Los Angeles Superior Court Records
Understanding the Los Angeles County Superior Court
The Los Angeles Superior Court, one of the largest unified trial courts in the United States, handles a lot of different types of cases. From civil cases to criminal cases, and family to probate cases. This court is wide sweeping with the types and volume of cases it manages.
But how does one access these records? What types of cases does this court hear? And what is the process to run a LA Superior Court Case Search? These are all questions that we will answer in this article and explain in detail to to access case records, convictions, documents, and dockets. These are all considered public records in California which means that anyone has the right to access them.
The Los Angeles County Superior Court Explained
The LA County Superior Court is a key part of California's judicial system, representing the largest county of the United States. It is the largest unified trial court in the United States, that represents over 88 cities and many unincorporated areas. The court is also the largest trial court in the state, structured with numerous judges and courthouses. Each year, it processes over 2.7 million cases, including both criminal and civil. The court's records are primarily maintained by the Clerk's Office, which can be accessed both online, or in person.
How to Run a Los Angeles Superior Court Case Search
While there is more than one way to access court records in LA, some resources are more straightforward than others. Some resources do offer free court case searches however, if you need copies of these records there is a fee, certified copies will cost extra. Here are the various ways to search Superior Court records in Los Angeles by case number, or party name:
1). Through the Clerk of the Court's Office.
2). Directly through the courthouse where the case was originally filed.
3). The online electronic portal where the case was filed.
4). Through third-party court record websites.
It's important to note that some records may not be publicly available such as those that are sealed, expunged, or those involving juveniles. If you have difficulties in locating the records you are looking for online, you can reach out directly to the Clerk of the Superior Court for assistance.
How to Search Los Angeles Court Records by Name
To search for court case records in Los Angeles County, you will need the first and last name of the case party or the company name. Searches can be conducted by submitting the name to a court clerk's office or using a physical public-access terminal at a courthouse.
Key Points to Know With Your Research:
1). A fee is charged for plain or certified copies of public court records, these are calculated per page or document.
2). A written request might be required by the respective court, forms can be found online.
3). Additional details, such as filing or hearing dates, can greatly improve your search accuracy.
How to Obtain Los Angeles Superior Court Records By Mail
A Los Angeles Superior Court records search can also be conducted by mail. To proceed by mail, you must first ask the clerk or court staff to search on your behalf, and send any identified records to a specified address. You will be requited to complete a Request for Copies form, filling out all the necessary details and your contact information. This form, along with the relevant fee, should be mailed to the respective court.
Are Los Angels Superior Court Records Considered Public?
Yes, the majority of LA court case records are considered public records which means that anyone can access these upon request and without permission. This is allowed because of both the California Public Records Act and the Freedom of Information Act which makes most government collected information publicly available.
