Yolo County Court Records
What Is Yolo County Court Records
Court records in Yolo County encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's court system. These records constitute the comprehensive documentation of judicial activities as maintained by the Superior Court of Yolo County. Pursuant to California Rules of Court, Rule 2.550, court records include:
- Case files and dockets
- Pleadings, motions, and affidavits
- Judicial orders, decisions, and judgments
- Hearing and trial transcripts
- Evidence and exhibits admitted in proceedings
- Probation and sentencing reports
- Court-filed settlement agreements
Court records are distinct from other public records maintained by Yolo County, such as property records, vital statistics (birth, death, marriage certificates), and tax assessments, which are maintained by the Yolo County Clerk-Recorder rather than the court system.
The Yolo County court system maintains records from several jurisdictional divisions:
- Superior Court (civil, criminal, family law)
- Probate Court
- Juvenile Court
- Small Claims Court
- Traffic Court
Under California Government Code § 68150, court records may be maintained in any form, including electronic, as long as their accuracy, accessibility, and preservation are ensured. The California Judicial Council provides oversight regarding court record management standards throughout the state.
Are Court Records Public In Yolo County
Court records in Yolo County are generally accessible to the public in accordance with the California Public Records Act (Government Code § 6250-6276.48) and the common law right of access to judicial records. The California Constitution, Article I, § 3(b) establishes that "the people have the right of access to information concerning the conduct of the people's business."
The following court records are typically available for public inspection:
- Civil case files (with certain exceptions)
- Criminal case files (post-arraignment)
- Judgments and court orders
- Docket sheets and case indices
- Court calendars and hearing schedules
- Property records related to judgments
However, certain records are restricted from public access under California Rules of Court, Rule 2.550 and various state statutes, including:
- Juvenile court proceedings
- Adoption records
- Mental health proceedings
- Sealed records pursuant to court order
- Records where confidentiality is mandated by statute
- Documents containing personal identifiers (Social Security numbers, financial account numbers)
- Records sealed under Health & Safety Code § 11361.8(f)
The Judicial Branch of California maintains comprehensive policies regarding public access to court records. It is important to note that federal court records for cases involving Yolo County residents but heard in federal courts are governed by federal access rules rather than state provisions.
How To Find Court Records in Yolo County in 2026
Members of the public seeking court records in Yolo County may utilize several methods to locate and access these documents. The following procedures are currently in effect:
In-Person Requests:
- Visit the Clerk's Office at the appropriate courthouse location based on the case type.
- Complete a Records Search Request form, providing case number, party names, or other identifying information.
- Present valid government-issued photo identification.
- Pay applicable search and copy fees (currently $15 for record searches without case numbers).
Written Requests:
- Submit a written request to the Clerk of Court specifying the desired records.
- Include case number, party names, approximate filing dates, and other relevant identifiers.
- Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope for response.
- Include payment for applicable fees by check or money order.
Online Access:
- Access the Yolo County Superior Court's online services portal.
- Register for an account if required for certain document types.
- Search by case number, party name, or filing date.
- Pay applicable online access fees for document retrieval.
For certified copies of court records, requestors must specifically indicate this requirement on their request form. Certification fees are assessed in addition to standard copy fees in accordance with the court's fee schedule established under Government Code § 70626.
Yolo County Superior Court - Records Division
1000 Main Street
Woodland, CA 95695
(530) 406-6700
Superior Court of Yolo County
Public counter hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, excluding court holidays.
How To Look Up Court Records in Yolo County Online?
Yolo County provides several digital platforms for accessing court records electronically. These systems vary in scope and functionality based on case type and filing date.
Case Management Portal:
- Navigate to the Yolo County Superior Court's online services.
- Select "Case Information" from the available options.
- Search using party name, case number, or filing date.
- Review basic case information available without charge.
- For document images, register for an account and pay applicable fees.
Criminal Case Search:
- Access the dedicated criminal case search function.
- Enter defendant name or case number.
- Review case status, charges, hearing dates, and disposition information.
- Note that some older cases may not be available electronically.
Civil Case Search:
- Use the civil case portal for non-criminal matters.
- Search by plaintiff, defendant, or case number.
- Access register of actions showing chronological case events.
- View document indices (actual documents may require fees).
Traffic Citation Search:
- Navigate to the traffic section of the court website.
- Enter citation number or driver information.
- Review citation details, fine amounts, and payment options.
The California Courts Portal also provides a centralized access point for court information statewide, though document availability varies by county. For federal cases involving Yolo County residents, the Public Access to Court Electronic Records (PACER) system must be used instead of county resources.
Pursuant to California Rules of Court, Rule 2.503, electronic access to certain case types may be restricted to courthouse terminals only, including family law matters and certain criminal proceedings.
How To Search Yolo County Court Records for Free?
California Rules of Court, Rule 2.400(a) guarantees the public's right to inspect judicial records without charge, though fees may apply for copies or certified documents. Yolo County offers several no-cost options for accessing court records:
Free In-Person Inspection:
- Visit the Clerk's Office during regular business hours.
- Request to view specific case files using public access terminals.
- Review documents on-site without charge (printing fees may apply).
- Self-service terminals are available for searching case indices.
Free Online Resources:
- Basic case information is available without charge through the court's online case search.
- Case status, future hearing dates, and party information can be viewed without fees.
- Court calendars are published online at no cost.
- Register of actions (docket sheets) for many cases can be viewed without payment.
Public Access Terminals:
- Computer terminals at the courthouse provide more extensive free access than remote online searches.
- These terminals allow viewing of documents that may require payment when accessed remotely.
- Available during regular business hours at the main courthouse location.
Under Government Code § 68150(l), courts must provide "reasonable accommodations to any person requesting to electronically access court records" at courthouse locations. While document viewing is free, standard fees apply for printing or obtaining copies of records, currently set at $0.50 per page for standard copies and $25 for certified copies of judgments.
What's Included in a Yolo County Court Record?
Court records in Yolo County contain various components depending on the case type and stage of proceedings. A comprehensive court record typically includes:
Case Initiation Documents:
- Complaints or petitions in civil matters
- Charging documents in criminal cases (information, indictment, or complaint)
- Summonses and service of process documentation
- Initial appearances and arraignment records
Procedural Documentation:
- Docket or register of actions (chronological list of all proceedings)
- Scheduling orders and continuances
- Notices of hearings and appearances
- Proof of service documents
Substantive Filings:
- Motions and supporting memoranda
- Responses and replies to motions
- Affidavits and declarations
- Exhibits and evidence logs
- Expert witness reports and disclosures
Judicial Actions:
- Court orders and rulings
- Findings of fact and conclusions of law
- Judgments and decrees
- Sentencing documents in criminal matters
- Probation reports (may be confidential)
Appellate Materials:
- Notices of appeal
- Appellate briefs
- Transcripts designated for appeal
- Remittitur or mandate from appellate courts
Administrative Records:
- Fee payments and waiver applications
- Attorney appearances and withdrawals
- Jury selection materials (with juror personal information redacted)
- Court reporter logs and transcript requests
Pursuant to California Government Code § 69844, the clerk of the superior court is responsible for maintaining these records and ensuring their accuracy and accessibility. Certain sensitive information may be redacted or maintained in confidential supplements in accordance with California Rules of Court, Rule 1.201.
How Long Does Yolo County Keep Court Records?
Yolo County maintains court records according to retention schedules established by the Judicial Council of California under Government Code § 68152. Retention periods vary based on case type, disposition, and historical significance:
Criminal Records:
- Capital felony cases: Permanent retention
- Non-capital felony cases: 75 years from date of final disposition
- Misdemeanor cases: 5 years from date of final disposition
- Infractions: 3 years from date of final disposition
- Arrest warrants: Until executed or recalled, then 3 years
Civil Records:
- Unlimited civil cases (over $25,000): 10 years from final disposition
- Limited civil cases ($25,000 or less): 5 years from final disposition
- Small claims cases: 10 years from final disposition
- Unlawful detainer cases: 1 year if judgment for plaintiff; 3 years if judgment for defendant
- Civil harassment cases: 5 years from expiration of restraining order
Family Law Records:
- Dissolution, legal separation, nullity: Permanent retention
- Child custody and visitation: Permanent retention
- Child support: Until youngest child reaches age 28
- Domestic violence: Permanent retention
- Paternity cases: Permanent retention
Probate Records:
- Decedent estates: Permanent retention
- Guardianships and conservatorships: Permanent retention
- Mental health cases: 30 years from date of final disposition
Juvenile Records:
- Dependency cases: Until subject reaches age 28
- Delinquency cases (serious felonies): Until subject reaches age 38
- Delinquency cases (other offenses): Until subject reaches age 28
The California Trial Court Records Manual, established under Government Code § 68150, provides comprehensive guidance on records management practices. Courts may convert paper records to electronic format after specified periods, typically 2-5 years depending on case type, while maintaining the electronic version for the full retention period.
Types of Courts In Yolo County
Yolo County's judicial system consists of various courts with distinct jurisdictions and functions within California's unified court structure:
Yolo County Superior Court - Main Courthouse
1000 Main Street
Woodland, CA 95695
(530) 406-6700
Superior Court of Yolo County
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM
This main courthouse handles general jurisdiction matters including felony criminal cases, unlimited civil cases, family law, probate, and juvenile matters.
Yolo County Superior Court - Department 4 (Traffic)
1000 Main Street, Room 119
Woodland, CA 95695
(530) 406-6702
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM
Dedicated to traffic infractions and related matters.
Yolo County Superior Court - Family Law Facilitator
1000 Main Street, Room 208
Woodland, CA 95695
(530) 406-6794
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM
Provides assistance with family law forms and procedures.
Yolo County Superior Court - Self-Help Center
1000 Main Street, Room 206
Woodland, CA 95695
(530) 406-6794
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM
Offers resources for self-represented litigants.
The California court system hierarchy proceeds from Superior Courts (trial courts) to the Court of Appeal (intermediate appellate courts) to the California Supreme Court. Yolo County falls within the jurisdiction of:
Court of Appeal, Third Appellate District
914 Capitol Mall, 4th Floor
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 654-0209
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM-4:30 PM
This court hears appeals from Yolo County Superior Court decisions.
California Supreme Court
350 McAllister Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
(415) 865-7000
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM-4:30 PM
The state's highest court, which may review decisions from the Court of Appeal.
Federal cases involving Yolo County residents are heard in:
United States District Court, Eastern District of California
501 I Street
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 930-4000
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM-4:00 PM
What Types of Cases Do Yolo County Courts Hear?
The Yolo County Superior Court, as a court of general jurisdiction under the California Constitution Article VI, § 10, adjudicates a wide spectrum of legal matters:
Criminal Division:
- Felony prosecutions (homicide, robbery, serious assaults)
- Misdemeanor cases (DUI, simple assault, petty theft)
- Criminal appeals from limited jurisdiction courts
- Probation violations and modifications
- Mental competency proceedings
- Criminal protective orders
Civil Division:
- Unlimited civil cases (claims exceeding $25,000)
- Limited civil cases ($25,000 or less)
- Small claims actions (maximum $10,000 for individuals)
- Unlawful detainer (eviction) proceedings
- Civil harassment restraining orders
- Name change petitions
- Civil appeals from small claims court
Family Law Division:
- Dissolution of marriage (divorce)
- Legal separation and nullity proceedings
- Child custody and visitation determinations
- Child and spousal support establishment and modification
- Domestic violence restraining orders
- Paternity actions
- Adoptions and termination of parental rights
Probate Division:
- Decedent estate administration
- Will contests and trust litigation
- Conservatorships for adults
- Guardianships for minors
- Elder abuse protective proceedings
- Mental health commitments
Juvenile Division:
- Dependency cases (child abuse and neglect)
- Delinquency proceedings (juvenile offenses)
- Status offense matters (truancy, curfew violations)
- Emancipation petitions
Traffic Division:
- Traffic infractions
- Parking violations
- Driver's license issues
- Traffic misdemeanors (driving without license)
Pursuant to California Code of Civil Procedure § 85-86, limited civil cases include amounts not exceeding $25,000 and specific proceedings regardless of amount, including unlawful detainer actions where the right of possession is not joined with a claim for damages exceeding $25,000.
How To Find a Court Docket In Yolo County
Court dockets, also referred to as registers of actions, provide chronological summaries of all proceedings and filings in a case. Yolo County residents may access these records through several methods:
Online Docket Access:
- Visit the Yolo County Superior Court's online services portal.
- Select "Case Information" from the available options.
- Enter search criteria (case number preferred for most accurate results).
- Review the register of actions showing filing dates, document titles, and hearing information.
- Note that while basic docket information is often available without charge, document access may require fees.
In-Person Docket Review:
- Visit the Clerk's Office at the Yolo County Superior Court.
- Complete a records search request form.
- Provide case number or party names to locate the appropriate docket.
- Review docket information on public access terminals.
- Request printed copies if needed (fees apply).
Case Notification Services:
- Register for case tracking through the court's notification system.
- Receive automated updates when new entries are added to specified dockets.
- Monitor future hearing dates and filing deadlines.
For pending cases, docket information is typically updated within 24-48 hours of new filings or court actions. Historical case dockets may require additional processing time, particularly for cases filed before electronic record-keeping was implemented.
Under California Rules of Court, Rule 2.503, electronic access to certain case types may be limited to courthouse terminals only, including family law matters, juvenile proceedings, and certain criminal cases. The Judicial Branch of California provides additional guidance on docket access policies.
Which Courts in Yolo County Are Not Courts of Record?
In California's judicial system, a "court of record" is defined by Government Code § 27203 as a court whose proceedings are officially recorded, with the power to fine or imprison for contempt, and whose judgments can be appealed to higher courts. Under the current California court structure, all courts in Yolo County are courts of record.
Following the implementation of the Trial Court Unification Act and subsequent constitutional amendments (California Constitution Article VI, § 1), California eliminated municipal courts and justice courts, which were previously considered "not of record" in some contexts. As of the present time, all judicial proceedings in Yolo County take place within the Superior Court system, which is statutorily designated as a court of record.
While all Yolo County courts are courts of record, certain proceedings within these courts may have different record-keeping requirements:
- Small claims proceedings, while conducted within the Superior Court, have simplified procedures and limited appellate review.
- Traffic infractions are adjudicated in the Superior Court but with streamlined processes.
- Certain administrative hearings (such as DMV proceedings) that occur outside the court system are not courts of record.
Historical references to courts not of record in California generally referred to:
- Justice Courts (eliminated in 1995)
- Municipal Courts (merged with Superior Courts by 2001)
- Police Courts (abolished decades earlier)
These distinctions are primarily of historical interest, as all judicial proceedings in Yolo County currently take place within the unified Superior Court system, which maintains official records of all proceedings in accordance with Government Code § 68150.
Lookup Court Records in Yolo County
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