San Mateo Civil Court Records

Civil court records for San Mateo County are maintained by the Superior Court of California, County of San Mateo. The court provides online access to case information through two systems: the MIDX Records Index and the Odyssey Portal. You can search for civil cases, view registers of actions, and access certain documents online. Civil records include unlimited civil cases over $35,000, limited civil matters between $10,000 and $35,000, and small claims under $10,000. San Mateo County is located in the San Francisco Bay Area between San Francisco and Santa Clara counties. Court services are available by appointment only from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Online Case Access Systems

San Mateo Superior Court provides two online systems for accessing civil case information. The MIDX Records Index at web.sanmateocourt.org/midx allows you to search for cases and view basic information. This system has been used for many years and contains a large database of case records.

The Odyssey Portal at odyportal-ext.sanmateocourt.org is a newer system that provides access to case information and documents. The Odyssey system is used by many California counties and offers advanced search features. You can search by case number, party name, or attorney name.

Both systems show the register of actions, which lists all documents filed and hearings held in a case. Search results include party names, filing dates, case status, and hearing information. Document availability varies by case type and filing date. Some documents can be viewed or downloaded online while others require an in-person visit.

In-Person Access by Appointment

San Mateo Superior Court operates by appointment only for in-person services. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on weekdays. You must schedule an appointment before visiting the courthouse. Call the court at (650) 261-5100 to make an appointment for civil records access.

The appointment system helps manage courthouse traffic and ensures staff can assist you properly. When you call to schedule, explain what you need. Staff will tell you what documents or information to bring. Having your case number ready speeds up the process.

Bring photo ID to your appointment. Court security checks identification at the entrance. Arrive on time for your scheduled appointment. Late arrivals may need to reschedule. The appointment system allows staff to prepare files in advance and provide better service.

Obtaining Court Documents

You can get copies of civil court documents through the online portals or by visiting the courthouse. The online systems provide access to many documents in electronic format. Search for the case and download available documents. Some documents may have fees while others are free to view.

For records not available online, schedule an appointment to visit the courthouse. Provide the case number or the names of the parties. Staff will locate the file and assist with copies. Standard copies cost $0.50 per page. Bring cash or a check for payment.

Certified copies are available for official purposes. Certification costs $40.00 per document. Certified copies of marriage or domestic partnership dissolution judgments cost $15.00. Certification proves the document is a true copy of the court record. You need certified copies for appeals, government applications, and other official uses.

Mail requests for copies can be submitted in writing. Include the case number, the documents you want, and your return address. Send a check for the estimated costs. The court will process your request and mail the copies. Processing times vary based on workload. Call ahead to confirm the correct mailing address and procedures for mail requests.

Types of Civil Cases

San Mateo Superior Court handles unlimited civil cases involving amounts over $35,000. These include personal injury lawsuits, business disputes, real estate litigation, employment claims, and professional malpractice actions. Unlimited civil cases follow formal procedures with extensive discovery. Trials can last days or weeks. Many cases settle before trial through negotiation or mediation.

Limited civil cases cover disputes between $10,000 and $35,000. Common limited civil matters include contract disputes, property damage claims, landlord-tenant conflicts, and debt collection lawsuits. Unlawful detainer eviction cases are limited civil matters. Procedures are simpler than unlimited civil. Discovery is restricted. Cases typically resolve faster than unlimited civil cases.

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 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 the case right away in most instances.

Note: Some case types have restricted public access under California privacy laws, including certain family law and juvenile matters.

Filing Civil Cases

To file a civil case in San Mateo County, prepare a complaint that describes your legal claims. The complaint must name all parties, state the facts, and explain what you want the court to do. Due to the appointment system, you may need to schedule an appointment to file in person. Call ahead to confirm filing procedures and whether an appointment is needed.

Filing fees follow the statewide California schedule. Unlimited civil complaints cost $435.00. Limited civil complaints for amounts over $10,000 up to $35,000 cost $370.00. Complaints for amounts under $10,000 cost $225.00. Small claims fees vary based on the amount claimed. 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 serve the documents. 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 request 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 and options.

Court Services and Help

San Mateo Superior Court provides self-help services for people representing themselves in civil cases. Self-help staff can explain court procedures and help you fill out forms. They cannot give legal advice or tell you what to say in court. Self-help services may require an appointment. Call ahead to find out about self-help hours and services.

The court website has forms, local rules, and information about court procedures. Local rules explain specific requirements for San Mateo Superior Court that may differ from statewide rules. Read the local rules before filing to make sure you follow the correct procedures. The website also has calendars and information about upcoming hearings.

Legal aid organizations in San Mateo County provide free or low-cost legal assistance to people who qualify based on income. These organizations can help with certain types of civil cases. Contact a legal aid office to see if you qualify for their services. The court website has a list of legal resources available in the county.

Major Cities in San Mateo County

San Mateo County includes several cities in the San Francisco Bay Area. All civil cases from these cities are filed in San Mateo Superior Court.

Nearby California Counties

San Mateo County is located in the Bay Area between several other counties. Each has its own Superior Court system.