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How To Find Court Records In Florida

Finding court records in Florida is easier than ever with CourtCaseFinder. Our platform provides quick access to trial, county, and district court records from every county and city in the Sunshine State. Whether you are searching in Miami-Dade, Broward, Orange, or smaller jurisdictions, our database brings the information together in one convenient place.

For individuals exploring court records for the first time, these are official documents that capture filings, proceedings, and outcomes within Florida's court system. Depending on the type, records may cover civil cases, criminal matters, traffic violations, family law proceedings, and probate issues.

With our Instant Court Case Lookup, you save time by accessing court information without navigating multiple courthouse websites. These records help you understand legal disputes, verify case status, and stay informed about Florida's judicial activities.

How To Access Florida Public Court Records

CourtCaseFinder allows users to access records from all Florida counties and court levels in one centralized database, eliminating the hassle of visiting multiple websites. Still, Florida provides several official government channels for those who prefer to obtain records directly through the court system. Below are the most common methods available to the public:

In-Person Access at County Clerk of Court Offices

One of the most traditional ways to obtain Florida court records is by visiting a County Clerk of Court office in person. Each county clerk is the custodian of court records within its jurisdiction, maintaining files for civil, criminal, probate, traffic, and family law cases.

Most courthouses provide public access terminals where visitors can search for case information directly. Clerk staff can also assist in locating specific records if needed.

Refer to the Court Locations page to find out the address of your respective Florida court.

Online Portal Access

County Clerk of Court offices in Florida provide online portals that allow the public to search for court records without visiting the courthouse. These portals give quick access to case details, which vary depending on the county.

In addition, Florida's judicial system operates a statewide portal known as the Florida Appellate Case Information System (ACIS). This platform provides access to case documents and court dockets from the appellate courts, making it a helpful tool for tracking and reviewing high-level judicial activity across the state.

Mail Access

Another method for obtaining Florida court records is by submitting a written request through the mail to the appropriate County Clerk of Court office. When making a mail request, you typically need to provide:

  • The case number (if known)
  • Names of the parties involved
  • The type of record you are requesting
  • Your contact information for return correspondence

Most clerk offices charge fees for copies and certification. Processing times can vary depending on the county and the volume of requests.

Florida Court Records: What is Public and What is Not?

Florida's court records are generally accessible to the public under Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes, commonly known as the Sunshine Law. This law mandates that all state, county, and municipal records are open for personal inspection and copying, unless a specific exemption applies.

In addition, Florida Rule of Judicial Administration 2.420 states that the public shall have access to all judicial branch records, such as court files, dockets, transcripts, exhibits, and electronic or video recordings, unless the law provides otherwise.

Typically, you will find the following information in Florida public court records:

  • Case number, filing date, and case type
  • Names of parties and attorneys involved
  • Case status, scheduled hearings, and case progression
  • Docket entries and, when available, filed documents

Certain information is restricted by law or court order and is not publicly accessible. Specifically, Rule 2.420 outlines categories of sensitive court records that must remain confidential, including but not limited to:

  • Court-prepared materials like judicial drafts, conference notes, and internal memoranda
  • Automatically confidential categories such as Social Security numbers, bank accounts, medical records, and juvenile delinquency files
  • Other confidential filings, like documents sealed by court order and items disclosed as directed by a court ruling

Who Oversees the Courts in Florida?

Florida's unified court system is overseen by the Office of the State Courts Administrator (OSCA). Established in 1972, this agency operates under the direction of the Chief Justice of the Florida Supreme Court, with the State Courts Administrator appointed to manage its leadership and daily operations.

The current Chief Justice of the state is Carlos G. Muñiz. In addition to presiding over cases before the Supreme Court, he serves as the administrative head of the entire state judicial branch, providing oversight and strategic direction for Florida's courts.

The State Courts Administrator supports this role by carrying out various administrative duties. These responsibilities often include preparing the judicial branch's legislative budget requests, collecting and analyzing statewide court data, training and certifying court interpreters and mediators, and providing continuing education programs for judges and court personnel.

What Types of Courts Exist in Florida?

Florida's judicial system is structured as a unified court system. It is divided into several levels of courts, each with specific jurisdictions and responsibilities.

At the top sits the Florida Supreme Court, the state's single highest appellate authority. Below it are the six District Courts of Appeal (DCAs), which serve as the intermediate appellate courts.

At the trial level, Florida is divided into 20 judicial circuits, each with a Circuit Court that handles major civil and criminal matters. Finally, every county in the state has its own County Court, totaling 67 courts, which manage smaller disputes and less serious offenses.

To better understand how the system works, here is a breakdown of the main court types in Florida, along with their jurisdiction and the types of cases they commonly handle:

Court Type Jurisdiction Common Case Types

Florida Supreme Court

The highest appellate authority in Florida has mandatory jurisdiction over death penalty cases, constitutional questions, bond validations, and the regulation of the legal profession.

Death penalty appeals, constitutional challenges (e.g., voting rights), bond validation cases, and attorney discipline matters

District Courts of Appeal

Intermediate appellate jurisdiction; review final decisions of Circuit Courts (except those directly appealable to the Supreme Court) and some administrative actions.

Civil and criminal appeals from trial courts, workers' compensation appeals, and administrative agency disputes

Circuit Courts

General jurisdiction trial courts; authority over civil cases above $50,000, serious criminal offenses, probate matters, and appeals from County Courts.

Felony prosecutions, divorce and child custody disputes, probate/estate administration, lawsuits over large contracts or property, appeals from County Courts

County Courts

Limited jurisdiction trial courts have authority over minor civil disputes and less serious criminal offenses.

Misdemeanor cases, traffic offenses, small claims (up to $8,000), landlord-tenant disputes, and municipal ordinance violations

What Federal Courts Are In Florida?

Federal courts deal with cases involving federal statutes, constitutional issues, disputes between states or across state lines, bankruptcy, patents, and admiralty law. They are distinct from state courts, which only handle matters governed by Florida law.

Florida is served by three U.S. District Courts: the Northern District, Middle District, and Southern District. Each district covers a defined geographic region of the state and is paired with its own Bankruptcy Court, which exclusively handles bankruptcy cases under federal jurisdiction.

The table below provides an overview of these courts, their courthouse locations, and contact information:

Federal Court Jurisdiction Location & Contact Information

U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida

Handles federal cases in northern Florida counties

Gainesville(352) 380-2400, Pensacola (850) 435-8440, Tallahassee (850) 521-3501

U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida

Hears federal cases in central and west-central Florida.

Fort Myers (239) 461-2000, Jacksonville (904) 549-1900, Ocala (352) 369-4860, Orlando (407) 835-4200, Tampa (813) 301-5400

U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida

Oversees federal cases in southern Florida counties.

Miami (305) 523-5100, (305) 523-5100, or (305) 523-5100, Fort Lauderdale (954) 769-5400, West Palm Beach (561) 803-3400, Fort Pierce (772) 467-2300, Key West (305) 295-8100

U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Florida

Handles bankruptcy filings for northern Florida counties.

Tallahassee (850) 521-5001, Pensacola and Gainesville (866) 639-4615

U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida

Hears bankruptcy filings in central Florida.

Fort Myers (813) 301-5162, Jacksonville (904) 301-6490, Orlando (407) 237-8000, Tampa (813) 301-5162

U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Florida

Oversees federal bankruptcy filings in southern Florida.

Miami (305) 714-1800, Fort Lauderdale (954) 769-5700, West Palm Beach (561) 514-4100

If you have concerns about the decisions of the federal district and bankruptcy courts in Florida, you can direct your appeals to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit, although its central location is in Atlanta, Georgia.

How Many Cases Are Handled Annually in Florida Courts?

Florida's courts manage an immense volume of cases each year.

In the fiscal year 2023-2024, the Supreme Court received approximately 1,800 filings while the District Courts of Appeal handled around 18,000 new filings.

For the latest number of case dispositions of the Supreme Court, refer to the 2024 Annual Supreme Court Caseload Statistics. Meanwhile, you can utilize the Appellate Dashboard to see the number of dispositions of the District Courts of Appeal.

At the trial court level, circuit and county courts received about 3.6 million new filings. These filings cover a broad range of case types, including civil, criminal, probate, and family matters. To illustrate the scale of filings across common case categories, here is a detailed breakdown:

Case Type Approx. Annual Volume

Adult Criminal Cases (Circuit Level)

~153,000

Civil Cases (Circuit Level)

~147,000

Family Cases (including domestic relations, juvenile dependency, juvenile delinquency, and termination of parental rights)

~242,000

Probate Cases

~147,000

Adult Criminal Cases (County Level)

~503,000

Civil Cases (County Level)

~2,400,000

For additional Florida trial court statistics information, check this 2023-2024 Statistical Reference Guide.

How Do I File a Case in Florida Courts?

Starting a case in Florida requires understanding both the process and the available filing options. You must also prepare the correct forms, pay applicable filing fees, and serve the opposing party.

The step-by-step guide below can walk you through the filing process to allow your case to move smoothly through Florida courthouses:

Determine the Proper Court and Case Type

You must identify the correct court with jurisdiction over your matter if you want to file a case in Florida. As mentioned, the state's court system is comprised of county courts (which generally handle small claims, traffic cases, and minor civil and criminal matters) and circuit courts (which hear larger civil cases, felonies, family law, and probate matters).

Carefully choose the proper court to have your case accepted and avoid dismissals.

Fill Out the Required Forms

Once you've identified the correct court, the next step is to complete the necessary legal forms for your case. The forms you'll need depend on the type of case you are filing. Many standardized forms are available from local county clerk of court websites. If your case concerns family matters, you can access official forms at Family Law Forms.

File Your Case and Pay the Filing Fee

Upon filling out the necessary forms, file them with the appropriate court. In Florida, this can be done in person at the clerk of court's office, by mail, or electronically through the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal.

Note that when filing a case, you are required to pay a filing fee, which varies by case type. You can check for the latest fee with the clerk of the court where your case will be filed.

Receive Court Documents and Serve the Other Party

Once you file your case, the court will provide you with official documents such as a summons or other notices that must be delivered to the opposing party. These documents formally notify the other party of the lawsuit and outline their response time.

How Is the Florida Court System Unique?

Apart from its large number of judicial circuits and county courts, what truly sets the Florida court system apart is its unified structure. Unlike many states with more fragmented systems, Florida's courts operate under the direct supervision of the Supreme Court, with streamlined oversight provided by the Office of the State Courts Administrator (OSCA).

Another unique feature of the Florida court system is its problem-solving courts that address specific social and legal challenges. Among the specialty courts included in this program are drug courts, early childhood courts, mental health courts, and veterans courts, each designed to focus on rehabilitation, treatment, and long-term solutions rather than punishment.

Florida Courthouses, Sheriff's Offices, Police Departments, Jails, & Prisons

Where to Find Additional Information About Florida Courts?

FAQs

Where Should I File for a Divorce?

In Florida, divorce cases (dissolution of marriage) must be filed in the circuit court of the county where either spouse resides. The court handles matters like property division, custody, and support.

Which Court Handles Felony Criminal Charges?

Florida circuit courts handle felony criminal charges. These courts have jurisdiction over serious offenses such as murder, burglary, drug trafficking, and other major crimes.

What Court Should I File Charges in if I Am Being Evicted?

Eviction cases in Florida must be filed in the county court where the rental property is located. County courts have jurisdiction over landlord-tenant disputes and related civil matters. For filing details, you can inquire at the appropriate county court.

How To Sue Someone for Less Than $8,000, Which Court to Use?

If you want to sue for less than $8,000 in Florida, you should file your case in the county court, as they handle civil disputes involving small claims. Filing forms vary from county to county.

Can I Represent Myself in Courts Without an Attorney?

Yes, you may represent yourself (pro se) in Florida courts. While it's legally permitted, you'll be held to the same standards as an attorney and must follow all court rules and procedures independently.

What Happens if I Miss a Court Date?

Default judgment in civil cases or a bench warrant in criminal cases are just some possible consequences of missing a court date in Florida. In some instances, you might also have your case dismissed. To avoid these repercussions, inform the court if you cannot attend as soon as possible.

How Can I File an Appeal if I Disagree With a Court's Decision?

You may file an appeal with the appropriate appellate court if you disagree with a Florida court ruling. You usually have 30 days to file an appeal. Connect with the relevant appellate court or seek guidance from an appeals attorney to navigate the appeals process smoothly.

Are Court Proceedings Open to the Public?

Under the Florida Sunshine Law, state court proceedings are open to the public. However, certain cases, such as those involving juveniles or sensitive family matters, may be closed.

How Long Does It Typically Take for a Case To Be Resolved in the Trial Court?

There is no fixed timeframe for resolving cases in Florida trial courts, as it depends on the type and complexity of the case. Typically, small claims may conclude within a few months, while civil, family, or felony cases can take several months to a year.

How Can I File a Complaint Against a Judge or Court Staff?

In Florida, complaints against judges are handled by the Judicial Qualifications Commission (JQC). Refer to this Complaint Process to familiarize yourself with the filing process. If you have complaints about court staff, you can submit them to the clerk or the court administration of the respective county court.

Can I Access Court Hearings Remotely, and How?

Many Florida courts allow remote access to hearings through video or audio streaming platforms. Access depends on the county and case type. Check the local court's website for schedules and the access link.

Are There Specific Courts That Handle Environmental or Business Disputes?

Florida circuit courts generally handle complex civil matters, including business disputes and environmental issues. For guidance, consult your local circuit court's website.

Can I Access Court Records for Free?

You can access Florida court records for free using the online portals provided by county courts. Appellate court records are also available at no cost through the Florida Appellate Case Information System (ACIS). Note that fees may apply if you request certified copies of these records.

How Can I Search Florida Court Records by Name?

To search Florida court records by name, you can use the online portals provided by county courts for trial cases or the Appellate Case Information System (ACIS) for appellate cases. Enter the party's full or partial name to locate case details.

How Far Back Do Online Florida Public Court Records Go?

Online Florida court records have no set timeframe, as availability varies by county and court. If the record you are seeking has not been digitized, you may need to visit the courthouse in person to access physical files.

Are Civil and Criminal Case Records Accessed Through the Same Online System?

In Florida, civil and criminal case records are generally accessible through the same county clerk's online portal. For example, Miami-Dade County offers the Court Records Search, which houses both civil and criminal cases. Similarly, the ACIS portal covers all types of cases at the appellate level, including civil and criminal.

Is There a Way To Be Notified of Updates to a Court Case I'm Following?

Florida's ACIS portal offers a Case Alert feature that notifies users of updates on a specific appellate case. An account is required to use this service. For circuit or county court cases, check their respective website to see if a similar notification service is available.

Are Probate and Family Court Records (e.g., Divorce, Custody) Fully Public?

Probate and family court records, such as divorce and custody cases in Florida, are not fully public. Per the Florida Rule of Judicial Administration 2.420, sensitive information, such as Social Security numbers, financial data, or details involving minors, may be sealed or redacted.

Can I Request Redacted Copies of Court Records That Contain Sensitive Information?

Yes, you can request redacted copies of Florida court records containing sensitive information. Requests are typically submitted to the county clerk maintaining the record. The clerk reviews your request, applies the necessary redactions, and provides the copy.

Can I Request Bulk Access To Court Records or Data for Research Purposes?

Researchers or organizations may request bulk access to Florida court records for academic, statistical, or analytical purposes. Requests must be submitted in writing to the appropriate court, detailing the scope and intended use. Approval is subject to privacy rules and possible fees.

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