La Family Court Case Lookup gives you instant online access to Los Angeles County family court records. Search by case number, party name, judge, or filing date to view docket entries, petitions, orders, and real-time case status updates. The system covers all family law matters including divorce, child custody, support, paternity, and domestic violence cases filed in LA Superior Courts. All records are updated nightly and include redacted documents for privacy protection.
How to Use La Family Court Case Lookup
Start by visiting the official Los Angeles Superior Court website. Click on the Family Case Search tool to begin your lookup. You can search using a case number, the name of either party involved, the assigned judge’s name, or a specific filing date range. The system lets you filter results further by case type—such as custody, dissolution, or support—and whether a party has legal representation. Each result shows a timeline of filings with clickable links to download PDF copies of court documents like petitions, motions, and judgments.
Search Filters and Options
- Case number (exact match required)
- Party name (first or last name accepted)
- Attorney name (if represented)
- Judge assignment
- Filing date range (up to 90 days)
- Case type: custody, support, divorce, paternity, protective orders
- Representation status: self-represented or attorney
The search returns only publicly available records. Sensitive information such as Social Security numbers, full birth dates, and children’s names are automatically redacted. Results appear in chronological order with clear labels for each docket entry code—like “J” for judgment or “M” for motion.
Family Law Services in Los Angeles County
The Family Law Division handles all domestic relations cases across two main courthouses: the Stanley Mosk Courthouse in downtown LA and the Edward R. Roybal Courthouse in East Los Angeles. These locations offer bilingual staff, self-help kiosks, and on-site child support enforcement officers. Each case is assigned to a presiding judge who manages mediation, parenting plans, financial disclosures, and final rulings.
Types of Cases Handled
- Divorce and legal separation
- Child custody and visitation schedules
- Child and spousal support calculations
- Paternity establishment
- Domestic violence restraining orders
- Adoption and guardianship
All AB 1058 child support cases are processed through the Child Support Services Department, which maintains over 600,000 active orders. The department uses California’s official guidelines to calculate payments automatically based on income, custody time, and healthcare costs.
Online Access and E-Filing System
Los Angeles Superior Court has moved nearly all case files to a secure cloud-based electronic system. Attorneys and self-represented parties can upload pleadings, motions, and exhibits directly through the e-filing portal. Users receive email alerts when new documents are added to a case. Electronic docket copies are available upon request, usually within one business day.
Filing Fees and Payment Options
| Case Type | Filing Fee |
|---|---|
| Civil Limited | $435 |
| Civil Unlimited | $555 |
| Family Law Petition | $435 |
| Small Claims | $30 |
| Probate | $280 |
Additional fees apply for certified copies ($2 per document), expedited processing ($10), and document retrieval ($0.30 per page). Fee waivers are available for low-income individuals who qualify under California Rule of Court 3.50.
Public Records and Privacy Protections
Family court records in Los Angeles are generally public but contain strict privacy safeguards. Personal identifiers like full birth dates, driver’s license numbers, and medical details are removed before documents are posted online. Juvenile cases handled by the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) remain sealed. Only authorized parties—such as parents, attorneys, or former foster youth—can request access using a verified form.
Requesting Sealed or Restricted Records
- Complete the “Request for Juvenile Records” form on the DCFS website.
- Include proof of identity and relationship to the case.
- Specify the intended use and attach any court order authorizing disclosure.
- Submit in person or by mail to the DCFS Records Office.
- Allow up to ten business days for processing.
Certified copies cost $0.75 per page; standard copies cost $0.30 per page. Expedited service is not available for sealed records due to legal review requirements.
Self-Help Resources and Legal Assistance
The Family Law Self-Help Centers provide free guidance for people representing themselves. Located at both the Stanley Mosk and Roybal courthouses, these centers offer printed forms, instructional videos, and one-on-one consultations with volunteer attorneys. Staff assist with filing divorces, modifying support orders, and preparing for hearings—but cannot give legal advice.
Available Services
- Form preparation and review
- Explanation of court procedures
- Referrals to low-cost legal clinics
- Mediation scheduling
- Translation assistance in Spanish and other languages
Phone support is available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at (213) 974-1900. Walk-in hours vary by location, so check the court website before visiting.
Court Locations and Transportation
Two primary courthouses handle family law matters in Los Angeles County:
Stanley Mosk Courthouse
312 N. Spring Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Metro Red/ Purple Line: Civic Center Station
Parking: Limited street parking; nearby lots charge $15–$25 per day
Edward R. Roybal Courthouse
111 N. Hill Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Metro Red Line: Union Station (0.3 miles walk)
Parking: Valet and self-park options available on-site
Both locations have wheelchair-accessible entrances, family waiting areas, and free Wi-Fi. Public terminals allow users to search case records, print documents, and check hearing schedules without an appointment.
Understanding Docket Codes and Case Status
Every entry in a family court case file uses a standard code to identify the document type. Knowing these helps you track progress and understand next steps.
Common Docket Codes
- J – Judgment or final order
- M – Motion filed
- O – Order after hearing
- P – Petition or complaint
- R – Response or answer
- S – Summons issued
- T – Trial setting
Case status appears as “Active,” “Pending – Other Pending,” “Closed,” or “Appealed.” “Pending – Other Pending” means a hearing is scheduled but no final decision has been made. Check the online portal regularly for updates, especially if you’re awaiting a ruling.
Recent Updates and System Improvements
In 2024, the Los Angeles Superior Court completed its transition to a fully digital case management system. All new filings are uploaded within 24 hours, and historical records dating back to 2010 are now searchable online. The court also introduced two-factor authentication for e-filing users to enhance security. Nightly backups ensure data integrity, and outage notifications are posted on the homepage during maintenance windows.
Mobile Access
The Family Case Search tool works on smartphones and tablets. Users can save searches, set email alerts, and download documents to their devices. No app is required—just visit the court website from any mobile browser.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
If your search returns no results, double-check the spelling of names or try a different date range. Case numbers must be entered exactly as shown on your summons or notice. For technical errors like broken PDF links, contact the Clerk’s Office at (213) 974-5511 during business hours.
What to Do If You Can’t Find Your Case
- Verify the case was filed in Los Angeles County (not another county).
- Confirm the correct courthouse location (Central, East, or West).
- Ask your attorney for the official case number.
- Call the Family Law Clerk’s Office for assistance.
Never rely on third-party sites for official records. Only the Los Angeles Superior Court website provides verified, up-to-date information.
Related Services and Support Agencies
Several county departments work alongside the family courts to support families:
Child Support Services Department
Manages enforcement, modification, and payment tracking for support orders. Offers online portals for parents to view balances, update income info, and request reviews. Contact: (866) 901-3212 or www.childsup.ca.gov.
Family Court Mediation Services
Provides free mediation for custody and visitation disputes. Sessions are confidential and led by trained court staff. Scheduling is done through the Self-Help Center.
Domestic Violence Advocacy Programs
Partner with the court to help victims file protective orders safely. Advocates accompany clients to hearings and connect them with shelters, counseling, and legal aid. Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-7233 for referrals.
Frequently Asked Questions
La Family Court Case Lookup simplifies access to vital legal records while protecting privacy and ensuring transparency. Whether you’re checking a case status, preparing for a hearing, or researching court procedures, this centralized resource delivers accurate, timely information directly from the source.
Can I search for cases by address?
No. The system only allows searches by case number, party name, attorney, judge, or filing date. Addresses are not used as search criteria to protect personal privacy.
Are adoption records available online?
Most adoption files are sealed by law. Only the adopting parents, adult adoptees, or their attorneys can request copies through a formal petition to the court.
How often is the database updated?
All public records are refreshed every night after 6 p.m. New filings appear by 8 a.m. the next business day.
Can I get a certified copy online?
No. Certified copies must be requested in person or by mail with payment. The online portal only provides viewable or downloadable non-certified PDFs.
Is there a fee to use the lookup tool?
No. Searching and viewing records is completely free. Fees only apply when ordering physical or certified copies.
What if my case is in juvenile court?
Juvenile dependency cases are not searchable online. Contact DCFS directly at (800) 540-4000 to inquire about access procedures.
Do I need a lawyer to look up a case?
No. Anyone can use the public search tool without legal representation. However, interpreting court documents may require professional advice.
Official Website: https://www.lacourt.org/division/familylaw/familylaw.aspx
Phone: (213) 974-1900
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Address: 312 N. Spring Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012
