Find San Francisco Civil Records

Civil court records for San Francisco County are maintained by the Superior Court of California, City and County of San Francisco. The Civil Records Division is located at 400 McAllister Street, Room 103. Civil records include unlimited civil cases over $35,000, limited civil matters between $10,000 and $35,000, and small claims under $10,000. The division handles requests for copies, certifications, and access to case files. San Francisco operates as both a city and a county, so the Superior Court serves the entire jurisdiction. Records are available in person during business hours or through online case search systems for certain information.

Civil Records Division

The Civil Records Division operates from Room 103 at 400 McAllister Street in San Francisco, CA 94102-4514. Hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The office closes from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. for lunch. You can call them at 415-551-3802. For email inquiries, contact CCCRecordsDepartment@sftc.org.

When you visit the Civil Records Division, bring a valid government-issued photo ID. You must deposit your ID card with the clerk to view case files. The clerk will return your ID when you finish reviewing the files. This policy helps prevent files and documents from being removed from the facility. It is a felony to remove files or documents from the Clerk's Office and its facilities.

The division handles all civil records requests. Staff can help you locate case files, make copies, and certify documents. They answer questions about procedures but cannot provide legal advice. If you need legal help, consult an attorney or legal aid organization.

Getting Copies of Records

Copy services are available for civil court documents. If your request is less than five pages and the court file is on-site, your request will be processed while you wait. For requests of six pages or more, it may take 12 to 15 court days to process. Large copy jobs require more time because staff must locate the file, make copies, and prepare them for pickup or mailing.

Copies of Judicial Council Forms cost $0.50 per page. This is the standard copy fee for most documents. Small Claims Packets cost $11.00. The packet includes all the forms and instructions you need to file a small claims case.

Some files are stored off-site at a retention facility. Off-site file retrieval costs $6.00. You pay this fee when you request a file that is not at the courthouse. It takes a minimum of 15 business days to retrieve off-site files. Plan ahead if you need older records that might be stored off-site. The retrieval time can affect your schedule if you have deadlines.

Certified copies are available for an additional fee. Certification proves the document is a true copy of the court record. You need certified copies for appeals, official applications, and other legal purposes where authenticity must be verified.

Online Case Information

San Francisco Superior Court provides online case information through its website. You can access case search at webapps.sftc.org. The system lets you search for cases by case number or party name. Search results show basic case information and the register of actions.

The online system has limited document access. You can view some information but not all documents are available for download. For full access to case files and documents, you need to visit the Civil Records Division in person or submit a written request.

Unlawful detainer cases have a separate portal at ud.sftc.org. Unlawful detainer cases are eviction lawsuits. Access to these records is restricted for the first 60 days after filing to protect tenant privacy under California law.

The court's main website at sf.courts.ca.gov has information about court locations, filing requirements, local rules, and online services. The online services page at sf.courts.ca.gov/online-services/case-information explains what case information is available electronically.

Types of Civil Cases

San Francisco Superior Court handles unlimited civil cases involving amounts over $35,000. These cases include personal injury lawsuits, business disputes, employment litigation, real estate conflicts, and professional malpractice claims. Unlimited civil cases have formal procedures with extensive discovery. Trials can last weeks or months for complex matters. Many cases settle before trial.

Limited civil cases cover disputes between $10,000 and $35,000. Common limited civil cases include contract disputes, property damage claims, collection actions, and landlord-tenant matters. Unlawful detainer eviction cases are limited civil matters. The procedures are simpler than unlimited civil. Discovery is restricted to save time and money. Most cases resolve within a year.

Small claims court handles disputes up to $10,000 for individuals and $5,000 for businesses. People use small claims for everyday problems like unpaid debts, security deposits, minor car accidents, and consumer complaints. You don't need a lawyer in small claims court. Both sides present their case to the judge. The judge decides right away in most instances. Small claims offers a fast, affordable way to resolve disputes without hiring an attorney.

Filing Civil Cases

To file a civil case in San Francisco, prepare a complaint that states your legal claims. The complaint must identify all parties, describe the facts, and explain what you want the court to do. File the complaint with the court clerk at 400 McAllister Street. Bring the original and copies for all defendants.

Filing fees in San Francisco County may differ slightly from other California counties due to local surcharges. Check with the clerk for current fee amounts. Generally, unlimited civil complaints cost around $435.00. Limited civil complaints for amounts over $10,000 up to $35,000 run about $370.00. Complaints for amounts under $10,000 cost around $225.00. Small claims fees vary based on how much you claim. Fee waivers are available if you can't afford the filing fee.

After filing, you must serve the defendants with copies of the complaint and summons. You cannot serve the papers yourself. Hire a process server, use the sheriff, or ask an adult friend who is not a party to the case. The server fills out a proof of service form. File the proof of service with the court to show you completed service correctly.

The defendant has 30 days to respond after being served. If they don't respond, you can ask for a default judgment. If they file an answer, the case proceeds with discovery and moves toward trial or settlement. Electronic filing is available for many case types. Check with the court about e-filing requirements for your type of case.

Court Help and Resources

San Francisco Superior Court provides self-help services for people representing themselves. Self-help staff can explain procedures and help you fill out forms. They cannot give legal advice or tell you what to say in court. Self-help services are free and available at the courthouse.

Legal aid organizations in San Francisco provide free or low-cost legal assistance to people who qualify based on income. Organizations like the Bar Association of San Francisco Lawyer Referral and Information Service can connect you with attorneys. The court website has a list of legal resources.

The court's local rules are available on the website. Local rules explain specific procedures for San Francisco Superior Court that may differ from statewide rules. Read the local rules before filing to make sure you follow the correct procedures. Failure to follow local rules can delay your case or result in rejected filings.

San Francisco City and County

San Francisco operates as both a city and a county. The Superior Court serves the entire jurisdiction. The city has a population of over 875,000 residents.

Nearby California Counties

San Francisco is surrounded by other Bay Area counties. Each has its own Superior Court system.