Imperial County Family Court Records

Imperial County Superior Court handles all family law filings for this border region. The court processes divorce cases, child custody matters, spousal support requests, and domestic violence restraining orders. Located in El Centro at 939 W. Main Street, the courthouse serves the entire county including Calexico, Brawley, and Imperial. Family law cases are filed with the clerk's office and assigned to judges who hear these matters. The court provides self-help services for people without lawyers. Court staff can explain forms and procedures but do not give legal advice. All court records for family law cases must be viewed at the courthouse due to California privacy rules that restrict online access to family court documents.

Imperial Superior Court Family Division

Imperial County Superior Court is located at 939 W. Main Street in El Centro. This courthouse handles all family law matters for Imperial County. Court hours are typically Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The clerk's office may close for lunch between noon and 1:00 PM. Call (760) 482-4374 to verify current hours before visiting.

All family law filings go through the clerk's office. Bring your completed forms, copies, and filing fee. The clerk stamps your documents with a filed date and case number. You need copies for yourself and for serving the other party. Photo ID is required for most clerk services. The court accepts cash, checks, and money orders. Ask about credit card acceptance for fees.

The court website is at www.imperial.courts.ca.gov. The site has information about court locations, hours, and general procedures. Forms are available through the California Courts website. Self-help staff can guide you to the correct forms for your type of case.

Note: Hearings are scheduled by the court after you file and serve your case.

How to File a Case

Filing a family law case starts with getting the right forms. For divorce, you need form FL-100 and a summons plus other documents. Legal separation uses similar forms. Child custody modification cases require different paperwork. The court cannot tell you which forms to use but self-help staff can provide information about common case types and standard forms.

Fill out all forms completely and accurately. Make at least three copies of everything. One goes to the court, one to the other party through service, and one for your files. Take your originals and copies to the clerk's office. The filing fee is $435 for the first paper in a family law case. This covers your initial petition or response.

If you cannot pay the filing fee, submit a fee waiver application using form FW-001. Attach proof of income like pay stubs, benefit letters, or tax returns. Include a list of monthly expenses. The court reviews the application and grants waivers to people who meet income guidelines. A waiver covers court filing fees but not service costs or attorney fees.

After filing, you must serve the other party with all filed documents. Service means official delivery by someone other than you. Use a friend over 18, a process server, or the sheriff. Service must happen within 60 days of filing in most cases. The person who serves the papers must complete a proof of service form. File that form with the court. Your case cannot proceed until proof of service is on file.

Self-Help Services

Imperial County Superior Court provides self-help services for people representing themselves. Staff can answer questions about court procedures and explain what forms are needed. They review paperwork to check for common errors before you file. They cannot give legal advice, represent you in court, or tell you what to do in your case.

Self-help services include access to computers for typing forms, information about service requirements, and help calculating child support. Staff can explain what happens at different stages of your case. Services are available in English and Spanish. Call ahead to confirm hours and whether you need an appointment.

The court also provides information about legal aid organizations that serve Imperial County residents. Legal Services of Northern California and other groups offer free legal help to people who qualify based on income. Self-help staff can give you contact information for these programs.

Viewing Court Records

Family law case records are maintained at the Imperial County courthouse. California Rules of Court restrict remote access to most family law documents. You cannot view complete case files online. Basic case information may be available through the court's case index. For full access to documents, visit the clerk's office in person.

Bring the case number if you have it. The clerk can search by party names if you do not know the case number. Provide first and last names for both parties in the case. Some records are confidential and cannot be viewed without a court order. This includes adoption records, sealed documents, and certain juvenile court records.

Copies cost 50 cents per page. Certification adds $40 to the total cost. Certified copies are required when you need official proof of court orders or judgments. Request copies at the clerk's window. Pay when you pick up the copies. Large copy requests may take a day or two to prepare. You can return to pick them up or the court may mail them for an additional fee.

Legal Assistance for Low Income Residents

Several organizations provide free legal help to Imperial County residents who meet income requirements. Legal Aid Society of San Diego has an office that serves Imperial County. They handle family law cases involving domestic violence, child custody, and other urgent matters. Call 1-877-534-2524 for intake. Staff will ask about your income and legal issue.

California Rural Legal Assistance may also serve parts of Imperial County. Contact them to see if they can help with your family law matter. The State Bar of California operates a lawyer referral service at 1-866-442-2529. This service connects you with private attorneys for an initial consultation. The first meeting costs up to $50. Regular fees apply if you hire the attorney for ongoing representation.

The Family Justice Center in San Diego may provide resources for domestic violence victims in Imperial County. Call (866) 933-3522 for information about restraining orders, safety planning, and legal advocacy. Services are free and confidential. Advocates can help you complete forms and may accompany you to court hearings.

Nearby Counties

Residents near county borders should verify which county has jurisdiction based on where they live. Residency requirements apply for divorce filings.