Search Humboldt County Family Court Records

Humboldt County Superior Court processes all family law matters for residents in this coastal region. Family court records include cases for divorce, child custody, child support, domestic violence restraining orders, and legal separation. The main courthouse sits in Eureka at 825 Fifth Street. Court staff provide self-help services to people who do not have lawyers. You can access forms, instructions, and limited assistance at the Family Law Self-Help Center. The center is open on weekdays but hours vary so call ahead at (707) 445-7256. All case filings happen through the clerk's office which is on the first floor of the courthouse. Security screening is required to enter the building so arrive early for court appearances.

Humboldt Superior Court Overview

The Superior Court of Humboldt County handles family law for the entire county. All family law filings are processed at the main courthouse in Eureka. This location serves Eureka, Arcata, Fortuna, and all smaller communities throughout Humboldt County. The courthouse is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The clerk's office may close for lunch so verify hours before visiting if you need to file during midday.

Family law cases are assigned to specific judges who handle family matters. Hearings take place in designated courtrooms. Check your hearing notice for the correct department and floor. Arrive at least 15 minutes early to get through security and find your courtroom. Bring your case number and photo ID. Cell phones must be turned off in courtrooms.

For general questions about court procedures, call (707) 445-7256. The court website at www.humboldt.courts.ca.gov/self-help/family-law offers information about family law services and links to forms. Staff can explain procedures but cannot give legal advice about your specific situation or tell you what to do in your case.

Note: The court also has branch locations but most family law matters are handled in Eureka.

Family Law Self-Help Center

Humboldt County operates a Family Law Self-Help Center at the Eureka courthouse. This center provides free assistance to people representing themselves in family law cases. Staff can help you fill out forms, explain court procedures, and provide information about what documents you need to file. They cannot give legal advice or tell you what action to take in your case.

Services include help with dissolution forms, child custody and visitation paperwork, child support calculations, and domestic violence restraining order applications. The center has computers you can use to access forms and type information. Printing is available for a small fee per page. Bring information about your case including names, dates, addresses, and financial details.

Contact the self-help center at court.selfhelp@humboldtcourt.ca.gov or call the main court number. Walk-in hours are available but appointments may be required for certain services. Check the court website for current hours and any special closure dates. Services are provided in English with Spanish interpretation available with advance notice.

Filing Family Law Cases

To file a new family law case in Humboldt County, complete the required forms and take them to the clerk's office at the Eureka courthouse. For divorce or legal separation, you need form FL-100, summons, and additional forms depending on your circumstances. The court website links to California Judicial Council forms. You can also get blank forms at the self-help center or clerk's office.

Make multiple copies of everything before filing. The court keeps the original. You need copies for service on the other party and for your own records. File at the clerk's window on the first floor. The filing fee is $435 for the first paper in most family law cases. This fee covers the initial petition or response. Additional motions and requests cost $60 each to file.

If you cannot afford the filing fee, request a fee waiver by submitting form FW-001 with your filing. Include proof of income such as pay stubs, tax returns, or benefit statements. The court reviews waiver applications and decides based on your income and expenses compared to state guidelines. Approved waivers cover court filing fees but not service costs or attorney fees if you hire one later.

After filing, you must serve the other party. Service means delivering copies of all filed documents. You cannot serve papers yourself in most family law cases. Ask a friend, hire a process server, or use the sheriff's office. Complete service within 60 days of filing. File proof of service form FL-115 with the court once service is done. Nothing else can happen in your case until proof of service is on file.

Accessing Case Records

Family court records in Humboldt County are available for viewing at the courthouse. California law restricts online access to family law case documents. You can view registers of actions and some basic case information but not full documents remotely. To see complete case files, visit the clerk's office in person during business hours.

You need the case number or party names to request records. The clerk can look up cases by name if you do not have the case number. Provide first and last names for both parties. Some records may be sealed or confidential. Adoption records, certain juvenile matters, and documents ordered sealed by the court are not available to the public. The clerk will tell you if a document cannot be released.

Copies of court documents cost 50 cents per page. Certified copies add $40 for the certification. Certified copies are needed for official purposes like proving your divorce is final to remarry or showing custody orders to a school. Pay at the clerk's window. The court accepts cash, checks, and money orders. Some services may accept debit or credit cards. Ask the clerk about current payment options.

Legal Assistance Resources

Legal Services of Northern California serves Humboldt County residents who cannot afford private attorneys. LSNC provides free legal help in family law cases involving domestic violence, child custody disputes, and urgent support matters. Income limits apply based on federal poverty guidelines. Call (916) 551-2150 for intake. Staff will ask about your income, household size, and legal issue to determine eligibility.

The Humboldt County Bar Association operates a lawyer referral service that can connect you with local family law attorneys. Call for information about reduced-cost initial consultations. Some attorneys offer sliding scale fees based on income. The State Bar of California also has a statewide referral service at 1-866-442-2529.

Humboldt Domestic Violence Services provides help for victims of domestic abuse. Call their 24-hour hotline at (707) 443-6042. Services include safety planning, restraining order assistance, and referrals to legal aid. All services are free and confidential. HDVS has advocates who can go to court with you for support during restraining order hearings.

Nearby Counties

Check which county has jurisdiction if you live near the Humboldt County line. Residency requirements must be met before filing.