Law 101

Criminal Law

This topic includes information about criminal cases, expunging criminal records, and claims opposing forfeiture.  There are also numerous services available in the Sacramento area to assist victims of crime throughout the criminal case process.

Community Resources

Document review. Crime Victims
Victim/Witness Assistance Program (Sacramento DA) Victims’ Services Unit Victims of Crime Resource Center
Gavel and books Local Info
Sacramento County Sheriff’s Work Project Sacramento County District Attorney Sacramento County Public Defender

Forms

The Judicial Council creates a few of the forms needed for criminal matters. Sacramento County Superior Court also creates forms for use in this county specifically. For other situations, you may need to create your own forms. Our Legal Research Guides and Step-by-Steps have instructions and samples for some commonly-used forms.

Form Resources

Court Summons Judicial Council Forms Statewide forms that can be filled out online.
Sacramento Superior Court Sacramento County Court Forms

Research Guides

The Law Librarians have created these research guides as an aid for those starting a legal research project. These guides recommend print and electronic resources that will help you find answers to your law-related questions. Many guides provide step-by-step information, as well as sample forms, for common legal procedures.

Common Questions

The Law Librarians write articles on a variety of common legal issues.

Pamphlets

The Law Librarians created these pamphlets in response to frequently asked questions on subjects not appropriate for more substantive guides.

Videos

This video is a joint project of the Sacramento County Public Law Library and the Voluntary Legal Services Program.  Have your criminal record and blank forms ready before viewing the video.

Expungment video Expunging Criminal Records Explains how to ask the court to dismiss your convictions and expunge your record.
how to order rap sheet How to Order Your Rap Sheet