Who to Contact for an Update After Court

Check the jail's inmate search

After a hearing, the Sheriff's online inmate search often updates with new court dates, bail changes or release status. It's usually the fastest place to start.

Use the superior court's case search

Each county's superior court has an online case search or index for criminal cases. You can usually search by case number or defendant name to see hearing dates and basic outcomes. The court clerk's office can also confirm public information about a case.

Court clerks can tell you public facts, such as the next hearing date, but they can't give legal advice or explain strategy.

Contact the defense attorney

The defense attorney, whether a public defender or a private lawyer, knows the most about the case. Because of attorney-client privilege, they may only share details with the defendant's permission. See our guide on public defenders.

Victims and witnesses

If you're a victim or witness, the District Attorney's victim-witness assistance program in that county can give you case updates and support. These services are for victims, not for the defendant's family.

Before you go

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Rules differ by county and facility and can change, so always confirm with the official agency.