Your Guide to the Gordon D. Schaber Courthouse

6 Oct, 14

• in Courthouse

When you have business at the main courthouse in Sacramento, you’re walking into a building named for a true local legend. Gordon D. Schaber was a respected community advocate and legal scholar who left a lasting mark on the city. Understanding the history behind the name can make the building feel a bit less intimidating, especially when you’re there under stressful circumstances. In this guide, we’ll not only share the story of the man but also provide the practical information you need for your visit, from parking and hours to what to expect inside the Gordon D. Schaber Courthouse.

Gordon D. Schaber Courthouse serves as the main location for hearings for Sacramento County. The courthouse was originally built in 1965. It received the current name in a ceremony in 2002. The courthouse is named after a community advocate, philanthropist and legal scholar. Gordon D. Schaber was also the dean of the McGeorge School of Law for over three decades. The renaming ceremony involved Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy who was a previous student of Gordon Schaber. The courthouse has an extensive staff that includes 40 judges and the office of the Presiding Judge. Tens of thousands of cases are heard in the courthouse every year. The courthouse handles everything from civil and juvenile cases to criminal cases.

Who Was Gordon D. Schaber?

When you visit the main courthouse in Sacramento, you’re walking into a building named for a true local legend. Gordon D. Schaber was a highly respected community advocate, philanthropist, and legal scholar who made a lasting mark on the city’s legal community. Born in North Dakota, he overcame childhood polio to build an incredible career before his passing in 1997. His dedication to law and education is the reason his name graces the courthouse, honoring a legacy of profound public service and commitment to justice in Sacramento. He wasn’t just a name on a building; he was a foundational figure who helped shape the legal landscape for generations of professionals in the region.

Career Milestones

Gordon Schaber’s career was filled with impressive achievements that began early on. In 1957, at just 29 years old, he became the youngest law school dean in the entire country, a testament to his sharp intellect and leadership. His expertise wasn’t just academic; he also served as a presiding judge for the Sacramento Superior Court. This firsthand judicial experience gave him a unique and practical perspective that he brought back to his role in legal education. This dual role allowed him to shape the minds of future lawyers and judges with real-world insights, bridging the gap between theory and practice in a way few educators could.

Impact on McGeorge School of Law

Perhaps Schaber’s most significant contribution was his work at the McGeorge School of Law, where he served as dean for over three decades. He took what was an unaccredited night school and meticulously transformed it into a respected institution that earned accreditation from the American Bar Association in 1968. This was a monumental achievement that put the school on the national map. Under his guidance, more than 160 of the school’s graduates went on to become judges. Even Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy, who taught at McGeorge for 23 years, considered Schaber a pivotal mentor and influence on his own distinguished career.

Planning Your Visit to the Courthouse

Going to court can be a stressful experience, but a little preparation can make the day much more manageable. Knowing the logistics ahead of time—like where to park, what to expect inside, and where to find essential services—helps you focus on the reason for your visit. At Jose Espinoza Bail Bonds, we understand how overwhelming the legal process can feel, especially when you’re supporting a loved one. That’s why we’ve gathered this practical information. We want to help you plan your trip to the Gordon D. Schaber Courthouse with confidence, so you can handle your business with one less thing to worry about.

Courthouse Location, Contact, and Hours

You’ll find the Gordon D. Schaber Courthouse located at 720 9th Street, Sacramento, CA 95814. If you need to call ahead with questions, the main phone number is 916-874-5522. The courthouse operates from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, but is closed on court holidays. It’s always a good idea to check the official court website for any unexpected closures or special hours before you go. Keep in mind that some services, like general civil settlement conferences, are handled in the nearby Hall of Justice Building at 813 6th Street, so double-check your paperwork for the correct location.

Parking and Transportation

Figuring out parking downtown can be a headache, so it’s wise to plan ahead. Metered street parking is available and accepts quarters, and you might find some free two-hour spots if you arrive early. For longer court appearances, your best bet is the public parking lot managed by the County of Sacramento. If you prefer to avoid driving altogether, the courthouse is easily accessible via public transit. The Sacramento Regional Transit system offers bus and light rail routes that stop nearby, and Amtrak is a great option for those coming from farther away. Giving yourself extra time for travel and parking can significantly reduce stress on the day of your visit.

On-Site Amenities

Once you’re inside and through security, the courthouse offers several amenities to make your visit a bit more comfortable, especially if you anticipate a long day. If you get hungry, there is a cafeteria on the 6th floor and vending machines on the 2nd floor for quick snacks and drinks. An ATM is conveniently located on the first floor if you need cash. For parents visiting with children under 12, a free, supervised Children’s Waiting Room is available in Room 211 with toys and play areas. Should you need to make copies, machines are located in Rooms 101 and 102, and U.S. Mail slots are near the elevators on each floor for mailing documents.

How to Access Court Records

The first floor of the Gordon D. Schaber Courthouse contains a number of records counters and storage areas. There are separate counters for civil and criminal records. It is possible to request different court records and documents at these counters. Civil records are kept within the courthouse for three years before being moved to an off-site storage center. Criminal cases are generally not stored in the courthouse. Requests for off-site records can take up to five days to fulfill.

Navigating Court Proceedings

If you or a loved one has a case in Sacramento County, you’ll likely be spending time at the Gordon D. Schaber Courthouse. This building is the central hub for most of the county’s legal matters, handling a wide variety of cases from general civil trials to felony and misdemeanor trials. It’s where tens of thousands of cases are processed each year, so it’s a busy place, but it’s set up to manage the flow. It’s important to know that certain cases, like small claims or unlawful detainer actions, are handled at different locations. Knowing this ahead of time can save you a trip. You can always check the Sacramento County Superior Court website to confirm details about your specific case and ensure you’re headed to the right place.

The courthouse is well-staffed with 40 judges and the Office of the Presiding Judge to keep proceedings moving. Beyond attending hearings, you can also take care of essential tasks here, such as filing documents, paying court fees, and reviewing case files directly on-site. This makes it a one-stop location for many of your court-related needs. Just be sure to plan your visit accordingly, as the courthouse operates from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on weekdays and is closed for all court holidays. Facing court dates can be stressful, but understanding the process and knowing where to go is the first step in feeling more prepared for what’s ahead.

What to Expect in Civil Court

The Gordon D. Schaber Courthouse handles a large number of civil cases every year. Civil cases involve disputes between average citizens about money, property, personal injuries or contracts. Civil cases can be filed on the first floor. There are also counters where people can ask questions about civil cases. The civil courtrooms are on the upper levels of the six-story building. Civil cases are divided into two types. Limited civil cases involve damages under $25,000. Unlimited civil cases involve damages above that amount. Criminal Court There are several criminal courtrooms in the Gordon D. Schaber Courthouse. Criminal cases involve illegal activities. The penalties are usually harsher than civil cases and could include prison time. Defendants accused of a crime are often held in a jail until the court date unless the bail amount set by a judge is paid. Bail bond agencies help defendants to post bail so that it is not necessary to wait in jail. Bail bond agents can come to the courthouse or the jail to pay the amount ordered by the judge. The money paid is largely returned once the criminal trial ends. Most criminal trials are heard before a jury of normal citizens. Jury Rooms The second floor of the Gordon D. Schaber Courthouse contains a jury room. Over 1,500 potential jurors come into these rooms every week. The system currently in place states that if a juror is not assigned to a trial by the end of the first day, then that juror is free to go home. Four out of five jurors go home after just one day of service. Waiting Room for Children A final area in the Gordon D. Schaber Courthouse is the waiting room for children. The room is a supervised part of the courthouse that contains toys, tables and play areas for kids. People coming to the court can leave children in this safe area while conducting business. The waiting room is for children under 12 years of age and is free for people who have legitimate business within the courthouse.

Criminal Cases

The courthouse is also where the county’s criminal cases are heard, covering everything from misdemeanor trials and DUIs to more serious felony arraignments. If you or a loved one is arrested, a judge will set a bail amount. This can be a stressful and confusing time, as failing to pay means waiting in jail until the court date. That’s where we come in. At Jose Espinoza Bail Bonds, we provide fast and affordable bail bond services to help secure a release from jail. Our goal is to get you or your family member back home quickly, so you can prepare for court from a place of comfort and support.

Jury Duty

If you receive a summons for jury duty, you’ll report to the jury room on the second floor. While it might seem like a hassle, the court has a surprisingly efficient system. Each week, about 1,500 potential jurors arrive, but the process is designed to respect your time. If you aren’t assigned to a trial by the end of your first day, your service is considered complete. This streamlined approach means that roughly four out of every five people called for jury duty are able to head home after just one day of service, minimizing disruption to their daily lives.

Special Programs and Public Services

Beyond its official proceedings, the Sacramento Superior Court provides several programs designed to support the community. For instance, the CARE Act Court offers assistance to individuals dealing with serious mental health challenges, connecting them with necessary support. If you’re having trouble with traffic fines, the Ability to Pay program can offer solutions. Additionally, for those representing themselves, the Civil Self-Help Services center is an invaluable resource, providing free legal information and guidance to help people understand their rights and the court process without needing to hire a lawyer. These services show a commitment to making justice more accessible for everyone in the county.

Court Leadership and Future Plans

Current Presiding Judge

The Sacramento County Superior Court is currently led by Presiding Judge Bunmi Awoniyi. Her appointment is a significant and historic moment for the community, as she is the first Black presiding judge to hold this office in the court’s history. Judge Awoniyi’s leadership represents a meaningful step forward for Sacramento, bringing a fresh perspective to the bench and inspiring confidence in the local justice system. Her role is crucial in overseeing the court’s administration and ensuring that it operates fairly and efficiently for all residents of the county.

A New Courthouse on the Horizon

After serving the community for six decades, the Gordon D. Schaber Courthouse is preparing for a major upgrade. Plans are underway for a new, state-of-the-art courthouse to be built in downtown Sacramento. This impressive $514 million project is designed to meet the growing needs of the county and provide a modern, efficient, and accessible facility for all court-related matters. The new building will replace the current one, ensuring that the Sacramento Superior Court can continue to deliver justice effectively for many more generations to come, equipped with the latest technology and resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the courthouse named after Gordon D. Schaber? Gordon D. Schaber was a major figure in Sacramento’s legal community. He was a respected judge and, most notably, the dean of the McGeorge School of Law for over 30 years. He transformed the school into a nationally recognized institution and mentored countless legal professionals, including a Supreme Court Justice. Naming the courthouse after him honors his incredible dedication to law and education in the city.

Are all Sacramento court cases handled at this building? While the Gordon D. Schaber Courthouse is the main hub for Sacramento County, it doesn’t handle every single case. It’s the primary location for most civil and criminal trials. However, certain proceedings like small claims or unlawful detainer cases are often heard at different locations. It’s always best to check your official court documents to confirm exactly where you need to go.

What are my options for parking if I have to be at court all day? Downtown parking can be tricky, so planning is key. While you might find some metered or two-hour street parking if you get there early, these spots aren’t ideal for longer court appearances. Your most reliable option is the public parking lot managed by the county. If you’d rather not drive, the courthouse is also well-served by Sacramento’s bus and light rail system.

My loved one has a criminal hearing here. How does bail work? When someone is arrested and has a criminal case at this courthouse, a judge will set a bail amount. Paying this amount allows them to be released from jail while they await their trial. This is where a bail bond company can help. We can post the bond on your behalf, which is a much more affordable option than paying the full bail amount yourself, to secure their release quickly.

I have to go to court but have no one to watch my children. What can I do? The courthouse provides a free, supervised Children’s Waiting Room for parents who have official business there. This service is available for children under 12 and offers a safe space with toys and play areas. Using this amenity allows you to focus on your court matters without the added stress of managing your kids in a formal setting.

Key Takeaways

• Prepare for your visit to reduce stress: Knowing the courthouse location, hours (8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.), and parking options ahead of time can make your day much more manageable.
• Understand the court’s role in the bail process: The Gordon D. Schaber Courthouse is where criminal cases are heard and bail is set, which is the critical step where a bail bond service can help secure a release from jail.
• Take advantage of on-site resources: The courthouse provides more than just courtrooms; you can access case records, find a cafeteria, and use the free, supervised Children’s Waiting Room to help manage your day.

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