San Bernardino County Court Records Search gives you direct online access to millions of public court documents through official and third-party portals. The Superior Court of California, County of San Bernardino operates a secure digital system that lets residents, attorneys, researchers, and businesses retrieve civil, criminal, traffic, and family law filings. Each page costs $0.50, covering scanning, storage, and delivery. You can search by case number, party name, or filing date. The system updates every 15 minutes with new docket entries. Only documents classified as public records are available—this includes complaints, motions, orders, judgments, and docket sheets filed after January 1, 2015. Juvenile records remain restricted to parents, guardians, attorneys, or court staff. The county’s eCourt digitization project has converted over 1.2 million paper files into searchable PDFs since 2022. This makes it faster and easier to request records, track case progress, and receive real-time alerts.
How to Use the Official Public Access Portal
The Public Access Portal at cap.sb-court.org/search is the fastest way to find court records. You can search using a case number with 5 to 16 alphanumeric characters. After entering your query, the system returns a summary that includes the filing date, case type, parties involved, and current docket status. Click “View Details” to see a full list of motions, orders, and hearing schedules. You can download a PDF docket for offline review. The portal refreshes every 15 minutes, so you always see the latest updates. To view or download documents, create a free account and accept the court’s disclaimer. Each session allows up to 100 pages. Larger requests are handled individually. The system only shows public records—sealed or confidential files are not accessible.
Civil Case Records and Document Sales
Civil case filings are available through the Court Case Information and Document Sales portal. This includes lawsuits, small claims, evictions, and contract disputes. Each scanned page costs $0.50. The fee covers high-resolution imaging, secure cloud storage, and bandwidth for remote access. You can view or download up to 100 pages per session. For larger requests, contact the court directly. Only documents filed after January 1, 2015, are available online. Older records may be digitized upon request. The system does not include sealed settlements, juvenile matters, or protected personal data. All transactions are logged for security and compliance. Payments are processed securely through the court’s payment gateway. Receipts are emailed instantly.
Criminal and Traffic Records Online
Criminal and traffic records are now accessible through the eCourt system. The Superior Court began digitizing paper files in early 2022. Over 1.2 million records have been converted into searchable PDFs. You can request DUI charges, theft, assault, drug possession, and traffic violations. The system indexes each file by case number, party name, and document type. Access controls protect sensitive information. Once the migration is complete, all criminal and traffic records will be available online. Users can view real-time docket updates and receive email alerts for upcoming hearings. The portal supports bulk requests for attorneys and legal researchers. All records comply with California’s Public Records Act.
Juvenile Court Records: Access Rules and Restrictions
Juvenile court records are strictly protected under California Rule of Court 5.552 and Welfare and Institutions Code § 827. Only parents, legal guardians, assigned attorneys, and authorized court staff can access these files. Records older than five years are archived but remain searchable by case number. When you submit a request, the clerk verifies your identity and logs the transaction. You will receive either a redacted PDF or a secure viewing session. Sensitive details like health records, family history, or school information are never disclosed. The Juvenile Division does not provide public access to delinquency or dependency filings. All requests must include proof of relationship or legal authority. Processing takes 3 to 5 business days.
Third-Party Court Record Portals
Several third-party sites offer access to San Bernardino County court records. These include StateCourts.org, CountyOffice.org, and California.StateRecords.org. They host public docket sheets, judgments, motions, and subpoenas. Most docket sheets are free. Full-text opinions and transcripts cost a small fee. The original files remain owned by the county clerk-recorder. These portals comply with California’s Public Records Act. They do not host sealed or confidential documents. Users can search by case number, party name, or filing date. Some sites offer email alerts for new filings. Always verify information with the official court portal. Third-party sites may have delays or incomplete data.
Arrest and Booking Data from the Sheriff’s Office
In 2017, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Office recorded 24,468 felony arrests and 49,306 misdemeanor arrests. Felony arrests dropped 3% from 2016, while misdemeanor arrests rose 0.6%. Violent felonies totaled 8,855 cases. This included 3,210 aggravated assaults, 2,475 robberies, 1,950 domestic violence incidents, and 1,220 homicide-related charges. Property crimes like burglary and theft made up 10,613 arrests. Detailed logs show booking dates, charges, and disposition outcomes. This data is available through the county’s open-data portal. It is updated monthly and used by researchers, journalists, and law enforcement. The portal does not include active investigations or sealed records.
Case Information Online: Free Docket Access
The “Case Information Online” portal provides free access to docket entries, filing dates, and case outcomes. It covers criminal, civil, family, and probate matters. As the court transitions to eCourt, legacy paper files are being digitized. The system now displays searchable PDFs of judgments, sentencing memoranda, and pre-trial motions. Users can track case progress without fees. The portal reminds visitors that sealed juvenile files and protected personal data are excluded. It is updated in real time. The old system at old.sb-court.org still works but will be retired soon. Always use the new Public Access Portal for the best experience.
Exhibits and Physical Evidence Management
The Exhibits Department safeguards all physical evidence submitted to the court. Each item is logged in an electronic inventory and tagged with a unique barcode. Evidence is stored in climate-controlled vaults at three locations. Chain-of-custody forms track every movement. Only authorized personnel can access exhibit rooms. They must sign in and out. The department conducts quarterly audits. It works with law enforcement to preserve evidence for trial or appeal. Digital photos of non-sensitive exhibits may be available upon request. Firearms, drugs, and biological materials are stored under strict security. Destruction of evidence follows court orders and state law.
Official Public Records: Recorder’s Index
The Recorder’s Index lists documents filed in San Bernardino County from 1958 to today. It shows document type, recording date, and book/page reference. It does not display actual images. To view full documents, visit the Hall of Records at 411 North Arrowhead Avenue in San Bernardino or the High Desert Government Center in Hesperia. On-site, you can request paper copies for $0.25 per page. Electronic transmission takes 10 business days. The index includes deeds, liens, marriage licenses, and business filings. It is maintained by the County Clerk-Recorder. Online access is limited to the index only. For certified copies, bring valid ID and pay the required fee.
Filing Statistics and Case Volume Trends
In 2018, San Bernardino County recorded 333,831 new court filings. Criminal cases made up 73% of the total—243,699 cases. The most common criminal charges were driving under the influence (45,102), theft (38,764), drug possession (27,310), and assault (22,587). Civil, family, and probate cases accounted for the remaining 27%. The court has seen a steady increase in digital filings since 2020. The eCourt system now processes over 80% of new cases electronically. This reduces paper use and speeds up case resolution. The court plans to complete full digitization by 2025. Public access will improve with faster search and download speeds.
How to Request Records Not Available Online
Some records are not available online due to age, confidentiality, or storage location. To request these, submit a written application to the Superior Court Clerk’s Office. Include the case number, party names, and document type. For archived files, specify the year and court division. Processing takes 5 to 10 business days. Fees vary by document size and format. You can pick up records in person or request electronic delivery. For juvenile or sealed records, provide proof of eligibility. The court may deny requests that violate privacy laws. Always check the Public Access Portal first. Many older records are now digitized and available online.
Fees, Payments, and Account Management
All document purchases cost $0.50 per page. Payments are made through a secure online portal. Accepted methods include credit card, debit card, and electronic check. Receipts are sent via email. Users can view their transaction history in their account dashboard. Free accounts allow up to 100 pages per session. For larger requests, contact the court’s records department. Bulk discounts may apply for attorneys and researchers. Refunds are not available for downloaded documents. Accounts are free and require a valid email address. You must accept the court’s terms of use and privacy policy. Passwords must be strong and changed annually.
Privacy, Security, and Legal Compliance
The court follows strict privacy and security rules. Only public records are released. Sealed, juvenile, or confidential files are never disclosed. All access is logged and monitored. The system uses encryption to protect data during transmission. Users must not share login credentials. Violations may result in account suspension. The court complies with California’s Public Records Act, Rule of Court 5.552, and Welfare and Institutions Code § 827. Third-party sites must also follow these laws. Misuse of records can lead to legal action. Always use court data responsibly and for lawful purposes.
Contact Information and Office Hours
For help with San Bernardino County Court Records Search, contact the Superior Court Clerk’s Office. The main location is at 351 N. Arrowhead Ave, San Bernardino, CA 92415. Phone: (909) 708-8646. Email: records@sb-court.org. Office hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The Hall of Records is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The High Desert Government Center in Hesperia is open from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. For technical support, call (909) 521-3300. Visit sb-court.org for updates on system maintenance and new features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about accessing court records in San Bernardino County. Below are the most common inquiries with clear, direct answers based on current court policies and state law. These responses reflect the latest updates from the Superior Court of California, County of San Bernardino, and are designed to help you find what you need quickly and legally.
Can I search court records for free?
Yes, you can search docket summaries and case information for free using the Public Access Portal at cap.sb-court.org/search. This includes filing dates, case types, party names, and docket status. However, viewing or downloading actual document images costs $0.50 per page. The fee covers scanning, storage, and delivery. Free access is limited to metadata and summaries. Full documents require payment. Third-party sites may offer free docket sheets but charge for full-text opinions. Always verify free data with the official court portal to ensure accuracy.
Are juvenile court records public?
No, juvenile court records are not public. Access is restricted to the minor’s parents or legal guardians, assigned attorneys, and authorized court staff. These rules are set by California Rule of Court 5.552 and Welfare and Institutions Code § 827. Records older than five years are archived but still protected. Requests must include proof of relationship or legal authority. The clerk will verify your identity and may provide a redacted PDF or secure viewing session. Sensitive information like health or family details is never disclosed. Public access to juvenile files is illegal and can result in penalties.
How long does it take to get court records?
Online records are available instantly after payment. For documents not yet digitized, processing takes 5 to 10 business days. Archived files may take longer due to off-site storage. Juvenile or sealed records require additional verification and can take up to 15 business days. Electronic delivery is faster than mail. You will receive an email confirmation once your request is processed. During peak times, such as after holidays, delays may occur. For urgent needs, visit the Hall of Records in person. Bring valid ID and the case number to speed up service.
Can I get court records by mail?
Yes, you can request court records by mail. Send a written letter to the Superior Court Clerk’s Office at 351 N. Arrowhead Ave, San Bernardino, CA 92415. Include the case number, party names, document type, and your contact information. Specify if you want paper copies or electronic delivery. Enclose a check or money order for the required fees. Processing takes 10 to 15 business days. Do not send cash. For certified copies, include a self-addressed stamped envelope. Mail requests are slower than online access. Use the Public Access Portal for faster results.
Are traffic tickets available online?
Yes, traffic tickets and related court filings are available online through the eCourt system. The digitization project has converted over 1.2 million records, including traffic violations. You can search by case number, driver name, or ticket number. Each page costs $0.50 to view or download. The system shows filing dates, charges, court dates, and dispositions. Real-time updates are available. If your ticket is not online, it may still be in paper form. Contact the court for assistance. Payments for fines can also be made online through the court’s payment portal.
What if I can’t find a case online?
If you can’t find a case online, it may be too old, sealed, or not yet digitized. Start by checking the Public Access Portal with different search terms. Try variations of names or case numbers. If still not found, contact the court clerk. Provide as much detail as possible. For cases before 2015, request digitization. There may be a fee. Archived records are stored off-site and take longer to retrieve. Juvenile or confidential cases are not available to the public. Always verify with official sources before assuming a record does not exist.
Can businesses access bulk court records?
Yes, businesses such as law firms, background check companies, and researchers can access bulk court records. Contact the court’s records department to set up a special account. Bulk requests are handled case by case. Fees may be discounted for large volumes. All data must be used in compliance with California law. Misuse can result in legal action. The court provides secure FTP access for approved users. Data includes public dockets, judgments, and motions. Sealed or juvenile records are never included. Agreements must be signed before access is granted.