What is a case-document inventory?
A document inventory is a map of the record—not another folder. It names the records that may matter, shows which copies you can find, and exposes anything missing or unclear. It should never turn “I found a PDF” into “this was filed,” “this was delivered,” or “this is the current order.”
How do you identify missing divorce or family-court documents?
Start with court records: the case register available from your superior court, hearing notices, filed copies, and signed orders. Compare those with your own files and the papers received from the other side. A gap in your folder is a reason to find or verify a record; it does not prove that someone failed a legal requirement.
Why are the document statuses separate?
Can you trace this copy to the original or the person or court that issued it?
Is there a court-stamped copy or reliable court confirmation?
Which paper, method, date and proof report service?
Is it a request, draft, minute note or current signed order?
How should the files be organized after the inventory?
Keep unmodified original files private. Create clearly named working copies for notes or redaction. Use folders or views based on each record’s role—court filings, delivery of papers, financial disclosure, hearing material, evidence, and signed orders—then connect each working copy back to the original.
Separate originals, working copies, filed versions, proof of delivery and court outcomes.
Official sources
- California Courts: Find your superior court
- California Courts: Forms to start a divorce or separation
- California Courts: Financial disclosures
- California Courts: Request for Order overview
- California Courts: Submit documents for a family-law hearing
- California Courts: Free court-based self-help
Sources reviewed August 25, 2026. This guide is legal information, not legal advice. Check the court record and current official guidance for your case. Editorial standards.