Santa Clara County Superior Court – Hall of Justice

Table of Contents

Overview of the Santa Clara County Superior Court – Hall of Justice

The Santa Clara County Superior Court Hall of Justice, located in San Jose, California, serves as the main courthouse for Santa Clara County. This iconic building has been a crucial center of law and justice for the county since it first opened in 1936. Despite its name, the “Hall of Justice” houses civil, criminal, family, and probate matters. It handles some of the highest profile cases in the Bay Area.

History of the Hall of Justice Building

The Hall of Justice was constructed from 1934 to 1936 as a Public Works Administration project during the Great Depression. The elegant Spanish Colonial Revival style building was designed by architects John J. Donovan and wm. Henry Weeks. For its first three decades, the Hall of Justice stood as the sole courthouse for all of Santa Clara County. Additional court buildings were later constructed to supplement it.

Architectural Style and Design

The Hall of Justice building features the ornate detailing and terra cotta roof tiles characteristic of the Spanish Colonial Revival style. Its symmetrical facade includes central entrance pavilions, cast stone window surrounds, and a clock tower. Decorative elements like spiral columns and carved stonework embellish the building’s monumental presence. These design features evoke the courthouses of early California during Spanish rule.

Inside, the Hall of Justice displays detailed plaster reliefs, chandeliers, marble flooring, and hand-painted ceiling beams. The grand interior spaces suit the formal nature of courtroom proceedings. Visitors can view the beautiful century-old courtroom architecture firsthand by attending a public trial session.

Courtrooms and Facilities

The Hall of Justice contains over 30 courtrooms for criminal, civil, and family cases. There are full-size courtrooms as well as smaller hearing rooms. Courtroom layouts have changed over the decades, transitioning from circular bench arrangements to traditional opposing counsel tables. Modern audio-visual technology now augments the historic courtrooms.

In addition to courtrooms, the building houses clerk offices, jury assembly rooms, attorney conference rooms, sheriff’s offices, holding cells, and office space. The Law Library and Alternative Dispute Resolution department are also located here.

Appearing in the County of Santa Clara Hall of Justice

Stepping foot into the County of Santa Clara Hall of Justice can be an intimidating experience. The sheer magnitude of the legal system and the weight of your case can easily overwhelm even the most composed individuals. However, rest assured that you are not alone in this journey. The Nieves Law Firm, with its dedicated team of criminal defense lawyers, is here to guide and support you through this challenging process.

Our experienced attorneys understand the complexities of the legal system and the emotions that accompany facing criminal charges. We recognize that every case is unique, and we approach each one with unwavering commitment, aiming to provide the strongest defense possible for our clients.

So if you’re facing criminal charges in Santa Clara County, contact us today. Get the legal representation you deserve.

Security Screening

When you arrive at the County of Santa Clara Hall of Justice, you will undergo a security screening similar to security measures at an airport. Security screening includes walking through a metal detector and having your personal belongings, such as handbags and backpacks, x-rayed.

The following items are prohibited in the courthouse:

Knitting needles

Nail clippers
Scissors
Knives

Weapons of any kind
Items that could be used as a weapon

These items will be removed by the courthouse officers and sent to a security center. Any confiscated items will be returned to you once you exit the courthouse.

It is essential to follow these guidelines to ensure your courthouse appearance goes smoothly.

Hours of Operation

The operating hours for the County of Santa Clara Hall of Justice are Monday–Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

It’s beneficial to learn the operating hours of your case’s courthouse to prepare for your trial. This way, you can navigate the courts with confidence.

You can always call ahead, using the number below, to verify your court date and to check when the court is closed.

County of Santa Clara Hall of Justice Contact Information

Address:
190 West Hedding Street,
San Jose, CA 95110

Phone:
(408) 808-6600

Website: https://www.scscourt.org/general_info/contact/courthouses/hoj.shtml

Operations and Services at the Hall of Justice

In addition to courtrooms, the Hall of Justice provides a variety of services to assist people engaged in the legal process. These include resources for self-represented litigants, family law support, interpreters, and assistance for crime victims.

Types of Cases Heard

The Hall of Justice hears criminal cases only. This includes:

Felony cases – major crimes like robbery, assault, fraud
Misdemeanor cases – minor crimes like petty theft, DUI
Traffic cases – traffic violations and tickets

Civil cases like lawsuits and family law matters are heard at other Superior Court locations in Santa Clara County.

Criminal Cases at Hall of Justice

Overview of Criminal Cases

Criminal cases involve allegations that a person has committed a crime against society. The government, through the District Attorney’s office, prosecutes the case against the defendant. Punishments can include fines, probation, community service, and jail or prison time.

Felony Cases

Felony cases involve more serious crimes punishable by imprisonment in state prison. Some common felonies heard at the Hall of Justice include:

Robbery
Burglary
Assault with a deadly weapon

Domestic violence
Drug possession and sales
Fraud and identity theft

Misdemeanor Cases

Misdemeanors are less serious crimes punishable by up to 1 year in county jail. Some common misdemeanors include:

Petty theft

DUI
Simple assault and battery
Minor drug possession

Disturbing the peace

Misdemeanor cases move more quickly than felonies. Many misdemeanors are resolved through plea agreements resulting in probation, fines, or short jail sentences.

Traffic Cases

Traffic cases involve infractions and misdemeanor violations of the California Vehicle Code. Common traffic cases include:

Speeding
Running red lights and stop signs
Driving without a valid license or insurance

DUI
Reckless driving

Punishments include fines, traffic school, license suspension, and jail time for serious offenses. Ticket payments and traffic school registration can often be handled online.

Going to Court

Going to criminal court, especially for the first time, can be intimidating. Here are some tips for handling your case:

Knowing Your Rights

As a defendant, you have constitutional rights including the right to an attorney and to not incriminate yourself. You also have procedural rights involving obtaining police reports, evidence, and more. Learn your rights and options.

Getting Legal Help

Having a criminal defense attorney represent you is strongly recommended. The public defender may represent you if you cannot afford an attorney. Or, seek out legal aid organizations for help.

What to Expect in Court

The first court date is usually an arraignment to hear the charges against you. Later dates involve pretrial hearings, motions, and possibly a trial. Understand the court process and what to expect.

Courtroom Conduct and Etiquette

Act respectfully in court. Dress appropriately, be on time, turn off electronic devices, and stand when the judge enters. Listen carefully and speak only when addressed by the judge.

Self-Help Center

The Self-Help Center offers legal information and guidance for people without lawyers, including document preparation support. Services are offered in English and Spanish to assist with civil, probate, family, and housing cases. Appointments can be made online or by phone.

Accessing the Hall of Justice

Location and Parking

The Hall of Justice address is 191 N. First St., San Jose, CA 95113. It is located in downtown San Jose, close to the airport and major highways. Parking options include paid lots around the courthouse and metered street parking. Reserved disabled parking also available. Visitors should allow time to pass through security checks when entering.

How an Attorney Can Help at the County of Santa Clara Hall of Justice

An experienced attorney can provide valuable assistance when facing criminal charges at the County of Santa Clara Hall of Justice in San Jose, California.

Here are some ways an attorney can help:

Provide legal advice and guidance on the legal process
Represent you in court and advocate for your rights and interests
Communicate with the prosecutor and the court on your behalf

Prepare and file court documents
Help you navigate the criminal division and obtain necessary court documents or criminal record searches
Gather evidence and build a strong defense to support your case

Provide strategic advice and guidance throughout the legal process

Online Court Resources

The Santa Clara County Superior Court offers many online services and resources:

Searching Court Records

Court calendars, case indexes, and tentative rulings can be searched online by case number, party name, attorney, date, and other criteria.

Dockets, Calendars, Opinions

Case dockets, court calendars, schedules, and tentative rulings are available on the Superior Court website.

Forms

Many court forms can be downloaded and printed from the website. Interactive forms are also available.

Fine Payments

Pay traffic tickets, parking citations, and other fines online through the court’s website.

Self-Help Information

Get information on court procedures, legal research, filing cases, and more using the Superior Court self-help guides.

Legal Assistance

Free and low-cost legal help is available in Santa Clara County:

Legal Aid Organizations

Organizations like Bay Area Legal Aid provide free legal assistance in civil cases to low-income residents.

Lawyer Referral Services

Get referrals to screened, qualified lawyers through services like the Santa Clara County Lawyer Referral Service.

Limited Representation

Attorneys can provide limited services on specific issues in a case at a lower cost than full representation.

Public Defender

The Public Defender’s Office provides legal defense services in criminal cases free of charge to those who cannot afford a lawyer.

Notable Trials and Cases

Numerous high-profile cases have been heard within the Hall of Justice’s courtrooms over the past 80+ years. These include celebrity cases, Silicon Valley lawsuits, and infamous murder trials. Some examples are the 2004 Scott Peterson double murder trial, the 2012 Apple v. Samsung patent lawsuit, and 2020 rape trial of former Stanford swimmer Brock Turner.

The diversity and complexity of cases adjudicated at the Hall of Justice speak to the full breadth of legal issues faced in the region. From landmark tech IP disputes to vivid homicides that captivated the nation, the Hall of Justice has been the venue for impactful proceedings in Northern California’s history.

Conclusion

The Hall of Justice handles criminal cases like felonies, misdemeanors, and traffic violations in Santa Clara County.
Understand your rights and seek legal help if facing criminal charges.
Use online services for records, forms, fine payments and legal information.

Seek assistance from legal aid groups, lawyer referrals, limited scope representation or the public defender if you need an attorney.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main types of criminal cases heard at the Hall of Justice?

The Hall of Justice hears felony cases, misdemeanor cases, and traffic cases for Santa Clara County. Felonies are major crimes like robbery and assault. Misdemeanors are minor crimes like petty theft and DUI. Traffic cases involve infractions and violations of the Vehicle Code.

What should I do if I have been charged with a crime?

If charged with a crime, you should exercise your rights to remain silent and speak to an attorney. Strongly consider hiring a criminal defense lawyer or seeking assistance from legal aid organizations or the public defender’s office.

What online services does the Santa Clara County Superior Court offer?

Online services include searching court records and calendars, downloading forms, paying fines, and accessing self-help information. These resources can help you navigate the court process.

Where can I get affordable legal help for a criminal case?

Options for legal help include legal aid organizations like Bay Area Legal Aid, lawyer referral services through the Santa Clara County Bar Association, limited scope representation by private attorneys, or the public defender’s office if you qualify based on income.

What should I do to prepare for going to court?

To prepare for court, know your rights, seek legal help, understand court procedures, have required paperwork ready, and dress and act respectfully when appearing before the judge. Following courtroom etiquette is important.