Case Records and Requests
Public Records Advisory
Documents maintained in court case files are public records and subject to public inspection. California Rules of Court, Rule 2.400(a) states that all papers in the court files may be inspected by the public in the office of the clerk. Rule 2.550(a) states that unless confidential or sealed by law, all court records are presumed open.
The public may view and obtain copies of the following case types:
- Criminal
- Civil
- Domestic / Family Law (Divorce, Child Custody, Legal Separation, and Domestic Violence)
- Mental Health (Civil and Criminal)
- Minor Offenses ( Traffic and Infractions )
- Paternity
- Probate
- Small Claims
How to View a Court File or Request a Copy
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Request the Records
ONLINE
Use the Online Records Request form. The court will provide copies of documents requested electronically unless certified copies are requested and paid for.
By Mail
Use the Record Request Form and include payment in advance. The court will provide copies of documents requested electronically unless certified copies are requested and paid for.
In Person
The court has case viewing kiosks where the public can search for and view case documents during normal business hours. We cannot guarantee a file will be available immediately.
Unavailable Court Records
Are you not finding the court records you expect? The below limited exceptions to public access may apply.
Juvenile Court Files
All Juvenile Court records are confidential. The minor, his/her parents or legal guardian(s), and attorneys of record may obtain copies of court minutes and selected court documents by appearing at the appropriate counter with photo identification. The records will not be mailed. Aside from parties or agencies granted access as provided by law other individuals must file a Petition For Disclosure of Juvenile Court Records.
The completed form may be presented in person or by mail and must contain an original signature. If the petition is granted, viewing and/or obtaining copies must be done in person with valid photo I.D. Copies of records will not be mailed.
Sealed Records
Court proceedings are a matter of public record, however the court has the power to seal court records. When a judge seals a record, the public is prevented from viewing specified files or documents without first obtaining a court order.
Destroyed Files/File Purging
Pursuant to Government Code section 68152 the court may routinely purge records. Review this document for the length of time a record is kept (which varies) and for policies governing file destruction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. This process is ONLY for adjudicative (or case) records. We recommend you first try to find the information you are looking for by using the online case access portal. This will allow you to be specific in your request for copies and allow the court to provide you what you need more quickly.
Use this process to request copies of adjudicative records maintained by the Superior Court of California, County of Nevada. The court will review your request and investigate whether and when the requested case records can be produced, or if the records are exempt from disclosure.
Complete all sections of the online or paper form above and submit it to the court in any manner listed. The information you provide will assist the court to find the record. Be as detailed as possible with case name, dates, and type of document you need. If you are not specific, the court may have difficulty responding to your request and your response may be delayed.