San Bernardino County Court Documents

San Bernardino County Court Documents are official records created and maintained by the Superior Court of California, County of San Bernardino. These documents include case filings, dockets, judgments, motions, and other legal materials generated during court proceedings. They serve as public records under California law, allowing individuals to review case details, verify legal outcomes, and obtain certified copies for personal or professional use. The court system in San Bernardino County handles a wide range of matters, including civil, criminal, family, probate, and small claims cases, each with its own document types and access procedures.

Access to these documents is governed by state and local rules that balance transparency with privacy protections. While many records are available to the public, certain sensitive information—such as juvenile records, sealed cases, or personal identifiers—may be restricted. The San Bernardino County Superior Court provides both in-person and online methods to retrieve court documents. Online tools allow users to search by case number, party name, or date, while physical visits to court locations or the County Clerk’s office offer access to older or non-digitized records. Knowing which division handles your case and how to properly request documents ensures faster, more accurate results.

Types of Court Documents Available in San Bernardino County

San Bernardino County maintains a wide variety of court documents across multiple case types. These records are categorized based on the nature of the legal matter and the court division that processed the case. Each type has specific document formats, retention periods, and access rules. Understanding these categories helps users identify the correct records and know where to search.

Civil Court Records

• Case Filings: Include complaints, answers, cross-complaints, and amended pleadings. These are the foundational documents that start a civil lawsuit.
• Judgments and Orders: Final rulings issued by judges, such as monetary awards, injunctions, or dismissals. These are legally binding and often required for enforcement.
• Motions and Oppositions: Written requests to the court for specific actions, such as summary judgment or discovery sanctions. Opposing parties may file responses.
• Discovery Documents: Depositions, interrogatories, and requests for production of documents. These are typically not publicly accessible unless filed with the court.
• Appeal Records: Transcripts, briefs, and appellate court decisions for cases that move to higher courts.

Criminal Court Records

• Arrest and Booking Reports: Created at the time of arrest, these include charges, arrest date, and booking number. Available through law enforcement or court dockets.
• Charging Documents: Felony complaints, misdemeanor citations, and indictments that formally accuse an individual of a crime.
• Preliminary Hearing Transcripts: Audio or written records of hearings where the court determines if there is enough evidence to proceed to trial.
• Sentencing Records: Include probation terms, jail time, fines, and restitution orders. These become part of the permanent record.
• Expungement Orders: Court-approved documents that seal or dismiss certain criminal records under California Penal Code 1203.4.

Family Court Records

• Divorce Petitions: Initial filings for dissolution of marriage, including grounds and requested relief.
• Child Custody and Support Orders: Legally enforceable decisions on visitation, custody, and financial support for children.
• Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements: Contracts filed with the court that outline asset division in case of divorce.
• Domestic Violence Restraining Orders: Temporary or permanent protective orders issued to prevent abuse or harassment.
• Adoption Records: Finalized adoption decrees and related filings. These are often sealed and require court permission to access.

How to Search for San Bernardino County Court Documents Online

The San Bernardino County Superior Court offers a free online portal for searching court documents. This system allows users to look up active and closed cases using specific identifiers. The database includes records from 1992 for civil cases and 1996 for criminal cases, with some older records available in microfiche or paper format at physical locations. The online tool is updated daily and provides real-time access to docket entries, case status, and document summaries.

Using the Online Case Search Tool

To begin a search, go to the official San Bernardino County Superior Court website at https://sanbernardino.courts.ca.gov/. Click on the “Online Services” tab and select “Case Search.” This opens the public access portal. You can search using one of three methods: case number, party name, or attorney name. Each method requires different input formats and returns specific data points.

• Search by Case Number: Enter the full case number (e.g., CIVDS2212345) in the “Case Number” field. The system accepts both civil and criminal formats. Click “Search.” The result will show the case title, filing date, case type, status (active or closed), and a list of docket entries with dates and descriptions.
• Search by Party Name: Type the full name of a plaintiff or defendant in the “Party Name” field. Use the format “Last Name, First Name” for best results. Click “Search.” The system returns all cases where that name appears, including case number, court location, and case type. Click on a case number to view detailed docket information.
• Search by Attorney Name: Enter the attorney’s name in the “Attorney Name” field. This is useful for legal professionals tracking multiple cases. Results include case number, party names, and court division.

Understanding Search Results

After submitting a search, the system displays a summary table with key details. Each row represents one case. The columns include:

Clicking on a case number opens the full docket sheet. This page lists every action taken in the case, including filings, hearings, and rulings. Each entry shows the date, document title, and sometimes a brief description. Users can print or save the docket for personal use. However, actual document images (like scanned pleadings) are not available online and must be requested in person or by mail.

Limitations of Online Access

• Only cases filed after 1992 (civil) and 1996 (criminal) are fully searchable online.
• Sealed, juvenile, or expunged records do not appear in search results.
• Document images are not available through the portal. You must visit a courthouse or submit a formal request.
• Name searches may return incomplete results if names are misspelled or vary in format.
• The system does not support bulk downloads or API access for researchers.

Requesting Physical or Certified Court Documents

While online searches provide case summaries, obtaining actual court documents—such as certified copies of judgments, divorce decrees, or probate orders—requires a formal request. These documents are often needed for legal proceedings, employment verification, or personal records. The San Bernardino County Superior Court allows requests in person, by mail, or online for certain document types. Certified copies carry an official court seal and are legally valid for use outside the court system.

Submitting a Document Request In Person

Visit the San Bernardino County Clerk’s Office at 222 W Hospitality Ln, 1st Floor, San Bernardino, CA 92415. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, excluding holidays. Bring a valid photo ID and the case number if known. If you do not have the case number, staff can help locate it using party names or filing dates. Public terminals are available for self-service searches.

• Required Information: Case number, party names, document type (e.g., judgment, divorce decree), and number of copies needed.
• Fees: $40 per document for certified copies. Additional fees apply for expedited service or large requests.
• Processing Time: Same-day service for most documents if requested before 3:00 PM. Larger requests may take 1–3 business days.
• Payment Methods: Cash, check, money order, or credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover).

Requesting Documents by Mail

Send a written request to the San Bernardino County Clerk’s Office at P.O. Box 220, San Bernardino, CA 92415-0022. Include the following in your letter:

• Your full name, address, and phone number.
• Case number and names of parties involved.
• Description of the document(s) requested (e.g., “certified copy of final judgment”).
• Number of copies needed.
• A self-addressed stamped envelope (SASE) for return delivery.
• A check or money order for fees, payable to “San Bernardino County Clerk.”

Mail requests take 7–10 business days to process. Do not send cash. Allow extra time for postal delivery. For urgent needs, in-person pickup is recommended.

Online Document Requests

Some document types, such as divorce decrees and probate orders, can be requested online through the court’s e-filing portal. Go to https://sanbernardino.courts.ca.gov/online-services and select “Document Request.” You will need to create a free account and provide case details. Upload a copy of your ID and pay fees via credit card. The system generates a tracking number. Documents are mailed within 5 business days. This method is not available for criminal records or sealed cases.

Court Locations and Hours for Document Access

The San Bernardino County Superior Court system charges fees for document retrieval, certification, and copies. These fees are set by California state law and the county’s fee schedule. Payment is required at the time of service unless prior arrangements are made. Fees vary based on document type, number of pages, and service speed. Below is a breakdown of common charges.

Central Division – San Bernardino

• Address: 351 N Arrowhead Ave, San Bernardino, CA 92415
• Phone: (909) 708-8100
• Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM
• Case Types: Civil, criminal, family, probate, and small claims
• Services: Case lookup, document requests, fee payments, and public terminals
• Parking: Free public parking available on-site

Barstow Courthouse

• Address: 1275 E Mountain View St, Barstow, CA 92311
• Phone: (760) 256-6700
• Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM
• Case Types: Criminal, traffic, and small claims
• Services: Docket search and document pickup
• Note: Limited civil and family cases; refer to Central Division for complex matters

Joshua Tree Courthouse

• Address: 62400 29 Palms Hwy, Joshua Tree, CA 92252
• Phone: (760) 367-4700
• Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM
• Case Types: Traffic, small claims, and misdemeanor criminal
• Services: Basic docket access and fee payments
• Note: No probate or family law services

Victorville Courthouse

• Address: 14455 Civic Dr, Victorville, CA 92392
• Phone: (760) 241-6700
• Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM
• Case Types: Criminal, traffic, and civil under $25,000
• Services: Document requests and public terminals
• Note: Family and probate cases handled at the Central Division

Fees for Court Document Services

The San Bernardino County Superior Court charges fees for document retrieval, certification, and copies. These fees are set by California state law and the county’s fee schedule. Payment is required at the time of service unless prior arrangements are made. Fees vary based on document type, number of pages, and service speed. Below is a breakdown of common charges.

Standard Copy Fees

Search and Filing Fees

• Name search (in person): $15.00 per name
• Case number lookup (if unknown): $10.00
• Small claims filing: $30–$75, depending on claim amount
• Civil filing (under $25,000): $435.00
• Civil filing (over $25,000): $680.00
• Family law filing (divorce, custody): $435.00

Payment and Waiver Options

• Accepted payment methods: Cash, check, money order, or credit card (in person and online).
• Checks and money orders must be payable to “San Bernardino County Clerk.”
• Fee waivers are available for low-income individuals. Submit Form FW-001 with income verification.
• Waivers do not apply to certified copies or exemplification fees.
• Partial payments are not accepted; full payment is required at the time of service.

Privacy and Restricted Access to Court Records

While most court documents are public, California law restricts access to certain records to protect privacy and ensure justice. San Bernardino County follows strict guidelines on what can be disclosed and to whom. Understanding these rules prevents legal issues and ensures proper handling of sensitive information.

Sealed and Confidential Records

• Juvenile Records: Automatically sealed under Welfare and Institutions Code 826. Access requires a court order.
• Expunged Criminal Records: Removed from public view after successful expungement. Only law enforcement and courts can access them.
• Domestic Violence Protective Orders: Some details may be redacted to protect victims.
• Adoption Records: Sealed by law. Only adopted individuals, birth parents, or legal representatives can request access with court approval.
• Mental Health Proceedings: Records related to conservatorship or competency hearings are confidential.

Redaction of Personal Information

Public documents may have personal data removed before release. Common redactions include:

• Social Security numbers (all but last four digits)
• Bank account and credit card numbers
• Dates of birth (only year may be shown)
• Home addresses in domestic violence cases
• Names of minors involved in family or criminal cases

Requesting unredacted copies requires a court order. Submit a motion to the presiding judge explaining the need for full disclosure.

Third-Party Access Rules

• Anyone can request public court documents without proving a connection to the case.
• Law enforcement, attorneys, and government agencies have broader access for official purposes.
• Employers and landlords may request records, but cannot demand certified copies without consent.
• Background check companies must comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) when using court records.

(FAQs) About San Bernardino County Court Documents

San Bernardino County court documents provide essential public access to civil, criminal, and probate case information across different time periods and formats. These records help individuals, attorneys, and researchers track case history, verify legal actions, and obtain certified copies when needed. Depending on the record type and year filed, documents may be available online, on public terminals, or through in-person requests at the county courthouse. Fees, access methods, and availability vary based on case status and record age.

How far back do San Bernardino County court records go?

San Bernardino County maintains court records dating back to the 1850s, depending on the case type and format. Civil court documents on microfiche begin in 1856, making them some of the oldest in California. Criminal records on microfiche start from 1972, while computerized criminal records begin in 1996. Civil cases were digitized starting in 1992. Older paper records are stored at the Central Records Division and may require in-person retrieval. The County Clerk’s office at 222 W Hospitality Ln holds records from 1980 onward on public terminals. For records predating 1980, researchers must submit a formal request with specific details. Microfiche readers are available on-site, but staff assistance is limited. It is recommended to call ahead to confirm availability and schedule a visit during business hours.

Can I get a certified copy of my divorce decree online?

Yes, you can request a certified copy of a divorce decree online through the San Bernardino County Superior Court’s e-service portal. Go to https://www.sb-court.org/online-services and select “Document Request.” You will need the case number, which can be found using the online case search tool. Create a free account, upload a copy of your government-issued ID, and pay the $40 certification fee via credit card. The system will generate a confirmation number. Certified copies are mailed within 5 business days. This service is only available for finalized divorce cases filed after 1992. If your case is older or involves sealed records, you must visit the Central Division in person or submit a mail request. Expedited service is not available online.

What is the difference between a docket and a court document?

A docket is a chronological list of all actions taken in a court case, such as filings, hearings, and rulings. It does not contain the actual content of documents but serves as an index. For example, a docket entry might read: “10/15/2023 – Plaintiff’s Motion for Summary Judgment Filed.” In contrast, a court document is the actual pleading, order, or judgment referenced in the docket. This could be a 10-page motion with legal arguments and evidence. Dockets are available online and in person, while court documents must be requested separately. To obtain a document, you need the docket entry number and case number. The San Bernardino County online portal displays dockets but not document images. Physical copies require a visit to the courthouse or a mailed request with payment.

How do I request court records for a deceased relative?

To request court records for a deceased relative, you must prove your legal right to access the information. Start by obtaining a certified copy of the death certificate. If you are the executor of the estate, provide a copy of the Letters Testamentary from the probate court. If you are a beneficiary or family member, submit a written request explaining your relationship and the purpose of the request. Send the request to the San Bernardino County Clerk’s Office at P.O. Box 220, San Bernardino, CA 92415-0022. Include the deceased’s full name, date of death, case number (if known), and document type needed. Pay applicable fees. For probate records, visit the Probate Division at the Central Courthouse. Some records may be restricted if they involve minors or sealed proceedings.

Are San Bernardino County court records free to access?

Basic case information, such as dockets and case status, is free to view online or at public terminals in courthouses. However, obtaining copies or certified documents incurs fees. The first page of any document costs $1.00, with each additional page at $0.50. Certified copies cost $40.00 per document. Search fees are $15.00 per name. While the initial lookup is free, printing or saving dockets may require payment if done through court staff. Online access does not include document images. Fee waivers are available for low-income individuals using Form FW-001. Government agencies and attorneys may have fee exemptions for official use. Always check the current fee schedule on the court website before submitting a request.

Can I search for court records by address in San Bernardino County?

No, the San Bernardino County online case search system does not allow searches by address. You can only search by case number, party name, or attorney name. However, if you know the property address, you can cross-reference it with public property records to identify owners, then search for those names in the court system. For eviction cases, the case title often includes the property address, so a name search may reveal relevant filings. To find all cases linked to a specific location, visit the Central Division and use public terminals with staff assistance. Staff cannot perform address-based searches, but can help locate cases if you provide tenant or landlord names. For bulk or historical property-related litigation, consider hiring a legal researcher or using third-party services that compile public data.