Q: I was a party of a case when I was a child. Can I get access or copies to this case?
I see a therapist weekly, I am in the process of healing from my trauma that my parents and brother caused. I have flashbacks and I’m searching for the truth regarding an incident and what really happened, I do not trust my mothers story of events in what happened, and I was too young to remember but like I said I have flashbacks. My mom says, she dropped off pics to get developed after we had a trip to Disneyland. The place developing photos contacted the police after seeing photos that concerned them. My mom said we my brother and I were naked in the photos and some photos had our head cropped out, she said it was my brother and I who took the photos, but I don’t believe this. I ended up having to be checked for SA with a doctor. My parents weren’t charged w/ anything but I remember how afraid my mom was of cops as a child, how if one pulled behind her to get gas she thought they were there to get her. Something just doesn’t feel right about her story, and my mom lies constantly
A:
In California, you have the right to request access to court records, including cases in which you were involved as a child. However, access to records in cases involving minors, especially those concerning sensitive matters like potential abuse, may be restricted to protect the privacy of the individuals involved.
To obtain these records, you would typically file a request with the court where the case was heard. You may need to provide specific information about the case, such as the case number, the names of the parties involved, and the date of the proceedings. The court will then determine whether you are eligible to access these records based on your relationship to the case and the nature of the information you are seeking.
If the records are sealed, which is common in cases involving minors and sensitive issues, you may need to petition the court to unseal them. This often requires demonstrating a compelling reason for accessing the records.
Given the complexity of accessing court records, especially in sensitive cases, it might be beneficial to consult with an attorney. They can help you navigate the legal process and provide advice on the best approach to access the information you seek. Remember, understanding your past can be a crucial step in the healing process, and seeking professional guidance can facilitate this journey.
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