San Mateo County Clerk of Court

San Mateo County Clerk of Court manages official court records and provides essential administrative services to residents, attorneys, and businesses. The office is responsible for filing legal documents, issuing certified copies, and maintaining accurate case records. It serves as a hub for civil, family, probate, and small claims cases, ensuring that filings are processed efficiently. Attorneys, individuals, and organizations rely on the clerk’s office for timely updates on case progress, official documentation, and procedural support, making it a key part of the county’s judicial system.

The Court Clerk San Mateo also offers public access to court records and certified documents, supporting transparency and accountability. Residents can request case summaries, judgments, and certifications for personal or business needs. The office helps schedule hearings, track case filings, and provide administrative support for smooth court operations. By handling over 10,000 filings annually, it ensures legal processes are organized and accessible. These services make the clerk’s office an indispensable resource for anyone interacting with San Mateo County’s courts.

Current Clerk of Court

The Superior Court of California, County of San Mateo serves as the judicial branch for the county, managing all trial court matters. The Court Executive Officer, who also functions as the Clerk of Court, oversees the administrative and operational aspects of the court system under the direction of the Presiding Judge. Currently, Chad L. Peace holds this role. In many California superior courts, the Court Executive Officer doubles as the Clerk of Court, ensuring non‑judicial operations run smoothly while handling essential clerk duties that support judges, staff, and the public.

Core Responsibilities of the Clerk of Court Office

The Clerk of Court office also engages in day-to-day operational support, such as preparing court minutes, scanning and indexing documents, scheduling sessions, and interacting directly with litigants to facilitate court processes. Together, these responsibilities ensure that San Mateo County courts operate efficiently, records remain accessible and accurate, and the public receives necessary administrative support. The Clerk of Court office in San Mateo County performs a wide range of administrative and record-keeping functions to maintain court operations efficiently. Key responsibilities include:

Court Records & Case Management

• Maintain official case dockets for civil, criminal, family, probate, traffic, and juvenile matters.
• Manage public access to court records, including viewing, retrieval, and certified copy requests.
• Ensure accurate indexing and updates to case files for easy reference by attorneys, litigants, and the public.

Filing & Document Processing

• Receive, prepare, process, and file legal documents submitted across all court divisions.
• Ensure all submissions become part of the official court record and update indexes and dockets promptly.
• Scan, track, and verify documents to maintain integrity and accessibility of court files.

Administrative Court Support

• Assist judges and judicial officers with administrative tasks, including calendaring, notifications, and courtroom logistics.
• Assign hearings, manage court schedules, and coordinate case flow across divisions.
• Handle exhibits, minutes, and other operational duties that support smooth judicial proceedings.

Public Interaction & Assistance

• Respond to procedural inquiries from attorneys, litigants, government agencies, and the general public.
• Provide access to public computers, records centers, and document research facilities.
• Offer guidance on filing requirements, court procedures, and available services without giving legal advice.

Jury Services & Oaths

• Administer oaths for witnesses, jurors, and official proceedings as required.
• Assist with jury management, including orientation, documentation, and scheduling of service.
• Record jury participation and coordinate with other court staff to ensure smooth jury operations.

How to Search San Mateo Clerk of Court Records

This is an official public records search portal from the County of San Mateo. It provides access to recorded documents such as deeds, judgments, certificates, and other official filings that have been indexed since 1985. Website to use: https://apps.smcacre.org/recorderworks/

Open the RecorderWorks Search Page

• Open your web browser.
• Type or paste https://apps.smcacre.org/recorderworks/ into the address bar.
• Press Enter. You will land on the RecorderWorks public search interface.

Choose a Search Method

Once the page loads, you’ll see navigation tabs at the top. You can choose the best search method based on what you know. The system will return all matching records indexed under that name.

Name Search (Grantor/Grantee):
Use this when you want to find documents associated with a person or business.

• Click the Name tab.
• In the field, type the last name and then the first name (for example: “Smith John”).
• You can also enter a business or organization name.
• If you want a broader search, check “Allow Partial Match.”
• Press Search.

Search by Document Number

This method gives the most precise result and is useful if you already have a reference number. If you already know a specific document number:

• Click the Document Number tab.
• Enter the full document number (start with the year portion if known).
• Press Search.

Search by Recording Date

This search is helpful if you only know when a document was recorded but not names or numbers. To find records filed during a certain time period:

• Click the Recording Date tab.
• Enter the Start Date and End Date in MM/DD/YYYY format.
• Press Search.

Search by Document Type

This method filters results only to the exact type of record you need. To search by the kind of record you want:

• Click the Document Type tab.
• Choose a type from the long list (examples: Judgement, Deed, Court Order, etc.).
• Enter a date range if needed.
• Press Search.

View and Refine Your Results

After you search, you will see a list of documents that match your criteria.

• Click on any document number in the results to view the record details.
• If the list is too long, narrow your search with more specific fields or dates.
• To see related documents under the same name, open any record and look for connected names in that record’s menu.

Get Certified or Printable Copies

Once you find the record you need:

• Many results include links to View or Print the image of the recorded document.
• Some results offer options to Add to Cart if you want certified paper copies.
• Follow on‑screen instructions to complete purchase and delivery details.

Administrative Services and Support

The San Mateo County Clerk of Court provides a wide range of administrative services that keep court operations efficient and accessible. These services help judges, attorneys, and the public stay informed about case progress while ensuring proper management of court activities. Administrative tasks cover everything from scheduling hearings and managing juries to providing notary assistance and public access terminals. This ensures the court system runs smoothly and meets the needs of the community effectively.

Court Calendars and Legal Scheduling

The clerk’s office manages court calendars to ensure that hearings across civil, family, probate, traffic, and juvenile cases are organized and timely. Accurate scheduling allows judges and staff to track case progress, minimize conflicts, and provide parties with proper notice. Legal scheduling also involves coordinating courtroom availability, updating changes in case status, and maintaining notifications for all involved parties to support orderly proceedings.

• Case Assignments: Scheduling hearings by division and case type
• Calendar Updates: Adjusting dates when motions or filings change case timelines
• Notifications: Informing attorneys, litigants, and public about upcoming hearings

Jury Duty Management

The Clerk of Court handles jury administration, maintaining records, scheduling service, and ensuring jurors receive proper orientation. Staff administer oaths, track attendance, and assist with jury documentation. Effective jury management guarantees compliance with legal requirements while supporting fair trial processes. It also reduces confusion and delays for both jurors and court staff, making the system reliable and organized for all parties.

• Juror Scheduling: Assigning service dates and sending notifications
• Oath Administration: Swearing in jurors and witnesses for legal validity
• Records Management: Tracking participation and orientation completion

Notary and Certification Services

Clerks provide notary services and issue certified copies of official court documents, such as judgments, orders, and filings. These services ensure that documents are legally recognized for personal, business, or legal purposes. Public and legal professionals rely on these certifications for verification, compliance, and filing requirements, making the clerk’s office an essential resource for authenticated documentation.

• Notary Assistance: Notarizing affidavits, declarations, and legal documents
• Certified Copies: Providing officially sealed court records for legal use
• Document Verification: Ensuring accuracy and authenticity of records

Public Access and Court Information

The clerk’s office supports public access to court records through terminals and online tools, enabling case research and tracking. Public access terminals allow users to view dockets, check filing details, and review case statuses. Online resources, including court calendar widgets, provide convenient ways for attorneys, residents, and businesses to monitor hearings and stay updated without visiting the office. This accessibility strengthens transparency and accountability in the judicial system.

• Public Terminals: Accessing case records and dockets on-site
• Online Calendar Lookup: Checking hearing dates and courtroom assignments
• Case Research: Searching filings, parties, and procedural history

Records and Certification Services

The San Mateo County Clerk of Court provides comprehensive records certification services, allowing individuals, attorneys, and businesses to obtain official copies of court documents. Certified court records are legally recognized and often required for personal, professional, or legal purposes. These documents include marriage and divorce records, civil case files, probate documents, and judgments. By issuing certified copies, the clerk ensures the authenticity and reliability of court records for verification, compliance, or submission to other agencies.

Types of Certified Court Records

Each type of record is securely stored and indexed, ensuring easy retrieval. Certified copies carry the court’s seal and signature, providing legal recognition for official purposes. The Clerk of Court maintains a variety of records that can be requested in certified form. Common types include:

• Marriage Records: Official copies of marriage certificates filed in the county
• Divorce Records: Final judgments and dissolution documents
• Civil Case Records: Complaints, motions, and court orders from civil matters
• Probate Records: Wills, estate documents, conservatorships, and guardianships
• Judgments: Court decisions, rulings, and monetary awards issued in all divisions

How to Request Certified Copies

Requesting certified court documents is straightforward. Follow these steps:

• Identify the Record: Determine the type of record you need (e.g., marriage certificate, civil case judgment).
• Provide Required Information: Include names of parties, case numbers (if applicable), and filing or event dates to help locate the record.
• Complete the Request Form: Use the online request form or the paper form available at the Clerk of Court office.
• Submit Identification: A government-issued photo ID is typically required to verify your identity.
• Pay Applicable Fees: Fees vary depending on the type and number of certified copies requested. Payment can often be made online, by mail, or in person.
• Receive the Certified Copy: Copies may be mailed or picked up in person. Timelines depend on the record type and request volume, usually ranging from a few days to a couple of weeks.

Fees, Timeline & Requirements

When managing official records or requesting documents from San Mateo County, it’s important to understand the associated fees and processing times. Whether you need a certified copy, a record search, or an exemplified document, knowing the costs and expected timelines can help you plan efficiently. The table below summarizes common services, their fees, and typical processing durations for easy reference:

How to Contact the Clerk of Court

The Clerk Office Contact San Mateo provides multiple ways for residents, attorneys, and businesses to get help with court filings, records requests, and general inquiries. The office is the primary point of communication for anyone needing assistance with civil, family, probate, traffic, or juvenile cases. Users can reach the clerk by phone, email, or in person, and the staff provides guidance on administrative procedures, filing requirements, and public record access.

Office Contact Information

The Clerk of Court can be contacted through the following channels:

• Phone: (650) 363-4500 – For general inquiries, filing questions, and records assistance.
• Email: clerkofcourt@sanmateocourt.org – Suitable for non-urgent questions or document verification requests.
• Mailing Address:
  Superior Court of California, County of San Mateo
  Clerk of Court
  555 County Center
  Redwood City, CA 94063
• Office Hours:
  Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
  Closed on public holidays

Steps for Contacting

When contacting the clerk, following a structured approach can save time and ensure accurate assistance:

• Determine the Purpose of Your Inquiry: Decide if you need help with a records request, filing questions, jury information, or other administrative services.
• Collect Relevant Information: Have your case number, names of parties involved, filing date, or document details ready. This allows staff to quickly locate your records.
• Choose Your Contact Method: Decide whether to call, email, or visit in person based on urgency and complexity. Phone calls are ideal for immediate guidance, while email is better for detailed questions.
• Ask Clear Questions: Be specific about your needs, e.g., “I need a certified copy of my divorce judgment filed in 2021.” Clear questions help staff provide accurate responses.
• Follow Office Instructions: The clerk may provide forms, request identification, or guide you to online resources. Make sure to follow these instructions to avoid delays.
• Use Online URL if Available: Many questions, such as case lookup or filing forms, can be addressed using the court’s online portals or public access URLs.

Filing Assistance and Court Document Management

The San Mateo County Clerk of Court provides reliable filing assistance for all legal documents, ensuring accuracy, timely submission, and compliance with court rules. Proper court document management supports civil, small claims, family, and probate cases, helping judges, staff, and litigants maintain organized records. The office offers guidance on preparing forms, submitting filings online or in person, and following procedural rules to prevent errors and delays, keeping the court system efficient and accessible for the public.

Filing Process for Different Case Types

Each case type handled by the clerk has unique filing requirements that must be followed to ensure smooth processing. The office manages submissions for civil, small claims, family, and probate matters while providing support for questions and clarifications. Staff review documents for completeness, provide filing receipts, and help maintain the official court record. Accurate filing ensures cases progress without unnecessary delays or procedural complications.

• Civil Cases: Complaints, motions, and answers for disputes between individuals or businesses
• Small Claims: Simplified forms and guidance for disputes under $10,000
• Family Law Cases: Divorce petitions, custody documents, and financial declarations
• Probate Cases: Wills, estate documents, guardianship, and conservatorship filings

Submitting Documents Online vs In-Person

The clerk offers both electronic and in-person filing options to accommodate different needs. Online filing allows users to submit documents securely, receive instant confirmation, and pay fees electronically. In-person filing provides direct assistance, verification of documents, and immediate processing. Following proper submission procedures ensures that filings are valid, complete, and accurately recorded in the official court system, reducing errors and delays.

• Online Filing: Submit PDF documents, pay fees, and receive time-stamped confirmation
• In-Person Filing: Bring completed forms, copies, and payment to the Clerk’s office
• Confirm Fees Paid: Ensure all required payments accompany submissions

Location & Accessibility

The San Mateo County Clerk of Court is conveniently located to serve residents, attorneys, and businesses needing access to court records, filings, or administrative services. The courthouse location is centrally positioned in Redwood City, making it easily reachable by car, public transit, or on foot. The office provides ample parking, clear signage, and accessibility features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. Visitors can plan their trip efficiently using maps, directions, and transit options before arriving.

Full Address and Directions

The main office of the Clerk of Court is located at:

Superior Court of California, County of San Mateo
Clerk of Court
555 County Center
Redwood City, CA 94063

Driving Directions:

• From San Francisco, take US-101 South to the County Center Drive exit, follow signs to the courthouse.
• From San Jose, take US-101 North to the same exit and follow local signage.
• The courthouse is near major highways and easily accessible from surrounding cities.

Parking Information:

• Public parking is available in the County Center garage adjacent to the courthouse.
• Short-term and hourly rates apply; accessible parking spaces are available near the courthouse entrance.
• Pay stations and clearly marked zones make parking straightforward for visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

The court clerk San Mateo office provides essential support for residents, attorneys, and businesses needing help with filings, records, or general court inquiries. Many people contact the office for guidance on certified copies, filing procedures, and public access services. Understanding common procedures can save time and prevent mistakes when interacting with the court. Below are six frequently asked questions with detailed answers to help users efficiently access court records, submit documents, or receive administrative assistance.

How do I get a certified copy of a court record?

To obtain a certified copy, first identify the type of record you need, such as marriage, divorce, civil case, probate, or judgment. You can request certified copies online through the San Mateo Superior Court portal or in person at the Clerk of Court office. Complete the request form with accurate case details, provide a valid government-issued photo ID, and pay the applicable fee. Certified copies are legally recognized, carry the court seal, and can be used for legal, business, or personal purposes. Processing typically takes 5–10 business days, though in-person requests may be completed faster if the record is available on site.

What are the office hours for the Clerk of Court?

The Clerk of Court office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, excluding public holidays. Staff are available to answer phone calls at (650) 363-4500, respond to emails at clerkofcourt@sanmateocourt.org, and provide in-person assistance for filings, certified copy requests, and general inquiries. Visiting the office during these hours ensures you can access all available services without delay. Planning ahead is recommended, especially for filing deadlines, document requests, or jury-related matters. Office staff can also guide visitors on accessibility services, parking, and locating the appropriate court division.

How can I file documents online?

The Clerk of Court supports electronic filing for civil, small claims, family, and probate cases. To file online, register with the San Mateo Superior Court’s e-filing portal, upload your documents in PDF format, and include all required signatures and fees. Online filing provides a timestamp for submissions and allows staff to process documents without delays. For complex filings or when additional guidance is needed, in-person filing remains available. Always double-check documents for completeness and accuracy, as errors can lead to rejected filings or delayed processing. Using online filing tools helps streamline case management and ensures timely record entry.

What services are available for public access?

The clerk’s office provides public access terminals and online tools for researching court records. Visitors can view dockets, check filing histories, and confirm case statuses. Staff are available to explain general procedures, assist with document searches, and provide guidance on record requests. Accessibility features include wheelchair access, assistive listening devices, and screen-reader-compatible resources. Public access ensures transparency and allows residents, attorneys, and businesses to verify filings, monitor case progress, and obtain certified copies when needed. Proper use of these tools improves efficiency and reduces the need for repeated inquiries.

How do I pay fees for filings or certified copies?

Payments for filings or certified copies can be made online, in person, or by mail, depending on the service. Online payments accept credit or debit cards and provide electronic receipts. In-person payments may accept cash, checks, or card payments at the clerk’s counter. Fees vary depending on the type of document, the number of copies, and expedited processing options. Always confirm the required amount before submitting payment to avoid delays. Keeping a copy of your payment receipt is recommended, as it serves as proof for the court and can help resolve any discrepancies.

How can I contact the Clerk of Court for questions?

You can contact the Clerk of Court office by phone at (650) 363-4500, via email at clerkofcourt@sanmateocourt.org, or in person at 555 County Center, Redwood City, CA 94063. Before reaching out, have relevant information ready, such as case numbers, party names, or document details. Clear questions help staff provide accurate guidance efficiently. For urgent inquiries, calling may be faster than email. The office also offers online portals and public access tools for checking records, filing documents, and confirming hearing dates, reducing the need for in-person visits and supporting smooth court operations.