Stockton Court Records
Court records in Stockton are managed by the San Joaquin County Superior Court. Stockton is the county seat and home to about 321,000 people. The main courthouse sits in downtown Stockton. All civil, criminal, family law, probate, and small claims cases for the city go through the county system. You can search case information online through the court's portal or visit in person to review files. This page explains how to find court records, what the fees are, and where to get legal help in Stockton.
Stockton Court Records Quick Facts
Where Stockton Cases Are Filed
The San Joaquin County Superior Court handles all cases in Stockton. The main courthouse is in downtown Stockton. Civil and criminal cases, family law, probate, and small claims all go through this building. It is the central hub for court activity in the county.
Stockton is the county seat, so most court business takes place here. The San Joaquin County courthouse is accessible by public transit and has parking available. Walk-in visits to view records are free. Bring a case number if you have one. The clerk can also search by name, but that takes more time.
The court also has a branch in Manteca and one in Lodi for certain case types. But most Stockton cases stay at the main courthouse. If you are unsure, contact the clerk to confirm where your file is stored.
| Main Courthouse | San Joaquin County Superior Court 222 E. Weber Avenue Stockton, CA 95202 |
|---|---|
| Hours | Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM |
Search Stockton Court Records Online
The San Joaquin County Superior Court has an online case management system where you can search for cases by name or number. The system covers civil, criminal, family, and other case types. It shows basic info like parties, case status, and hearing dates.
The California Appellate Courts search covers cases from Stockton that have been appealed. San Joaquin County is in the Third Appellate District.
Full case documents are not always available for download online. Criminal and family law records have restricted remote access under California Rules of Court, Rule 2.503. Civil case indexes and calendars tend to have broader access. For complete files, visit the Stockton courthouse and use a public terminal or ask the clerk for copies.
The online system updates on a regular schedule. Brand new filings may take a day or two to show up. For the most current data, call the clerk's office or visit in person.
Court Record Fees in Stockton
Fees at the San Joaquin County Superior Court follow the state schedule. Plain copies cost $0.50 per page. Certified copies are $40.00 per document. A clerk search lasting more than 10 minutes costs $15.00. Certified dissolution judgment copies cost $15.00.
Viewing records on a public access terminal at the Stockton courthouse is free. You pay only when you want paper copies or certified documents. If you have limited income, you can apply for a fee waiver. The clerk has the forms, and a judge decides based on your financial situation.
Legal Help in Stockton
The San Joaquin County Superior Court offers a self-help center at the main courthouse. Staff help with forms, finding records, and understanding case steps. It is free for everyone.
Central California Legal Services serves the Stockton area. Call (800) 675-8001 for intake. They handle housing, family law, and consumer issues for low-income people. The California Courts Self-Help website has guides that work for all case types in Stockton.
San Joaquin College of Law sometimes offers free legal clinics in the Stockton area. The San Joaquin County Bar Association runs a lawyer referral service for people who need a private attorney.
Types of Records in Stockton
The San Joaquin County court keeps records for every case type. Civil records cover lawsuits, evictions, and debt collection. Criminal records include felonies and misdemeanors. Family law covers divorce, custody, and support. Probate handles estates and guardianships. Small claims resolve smaller money disputes. Traffic offenses create their own records.
Public access varies by type. Civil records have the broadest access. Criminal data shows some info online but full files need an in-person visit. Family law documents can only be viewed at a courthouse terminal. Juvenile records are confidential and closed to the public.
- Civil unlimited cases: 10 years
- Civil judgments: permanent
- Felony records: 75 years
- Family law: 30 years
- Small claims: 10 years
Sealed records require a court order to view. Check with the clerk about a specific case status.
San Joaquin County Court Records
Stockton is the county seat of San Joaquin County. For full details on the county court system, branch locations, and more, see the county page.
Nearby Cities
Cities near Stockton with court records pages.