individuals may also sign up for traffic school or request a 30-day extension through the online portal. For specific details or if online payment is not an option, contacting the Traffic Clerk’s office directly or visiting one of the court locations is recommended. The court’s website also provides resources on how to plead not guilty and request a court trial date without an initial court appearance.
What is the difference between the Supreme Court and the Superior Court in California?
In California, the Supreme Court and the Superior Court have very different roles. The Supreme Court of California is the highest court in the state. It has the final say on state law matters. This court mainly hears appeals from the California Courts of Appeal and focuses on cases that have a broad impact across the state or involve important legal questions. It ensures that laws are applied consistently. The Superior Court of San Mateo County, on the other hand, is a trial court. This is where cases begin, and parties present their evidence. It has wide authority over civil, criminal, family law, probate, and juvenile cases within San Mateo County. Judges in the Superior Court are elected by county voters.
Are all San Mateo County court records available to the public online?
No, not all San Mateo County court records are available to the public online. While the San Mateo Superior Court offers online access through its Odyssey Public Portal and MIDX index, there are restrictions. Information and documents for certain case types are not accessible online due to privacy laws and court rules. This includes cases related to adoption, juvenile matters, paternity, and mental health. Family law documents are also often excluded from remote online display. For these types of records, or if the information is not confidential and you are a party to the action, you can usually get the information by visiting the Clerk’s Office in person.
Can I get legal advice from the San Mateo Superior Court clerk’s office?
No, court clerks at the San Mateo Superior Court, or any court, cannot provide legal advice. Court clerks are there to help with court procedures, forms, and general information about how the court works. They can explain filing requirements, fee schedules, and how to look up case information. However, they are not lawyers and are not allowed to tell you what to do in your case, how to argue your case, or what legal strategy to follow. For legal advice specific to your situation, you should consult with a qualified attorney. The court does offer self-help services and a Small Claims Advisor program that can provide some guidance on procedures, but not legal advice.