Need to know

You must request Child and Family Well-Being Department records in writing. We process requests in the order we get them.  

We will let you know we got your request and if we can rush the process. We get many requests. It usually takes at least 90 days to get your records ready.  

When your records are ready, we will contact you. You can pick up your records in person or we can mail them to you for a fee.  

  

What to include    

  • Your first and last name  
  • Your mailing address  
  • Your telephone number   
  • If the records are for a child, the child’s first and last name and birthdate 
  • Your relationship to the child   
  • Why you want the records 
  • The information you need  
  • If you need the records for an upcoming Child Abuse Central Index (CACI) Grievance Hearing  
  • If you need the records for a Family or Probate Court hearing, include the Court date  
  • A copy of your driver’s license or other valid photo identification from the government  

Fees 

20 cents for the first page, 5 cents for each additional page.  

We will tell you how much you need to pay for your records.  

You must pay by check or money order. Make payable to: Health and Human Services Agency.   

You must pay before we give you the records.  

How to submit  

Submit your request by mail or email. 

Mail 

Health and Human Services Agency  
Child and Family Well-Being Department  
Attention: Legal Services Unit  
8965 Balboa Avenue, San Diego, CA 92123  

Email 

cwslegalservices.hhsa@sdcounty.ca.gov  

For attorneys  

If you are requesting records on behalf of a client, you must either:  

  • Submit an authorized representative form signed by the client.,   
    OR 
  • Attach a recent minute order specifying you are the attorney of record.   
Page last updated 05/18/2025