Tulare County court records, California, are available through several channels. TulareCourt.us allows you to quickly find public information about court cases in the county. Additionally, records can be searched through the official online resources of the Tulare County Superior Court, directly at the court clerk's office, or through public terminals installed in court buildings. Below is a practical guide to searching, obtaining, and paying for court documents.
Tulare Court System & Jurisdictions
The Tulare County Superior Court (Superior Court of California, County of Tulare) operates in Tulare County. As in all California counties, this is the only court of general jurisdiction at the state level — there are no separate district or magistrate courts here.
The Superior Court handles a wide range of cases:
- Criminal cases — from misdemeanors to felonies, including DUI.
- Civil cases — limited jurisdiction claims (up to $25,000) and unlimited (over $25,000).
- Small Claims — disputes up to $12,500 for individuals.
- Family law — divorce, child custody, alimony, domestic violence.
- Probate and guardianship — wills, estate management, conservatorship.
- Traffic violations — fines, ticket appeals, traffic violations.
- Juvenile cases — cases involving minors.
The court operates in several locations. The main building is located in Visalia:
Additional branches are located in Porterville, Tulare, and Dinuba. The specific department depends on the type of case and geography — check the court's website to see which location serves the required category.
Tulare Court Calendar & Upcoming Hearings
To find out the schedule of hearings for today, tomorrow, or this week, use the court's online tools. The Tulare County Superior Court publishes calendars through the case search system on its online services portal.
Here's how to find the required hearing:
- Go to the Tulare County Superior Court's online services page.
- Select a search by case number, party name, or hearing date.
- The system will show scheduled hearings with information about the room, judge, and time.
If you do not know the case number, try searching by last name through TulareCourt.us. You can also call the clerk's office of the relevant court department to confirm the date and time of the hearing by phone. Public terminals in court buildings allow you to view the calendar without registration.
Please note: juvenile cases and some family hearings are usually closed to the public. The calendar may not display these hearings in general access.
How to Get a Copy of a Tulare Court Document
The Clerk of Court keeps all case materials and issues copies of documents. There are three main ways to obtain a copy.
In Person
Visit the clerk's office during business hours. You will need the case number or enough information for identification (party names, approximate filing date). The clerk will make a copy on the spot. Certified copies have the official court seal — they are needed for legal procedures, submission to other authorities, or immigration cases.
By Mail
Send a written request specifying the case number, document name, and type of copy (regular or certified). Include a check or money order for the appropriate amount, made payable to "Tulare County Superior Court." Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope.
Online
Some documents are available for viewing or ordering through the court's portal. California courts are gradually expanding electronic access, but not all types of documents can be obtained remotely. Check availability on the official court website.
It is important to remember: sealed records, juvenile cases, and certain family documents are not issued without a court order. If you are unsure whether a document is public, ask the clerk.
Tulare Court Records Fees & Payment
Fees for copies and searches are established according to the California Government Code (§§ 70626–70634). Below are typical rates — always confirm the exact amount with the clerk's office, as fees are periodically updated.
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Regular copy (first 2 pages) | $0.50 per page |
| Regular copy (each additional page) | $0.50 per page |
| Document certification | $40 per document |
| Case search by request (per name search) | $15 per name |
| Obtaining a copy of the court judgment | $40 for the first certificate + cost of copies |
| Exemplification (double certification) | Additional $50 |
Payment is accepted in cash, check, or money order at the court clerk's office. Some branches also accept credit and debit cards — confirm this in advance by phone (559) 730-5000. When ordering by mail, the only payment method is a check or money order payable to "Tulare County Superior Court."
Please note: e-filing fees differ from copy fees and depend on the type of case. The current fee schedule is published on the California Judicial Council website.