San Mateo criminal records are official documents that show a person’s history with law enforcement and the courts in San Mateo County, California. These records include arrests, charges, court cases, convictions, and sentencing details. They are public information under California law and can be accessed by anyone who needs them. Whether you’re checking your own record, doing a background check, or researching a legal matter, knowing how to find and use these records is important. This page explains everything you need to know about San Mateo criminal records—where they come from, how to get them, what they contain, and how to use them properly.
What Are San Mateo Criminal Records?
San Mateo criminal records, often called “rap sheets,” are official reports that list all criminal activity involving a person within the county. These records are created and maintained by local law enforcement agencies, the Sheriff’s Office, police departments, and the Superior Court. Each record shows the date of arrest, the agency that made the arrest, the charges filed, court case numbers, and the final outcome—such as conviction, dismissal, or probation. The records cover felonies, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and infractions. They do not include juvenile records, which are sealed by law. All entries are based on real incidents and court decisions, making them reliable sources for legal and personal use.
Who Maintains San Mateo Criminal Records?
Three main agencies keep and update San Mateo criminal records: the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office, the local Police Departments, and the Superior Court. The Sheriff’s Office runs the Criminal Records Bureau, which handles fingerprinting, background checks, and certified copies of records. Police departments report arrests and charges to the central system. The Superior Court manages all court filings, hearings, and sentencing. Together, these agencies make sure the records are accurate and up to date. The system was upgraded in December 2021 to let users search by arrest date, case number, and case outcome. This makes it easier to find specific information quickly.
How to Search for San Mateo Criminal Records Online
The easiest way to search for San Mateo criminal records is through the county’s online portal. This system lets you look up records using a person’s name, date of birth, or case number. You can also search by arrest date or charge type. The database includes records from 1975 to today. Results show the arresting agency, charges, court docket number, and final sentence. The portal pulls data from the Sheriff’s Department, Police Department, and Superior Court to give a full picture. It is free to use and updated nightly. For best results, enter as much information as possible. If you don’t know the exact name or date, try different spellings or partial dates.
Types of Information in San Mateo Criminal Records
San Mateo criminal records contain several key pieces of information. Each entry includes the person’s full name and date of birth. It lists the date and location of the arrest. The record shows which law enforcement agency made the arrest—such as the Sheriff’s Office or a city police department. It also states the specific laws that were broken, using California penal code numbers. The court docket number is included so you can look up the case in court files. Finally, the record shows the outcome: whether the person was convicted, acquitted, placed on probation, or had charges dropped. Some records also include scanned copies of arrest reports or court judgments.
How to Request Certified Copies of Criminal Records
If you need an official copy of a San Mateo criminal record, you can request it from the Superior Court’s Records Division. Certified copies have a court seal and are legally valid for jobs, licenses, or legal cases. You can get same-day copies during business hours for a small fee. For larger requests, you must pay in advance and wait for processing. Copies can be picked up in person at the Records Counter in Redwood City, mailed to you, or sent electronically. To request by mail, send a signed form, a self-addressed stamped envelope, and payment to the Criminal Records Clerk at 400 County Center, 4th Floor, Redwood City, CA 94063. Mailed requests take up to ten business days.
Visiting the Records Counter in Person
You can visit the Records Counter at the Hall of Justice in Redwood City to get criminal records in person. The counter is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Only one person is allowed at the counter at a time to protect privacy. Bring a valid photo ID and fill out a request form. You will pay a fee based on the number of pages. Staff will help you find the right files and explain any unclear details. If you need certified copies, they can be stamped and given to you the same day. For urgent needs, call (650) 261-5200 before visiting.
Using the MIDX System to Find Court Cases
The MIDX (Master Index) system is a free online tool from the San Mateo County Superior Court. It lets you search for civil, criminal, family, probate, and small claims cases. You can find case numbers, party names, filing dates, and hearing schedules. Traffic tickets are also listed and can be paid online. The index updates every night, so you always see the latest info. To use MIDX, go to the court’s website and enter the person’s name or case number. Click on a result to view available documents, including PDFs of filings and judgments. This is the best way to track active or past court cases in San Mateo County.
Fingerprinting and Background Checks
The Criminal Records Bureau offers fingerprinting services for background checks. This is required for jobs, licenses, adoptions, and volunteer work. You can get fingerprinted at three locations: the Hall of Justice in Redwood City, Half Moon Bay, and Millbrae. Each location serves one person at a time. Appointments are not required, but lines can be long. Bring a valid ID and the form from the agency requesting the check. The fee is set by the state. After fingerprinting, the bureau sends the results to the California Department of Justice for processing. You will receive a report in 2–4 weeks.
Expungement and Clearing Your Record
If you have a criminal record in San Mateo County, you may be able to clear it through expungement. This removes convictions from public view and can help with jobs, housing, and licenses. Eligible crimes include most misdemeanors, some felonies, DUIs, and infractions. To start, get a copy of your record from the Criminal Clerk’s office on the 4th floor of the Hall of Justice. You must show ID, fill out a form, and pay a fee. A lawyer can help you file the petition with the court. If approved, the conviction is dismissed. Not all crimes qualify, and recent offenses may not be eligible. Check with the San Mateo Law Library or a legal aid group for help.
Public Access and Privacy Laws
San Mateo criminal records are public under California Government Code Section 6254. Anyone can view or request them. However, some details are limited to protect privacy. For example, juvenile records are not public. Also, only one person is allowed at a records counter at a time to prevent others from seeing your information. The online portal does not show full Social Security numbers or addresses. Certified copies are only given to the person named or their legal representative. These rules balance public access with personal privacy.
Fees and Payment Options
There are fees for getting copies of San Mateo criminal records. The cost depends on how many pages you need. For small requests, you pay at the counter with cash, check, or card. For mail requests, include a check or money order. Bulk orders require advance payment. The court will give you a date when the copies will be ready. Fees help cover the cost of printing, staff time, and record storage. Some low-income applicants may qualify for a fee waiver. Ask the Records Clerk for details.
Common Reasons People Search for Criminal Records
People look up San Mateo criminal records for many reasons. Employers use them for background checks before hiring. Landlords check them before renting apartments. Individuals review their own records to correct errors or prepare for job applications. Lawyers use them in legal cases. Researchers study crime trends. Schools and volunteer groups require them for safety. Knowing your rights and how to access these records helps you make informed decisions.
How to Correct Errors in Your Record
If you find a mistake in your San Mateo criminal record, you can ask for a correction. First, get a copy of the record to confirm the error. Then, contact the agency that created the entry—such as the Sheriff’s Office or the court. Provide proof that the information is wrong, like a court dismissal notice or a corrected police report. The agency will review your request and update the record if needed. This process can take several weeks. Keep copies of all documents for your files.
Traffic Violations and Criminal Records
Traffic violations are included in San Mateo criminal records if they are misdemeanors or felonies, such as DUI, reckless driving, or driving with a suspended license. Minor tickets like speeding are not part of the criminal record but may appear in court indexes. You can search for traffic cases using the MIDX system. If you pay a fine online, it will show as resolved. Unpaid tickets can lead to warrants, which appear in the criminal record database.
Active Warrants in San Mateo County
The Criminal Records Bureau can verify if there is an active warrant for your arrest. This is useful before applying for jobs or traveling. You can call or visit one of the three public counters to check. Bring your ID and full name. The staff will search the system and tell you if a warrant exists. If there is one, they will explain the next steps, such as turning yourself in or clearing the issue in court. Never ignore a warrant—it can lead to arrest at any time.
Electronic Delivery of Records
The Superior Court now offers electronic delivery of criminal records. After requesting copies, you can choose to receive them by email or through a secure online portal. This is faster than mail and reduces the risk of lost documents. You must provide a valid email and agree to the court’s terms. Electronic copies are just as valid as paper ones when certified. This option is great for people who need records quickly.
Records for Cases Before 2000
Cases filed before 2000 may not be in the electronic system. These older records are stored at the County Records Center. To access them, you must visit in person or request by mail. The process takes longer because staff must retrieve physical files. Some very old records may have been destroyed under retention rules. Contact the Records Management Division to check if a specific case is still available.
Vital Records vs. Criminal Records
San Mateo criminal records are different from vital records like birth, death, or marriage certificates. Vital records are kept by the County Recorder’s Office, not the court or sheriff. If you need a birth certificate, call 650-363-4500 or visit their website. Criminal records only show legal issues, not personal life events. Do not confuse the two—they are managed by separate agencies and used for different purposes.
How Long Are Criminal Records Kept?
San Mateo criminal records are kept indefinitely unless sealed or expunged. Arrests, charges, and convictions remain in the system forever unless a court orders removal. Even dismissed cases stay on file but are marked as “not guilty” or “dismissed.” This helps law enforcement and courts track patterns. Only expungement or a governor’s pardon can clear a record. Keep this in mind when applying for jobs or licenses.
Using Records for Employment Background Checks
Employers in California can ask for criminal records as part of a background check. They must follow state laws, such as giving you a copy of the report and a chance to respond. San Mateo records are often used for jobs in government, healthcare, education, and security. Some employers only look at convictions, not arrests. Others may reject applicants with certain crimes. Know your rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act and California’s Ban the Box law.
Legal Help and Resources
If you need help with San Mateo criminal records, several resources are available. The San Mateo Law Library offers free guides on expungement and record requests. The Public Defender’s Office can assist with legal questions. Nonprofits like Fresh Start Law Center provide low-cost expungement services. Always verify the credentials of any service before paying. Avoid companies that promise instant results—real record changes take time and court approval.
Contact Information for San Mateo Criminal Records
For questions about San Mateo criminal records, contact the Superior Court’s Records Division at (650) 261-5200. The office is located at 400 County Center, 4th Floor, Redwood City, CA 94063. Hours are Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Criminal Records Bureau can be reached through the Sheriff’s Office website or by visiting the Hall of Justice, Half Moon Bay, or Millbrae counters. For online searches, use the MIDX portal or the county’s criminal record lookup tool. Always have your ID and case details ready.
Frequently Asked Questions About San Mateo Criminal Records
Many people have questions about how to access, use, and correct San Mateo criminal records. Below are answers to the most common inquiries. These responses are based on official county policies, California law, and real user experiences. If you don’t find what you need, contact the Records Division directly.
Can I search for someone else’s criminal record in San Mateo County?
Yes, you can search for another person’s criminal record in San Mateo County because these records are public under California law. You do not need a reason or permission to look them up. Use the online portal or visit the Records Counter. Enter the person’s full name and date of birth for best results. The system will show arrests, charges, and court outcomes. However, you cannot get certified copies for someone else unless you are their legal representative. Bring proof of authorization, such as a power of attorney, to the counter. Juvenile records are not public and cannot be accessed by anyone except the minor’s parents or a court order.
How long does it take to get a criminal record by mail?
It takes up to ten business days to process a criminal record request sent by mail to the San Mateo Superior Court. The clerk’s office must locate the files, copy them, and mail them back. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope and payment with your request. If the record is old or hard to find, it may take longer. For faster service, visit in person or use the online portal. Same-day copies are available at the Records Counter during business hours. Always call (650) 261-5200 if you need urgent help.
Are dismissed cases included in San Mateo criminal records?
Yes, dismissed cases are included in San Mateo criminal records. Even if charges were dropped or you were found not guilty, the arrest and court filing remain in the system. The record will show the outcome as “dismissed” or “acquittal.” This helps show the full history of the case. Employers and landlords may still see the entry, but it should not count against you. If the dismissal was due to mistaken identity or false arrest, you can request a correction. Keep court documents that prove the dismissal for your records.
Can I get my criminal record removed through expungement?
You may be able to get your criminal record removed through expungement if you meet certain conditions. Most misdemeanors, some felonies, and DUIs qualify. You must have completed your sentence, including probation and fines. Recent convictions or serious crimes like sex offenses may not be eligible. To start, get a copy of your record from the Criminal Clerk’s office. Then file a petition with the court. A judge will review it and may hold a hearing. If approved, the conviction is dismissed and the record is sealed. This does not erase the record completely but removes it from public view. Legal help is recommended.
What should I do if I find an error in my criminal record?
If you find an error in your San Mateo criminal record, act quickly to fix it. First, get a copy of the record to confirm the mistake. Then contact the agency that created the entry—such as the Sheriff’s Office or the court. Provide proof that the information is wrong, like a court order or corrected police report. The agency will review your request and update the record if needed. This can take several weeks. Keep copies of all documents. If the error affects your job or housing, explain the situation to the employer or landlord and show them the correction request. Accurate records protect your rights.
Do traffic tickets appear in criminal records?
Only serious traffic violations appear in San Mateo criminal records. Minor tickets like speeding or parking are not part of the criminal record but may show in court indexes. Misdemeanor or felony traffic crimes—such as DUI, hit-and-run, or driving with a suspended license—are included. These will list the charge, court case number, and outcome. You can search for them using the MIDX system. Paying the fine online marks the case as resolved. Unpaid tickets can lead to warrants, which do appear in the criminal record database. Always check your record before applying for jobs or licenses.
Is fingerprinting required for all background checks in San Mateo County?
Fingerprinting is required for most official background checks in San Mateo County. This includes jobs in government, healthcare, education, and security. It is also needed for licenses, adoptions, and volunteer work with children. You can get fingerprinted at the Hall of Justice, Half Moon Bay, or Millbrae. Bring a valid ID and the form from the requesting agency. The fee is set by the state. Results go to the California Department of Justice for processing. You will receive a report in 2–4 weeks. Some private employers may accept name-based checks, but fingerprinting is more accurate and often required by law.