San Bernardino Superior Court serves as the primary trial court for San Bernardino County and operates within the California judiciary. It handles a wide range of legal matters, including criminal, civil, family, probate, and traffic cases. The court applies California law at the local level through hearings, trials, and judicial rulings. Its decisions affect residents, businesses, and public agencies across the county.
San Bernardino Superior Court functions under the structure of the Superior Court of California, which forms the foundation of the state court system. Judges review evidence, hear testimony, and issue orders based on state statutes and court rules. The court follows procedures set by the Judicial Council of California to maintain consistency statewide. Through daily court operations, it supports fair dispute resolution and lawful outcomes.
San Bernardino Superior Court Case Search & Public Records
The San Bernardino Court case search allows users to view case information, track hearings, and check court calendars using the official court case management system. Public records provide transparency by showing filings, case status, and basic party details while following California privacy rules.
The San Bernardino Superior Court maintains records for civil, criminal, family, probate, traffic, and small claims cases. These records are available online or through court clerk offices, ensuring the public can verify case progress and court activity.
Case Lookup Process
The court offers an online case search system that is user-friendly and secure. To search a case:
- Visit the official court website: https://sanbernardino.courts.ca.gov
- Navigate to “Online Services” → “Case Information”.
- Accept the terms of service if prompted.
- Enter case number, party name, citation number, or filing date range.
- Review the displayed results, which include:
- Case type and filing date
- Assigned department and courthouse
- Current status and next hearing
- Parties involved
Users can also view court calendars to confirm hearing dates and locations. This reduces unnecessary trips to the courthouse.
Availability of Records
Public records cover a wide range of cases, but access varies by case type. Commonly accessible records include civil lawsuits, criminal cases, family law matters, traffic cases, and small claims.
Restricted or limited records include:
- Juvenile cases
- Sealed or confidential family law matters
- Certain ongoing criminal investigations
- Protected personal data
Closed or completed cases generally provide more detailed summaries. This tiered access balances transparency with privacy protections mandated by California law.
Transparency and Access
The case management system supports accountability and public trust. Court calendars and records are regularly updated, providing accurate information for parties, attorneys, and researchers. Clerks maintain data accuracy while safeguarding sensitive details.
Key benefits of public access:
- Open monitoring of court proceedings
- Verification of case status and schedules
- Reliable source for legal professionals and community members
Superior Court of California, San Bernardino
The Superior Court of California, San Bernardino serves as the county’s primary trial court within the state judicial branch. It holds legal authority to hear, decide, and rule on most court cases filed in San Bernardino County.
The Superior Court of California, San Bernardino operates inside the California judiciary, which includes the Supreme Court, Courts of Appeal, and superior courts. At the county level, this court carries the widest legal reach. It acts as the first stop for nearly all legal disputes and criminal prosecutions.
Position Within the California Judicial Branch
Within the judicial branch, superior courts sit at the trial court level. This position places the San Bernardino court directly in charge of fact-finding, evidence review, and witness testimony. Appeals from this court move upward to the California Courts of Appeal.
The court follows statewide rules set by the Judicial Council. At the same time, local court policies shape scheduling and case flow across San Bernardino County.
Placement in the court system:
- California Supreme Court – highest authority
- Courts of Appeal – review trial court rulings
- Superior Court of California, San Bernardino – trial court with original jurisdiction
Trial Court Authority and Jurisdiction
As a trial court, the San Bernardino Superior Court holds original jurisdiction. This means cases begin here rather than transferring from another court. Judges oversee hearings, rule on motions, and issue final judgments.
Jurisdiction covers the full county area. For this reason, multiple courthouses operate to serve different regions. Each courthouse handles assigned case types to keep proceedings efficient.
Areas of authority include:
- Criminal cases ranging from misdemeanors to felonies
- Civil disputes, including contract and injury claims
- Family law cases such as divorce, custody, and support
- Probate matters involving estates, trusts, and conservatorships
- Juvenile cases focused on youth welfare and accountability
Legal Scope and Responsibilities
The court carries broad legal responsibilities tied to state law enforcement and dispute resolution. Judges interpret California statutes, apply court rules, and protect due process rights during proceedings.
Court staff manage filings, calendars, and official records. Clerks support judges and the public through case processing and courtroom operations. As a result, the court supports both legal order and public confidence.
Jurisdiction of the San Bernardino County Superior Court
The San Bernardino County Superior Court holds authority over most legal cases filed within county boundaries. It serves as the trial-level court where cases begin, evidence is reviewed, and judgments are issued.
The San Bernardino County Superior Court operates with broad court jurisdiction granted under California law. Its authority covers both subject matter and location, which allows the court to hear a wide range of disputes and prosecutions tied to San Bernardino County.
Types of Cases Handled by the Court
As a trial court, this court manages nearly all case categories at the first level of review. Judges hear testimony, rule on motions, and decide outcomes based on facts and state statutes.
Primary case types include:
- Criminal cases: misdemeanors, felonies, arraignments, trials, and sentencing
- Civil cases: contract disputes, personal injury claims, property conflicts, and small claims
- Family law: divorce, child custody, child support, and domestic relations
- Probate matters: wills, estates, trusts, guardianships, and conservatorships
- Juvenile cases: delinquency and dependency proceedings
Each category follows specific court rules and procedures. Case assignments depend on subject matter rather than filing location.
Geographic Jurisdiction Across the County
Geographic jurisdiction covers the entire area of San Bernardino County, one of the largest counties in California. To manage this size, the court operates multiple district courthouses across different cities.
Each courthouse serves nearby communities while remaining part of the same countywide court system. Filing location often depends on where a case arises or where involved parties reside.
Courthouse districts help with:
- Local case filing and hearings
- Shorter travel distances for court users
- Efficient scheduling and case flow
Trial-Level Authority and Legal Power
The San Bernardino County Superior Court holds trial-level authority, which means cases start here rather than transferring from another court. Judges control courtroom proceedings, review evidence, and issue binding rulings.
Court Divisions of the San Bernardino Superior Court
The San Bernardino Superior Court is organized into several court divisions, each focused on a specific type of case. This structure allows judicial officers and court administration staff to manage cases efficiently and fairly.
The court divisions exist to keep case handling organized across a very large county. Each division operates under California law while following statewide court rules. Judges, commissioners, and support staff work together within each division to handle filings, hearings, and trials. At the same time, centralized court administration supports scheduling, records, and courtroom operations.
This division-based structure helps cases move forward without unnecessary delay. It supports consistent rulings and clearer procedures for people involved in court matters. Below is a clear breakdown of the main court divisions and the role each one plays.
Civil Division
The Civil Division handles lawsuits and legal disputes between private parties, businesses, and government entities. These cases often involve money claims or requests for court orders rather than criminal penalties.
Civil court judges review evidence, hear witness testimony, and issue rulings based on California statutes. Many cases resolve through motions or settlement conferences before trial.
Common civil court matters include:
- Contract disputes
- Personal injury lawsuits
- Property and real estate conflicts
- Employment-related claims
- Limited and unlimited jurisdiction cases
Case value often determines how a lawsuit proceeds. Smaller claims follow streamlined procedures, while higher-value disputes involve longer trials. Through this division, the court provides a formal setting for resolving legal disputes in a structured way.
Criminal Division
The Criminal Division manages cases where the state brings charges against a person or entity. This division covers both misdemeanor trials and felony cases.
Judges oversee arraignments, hearings, trials, and sentencing. Prosecutors and defense attorneys present evidence and legal arguments before the court.
Criminal court responsibilities include:
- Felony prosecutions
- Misdemeanor trials
- Bail and custody hearings
- Sentencing proceedings
The division plays a central role in public safety and legal accountability. Every case follows strict procedural rules to protect legal rights and maintain fair process.
Family Law Division
The Family Law Division focuses on legal matters involving family relationships. These cases often involve ongoing court supervision and court-issued orders.
Judicial officers handle sensitive issues that affect children and households. Hearings often address immediate concerns while long-term orders remain in place.
Family court case types include:
- Divorce and legal separation
- Child custody and visitation
- Child and spousal support
- Domestic relations matters
This division works to resolve disputes while placing strong focus on lawful decision-making and child welfare.
Probate Division
The Probate Division manages legal matters tied to estates and personal care decisions. These cases often arise after a death or during incapacity.
Probate court judges supervise asset distribution and appoint responsible parties when required by law.
Probate matters include:
- Estate administration
- Trust supervision
- Guardianship of minors
- Conservatorship of adults
Court oversight helps protect beneficiaries and vulnerable parties while following statutory procedures.
Traffic Division
The Traffic Division addresses violations related to driving and vehicle laws. Most cases begin after a citation is issued by law enforcement. Judicial officers review infractions, assess penalties, and approve payment plans when applicable.
Traffic court handles:
- Moving violations
- Parking citations
- Failure-to-appear cases
Many matters resolve through brief hearings, which helps manage high case volume efficiently.
Small Claims Division
The Small Claims Division handles minor disputes involving limited dollar amounts. These cases follow simplified rules and faster timelines. Parties present their own cases without attorneys in most situations. Judges issue decisions after short hearings.
Typical small claims cases include:
- Unpaid debts
- Property damage
- Service disputes
Court Services, Forms & Self-Help Resources
The San Bernardino Superior Court provides court services, forms, and self-help resources to assist the public with legal matters. These resources support access to justice and help users complete filings correctly.
The court offers a wide range of services online and in person. Users can access court forms, fee schedules, and instructional guides for civil, criminal, family, probate, traffic, and small claims cases. The self-help center provides guidance for individuals representing themselves, helping them understand procedures and complete necessary paperwork.
Key resources include:
- Printable and online court forms for filing and motions
- Step-by-step self-help guides for family law, small claims, and civil disputes
- Assistance for fee waivers and payment plans
- Access to court calendars and case status
How the San Bernardino Superior Court Process Works
The San Bernardino Superior Court process begins when a case is filed and continues through hearings, trials, and final judgments. Judicial officers oversee each step to ensure fair and lawful proceedings.
Once a case is filed, it is assigned to the appropriate division and courthouse. Clerks record filings and schedule hearings according to the court calendar. Judicial officers review motions, conduct hearings, and manage trials as needed.
Core steps in the process include:
- Filing: Submit required forms and fees at the courthouse or online.
- Case Assignment: Court assigns the matter to the proper division and judge.
- Hearings and Pre-Trial Motions: Judicial officers hear arguments, approve settlements, or make preliminary rulings.
- Trial: Evidence and testimony are presented for decision.
- Judgment or Resolution: Court issues a final ruling, which may be appealed if permitted.
San Bernardino Superior Court Locations & Courthouses
The San Bernardino Superior Court locations include several courthouses and administrative offices throughout the county. Each location serves specific legal needs, allowing residents to file documents, attend hearings, and access court services efficiently.
San Bernardino County is geographically large, so the Superior Court operates multiple courthouses to serve different regions. Each courthouse is staffed with judicial officers and the Clerk of the Court, who manage case records, filings, court calendars, and public assistance.
Multiple Courthouse System
The Superior Court maintains a network of locations, each handling particular case types.
Main courthouse locations include:
San Bernardino Area
- San Bernardino Civil Courthouse – 247 West Third Street, San Bernardino, CA 92415. Handles civil case filings and document management.
- San Bernardino Family Court – 351 North Arrowhead Avenue, San Bernardino, CA 92415. Manages family law matters.
- San Bernardino Juvenile Court – 900 East Gilbert Street, Building 2, San Bernardino, CA 92415. Handles juvenile delinquency and dependency cases.
High Desert Region
- Victorville Courthouse – 14455 Civic Drive #100, Victorville, CA 92392. Covers civil, criminal, and other district cases.
Rancho Cucamonga District
- 8303 Haven Avenue, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730. Handles criminal and civil filings.
Outlying Districts
- Barstow – 235 East Mountain View Street, Barstow, CA 92311.
- Big Bear – 477 Summit Boulevard, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315.
- Fontana – 17780 Arrow Boulevard, Fontana, CA 92335.
- Joshua Tree – 6527 White Feather Road, Joshua Tree, CA 92252.
- Needles – 1111 Bailey Avenue, Needles, CA 92363.
These locations ensure residents across the county have access to court services without long travel. Most courthouses offer public terminals for case lookup, clerk windows for filings, and dedicated parking.
Administrative Offices
Administrative offices coordinate daily operations at all courthouses. The Clerk of the Court is responsible for:
- Maintaining official case records and filings
- Scheduling hearings and managing court calendars
- Assisting the public with forms, fees, and procedural guidance
- Coordinating between courthouses for case transfers or special assignments
Frequently Asked Questions About San Bernardino Superior Court
The San Bernardino Superior Court is the main trial-level court serving San Bernardino County. It is part of the California judiciary and handles a wide range of legal matters, providing public Record access to case information and court services.
What type of court is the San Bernardino Superior Court?
The San Bernardino Superior Court is a trial court, meaning it is the first level of the judicial system where cases are filed and heard. It conducts hearings, trials, and other proceedings to resolve civil, criminal, family, probate, traffic, and small claims matters. Judges and commissioners preside over cases to ensure decisions follow California law.
Is it part of the California Judiciary?
Yes, the court is an official part of the California judicial branch. It operates under the statewide rules established by the Judicial Council of California and functions alongside other superior courts, the Courts of Appeal, and the California Supreme Court. Its decisions can be appealed to higher courts if applicable.
What cases does the superior court handle?
The San Bernardino Superior Court handles a wide variety of cases at the trial level. These include:
- Criminal cases – felonies and misdemeanors, arraignments, trials, and sentencing
- Civil cases – disputes between individuals, businesses, or government entities
- Family law – divorce, child custody, visitation, and support matters
- Probate cases – estates, trusts, and guardianships
- Traffic cases – citations and violations
- Small claims – minor financial disputes
Each case type follows specific procedures and is typically assigned to a specialized court division.
How do I access public court records?
The court provides public records through an online case search system and at courthouse public access terminals. Users can search by case number, party name, citation number, or filing date. Available information usually includes case status, next hearing dates, courthouse location, and parties involved. Some sensitive records, such as juvenile cases or sealed family law matters, are restricted to protect privacy. For records not available online, the Clerk of the Court assists with in-person requests.