San Bernardino County Criminal Court Records Search

The criminal courts of San Bernardino County handle all the misdemeanor, felony, and criminal infraction cases in the county. They offer an impartial criminal justice approach to dealing with minor offenses to the most serious crimes. Accessing these records, while public in nature, can be a daunting experience if you don't know how the criminal justice system is structured in this county. Whether you're involved in a case or simply seeking information, knowing which courts handle different types of cases and how to access court records is essential. Moreover, if you're looking to expunge a criminal conviction, the process can be complex but rewarding. This guide aims to provide clarity on these topics, helping you navigate the San Bernardino criminal court system with confidence.

Overview of the San Bernardino Criminal Courts

The San Bernardino County Superior Court is one of the largest court systems in California, handling a wide array of criminal cases, including both felony and misdemeanor charges. The court system is designed to ensure that justice is served in an efficient and orderly manner, with different divisions specializing in various types of criminal cases.

Felony Cases: All felonies in San Bernardino County are serious offenses that can lead to significant penalties, including imprisonment. These cases are typically heard in the Superior Court's criminal division. Felonies include crimes such as murder, robbery, and serious drug offenses. Due to the severe nature of these offenses, felony cases often involve more complex legal proceedings and may require the expertise of experienced legal counsel.

Misdemeanor Cases: Misdemeanor cases are less severe than felonies and are usually heard in the county's lower courts. These cases involve offenses such as petty theft, simple assault, and minor drug charges. While the penalties for misdemeanors are generally less severe, they can still have lasting impacts on an individual's record. The courts aim to adjudicate these cases swiftly, often involving plea agreements or community service as part of the sentencing.

Criminal Infraction Cases: These types of crimes often involve minor offenses such as traffic citations, noise complaints and local ordinance complaints. These are also handled by the Superior Courts and are typically ruled on by a judge or magistrate. These are not jury type cases, that usually take just a day to handle and rule on.

How to Run a San Bernardino Criminal Court Case Search

Accessing criminal court records in San Bernardino is often a necessary step for individuals involved in legal proceedings or those conducting background checks. The court provides several methods for searching case records, ensuring transparency and accessibility. Here are the various ways to access these criminal records from the various methods:

1). Online Case Search: The most convenient method for running a San Bernardino County criminal case search is through the online case search portal available on the courthouse's official website. This tool allows users to search for criminal cases by entering specific details such as case number, defendant's name, or the type of offense. The online database is updated regularly, providing the most current information available.

In-Person Records Search: For those who prefer or require physical access to records, visiting the court clerk's office is an option. The office maintains public access terminals where individuals can search for case information. It's advisable to call ahead to confirm the specific documents needed and any associated fees for obtaining copies of court records.

Requesting Records by Mail: Another option is to request court records by mail. This involves sending a written request to the clerk's office, including all necessary details such as the case number and a self-addressed stamped envelope for the return of documents. There may be fees associated with this service, and processing times can vary depending on the volume of requests.

Expunging a Criminal Court Conviction in San Bernardino

Expungement is a legal process that allows individuals to have certain criminal convictions removed from their record, offering a fresh start. The criminal conviction expungement process is governed by specific legal statutes and requires careful navigation. Here is an outline of how it works:

Eligibility for Expungement: Not all convictions are eligible for expungement. Generally, individuals who have completed their sentence, including probation, and have not committed any additional offenses may qualify. It's important to consult with a legal professional to determine eligibility based on the specifics of the case.

Filing a Petition for Expungement: The process of "cleaning your record" begins with filing a petition for expungement with the court. This involves completing the necessary forms and providing documentation related to the conviction and rehabilitation efforts. The petition must be filed in the court where the conviction occurred.

Court Hearing and Decision: Once the petition is filed, the court will schedule a hearing to review the case. During the hearing, the judge will consider factors such as the nature of the offense, the individual's conduct since the conviction, and any objections from the prosecution. If the court grants the expungement, the conviction will be dismissed, and the individual's record will be updated to reflect this change.

Benefits of Expungement: Expunging a criminal conviction can have significant benefits, including improved employment opportunities, housing options, and the restoration of certain civil rights. It provides individuals with a chance to move forward without the burden of a criminal record.

Are San Bernardino Criminal Court Records Considered Public?

Yes, most all criminal court cases, including convictions and sentencing records are part of the public record system in California. This means that anyone can view another person's criminal case and the outcome without needing to ask permission. The only exceptions to this are those cases that are sealed or sensitive in nature, such as juvenile criminal cases.