Criminal Court Records reveal every filing, motion, and judgment that shapes a prosecution from arraignment through sentencing within the Los Angeles County judicial system. When a prosecutor files a complaint, the case receives a unique court case number that anchors the entire docket, allowing analysts to trace charges, filing dates, and any subsequent amendments. The Los Angeles County criminal case search engine accepts a defendant name, a case number, or a filing date and returns a concise list of matching entries, each linked to the underlying criminal docket. Users can narrow results by selecting felony court records or misdemeanor court records, depending on the alleged offense. Because each entry includes the criminal charge records and the court docket search reference, investigators can quickly verify defendant identity verification and confirm whether a plea agreement or indictment record exists. This structured data supports accurate criminal case lookup, ensuring that attorneys, journalists, and private citizens obtain reliable information without sifting through unrelated civil filings.
Criminal Court Records also serve as the public gateway to case disposition records, sentencing orders, and any subsequent probation records that define a defendant’s legal outcome. The Los Angeles County court case search function displays whether a case is pending, active, or closed, and flags dismissed criminal cases or acquittal records when applicable. By entering a court case number or by conducting a defendant name search, users receive a comprehensive view of the criminal docket, including indictment records, pretrial hearings, and trial records. When a judgment of conviction is entered, the system automatically generates sentencing records and associated court fines or costs, which become part of the permanent docket. For attorneys needing certified copies, the clerk’s office can issue court record copies that reflect every motion and court order, while sealed criminal records remain inaccessible unless a court order lifts the restriction. This transparent architecture empowers researchers, employers, and citizens to confirm a defendant’s status with confidence, while respecting privacy safeguards built into the Los Angeles County criminal court records framework.
How to Search Criminal Court Records
You can search Los Angeles County criminal court records through the public online portal operated by the Los Angeles Superior Court. The system lets you look up cases by defendant name, case number, filing date, court location, or case type. For related public documentation and local filings, you can consult official felony records resources. Each search returns a list of matching criminal dockets with case details, charge information, and current status. You do not need an account to view basic records.
Official Search Portal: https://www.lacourt.org/
Steps to Search
- Open the Los Angeles Superior Court website at the official portal.
- Click the “Case Information” or “Online Services” link in the main menu.
- Select “Criminal Case Search” from the list of available search tools.
- Choose your search method: defendant name, case number, filing date, or court.
- Type the required details into the search form.
- Review the list of matching cases displayed on the results page.
- Click any case number to view the full criminal docket.
Search by Defendant Name
A defendant name search lets you look up records when you know the full legal name of the person involved. Type the last name first, then the first name in the search form. The system checks its database of criminal cases and displays every match. Results show the case number, filing date, court, and current status for each entry.
Search by Case Number
A case number search gives you the fastest and most direct path to one specific criminal record. Every case filed in Los Angeles County receives a unique court case number that includes the year, court code, and sequence digits. Enter the full number in the search field to pull up the complete docket on your screen.
Search by Filing Date
You can search criminal court records by the date the case was filed. Pick a start date and an end date, then run the search to see every case opened during that period. This method works well for journalists, researchers, and legal professionals who need to review all filings within a specific time range.
Search by Court
Searching by court narrows your results to cases handled at a specific courthouse. Los Angeles County has many court locations, including the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center and the Stanley Mosk Courthouse. Selecting one court filters the results to that location only, which helps when you need records from a single venue.
Search by Case Type
The case type filter sorts records into felony cases, misdemeanor cases, and other criminal proceedings. Use this option when you want to see only serious offenses or only lesser charges. The system groups each result by its criminal classification, making it easy to focus on one category.
Information Needed for a Search
You need basic details to start any criminal court records search. Have the defendant’s full legal name ready, or a complete case number if you have one. A filing date or court location can also help you narrow the search. The more details you provide, the more accurate your results will be.
Los Angeles County Criminal Court Record Details
Each criminal court record in Los Angeles County contains a standard set of data fields. The record shows who was charged, what they were charged with, and where the case sits in the court process. You can use these details to confirm a defendant’s identity, verify case status, or track the progress of a prosecution.
Defendant Information
The record lists the defendant’s full legal name, date of birth, and any known aliases. Booking numbers and physical descriptions may also appear in the file. This data supports defendant identity verification and helps you match records to the correct person.
Case Number and Filing Date
Every record shows the unique court case number assigned at the time of filing. The filing date marks when the prosecutor first submitted the case to the court. Together, these two fields anchor the entire criminal docket and let you track every event in the case.
Court and Judge
The record names the courthouse where the case was filed and the judicial officer assigned to handle it. Court assignments may change during the life of a case, and the docket shows every reassignment. Knowing the judge helps you track scheduling and procedural rulings.
Case Classification
Each case carries a classification that shows whether it is a felony, misdemeanor, or other criminal matter. The classification drives the rules that apply at every stage of the case. You can see the classification at the top of the record alongside the case number.
Criminal Charges
The record lists every charge filed against the defendant, along with the statute number and a short description. Each entry shows the original charge and any changes made during the case. The criminal charge records give a clear picture of what the prosecution is pursuing.
Attorney Information
You can see the name of the defense attorney, the prosecutor, and any public defender assigned to the case. Attorney details update when counsel changes during the proceedings. This information supports criminal case verification and helps lawyers avoid conflicts of interest.
Current Case Status
The record displays the current status, which may be pending, active, or closed. Status updates appear as the case moves through arraignment, pretrial, trial, and sentencing. You can use this field to confirm whether a case is still open or has reached a final outcome.
| Record Field | What It Shows | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Defendant Name | Full legal name and aliases | Confirms correct person |
| Case Number | Unique court-issued identifier | Tracks the full docket |
| Filing Date | Date case opened | Establishes timeline |
| Court Location | Courthouse name and department | Identifies venue |
| Charge Description | Statute and offense details | Shows criminal allegations |
Types of Criminal Court Cases
Los Angeles County criminal courts handle a wide range of cases that fall into different legal categories. Each type follows its own rules for charging, discovery, plea, and sentencing. Knowing the category helps you understand the records you find and what to expect from the docket.
Felony Cases
Felony cases involve the most serious criminal charges, such as robbery, assault with a deadly weapon, and drug trafficking. Felony court records carry heavier sentencing ranges and a formal grand jury or preliminary hearing process. These cases are tried in the felony departments of the criminal courthouse.
Misdemeanor Cases
Misdemeanor cases cover lesser offenses like simple assault, petty theft, and certain DUI charges. Misdemeanor court records show shorter sentencing limits and a faster case cycle. Many misdemeanor cases resolve through plea agreements before reaching trial.
State Criminal Cases
State criminal cases are prosecuted by the California Attorney General or the Los Angeles County District Attorney. These cases involve violations of state law and appear in Los Angeles County court records when filed locally. The docket tracks every stage of the state prosecution.
Local Criminal Cases
Local criminal cases involve city or municipal code violations prosecuted by city attorneys. These cases appear in the Los Angeles County court system when the offense falls under local jurisdiction. Records show the charging city, the specific ordinance, and the outcome.
Juvenile Criminal Matters
Juvenile criminal matters involve defendants under 18 years old. Juvenile court records are restricted under California law and are not part of the public online portal. Access to these records requires a court order or a direct request to the juvenile court clerk.
Other Criminal Proceedings
Other criminal proceedings include post-conviction motions, probation violations, and sentence modifications. These cases appear in the criminal docket under separate case numbers linked to the original conviction. The records show the original sentence, the alleged violation, and any new orders.
Criminal Court Case Proceedings
Criminal court cases follow a clear sequence of events from the first filing to the final order. Each step produces a record entry that you can view through the online portal. Understanding the sequence helps you read a docket and know what to look for at each stage.
Charging and Indictment
The criminal process starts when the prosecutor files a complaint or the grand jury returns an indictment. Charging documents become the first public entry in the criminal docket. The indictment records show the charges, the defendant, and the court where the case was filed.
Arraignment
At the arraignment, the defendant appears in court to hear the charges and enter a plea. Arraignment records show the plea entered, the bail decision, and the next court date. This event marks the formal start of the criminal court proceedings in the public record.
Pretrial Proceedings
Pretrial proceedings include discovery, motion hearings, and plea negotiations. Pretrial hearings produce entries that show the issues raised, the rulings made, and the next steps scheduled. The docket reflects every filing and ruling during this stage.
Motions and Hearings
Defense attorneys and prosecutors file court motions on issues like suppression of evidence, dismissal of charges, or change of venue. Court orders issued on these motions appear in the docket with the judge’s name and ruling date. Each motion creates a new line in the criminal docket.
Trial Proceedings
Trial records begin when the case is set for trial and continue through jury selection, opening statements, testimony, and closing arguments. The docket shows the trial dates, the verdict, and any mistrials. Trial records are public once the courtroom proceedings conclude.
Court Orders
Court orders cover every directive issued by a judge, including protective orders, search warrants, and rulings on motions. Each court order carries a date, a judge signature line, and a case number reference. You can view these orders through the online portal or request copies from the clerk.
Post-Trial Proceedings
Post-trial proceedings include sentencing, appeals, and post-conviction relief motions. The docket tracks every filing after the verdict, including notice of appeal and remittitur. These entries close out the case file unless new proceedings reopen it.
Criminal Case Dispositions
A case disposition shows the final outcome of a criminal prosecution. The Los Angeles County court system records every disposition in the case file for public review. Knowing the disposition type helps you understand whether a defendant was found guilty, acquitted, or had charges dropped.
Dismissed Cases and Charges
When a judge grants a motion to dismiss or the prosecutor drops the case, the record shows dismissed criminal cases or dismissed charges. The entry includes the date, the reason, and the judge who issued the order. Dismissals end the prosecution without a conviction.
Plea Agreements
Plea records document every plea agreement reached between the defense and the prosecution. The docket shows the plea type, the charge the defendant pled to, and the sentence recommendation. Plea agreements resolve most criminal cases without going to trial.
Convictions
Criminal convictions appear in the record when a defendant pleads guilty or no contest, or when a jury returns a guilty verdict. The entry shows the conviction date, the charge, and the sentence imposed. Conviction records remain part of the public docket permanently.
Acquittals
Acquittal records appear when a jury returns a not guilty verdict or a judge finds the defendant not guilty after a bench trial. The acquittal closes the case and prevents retrial on the same charges. The record shows the verdict date and the court that issued the ruling.
Final Disposition
The final disposition is the last entry in the case file that resolves all open counts. It ties together plea records, trial outcomes, and sentencing orders into a single close-out. The case closure date follows the final disposition in the docket.
Case Closure
Case closure marks the point when the court finishes all active proceedings in a criminal matter. Closed criminal cases still appear in the online portal for public access. Archived cases move to long-term storage after a set retention period.
Criminal Sentencing and Court Judgments
When a criminal case ends in conviction, the court issues a judgment and a sentence. These records become part of the permanent criminal docket. You can view sentencing orders, fines, and probation terms through the Los Angeles County court portal.
Judgment of Conviction
The judgment of conviction is the court’s formal declaration that the defendant is guilty. It lists the charges, the plea or verdict, and the statutory basis for the conviction. The criminal judgment becomes the foundation for every sentence that follows.
Sentencing Orders
Sentencing orders spell out the punishment the judge imposes after a conviction. The order shows the prison or jail term, the credit for time served, and any concurrent or consecutive terms. Sentencing records remain public after the case closes.
Fines and Court Costs
Court fines and court costs are part of most criminal sentences in Los Angeles County. The docket lists the dollar amount, the due date, and any payment plan approved by the judge. Failure to pay appears as a separate violation in the record.
Probation
Probation records show the terms of supervised or unsupervised release granted in place of or after incarceration. The record lists the probation officer, the reporting schedule, and the conditions the defendant must follow. Probation violations reopen the case under a new docket entry.
Incarceration
Incarceration orders direct the sheriff to take the defendant into custody to begin serving a sentence. The order shows the facility, the term length, and any credit for time already served. Additional county documentation and official archives are indexed under court records. Incarceration orders are part of the public criminal case file.
Other Court-Imposed Conditions
Judges can add conditions like mandatory counseling, community service, restraining orders, or driver’s license suspension. Each condition appears in the sentencing order and stays active for the term set by the court. Violations of these conditions can lead to new charges.
| Sentencing Outcome | What the Record Shows | Public Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Judgment of Conviction | Charge, plea, verdict | Yes |
| Sentencing Order | Prison or jail term, credits | Yes |
| Fines and Court Costs | Amount, due date, payment plan | Yes |
| Probation | Term, conditions, officer | Yes |
| Incarceration Order | Custody directive, facility | Yes |
Access to Los Angeles County Criminal Court Records
Most criminal court records in Los Angeles County are public, and you can access them online or at the courthouse. Some records carry restrictions based on age, sensitivity, or court order. Knowing which records are open and which are sealed helps you avoid dead ends in your search.
Public Case Information
Public criminal court records include the case number, defendant name, charges, court dates, and dispositions. You can see this data on the Los Angeles Superior Court online portal at any time. No login or fee is required to view the basic case information.
Online Records
Online court records are available 24 hours a day through the official portal. The system shows docket entries, charge details, hearing schedules, and minute orders. Online access covers most active and closed criminal cases filed in the county.
Publicly Available Documents
Publicly available documents include the criminal court filings, minute orders, and court orders. You can download or print these records directly from the portal. Some documents require a small copy fee when requested through the clerk’s office.
Restricted Records
Restricted court records include sensitive personal data like Social Security numbers, home addresses of victims, and certain law enforcement reports. The court redacts this data before showing the record online. Full access to restricted records requires a court order.
Sealed Records
Sealed criminal records are hidden from public view by a court order. You cannot view sealed records through the online portal, and the clerk’s office will not release them without proper legal authority. A defendant or prosecutor can file a motion to seal a case after certain conditions are met.
Juvenile Record Restrictions
Juvenile court records are restricted under California Welfare and Institutions Code section 827. Only certain people can view juvenile records, including the minor, parents, attorneys, and probation officers. The public online portal does not display juvenile criminal matters.
Records Available by Request
Some records are not on the public portal but are available by request through the clerk’s office. You can submit a criminal court record request form and pay the listed fee. The clerk will mail or hand you certified copies within the processing time stated on the court’s website.
Obtaining Criminal Court Records
You can obtain official copies of Los Angeles County criminal court records through three main channels: online, by mail, or in person. Each method has its own steps, fees, and processing times. Choose the option that fits your timeline and document needs.
Online Requests
You can request court record copies through the online portal for many case types. The system lets you select the documents you need and pay the copy fee by credit card. Most online requests are processed within a few business days.
Court Clerk Requests
You can request records by mail or phone through the court clerk’s office. The clerk will pull the file, copy the documents, and send them to you. Court clerk records cover every case type filed in the county, including older archived files.
In-Person Requests
You can visit the courthouse in person and request records at the clerk’s window. Bring a valid photo ID and the case number or defendant name. The clerk will help you locate the file and print or copy the documents on the spot.
Certified Copies
Certified court records carry the official court seal and a signature from the clerk. You need certified copies for legal filings, immigration matters, and employment background checks. The clerk issues certified copies for a higher fee than regular copies.
Copy Fees
The Los Angeles Superior Court charges a fee per page for standard copies and a higher fee for certified copies. You can view the current fee schedule on the court’s website or at the clerk’s window. Payment methods include cash, check, money order, and credit card.
Processing Times
Standard copy requests are processed within a few business days. Certified copies may take longer if the file is stored off-site. The clerk will give you an estimated completion date when you submit your request.
Criminal Court Record Accuracy and Availability
Court records in Los Angeles County are updated regularly, but delays can occur between court action and online posting. Checking the accuracy of the data is part of any reliable criminal case lookup. Use the steps below to confirm you have the right record.
Verifying the Correct Defendant
Always confirm the full name, date of birth, and any aliases listed in the record. Two people can share a common name, so matching these fields prevents you from pulling the wrong file. Defendant identity verification is the first step in any criminal record search.
Matching Case Numbers
A case number is unique to one case in one court. Make sure the number on the docket matches the number from your source. Court case number search results give you the most reliable match when you have the full number.
Confirming Charges
Cross-check the charge descriptions and statute numbers against any paperwork you have. Charge records sometimes change during the life of a case, so the latest entry is the most accurate. If you see a charge mismatch, contact the clerk’s office for clarification.
Recently Filed Cases
Cases filed in the last few days may not appear in the online portal right away. There is a short delay between filing and database upload. Check back after one to two business days if your search returns no results for a recent filing.
Delayed Record Updates
Delayed court record updates can happen when a judge signs an order outside normal hours or when the clerk is processing a high volume of filings. If the docket does not show a recent event, wait 24 to 48 hours and check again.
Archived Cases
Older cases are stored in the court’s archive system. Archived criminal court records may take longer to retrieve and may not appear in the standard online search. Submit a record request to the clerk’s office for archived files.
Unavailable Records
Some records cannot be retrieved because the file was destroyed, sealed, or transferred to another court. Missing criminal court records should be reported to the clerk so they can investigate. The clerk will let you know if the record exists in another system.
Search Problems
Even with a strong search tool, you can run into issues that prevent you from finding a case. Knowing the most common problems helps you troubleshoot quickly. Use the list below to fix the most frequent errors and get back on track.
Case Not Found
A “criminal case not found” message can mean the case was filed under a different name, in a different court, or the data has not been uploaded yet. Try a broader search with fewer letters, or remove the date filter to see all results.
Incorrect Defendant Name
Spelling errors or name variations can cause a search to fail. Try searching with the last name only, or use known aliases. The defendant name search accepts partial matches in most cases.
Incorrect Case Number
A single wrong digit will keep the system from finding your case. Double-check the case number against any source documents you have, including police reports or attorney correspondence.
Wrong Court or Jurisdiction
Criminal cases are filed in the county where the offense occurred. If the offense happened outside Los Angeles County, the record will be in that county’s system. Use the correct jurisdiction to find the right file.
Missing Documents
Missing documents can happen when a document is filed but not yet scanned. The clerk uploads new filings throughout the day. If a key document is missing, wait a day or call the clerk’s office for help.
Restricted Records
You may not be able to view certain records because they are restricted by law. Restricted court records require a court order for full access. You can still see basic case data like the number and court dates.
Delayed Updates
Delayed updates are common right after a court hearing. The clerk needs time to process the minute order and add it to the online system. Check back the next business day if a recent event is missing from the docket.
Criminal Court Records and Related Searches
Criminal court records are one piece of a larger public records landscape. Knowing how they compare to other record types helps you decide which source fits your needs. The table and sections below show the key differences.
Criminal Court Records vs. Criminal Records
Criminal court records focus on court filings, hearings, and judgments. Criminal records include a broader range of data, such as arrests, convictions, and incarcerations from multiple agencies. Court records are a subset of the full criminal record.
Criminal Court Records vs. Arrest Records
Arrest records are created by law enforcement at the time of booking. Criminal court records begin when the prosecutor files a case. An arrest does not always lead to a court case, but a court case always starts with an arrest or citation.
Criminal Court Records vs. Criminal History
A criminal history is a summary report from the California Department of Justice or the FBI. It pulls data from many sources, including court records. Court records are the raw source that feeds the criminal history system.
Criminal Court Records vs. Bench Warrants
Bench warrants are court orders for arrest issued by a judge. They appear in the court record as a separate entry, but they are also tracked in law enforcement databases. A bench warrant search shows active warrants only.
Criminal Court Records vs. Jail Records
Jail records are maintained by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and show who is currently in custody. Court records show the case that led to incarceration but do not show real-time custody status. You need both sources for a complete picture.
Criminal Court Records vs. Civil Court Records
Civil court records cover disputes between private parties, such as contracts, property, and family law. Criminal court records cover offenses against the state. The Los Angeles Superior Court keeps both types in separate dockets.
| Record Type | Source Agency | What It Covers |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal Court Records | Los Angeles Superior Court | Filings, hearings, judgments |
| Arrest Records | Local police and sheriff | Booking and detention data |
| Criminal History | California DOJ / FBI | Statewide and national summary |
| Jail Records | LA County Sheriff | Current custody status |
| Bench Warrants | Court and law enforcement | Active arrest orders |
| Civil Court Records | Los Angeles Superior Court | Non-criminal disputes |
You can reach the Los Angeles Superior Court for in-person help, record requests, and clerk services at the address and phone number below.
Contact Information
Location: Los Angeles Superior Court, 111 N. Hill St., Los Angeles, CA 90012
Contact Number: (213) 830-0800
Office Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Official Website Search Portal: https://www.lacourt.org/
Frequently Asked Questions
Los Angeles County criminal court records let people see case details, charge information, and current status. Accessing these records helps verify identity, prepare for legal matters, or simply understand a public proceeding. The county’s online portal runs 24 hours a day, and the clerk’s office can provide paper copies for a small fee.
How can I search Criminal Court Records in Los Angeles County?
Visit the official portal at https://www.lacourt.org/. Choose “Criminal” from the menu, then enter the defendant’s name, case number, or filing date. The system returns a list of matching dockets with case type, court location, and status. Click any result to view basic details such as charges and next hearing. No account is needed for a quick lookup; a modest fee applies when you request document images.
How Can I Find an LA County Criminal Case by Number?
Enter the exact case number in the “Case Number” field on the same portal. The search returns a single record, skipping name‑based filters. Review the docket summary to confirm the defendant, charge, and disposition. If the number belongs to an older file, the portal may direct you to the Archives & Records Center for a manual request.
Can I View LA County Docket Details for a Misdemeanor?
Yes. After selecting “Criminal” on the portal, choose “Misdemeanor” as the case type. Provide the defendant’s name or case number, then review the docket entries. The list shows each filing, hearing, and any order issued. For full documents, click the “Document Images” link and pay the per‑page fee.
How do I obtain a certified copy of a criminal court filing?
First, locate the case using name or number search. Then click the “Request Certified Copy” button beside the filing you need. Fill out the short form, attach a check or credit‑card authorization for $40, and include a self‑addressed stamped envelope. Mail the request to the clerk’s office listed on the page, or submit it in person during office hours.
Where Can I Get Help Finding an LA County Criminal Case?
Call the criminal clerk at (213) 628‑7700 during business hours. Provide the defendant’s full name, approximate filing year, and any known case numbers. The clerk can confirm whether the case exists in the online system or if it resides in the Archives & Records Center at 222 N. Hill St., Room 212. They will guide you on the proper mail‑in or in‑person request process.