Resources for Vietnamese Immigrants With Deportation Orders in Orange County, CA

Published March 17, 2025

Guide: Requesting Your Criminal Records

The new presidential administration has openly stated its intent to target immigrants, especially those with past criminal convictions. Even minor offenses can have serious immigration consequences.

That’s why it’s important to obtain records of your criminal convictions—they can help determine whether a conviction makes you eligible for deportation and whether you may qualify for post-conviction relief to prevent removal. Taking proactive steps now can help protect you and your loved ones.

Step-by-Step Summary to Requesting Your Criminal Records

1. Identify the Court Where You Were Convicted

  • You must request your court records from the court where your conviction occurred.
  • If you have convictions in multiple counties or courts, you’ll need to contact each court separately.

2. Find the Court’s Contact Information

Visit the court’s website or call the court clerk for specific instructions on how to request your records. Below are a few courts:

Superior Court of Orange County

  • Website: Visit the Superior Court website for instructions on Copy and Record Search Requests.
  • Court Clerk Phone Number:
    • 24/7 Automated Services available
    • Live Support: Monday – Friday, 8 AM – 4 PM
    • Call: (657) 622-8459

Superior Court of Los Angeles County

  • Website: Visit the Superior Court website for instructions on obtaining copies of court records.
  • Court Clerk Phone Number:
    • Self-Help Center: (213) 830-0845

California Department of Justice

  • How to Request Records:
    • To receive a copy of your criminal history record, follow the instructions on this page.

3. Provide Your Information

The court clerk can search for your records using your full name and date of birth.

4. Request Your Case File

  • Ask for a copy of the entire case file for each conviction.
  • If the case file is too large or expensive to obtain, request the following key documents instead:
    • The charging document (details the charges filed against you).
    • The disposition (shows what you were convicted of and your sentence).

5. Receive Your Records

  • A certified copy is not required—a regular copy is sufficient.
  • Follow any additional instructions from the court to obtain your documents.

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