Running a Butte County Superior Court case search in 2026 is easier than most people think. The court’s online portal lets you look up civil, criminal, family, probate, and traffic cases from your phone or laptop in minutes.
This matters right now because Butte County recently upgraded its case management system. More records are searchable online than ever before.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to use the portal, what you can and can’t see for free, where the courthouses sit, and how much certified copies cost. You’ll also get the exact steps for name searches, case number lookups, and record requests.
Here’s a surprising stat: Butte County processes over 40,000 new case filings each year, and the online portal now covers more than 85% of them.
Butte County Superior Court Case Search
The Butte County Superior Court case search is a free online tool that lets anyone look up public court records filed in Butte County, California. You can access it through the court’s official portal at any time.
The system covers civil, criminal, family, probate, small claims, and traffic cases. Most records back to 2000 are indexed online.
You don’t need an account to perform basic searches. Simply enter a name, case number, or filing date to pull up a list of matching cases.
Quick Facts:
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free for basic online searches |
| Access | 24/7 online portal |
| Coverage | Civil, criminal, family, probate, traffic |
| Record Range | Most records from 2000 to 2026 |
| Login Required | No for public search |
Some sensitive records like juvenile cases, sealed files, and certain family matters are restricted. You won’t find those online no matter what you try.
For attorneys and parties on a case, deeper access is available through registered eCourt accounts. That gives you document viewing and filing options.
Butte County Court Case Lookup
A Butte County court case lookup takes about 30 seconds if you know what you’re searching for. The portal accepts partial names, full case numbers, and date ranges.
Start by picking the right case type on the search page. Mixing a civil search with criminal filters will slow things down.
The results page shows the case title, number, filing date, status, and next hearing. Click any case to see the full docket and party information.
What you’ll typically see in a case lookup:
- Case number and title
- All parties and their attorneys
- Full chronological docket
- Scheduled hearings and courtrooms
- Minute orders and judgment entries
If the case is older than 2000, you may need to request paper records from the clerk’s office. The online index gets thinner the further back you go.
Pro tip: write down the exact case number once you find it. That number opens every other door at the courthouse.
Butte County Case Portal 2026
The Butte County case portal in 2026 runs on an upgraded Journal Technologies platform that replaced the older system in late 2024. It’s faster, mobile-friendly, and includes new filtering tools.
The new portal lets you save searches, bookmark cases, and get email alerts when a case updates. That’s a real time-saver for attorneys and journalists tracking multiple matters.
Public users still get free name and case number searches. Document downloads carry a small per-page fee under California Government Code 68150.
2026 Portal Features:
| Feature | Public | Registered User |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Search | Yes | Yes |
| Docket View | Yes | Yes |
| Document Download | Paid | Paid |
| Case Alerts | No | Yes |
| eFiling | No | Yes |
The portal works best on Chrome, Edge, or Safari. Older browsers may freeze during peak hours between 9 AM and noon.
Key Takeaway: The 2026 Butte County portal is faster, mobile-ready, and gives free public access to most civil, criminal, and traffic cases.
Butte Superior Court Records Search
A Butte Superior Court records search covers both the online portal and in-person requests at the clerk’s window. The online option works for 90% of casual needs.
For older records, confidential files, or certified copies, you’ll need to visit the courthouse. The main branch sits in Oroville with a satellite in Chico.
Records fall into three buckets: fully public, limited access, and sealed. The portal flags each category clearly in the search results.
Records Access Breakdown:
- Public: Most civil, small claims, traffic, probate
- Limited: Family law, dependency, some juvenile
- Sealed: Adoptions, confidential marriages, expunged cases
If a case shows as “limited,” you may need to show ID or a court order to view the file. The clerk’s office handles those requests in person only.
Fees for certified copies run $40 per document plus $0.50 per page as of 2026. Payment is cash, card, or money order.
Search by Name Butte County Court
To search by name in Butte County Court, type the last name first, then the first name, into the portal’s name field. Partial names work but return more results.
The system is case-insensitive, so capitalization doesn’t matter. Common names like “Smith” or “Garcia” will pull hundreds of hits, so add a middle initial or date range to narrow things.
If the person uses multiple names or has a legal name change, run searches on each. The portal doesn’t automatically link aliases.
Tips for faster name searches:
- Use last name only if spelling is uncertain
- Add approximate filing year to narrow results
- Try middle initial if you get too many matches
- Check both the civil and criminal indexes separately
The portal shows birth year for criminal cases to help distinguish people with identical names. Civil cases usually don’t include that detail.
For businesses, enter the full business name without “Inc.” or “LLC” first. The system sometimes stores those abbreviations differently.
Search by Case Number Butte County
A case number search in Butte County is the fastest way to pull up a specific file. Case numbers follow a strict format based on year and case type.
The format looks like this: 24CV00123 means a civil case filed in 2024, number 123. Criminal cases use “CM” or “CF,” family uses “FL,” and traffic uses “TR.”
Type the number exactly as printed, including any leading zeros. The portal won’t guess if you leave digits off.
Butte County Case Number Format:
| Prefix | Case Type | Example |
|---|---|---|
| CV | Civil | 25CV00456 |
| CM | Misdemeanor | 25CM00789 |
| CF | Felony | 25CF00234 |
| FL | Family Law | 25FL00111 |
| TR | Traffic | 25TR00999 |
| PR | Probate | 25PR00067 |
If you only have an older case number from before 2010, the format may differ. Call the clerk’s office to confirm the correct lookup method.
Key Takeaway: Case number searches are faster and more accurate than name searches when you have the exact number handy.
Butte County Court Online Records
Butte County court online records are available 24/7 through the court’s web portal with no account required for basic viewing. Document downloads do cost per page.
The online system went live in its current form in late 2024 and has been expanded through 2026. More historical records get digitized every quarter.
You can view the docket, hearing schedule, parties, and minute orders for free. PDF copies of filed documents require payment under state law.
What you can see for free online:
- Case title and number
- Party names and attorneys
- Full docket with filing dates
- Upcoming hearing dates and courtrooms
- Case status and disposition
What you can’t see online: sealed records, juvenile dependency cases, adoption files, and some family law filings. Those require in-person requests with proper identification.
If a document was filed before full digitization, the docket entry will still appear but no PDF will be attached. You’d need to order the paper file from storage.
Butte County Criminal Case Search
A Butte County criminal case search pulls up misdemeanors, felonies, and infractions filed in county court. Both pending and closed cases show up.
Use the criminal case type filter and enter the defendant’s name. Birth year helps narrow results when common names appear.
Criminal records in California remain public unless sealed or expunged under Penal Code sections 851.8 or 1203.4. The portal automatically removes sealed cases from search results.
Criminal Case Search Details:
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free online search |
| Shows | Charges, pleas, sentences, hearings |
| Hidden | Sealed, expunged, juvenile |
| Oldest Records | Typically back to 1990s online |
For background check purposes, remember the online portal isn’t a certified criminal record. Employers and licensing boards usually require a certified copy from the clerk.
Warrant information sometimes shows on the docket but isn’t a replacement for a sheriff’s warrant check. Call the Butte County Sheriff for active warrant verification.
Butte County Civil Case Lookup
A Butte County civil case lookup covers lawsuits, contract disputes, personal injury claims, small claims, and unlimited civil matters. All are public unless specifically sealed.
Civil cases use the “CV” prefix for unlimited matters over $35,000. Limited civil cases under $35,000 use “CL,” and small claims use “SC.”
The portal shows the complaint date, parties, attorneys, and all motions filed. You can track case progress from filing through judgment.
Common civil case types in Butte County:
- Personal injury and auto accidents
- Breach of contract disputes
- Landlord-tenant unlawful detainer
- Small claims under $12,500
- Business and partnership disputes
- Debt collection cases
Judgments and liens show in the docket but recorded liens also appear through the Butte County Recorder’s office. Those are two separate searches.
Key Takeaway: Civil, criminal, and family searches each use different filters, so pick the right case type before you start searching.
Butte County Family Court Records
Butte County family court records have the strictest privacy limits of any civil case type. Basic case information is public, but filings often aren’t.
Divorce cases use the “FL” prefix. You can see the case was filed, parties involved, and major orders issued, but financial declarations and custody evaluations stay private.
Only parties to the case, their attorneys, or court-ordered persons can view the full file. The clerk’s office verifies identity before releasing restricted documents.
What’s public vs. private in family law:
| Public | Restricted |
|---|---|
| Case filed date | Financial statements |
| Party names | Custody evaluations |
| Hearing dates | Child welfare reports |
| Judgment of dissolution | Mediation notes |
Domestic violence restraining orders are usually searchable in a separate index. The portal flags active and expired orders clearly.
Child support cases through the Department of Child Support Services have their own case numbers and limited public access. Those run parallel to family court filings.
Butte County Traffic Ticket Search
A Butte County traffic ticket search lets you look up your citation, see the fine amount, and check your court date in under a minute. Use the “TR” case type or the citation number.
The portal shows the violation code, officer, court date, bail amount, and payment status. You can also sign up for traffic school eligibility if listed.
Pay fines online, by mail, or in person. Online payment includes a small processing fee but saves a trip to Oroville.
Traffic case info available:
- Citation and case number
- Vehicle code violation
- Fine and total bail amount
- Scheduled court date
- Traffic school eligibility
- Payment status and receipts
Red light camera tickets and parking citations may route through different systems. Confirm with the issuing agency before searching the court portal.
If you missed your court date, the system will show a failure to appear and possible added fees. Contact the clerk immediately to avoid a license hold.
Butte County Superior Court Oroville
The Butte County Superior Court main courthouse sits in Oroville at the North Butte County Courthouse location. This is where most civil, criminal, probate, and family cases are heard.
Address: 1775 Concord Avenue, Chico, CA 95928 for the Chico branch, and One Court Street, Oroville, CA 95965 for the main Oroville courthouse.
The Oroville courthouse handles the bulk of criminal arraignments, felony trials, and family law matters. Chico handles civil and some traffic cases.
Court Hours and Contact:
| Location | Address | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Oroville Main | One Court St, Oroville | Mon-Fri 8 AM to 4 PM |
| Chico Branch | 1775 Concord Ave, Chico | Mon-Fri 8 AM to 4 PM |
Parking is free at both locations. Security screening is required before entering, so arrive 15 minutes early.
Remote hearings became permanent for many civil and family matters after 2022. Check your case docket for Zoom links before showing up in person.
Key Takeaway: The Oroville courthouse is the main hub, while Chico handles overflow civil and traffic matters.
Butte County Court Locations and Divisions
Butte County Superior Court operates two main locations split between Oroville and Chico, each handling different case divisions. Picking the right courthouse saves hours of wasted driving.
Oroville houses the main criminal, family, and probate divisions. Chico covers civil, small claims, and most traffic matters.
Each courthouse has its own clerk’s office, self-help center, and payment window. Hours are consistent across both locations.
Division breakdown by location:
- Oroville: Criminal felony/misdemeanor, Family law, Probate, Juvenile, Appeals
- Chico: Civil unlimited and limited, Small claims, Traffic, Unlawful detainer
Self-help centers at both courthouses offer free assistance for people without attorneys. They help with forms for divorce, small claims, and restraining orders.
If you’re unsure where your case is heard, the portal lists the assigned courthouse and department on every docket. Don’t guess, check first.
The court also runs occasional remote outreach services in Paradise and Gridley for people impacted by past wildfires. Call for schedules.
Butte County Court Case Search Fees
Butte County court case search fees are zero for online portal searches but apply for document copies and certified records. California sets most fees by statute.
Basic viewing of case information, dockets, and party lists is always free. You only pay when you want copies of actual filed documents.
2026 Fee Schedule:
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Online case search | Free |
| Document download (per page) | $0.50 |
| Certified copy (first page) | $40 |
| Each additional certified page | $0.50 |
| Record search by clerk | $15 per name per year |
| Exemplified copy | $50 |
Fee waivers are available for low-income users under California Rules of Court Rule 3.52. File form FW-001 at the clerk’s office to apply.
Court transcripts prepared by court reporters cost extra. Rates vary based on turnaround time but typically run $1.00 per page for standard delivery.
Credit cards carry a small processing fee. Cash and money orders avoid that charge entirely.
Butte County Court Records Request Process
The Butte County court records request process starts online or at the clerk’s window with a completed records request form. Simple requests take days, complex ones can take weeks.
For common cases filed after 2000, you can order copies directly through the portal. The clerk emails or mails the documents after payment.
Older records stored off-site require a written request and longer wait time. Expect 10 to 15 business days for archived files.
Steps to request records:
- Find the exact case number
- Complete a records request form or use the online portal
- Pay fees upfront by card, cash, or money order
- Specify delivery method (pickup, mail, email)
- Wait for processing confirmation
Certified copies require an additional step and signature from the clerk. These are what courts, agencies, and employers typically require for official purposes.
If you need rush service, call the clerk’s office first. Some requests can be expedited for an added fee.
Key Takeaway: Online searches are free, but document copies and certified records cost money and may take days to process.
Butte County Court Clerk Contact Information
The Butte County Court Clerk’s Office can be reached by phone, email, or in person during business hours Monday through Friday. Response times vary by season and request volume.
Main phone: (530) 532-7002 for Oroville operations. The Chico branch has its own direct line listed on the court’s official site.
The clerk handles filings, records requests, fee payments, and general case questions. They cannot give legal advice but can explain procedures.
Clerk’s Office Contacts:
| Service | Contact Method |
|---|---|
| General inquiries | (530) 532-7002 |
| Records requests | Online portal or in person |
| Fee waivers | File form FW-001 at clerk window |
| Self-help center | Oroville and Chico, in person |
| eFiling support | Through Journal Technologies help desk |
Email responses typically take 2 to 3 business days. For urgent matters like hearing conflicts or filing deadlines, call directly.
The clerk’s office closes for all state holidays. Check the court website for the 2026 holiday calendar before planning a visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I search Butte County Superior Court cases online?
Visit the Butte County Superior Court portal and enter a name or case number.
Searches are free and no account is required for basic lookups.
Results appear within seconds for most civil, criminal, and traffic cases.
Is there a fee to search Butte County court records?
Online searches are completely free in 2026.
Document copies cost $0.50 per page, and certified copies run $40 per document.
Fee waivers are available for qualifying low-income users.
Can I look up a criminal case in Butte County for free?
Yes, criminal case lookups are free through the online portal.
You can see charges, hearing dates, and dispositions at no cost.
Sealed or expunged cases will not appear in search results.
Where is the Butte County Superior Court located?
The main courthouse is at One Court Street in Oroville, California.
A secondary branch sits at 1775 Concord Avenue in Chico.
Both locations are open Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 4 PM.
How do I request certified court records in Butte County?
Submit a records request through the online portal or at the clerk’s window.
The fee is $40 for the first page and $0.50 per additional page.
Processing typically takes 10 to 15 business days for archived files.
What To Do Next
Your next move depends on what you need. For a quick case check, head to the Butte County portal and run a free name or case number search right now.
If you need certified copies or help with a complex request, call the clerk’s office or plan a trip to Oroville or Chico. Bring ID and expect to pay fees upfront.
Bookmark the portal and set alerts if you’re tracking an active case. It’s the simplest way to stay ahead of hearings and new filings.
