At Modesto Family Law, we often tell clients that having copies of their court records (also called pleadings) is one of the most helpful things they can do for their case. These documents—such as Petitions, Responses, Requests for Order, Income and Expense Declarations, and Court Orders—tell the story of your case. They show what has already happened, what issues are still in dispute, and help your attorney provide the most accurate and efficient advice possible.

If you don’t already have copies, don’t worry—there are a few straightforward ways to get them.

Step 1: Find Your Case Number

Your case number is the key to accessing your records. You can usually find it by reviewing prior court documents, checking emails from your attorney, or searching your name on your county’s online case index. To do this, visit your county’s Superior Court website, navigate to “Online Services” or “Case Index Search,” and enter your first and last name as it was used in the case. Once located, be sure to save your case number for future use.

Step 2: Check Online (Quickest Option)

Once you have your case number, your next step is to check online. Go to your county’s court website and access the Case Search or Case Index portal. From there, you can enter your case number (or search by name), review the Register of Actions (which is the case history), and download any available documents.

Keep in mind that family law cases often have limited documents available online, so you may not see everything filed in your case but the Register of Actions or Case Index can provide a history of what has been filed or completed in your case.

Step 3: Visit the Clerk’s Office

If you’re unable to locate what you need online, the most reliable way to obtain copies is by visiting the court clerk’s office in person. In Stanislaus County, you can go to the Family Law Clerk’s Office located at 1100 I Street in Modesto. In San Joaquin County, you will visit the Family Law Clerk’s Office at 180 E. Weber Avenue, Fourth Floor, in Stockton. 

When you arrive, request copies at the research window, provide your case number, and, if possible, identify the documents you are looking for by name and date. There is typically a small fee for copies. If you are requesting records from your own case, you should generally be able to obtain them without issue.

Step 4: If You Can’t Go in Person

We understand that getting to the courthouse isn’t always convenient. In those situations, you may be able to request copies by mail, although it’s best to contact the clerk’s office first for instructions. An attorney may also be able to assist in obtaining your records.

It’s important to note that third-party requests can be limited. Additionally, some cases—particularly older or more sensitive matters—may be confidential. In those situations, only you may be able to obtain the records, or you may need to authorize an attorney to request them on your behalf.

A Helpful Tip from Our Team

Providing your court documents prior to your consultation allows our attorneys to quickly understand your case and provide more tailored, efficient guidance.  At Modesto Family Law, our Certified Family Law Specialists regularly review these documents and use them to help clients move forward with clarity and confidence.

If you have questions or need help obtaining your records, our team is always here to point you in the right direction.