Tehama County Court Records Search gives everyone the right to view official court files from the Superior Court of California, County of Tehama. This includes civil cases, criminal charges, family law matters, probate files, and small claims. The court serves a 2,867-square-mile area from its main courthouse at 633 Washington Street in Red Bluff, CA 96080. In 2023, the court handled over 12,500 new case entries and conducted 180 jury trials. All records are public unless sealed by law or court order.
How to Search Tehama County Court Records
You can search Tehama County court records online, in person, or by mail. The fastest way is through the official court portal at www.tehama.courts.ca.gov. You’ll need either a California bar number or a free registered account with a valid ID. Once logged in, use the docket search tool to find cases by party name, case number, or filing date. Each search shows case type, judge assigned, hearing dates, and current status.
Types of Records Available
Tehama County provides access to many public court documents. Civil records include lawsuits, property disputes, and contract cases. Criminal records show felony and misdemeanor charges, arraignments, and sentencing. Family court files cover divorce, child custody, restraining orders, and adoption. Probate records include wills, estate settlements, and guardianship cases. Small claims files go up to $12,500 in dispute amounts.
- Civil judgments and case summaries
- Criminal case files and arrest reports
- Docket sheets and hearing transcripts
- Family law petitions and orders
- Probate filings and estate documents
- Small claims case records
Fees and Document Costs
Getting copies of Tehama County court records costs money. PDF copies cost $5 per page. Certified print copies cost $10 per page. Vital records like birth or death certificates cost $12 for certified copies. Land deed images cost $8 per page. Fictitious business name records cost $1.50 per page. Payment is accepted by credit card online or check by mail.
| Document Type | Cost per Page |
|---|---|
| Court record PDF | $5.00 |
| Certified court copy | $10.00 |
| Vital record (birth/death) | $12.00 |
| Land deed image | $8.00 |
| FBN record | $1.50 |
Online Court Services and Tools
The Tehama County Superior Court website offers several helpful tools. E-File CA lets attorneys submit documents electronically. The real-time calendar portal shows daily court schedules for each judge. Users can download forms for small claims, probate, and family law. A fee calculator helps estimate filing costs. Spanish-language support is available for non-English speakers. The site gets about 45,000 visits each month.
Additional Public Records Access
Beyond court files, Tehama County provides other public records. The Clerk-Recorder’s office maintains birth, death, marriage, and divorce records dating back to 1900. Land deeds, property transfers, and title records are searchable by parcel number or owner name. Registered sex offender information is updated weekly. Census data, military service records, and obituary notices are also available. Some databases include inmate lookup and parole status.
Contact Information and Office Hours
The Tehama County Clerk’s office is at 633 Washington Street, Room 110, Red Bluff, CA 96080. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Phone: (530) 527-3350. Mailing address: PO Box 250, Red Bluff, CA 96080. For certified copies or record requests, visit in person or send a notarized request by mail. Processing takes 3–5 business days.
Court Leadership and Staff
The Tehama County Superior Court is led by Presiding Judge Matthew C. McGlynn and Assistant Presiding Judge Jonathan W. Skillman. Commissioner Kevin Harrigan handles specialized cases. About 42 clerical and administrative staff support daily operations. The court uses modern case management software to track filings, payments, and hearings. All staff are trained in public records law and privacy rules.
Case Statistics and Trends
In fiscal year 2023, Tehama County courts logged over 12,500 docket entries. The court issued 3,400 bench warrants for missed hearings or unpaid fines. Eighteen jury trials were completed. Criminal cases made up 84% of filings in recent years, civil cases 10%, and family law 6%. The average wait time for a trial date is 90 days for civil cases and 60 days for criminal matters.
Search Tips for Better Results
Use full legal names when searching court records. Try different name spellings if you don’t find results. Search by case number if you have it—numbers follow formats like 2022-CV-01458 for civil or 2021-AR-00123 for arrest reports. Narrow searches by date range or case type. Check spelling and avoid nicknames. If searching fails, contact the clerk’s office for help.
Legal Rights and Restrictions
California law says most court records are public. But some files are sealed, like juvenile cases, adoption records, or cases with sensitive personal info. You can’t get sealed records without a court order. Redacted versions may be available. Always respect privacy—don’t misuse personal data from court files. Misuse can lead to fines or criminal charges.
Third-Party Record Services
Some websites offer Tehama County records for a fee. Examples include CountyOffice.org, StateRecords.org, and CourtCaseFinder.com. These sites pull data from official sources but charge extra for convenience. They’re not run by the court. Always verify info with the official court site. Free access is available directly through tehama.courts.ca.gov.
Historical Records and Archives
Tehama County keeps records dating from 1900 to today. Older files may be on microfilm or in storage. Some pre-2012 records aren’t digitized but can be requested. The StateCourts.org archive has filings from 2012 onward. For very old cases, submit a written request with details. Processing may take longer for non-digital records.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I search court records for free?
Yes, you can search Tehama County court records for free online at tehama.courts.ca.gov. Viewing docket info doesn’t cost anything. But copies of documents have fees—$5 for PDFs, $10 for certified prints.
How long does it take to get court records?
Online requests are processed within 24 hours. Mail requests take 3–5 business days. Certified copies may take longer if notarization is needed. Rush service isn’t available.
Are criminal records public in Tehama County?
Yes, most criminal case files are public unless sealed by a judge. This includes arrest reports, charges, and court outcomes. Juvenile records are not public.
Do I need an account to search records?
Yes, you must create a free account with a valid ID or use a California bar number. This helps protect privacy and track requests.
Can I get records by mail?
Yes, send a notarized request with your name, case details, and payment to PO Box 250, Red Bluff, CA 96080. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope.
What if I can’t find the record I need?
Contact the Clerk’s office at (530) 527-3350. Staff can help with search tips or confirm if a record exists. Some older files may not be online.
Are divorce records public?
Yes, divorce filings are public in Tehama County. Final judgments and property settlements are available unless sealed for safety reasons.
Official Resources
Official website: www.tehama.courts.ca.gov
Phone: (530) 527-3350
Address: 633 Washington Street, Red Bluff, CA 96080
Office hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Related Records and Services
Tehama County also provides access to birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates through the Clerk-Recorder. Land deeds and property records are searchable by address or owner. Registered sex offender lists are updated regularly. Inmate lookup and parole status are available through the sheriff’s office. All these records support full public transparency.
Final Notes
Tehama County Court Records Search is designed for easy public access. Use the official court website for the most accurate and up-to-date info. Always check fees before ordering copies. Respect privacy laws when using public records. For help, call the clerk’s office during business hours.