Riverside County Clerk of Court provides essential services for residents and legal professionals throughout the county. The office handles court filings, maintains official records, and assists with administrative tasks to keep the legal system running smoothly. With its dedicated staff, users can rely on accurate information and timely processing for a variety of court matters. This makes the clerk’s office a central point for managing documents and case-related needs.
Residents using court clerk services in Riverside County Court can expect support with document processing, fee collection, and obtaining certified copies of records. The office also guides users on submitting forms, handling motions, and accessing case information. By ensuring that court records are organized and accessible, the clerk’s office helps reduce delays and improve efficiency for everyone involved in the legal process.
How to Search & Access Court Records
Riverside County court records can be searched online or requested directly from the Clerk of Court’s office. Users can locate both current and historical records by following clear, step-by-step procedures.
Official Public Access Site URL
https://www.riverside.courts.ca.gov/online-services/search-court-records-public-access
Open the Official Public Access Portal
- Paste this URL into a web browser:
https://www.riverside.courts.ca.gov/online-services/search-court-records-public-access - The portal lets the public search many civil, criminal, traffic, probate, and family court cases.
Choose Search Type
On the search page, typically you’ll see options like:
- Case Number Search: Use this if you already have a case number.
- Name Search (party name): Enter first name and last name to find matching court cases.
Enter Search Details
- For Case Number Search: Type the exact number and press Search.
- For Name Search: Enter the person’s name exactly. You may need to enter first and last name fields separately.
- If records exist and are public, results will show on the screen.
Review the Results
Results usually show:
- Case number
- Case type (civil, criminal, family law, etc.)
- Case status and filing history
- Hearing dates, parties involved, and sometimes document lists
Riverside County Clerk of Court Overview
The Riverside County Clerk of Court serves as a central hub for the county’s judicial administration. This office manages court filings, maintains official records, and ensures that the judicial process operates efficiently for the public, legal professionals, and the courts themselves.
History and Establishment
The Riverside County Clerk of Court was established to provide organized and accessible management of court documents and filings. Since its inception, the office has evolved to meet the growing demands of Riverside County’s population and legal system. Over the years, it has integrated modern technologies to improve record-keeping and streamline court procedures, while maintaining its core responsibility of safeguarding public records and supporting court operations.
Mission and Role in the Judicial System
The mission of the Riverside County Clerk of Court centers on efficient court administration and public service. The office plays a vital role in:
- Managing court filings: All civil, criminal, probate, and family law documents are received, processed, and filed accurately.
- Maintaining records: Ensuring official court documents are preserved and accessible for public requests or legal review.
- Supporting judicial operations: Assisting judges, attorneys, and litigants with administrative needs to help the courts function smoothly.
Organizational Structure
The office is typically organized into several specialized divisions to handle various aspects of court administration efficiently:
- Filing and Records Division: Receives and maintains court documents, manages public records requests, and processes certified copies.
- Court Services Division: Supports case management, scheduling, and coordination with judicial officers.
- Financial and Administrative Division: Handles filing fees, fines, and internal administrative operations.
- Support Services: Provides assistance to the public, attorneys, and other government agencies, ensuring smooth communication and service delivery.
Current Clerk
The Riverside County Clerk of Court and Court Executive Officer is Jason B. Galkin, who leads the court’s administrative operations for the Superior Court of California in Riverside County. He serves as the office head and senior administrative officer, guiding clerk leadership and court administration.
Jason B. Galkin has extensive experience in trial court administration. He was appointed to this role in 2023 after a nationwide selection process following the retirement of his predecessor. Mr. Galkin has spent years in California court management, working in various administrative positions that support court docket management, records maintenance, and operational improvements across multiple court departments. His role includes overseeing how court records are maintained, how clerks serve the public, and how the office collaborates with judicial officers to support county judicial functions.
Contact Information
- Office: Riverside Superior Court
- Title: Court Executive Officer & Clerk of Court
- Mailing Address: P.O. Box 1547, Riverside, CA 92502
- General Court Phone: (951) 777‑3163
Clerk of Court Services – Riverside County
The court clerk services Riverside County office offers a broad range of document processing and administrative services for residents, attorneys, and government agencies. These services help people file legal papers, get copies of documents, and complete official transactions that relate to court matters.
Below is a helpful guide to the primary services provided by the Riverside County Clerk of Court office. It explains what each service does, how people can use it, and practical tips to complete common procedures.
Document Filing Services
The Clerk of Court handles filings for many types of cases. When someone begins or continues a case, the court needs properly prepared and submitted forms. The clerk team reviews papers, enters them in official systems, and keeps them in the case folder.
Civil Cases
These involve disputes between people or businesses, such as contracts, claims for money, or property issues. Filing options include:
- Complaints and petitions
- Motions and responses
- Proofs of service
- Fee payments and filing receipts
Criminal Cases
For criminal charges, clerks process:
- Arrest records and complaints
- Bail and bond paperwork
- Arraignment filings
- Docket entries
Family Law
In family law matters, clerks handle:
- Divorce and separation petitions
- Child custody and support forms
- Name change documents
- Domestic violence restraining orders forms
Probate
Probate filings involve wills, estates, and guardianships. Clerks accept:
- Petitions to open an estate
- Letters testamentary
- Inventory and accounting documents
- Reports to the court
Record Maintenance & Retrieval
The Clerk of Court carries responsibility for keeping official case records. These records include filings, minute orders, judgments, and court calendars. Residents and attorneys frequently need to view or get copies of these items.
Storing and Organizing Records
Clerks ensure every filed document is recorded and placed in the appropriate case file. Records are:
- Indexed by case number
- Sorted by case type
- Safe in both paper and electronic formats
Requesting Copies
Individuals can request copies of court documents in a few ways:
- In person at a clerk window
- By mail using a request form
- Online through official portals
Requests usually include:
- Case number or party name
- Document title
- Contact information
- Payment for copy fees
Correcting Records
If a filing has an error—such as a misspelling or wrong date—people can ask the clerk to make corrections. This often involves submitting:
- A form explaining the error
- Supporting evidence
- A cover sheet or letter
Administrative Services
Beyond case filings, the Clerk of Court offers several administrative services that support local communities.
Marriage Licenses and Certificates
Clerk counters issue marriage licenses and provide certified marriage certificates once a ceremony is recorded. Residents need to bring proper identification and payment for the license fee.
Notary Public Services
Some clerk locations provide notary services. A notary verifies signatures on affidavits, declarations, and other legal papers. Notary publics follow strict rules for identification and record entries.
Scheduling and Calendars
Clerks help schedule court hearings, conferences, trials, and mediations. They maintain calendars to reduce conflicts and let parties know:
- Hearing dates
- Times
- Room or courtroom assignments
Filing Procedures in Riverside County
Quick Answer: Court filings in Riverside County can be completed either electronically or in person at the filing office Riverside County. Each case type—civil, criminal, or family law—requires specific documents and procedures to ensure proper processing.
Filing legal documents accurately is essential for case progression and compliance with California rules. Riverside County offers clear guidelines for residents, attorneys, and other parties to submit filings efficiently, whether online or at a courthouse counter.
Civil Filings
Civil filings involve disputes between individuals, businesses, or organizations. Common civil filings include complaints, motions, and responses.
Steps to civil filing process:
- Prepare the documents – Draft the complaint, petition, or motion in the required format.
- Include attachments – Add exhibits, proofs of service, or supporting documents.
- Calculate filing fees – Fees vary based on case type; check the current fee schedule.
- Submit the filing – Either electronically via the court’s eFiling portal or in person at the filing office.
- Obtain stamped copies – Retain copies with the clerk’s filing date for your records.
Criminal Filings
Criminal filings involve charges, responses, and court appearances. These include arrest documents, bail requests, or motions.
Filing process for criminal cases:
- Prepare all required documents – Arrest reports, petitions, and relevant evidence.
- Coordinate with prosecutors or defense attorneys – Clerks ensure all filings are properly documented.
- Submit through proper channels – Certain criminal filings must be submitted in person due to sensitive information.
- Confirm docket entries – The clerk logs filings to update the official case record.
Family Law Filings
Family law filings cover divorce, child custody, support, and domestic violence orders.
Steps for family filings:
- Complete petitions or motions using approved court forms.
- Include necessary supporting documents, such as financial declarations or custody agreements.
- Submit to the Clerk of Court by eFiling or in person.
- Pay applicable filing fees or request fee waivers if eligible.
- Obtain a filed-stamped copy for personal records.
Electronic Filing vs. Physical Filing
Riverside County supports electronic filing (eFiling), which allows parties to submit documents online. Benefits include:
- Faster processing
- Immediate receipt confirmation
- Reduced need for courthouse visits
Physical filing remains available for parties without eFiling access or for sensitive case types. Paper filings are accepted at designated clerk windows and require:
- Completed forms in the proper format
- Original signatures
- Filing fees in cash, check, or credit card
Fees, Processing Times & Administrative Rules
Court filings in Riverside County require payment of filing fees, which vary by case type, and processing times depend on document type and submission method. Fee waivers are available for qualifying individuals, and all filings must comply with established administrative rules and regulations.
Filing Fees
Riverside County charges fees based on the type of case and document being submitted. Typical fees include:
- Civil Filings: Complaint, petition, or motion fees usually range from $60 to $450, depending on the nature and complexity of the case.
- Family Law: Divorce, custody, and child support filings generally cost between $150–$400.
- Criminal Cases: Initial filings and motions may have nominal fees, but certain documents, like bond paperwork, have set charges.
- Probate Filings: Filing petitions for estate administration or guardianship usually start around $435 and vary with estate size.
Estimated Processing Times
Processing times depend on both the type of document and the filing method:
- Electronic Filings (eFiling): Usually processed within 24–48 hours, with immediate confirmation of receipt.
- In-Person Paper Filings: Typically reviewed the same day or within 1–2 business days.
- Complex or multi-document cases: May require 3–5 business days for full entry and indexing.
Fee Waivers and Eligibility
Riverside County allows fee waivers for individuals who cannot afford standard filing costs. Eligibility requirements generally include:
- Proof of income below a certain threshold
- Verification of government assistance (e.g., Medi-Cal, CalFresh)
- Submission of a Request to Waive Court Fees form
Administrative Rules and Regulations
All court filings must adhere to administrative rules established by Riverside County and the California Rules of Court. Key rules include:
- Documents must be typed or legibly printed
- Correct court forms must be used for each case type
- All filings require signatures, dates, and proper formatting
- Proper service on other parties is required for certain documents
- Confidential or sealed documents must follow special handling procedures
Location & Contact Information
Quick Answer: The Riverside County Clerk of Court location includes the main courthouse in Riverside and several branch offices throughout the county. Visitors can access court clerk services Riverside County at these locations during regular business hours.
Main Office
- Address: Riverside County Superior Court – Main Courthouse, 4050 Main Street, Riverside, CA 92501
- Phone: (951) 777‑3163
- Email: clerkinfo@riverside.courts.ca.gov
- Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Branch Locations
Riverside County maintains several branch offices to provide convenient access to court clerk services:
- Banning Branch Courthouse – 311 E. Ramsey Street, Banning, CA 92220
- Indio Branch Courthouse – 46‑200 Oasis Street, Indio, CA 92201
- Perris Branch Courthouse – 1425 N. Perris Blvd., Perris, CA 92571
- Palm Springs Branch – 3255 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Answer: The court clerk services Riverside County office provides comprehensive assistance for filing legal documents, requesting records, and completing administrative tasks. Residents, attorneys, and other parties can rely on the clerk’s office to manage filings, maintain accurate records, and ensure compliance with court rules. Below are detailed answers to frequently asked questions regarding court filings, record requests, and administrative procedures.
Are Riverside County court records public?
Most court records in Riverside County are open to the public, including civil, criminal, family law, and probate cases. Public records typically include case filings, court calendars, judgments, and orders. However, certain types of records are restricted to protect privacy. Juvenile cases, adoption records, sealed criminal cases, and confidential family law documents require authorization or a court order to access. The clerk’s office ensures that all public records are maintained according to California law while safeguarding sensitive information.
How do I file a document with the clerk?
Filing documents with the Riverside County Clerk of Court can be done either electronically through the court’s eFiling system or in person at a courthouse filing window. Before submitting, it is important to verify that all forms are complete, properly formatted, and signed where required. Supporting documentation should be attached, and the correct filing fee must be included unless a fee waiver has been approved. Once filed, the clerk stamps each document with the official filing date, providing a receipt for your records. This ensures the document is officially part of the case file and can be referenced during hearings or proceedings.
How long does it take for filings to be processed?
Processing times vary depending on the method of submission and the complexity of the filing. Electronic filings are usually processed within 24 to 48 hours and generate immediate confirmation of receipt. In-person paper filings are typically processed the same day or within one to two business days. More complex filings, such as multi-document civil or family law cases, may require additional time for clerks to verify and index each document. Requests for certified copies, historical records, or corrections can extend processing times further.
Can I request records on behalf of someone else?
Yes, it is possible to request records on behalf of another individual, but proper authorization is required. For standard public records, some forms of identification may suffice. For sensitive or restricted documents, such as sealed or juvenile records, the requestor must provide written consent from the party involved or obtain a court order granting access. The clerk’s office carefully reviews each request to ensure compliance with privacy laws while fulfilling public records obligations.
How do I correct errors in court records?
If a filed document contains an error, such as a misspelled name or incorrect date, the clerk can assist in making corrections. A formal Record Correction Request must be submitted, detailing the error and providing supporting evidence if applicable. The clerk’s staff reviews the request and updates the official record in compliance with California court rules. Correcting errors promptly is essential to prevent confusion in case proceedings and ensure legal documents remain accurate.
What are the fees for different filings?
Filing fees vary depending on the type of case and document being submitted. Civil filings typically range from $60 to $450, while family law cases, including divorce, child custody, or support petitions, usually require $150 to $400. Probate filings start around $435 and may increase depending on estate value. Criminal filings often involve nominal fees or charges related to bonds. The clerk’s office also provides fee waivers for eligible applicants who demonstrate financial hardship, although optional services like certified copies may still require payment.
Can I file electronically?
Yes, electronic filing is available for most civil, family law, and probate cases. eFiling offers faster processing, immediate confirmation of receipt, and reduces the need to visit the courthouse. Certain criminal filings, sealed documents, or sensitive case types may require physical submission to protect confidentiality. The clerk’s office provides guidance on which cases are eligible for eFiling and how to properly submit documents online.