Florida Court Records

Florida Public Records /Florida Court Records

Are Court Records Public in Florida?

Yes, court records are public in Florida. According to the Florida Public Records Act, court records are considered public records and are available for public inspection and copying. This ensures transparency and accountability within the judicial system.

What Is Included in Court Records in Florida?

Florida court records contain a wide range of information related to legal proceedings. These records typically include:

Case information: This includes the case number, names of the parties involved, and the type of case (civil, criminal, or family).
Pleadings and motions: These are the legal documents filed by the parties involved, such as complaints, petitions, motions, and responses.
Court orders and judgments: These documents outline the decisions made by the court, including rulings, orders, and final judgments.
Dockets and calendars: These provide a chronological record of the court proceedings, including upcoming hearings, case events, and scheduled trials.
Exhibits and evidence: Court records may include exhibits and evidence presented during the trial or hearing.
Transcripts: In certain cases, transcripts of court proceedings may be available, which provide a verbatim record of the spoken testimony and arguments.

It's important to note that some sensitive information, such as Social Security numbers, financial account numbers, and certain personal identifying information, may be redacted or protected in accordance with privacy laws.

How To Get Court Records in Florida in 2024

To obtain court records in Florida, you have several options available. Here are the ways you can access court records in the state:

Online: Many Florida courts provide online access to court records through their official websites. You can search for court records by case number, party name, or other relevant details. Please note that not all courts may offer online access, and certain records may be restricted or require additional steps for retrieval.
Clerk of Court: You can visit the Clerk of Court's office in the county where the case was filed. The Clerk of Court maintains and provides access to court records for their respective jurisdictions. You can request court records in person or by mail, and fees may apply for copies or certified copies of documents.
Public Access Terminals: Some courthouses have public access terminals where you can search and view court records. These terminals are typically available during regular business hours and provide access to the court's electronic database.
Third-Party Services: There are also third-party services available that offer access to court records for a fee. These services may provide additional search options and convenience, but it's important to ensure their legitimacy and accuracy of the information provided.

When requesting court records, it's helpful to have relevant information such as the case number, names of the parties involved, and the approximate date of the proceedings. This will assist in locating the specific records you are seeking.

Remember, court records are public documents, and their availability may vary depending on the court and the nature of the case.

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Other Public Records Categories in Florida

Arrest Records Birth Records Criminal Records Death Records Divorce Records Driving Records Inmate Records Land Records Marriage Records Police Records Property Records Sex Offender Records Tax Records Vital Records Warrant Records