This rule defines the scope of a juvenile case file for both living and deceased children and recognizes the applicability of other confidentiality laws.
(a) Definition of a juvenile case file
A juvenile case file is confidential and includes the records and information described in Welfare and Institutions Code section 827(e), as well as the following:
(1) All records and information filed in a juvenile court case or made available to the court;
(2) Reports to the court by probation officers, social workers of child welfare services programs, and CASA volunteers;
(3) Records and information made available to probation officers, social workers of child welfare services programs, and CASA volunteers in preparation of reports to the court;
(4) Records and information relating to a child within the jurisdiction of the juvenile court, whether or not a petition has been filed, that are maintained in the office files of probation officers, social workers of child welfare services programs, and CASA volunteers;
(5) Transcripts, records, or reports relating to matters prepared or released by the court, probation department, or child welfare services program; and
(6) Records and information, including but not limited to video or audio recordings, photographs, digital images and recordings, and exhibits admitted into evidence at juvenile court hearings.
(b) Other applicable law (§ 827(a)(3))
Under no circumstances may this rule, rule 5.552, rule 5.553, or any subdivision of these rules be interpreted to permit access to or release of a juvenile case file, or any portion thereof, that is protected under any other federal or state law, including Penal Code section 11165 et seq., except as provided in those laws, or to limit access to or release of a juvenile case file, or any portion thereof, permitted under any other federal or state law.
Rule 5.551 adopted effective January 1, 2026.