Court records are official documents that provide detailed information about legal proceedings handled by local courts. These records may include criminal charges, civil lawsuits, probate filings, and matters related to family law such as divorce or custody. Access to such documents helps users review case details, track legal outcomes, or gather information for personal reference. These tools are designed for lawful use by members of the public and should not be used for employment decisions, housing applications, or any eligibility-based assessments.
In Pinellas County, Florida, the Clerk of the Circuit Court maintains a broad range of court documents covering criminal, civil, traffic, family, and probate cases. The Pinellas County Court system offers users access to these records for various purposes. Whether you’re looking up your case, reviewing public legal information, or researching historical court activity, there are official lookup tools available that make the process accessible and easy to navigate. These resources are available online and can be used for general reference or educational purposes in line with applicable state and federal guidelines.
How to Search Court Records in Pinellas County
Searching court records in Pinellas County is a straightforward process thanks to the official online tools provided by the Pinellas County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller. These resources allow residents and interested parties to access public court records safely and conveniently from anywhere.
Step-by-Step Guide for Online Court Record Search
- Visit the Official Pinellas County Clerk of Court Website
Start by going to the official Clerk of Court portal at pinellasclerk.org. This site hosts secure and up-to-date databases of court records, case information, and other public documents. - Select the Court Records Search Tool
On the homepage, locate the section for “Online Services” or “Case Search.” Click on the appropriate link to access the court record lookup system. - Enter Required Search Information
To begin your search, you will need certain details, such as:- Case Number (if known) — This is the most precise way to locate a specific case.
- Party Name — You can search using the full or partial name of a person involved in the case (plaintiff, defendant, petitioner, or respondent).
- Date Range — Some searches allow you to filter cases by filing dates or hearing dates.
- Case Type — Filtering by criminal, civil, traffic, or family cases can narrow your results.
- Review and Access Records
After entering your criteria, the system will display matching cases. Click on individual case numbers or links to view detailed docket information, case status, hearing dates, and available documents.
Important Information and Tips
- Court records are public information; however, some sensitive details may be restricted by law or court order.
- The online system updates regularly but may not reflect real-time filings.
- Always verify the official status of cases through the Clerk of Court to ensure accuracy.
Types of Court Records Available Online
Accessing court records online has become easier and more convenient for individuals seeking information for personal reasons such as research, legal understanding, or verifying case statuses. Various types of court records are publicly available through official court websites and authorized portals, each serving different informational needs. Below, we outline the common categories of court records you can explore online.
Criminal Case Records
Criminal case records provide details about offenses charged against individuals within the criminal justice system. These records typically include case numbers, charges, court dates, verdicts, and sentencing information. Users can learn if someone has been involved in a criminal proceeding or verify the status of an ongoing case. Keep in mind, not all minor infractions appear as criminal records. For more information, visit our Inmate Lookup page.
Civil Lawsuits
Civil lawsuit records cover non-criminal disputes between parties, including contract issues, personal injury claims, and property disputes. These documents contain filings such as complaints, motions, court rulings, and final judgments. Reviewing civil case records helps users understand the nature of disputes and court outcomes. To explore further, see our detailed Civil Case Records guide.
Family Records (Divorce, Custody)
Family court records include sensitive matters such as divorce proceedings, child custody arrangements, and support orders. These records provide insights into the legal decisions affecting family relationships. Because of privacy concerns, some family court documents may have restricted access or require special permissions. For more on this topic, visit our Family Records Lookup section.
Probate & Wills
Probate records involve the legal process of validating wills and distributing a deceased person’s estate. These documents show information about estate administration, executors, and beneficiaries. Probate cases are public to ensure transparency but are often handled with care to protect personal data. Explore probate procedures and record availability on our Probate Records page.
Traffic Cases
Traffic case records document violations such as speeding tickets, DUIs, and other motor vehicle offenses handled in court. While many traffic infractions are resolved through fines without court intervention, serious violations result in formal cases and court records. For more details, refer to our Traffic Case Lookup.
Protective Orders
Protective or restraining order records detail court-issued orders designed to prevent harassment, abuse, or threats between individuals. These records include petitions, hearing results, and the terms of protection granted. Access to these records may be limited due to the sensitive nature of the cases. See our Protective Orders Information page for guidance.
What Information Is Included in a Court Record?
Court records provide essential information related to legal cases and proceedings. These records are publicly accessible documents maintained by the court system and typically contain a variety of details about the case, which can help individuals understand the progress and outcome of legal matters. Below is an overview of the key types of information you can expect to find in a typical court record:
Parties Involved
A court record will identify the main parties in a case. This usually includes the plaintiff (the person or entity bringing the case), the defendant (the person or entity responding to the case), and sometimes other involved parties such as witnesses or co-defendants. The record may also provide basic identifying information such as names and, occasionally, addresses or contact information.
Case Status
The current status or disposition of the case is often listed. This could indicate whether the case is active, pending, closed, dismissed, or resolved through settlement or judgment. Knowing the case status helps users track how far along a case is in the legal process.
Hearings & Judge Information
Court records include information about scheduled or past hearings and appearances. This section typically lists dates for hearings, motions, trials, or other court events. Additionally, the presiding judge’s name may be included to identify who is overseeing the case.
Filing Date and Charges (For Criminal Cases)
In criminal court records, the filing date indicates when charges were formally filed against a defendant. The record also lists specific charges or allegations, providing details about the nature of the offense(s). This information helps clarify the legal basis of the case.
Documents Filed
A court record often includes references to various documents submitted during the case. These can range from motions (requests made to the court), orders (decisions issued by the judge), pleadings, affidavits, and other legal paperwork. Access to these documents can give insight into the legal arguments and rulings throughout the case.
Public Access vs. Confidential Records
In Florida, public records laws provide broad access to many government documents, but certain records remain restricted to protect privacy and sensitive information. Understanding which records are publicly accessible and which are confidential is essential for anyone seeking court or legal records.
Which Records Are Restricted?
Not all records are open for public viewing. Florida restricts access to certain types of cases and records, including juvenile cases, sealed court files, and expunged records. Juvenile records, for example, are confidential to safeguard minors’ privacy and are generally accessible only to the individuals involved or their legal guardians. Sealed records are cases that a court has ordered to be kept confidential, typically because of privacy concerns or legal protections. Expunged records are those that have been officially erased or removed from public databases, meaning they should not appear in searches or reports.
Florida’s Public Records Law
Florida is known for its strong public records law, often called the “Sunshine Law,” which ensures transparency and public access to government documents. The law presumes that all records held by government agencies are open unless specifically exempted by statute. This includes court records, property records, and official filings. However, the law also carefully balances transparency with privacy, restricting access to certain records that involve sensitive personal information or protected classes.
Juvenile Cases, Sealed Cases, and Expungements
Juvenile court records in Florida are mostly confidential to protect youth involved in legal matters. Access is usually limited to the juvenile, their parents, and authorized legal representatives. Similarly, sealed cases are not available to the general public and require a court order to access. Expungements remove records from public view, effectively erasing the legal history related to certain offenses. These protections ensure that individuals have their privacy rights respected and can move forward without undue public exposure of past legal matters.
Court Locations & Jurisdiction in Pinellas County
Pinellas County is served by multiple courthouses, each playing a vital role in managing different types of legal cases and public records. Understanding the locations and jurisdiction of these courthouses can help you navigate court processes more efficiently.
Clearwater Courthouse
Located in the county seat of Clearwater, this courthouse primarily handles civil and criminal cases within its jurisdiction. It serves as the main hub for general trial court matters, including family law, probate, and juvenile cases. If you need to access records such as civil lawsuits, family court documents, or criminal case information, this is the primary location to visit.
St. Petersburg Courthouse
The courthouse in St. Petersburg manages a wide variety of cases, including traffic citations, misdemeanor offenses, and small claims. This location also processes many administrative functions related to court records and supports the public with access to court dockets and filings.
Other Locations and Specialized Courts
Pinellas County also hosts specialized courts and satellite locations for specific matters like probate, juvenile, and appellate cases. Each courthouse has defined jurisdiction, so it’s important to verify where your case or record is maintained.
For detailed contact information, including addresses, phone numbers, and office hours, visit the Pinellas County Clerk of Court contact page. The Clerk’s office provides official assistance with record requests, case searches, and court services.
Offline Methods: Requesting Records In Person or by Mail
If you prefer to obtain court records through offline methods, you have two primary options: requesting records by mail or visiting the Clerk of Court’s office in person. Both methods are straightforward but require following specific steps to ensure your request is processed efficiently.
Mailing Address for Clerk of Court
To request records by mail, send your written request to the Clerk of Court’s official mailing address. Be sure to include the full name of the person involved in the case, the case number (if available), the type of record you are seeking, and your contact information. This helps the office locate your records quickly and respond without unnecessary delays.
Example mailing address:
Always verify the current mailing address on the official court website or by calling the Clerk’s office to avoid sending your request to an outdated location.
Fees (Copies and Certification)
Most courts charge a nominal fee for providing copies of court records. Fees typically vary based on the number of pages and whether you request certified copies. Certified copies usually carry a higher fee since they include an official seal verifying authenticity.
- Standard copies: Usually charged per page (e.g., $0.50 to $1.00 per page).
- Certified copies: Additional fee applies (e.g., $5 to $10 per document).
Make sure to include a check or money order payable to the Clerk of Court for the exact fee amount. Some offices may also accept credit card payments if you contact them ahead.
Request Form Overview
Many Clerk of Court offices provide a standardized request form, either downloadable from their website or available at the office. This form helps you provide all necessary details in an organized manner, such as:
- Requestor’s full name and contact details
- Case number or party names
- Specific documents requested (e.g., judgment, docket entries, marriage license)
- Purpose of the request (for personal use only)
Filling out the request form accurately ensures your application is processed quickly and without confusion.
Walk-In Process
If you prefer to obtain records in person, you can visit the Clerk of Court’s office during business hours. Upon arrival:
- Check in at the front desk and specify the records you need.
- Complete any required forms provided by the staff.
- Pay applicable fees on-site.
- Wait for processing; some documents may be available immediately, while others may require retrieval time.
Visiting in person allows you to ask questions directly and clarify any concerns about the records you seek. Be sure to bring a valid ID and any relevant case information to facilitate the process.
Pinellas County Criminal Records Lookup
When searching for criminal records in Pinellas County, it’s important to understand the specific process and types of information available. This section will guide you through how to access criminal case records, clarify the differences between felony and misdemeanor records, and provide useful cross-links to related inmate information.
How to Search Criminal Case Records in Pinellas County
Pinellas County offers several official online portals and public resources to help you search criminal records conveniently and securely. You can typically start your search using the defendant’s name or case number via the Pinellas County Clerk of Court’s website. These records include details of charges, court proceedings, and case status.
It’s important to note that the search results you access are for personal use only. These records are publicly available, but commercial use, employment screening, or tenant screening based on this information is prohibited under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).
Felony vs. Misdemeanor Court Records
Criminal cases in Pinellas County are divided mainly into felonies and misdemeanors, and their records are managed accordingly. Felony records involve more serious offenses that can result in longer jail terms or state prison sentences. Misdemeanor records cover less severe crimes, usually punishable by shorter jail stays or fines.
Both types of records provide case details such as arrest information, charge descriptions, hearing dates, and case outcomes. However, felony records may require additional verification steps due to the nature and complexity of the offenses.
Jail Roster Cross-Link for Inmate Information
For those looking to connect court case data with current incarceration status, the Pinellas County Jail roster is an essential resource. This roster lists individuals currently held in the county jail, including booking details, charges, and bond status. Linking criminal records to jail rosters allows users to verify if a defendant is presently detained or has been released.
Inmate Release Information
Inmate release dates and custody status updates are often available through the county’s correctional facility websites or the sheriff’s office. These details help individuals keep track of when a person has been released, transferred, or remains in custody. Such information complements the criminal records search by providing real-time updates on a defendant’s incarceration status.
Case Number Lookup: How to Find or Use It
In Florida, every court case is assigned a unique case number that serves as an essential identifier for locating court records quickly and accurately. Understanding the structure of these case numbers and what to do if you lose them can significantly ease your search process.
Structure of Case Numbers in Florida
Florida case numbers typically follow a standardized format that includes the year the case was filed, the court code, the division, and a sequential number. For example, a case number might look like 2023-CF-001234, where “2023” indicates the filing year, “CF” refers to the criminal felony division, and “001234” is the unique sequence assigned to that case. Familiarity with these components helps in verifying and using the case number effectively when searching court databases.
What to Do If You Lost the Case Number
If you do not have the case number, don’t worry—there are alternative ways to locate the case information. The case number is a precise tool, but courts understand that sometimes this data is misplaced. You can contact the clerk of court’s office or use the online case search tools available on most Florida county court websites. Providing other details will assist the search.
Using Party Name or Date Range Instead
When the case number is unavailable, the most common method to find a case is by using the names of the involved parties (such as the plaintiff, defendant, or petitioner) and specifying a date range around when the case was likely filed or heard. This information can be entered into public court record search tools to generate a list of possible cases. Narrowing your search by dates or additional filters helps in quickly locating the correct record without the case number.
Third-Party vs Official Record Lookup Tools
When searching for public records such as court documents, criminal histories, or property information, users often face a choice between using official government websites—like the Clerk of Court’s online portal—and third-party paid background check services. Understanding the differences between these options can help you select the best tool for your needs.
Official Clerk’s Website
Official court or county clerk websites provide direct access to public records maintained by government agencies. These platforms typically offer free or low-cost searches of case files, dockets, and other documents. Because the data comes directly from the source, the information tends to be highly reliable and up to date. However, official portals may have limited search capabilities, less intuitive interfaces, or require users to navigate complex menus. Additionally, some records might be restricted or require in-person access due to privacy laws.
Third-Party Paid Background Check Tools
In contrast, paid background check services aggregate data from multiple public sources, including court records, criminal databases, and other official repositories, to deliver consolidated reports. These services often provide user-friendly search functions and additional features such as reverse phone lookups or identity verification. However, their data may sometimes lag behind official updates or omit certain records due to varying source availability. Also, third-party tools are designed strictly for personal use and cannot legally be used for employment, tenant screening, or other regulated purposes. Users should carefully review the terms of use to avoid prohibited applications.
Data Differences & Reliability
While official sites guarantee data accuracy by being the original record holders, third-party tools might vary in completeness and timeliness. For example, a recent court case may appear immediately on a clerk’s website but take days or weeks to reflect on a third-party platform. On the other hand, third-party services might combine multiple sources, sometimes making it easier to gather broad information in one place.
Common Issues While Searching & How to Fix Them
Encountering difficulties while searching public records is common, but most issues are easily resolved with a few adjustments. Below are the most frequent problems users face, along with practical solutions:
“No Record Found” Error
This is one of the most common frustrations. If your search returns “No record found,” don’t assume the record doesn’t exist. Instead:
- Double-check the jurisdiction or county.
- Make sure you’re searching the correct type of record (e.g., criminal, civil, marriage/divorce).
- Wait and retry later—some systems experience delays or downtime.
Important: Results depend on available public records and may not always reflect real-time updates.
Name Spelling Issues
Typos, name variations, or changed last names due to marriage/divorce can affect search accuracy. Try these fixes:
- Use common name variations (e.g., Jon vs. John, Smith-Jones vs. Smith).
- Check for misspellings or reversed first/last names.
- If possible, include middle initials or known aliases.
Using exact legal spelling is crucial when accessing records through government databases.
Using Partial Matches
Many users mistakenly believe that partial names or broad searches yield better results. In reality:
- Narrow and exact information often provides more accurate results.
- Use full names and filter by date of birth or location when available.
- Avoid using only a first or last name without filters—this can return hundreds of irrelevant entries.
Browser or Mobile Device Issues
Search functionality may vary depending on your browser or device. If records aren’t loading:
- Ensure your browser is updated and cookies are enabled.
- Switch from mobile to desktop for full feature access.
- Clear cache or try an alternate browser.
Court Case Status Terms
When exploring court records, understanding status labels like “Disposed,” “Active,” “Pending,” and “Reopened” is essential to interpreting the information accurately. These terms indicate where a case stands in the judicial process and can help clarify whether further legal actions are expected or if a matter has been resolved.
Common Status Terms in Court Records
- Disposed: This status means the case has officially ended. A judgment or resolution has been entered by the court, and no future hearings or proceedings are scheduled unless the case is brought back before the court for a new issue.
- Active: An active case is currently moving through the legal system. Hearings may be underway, motions filed, or proceedings in progress.
- Pending: A case labeled pending is awaiting the next step. This might include a court date, decision on a motion, or filing of additional information.
- Reopened: If a case is marked as reopened, it had previously been closed but has been brought back due to new filings, challenges to the outcome, or issues needing further review.
Where to Locate Case Status
You’ll typically find a case’s status in:
- The case overview section of court portals or dockets,
- Official court documents summarizing activity,
- Or within search tools that allow viewing public legal records.
This status information is part of publicly available data and serves as a reference point to better understand the timeline and procedural status of legal matters. However, it should never be used to determine someone’s character or qualifications, nor should it be misrepresented in any context.
What These Terms Mean in Practice
These status labels don’t determine who is right or wrong. For example, “Disposed” doesn’t explain whether a party was found liable or not—it simply means the court’s role in that case has ended, unless appealed or reopened.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Looking for answers about accessing court records in Pinellas County? Below are some of the most common questions individuals ask when searching for public documents, case details, or certified copies through official channels.
Is there a fee to access Pinellas County court records?
There may be a fee to obtain certain Pinellas County court records, especially if you request certified copies or printed documents. While many records are accessible online at no cost, some requests involve small administrative fees set by the Clerk’s Office. It’s best to verify the exact charges directly with the court before submitting a request.
Are Pinellas County court records public?
Most Pinellas County court records are public under Florida’s Sunshine Laws, which encourage transparency in government. Exceptions apply to sensitive cases such as juvenile or adoption matters, which are restricted for privacy reasons. Public records must only be used for lawful, personal purposes and not for restricted activities like employment screening.
Can I expunge or seal a Pinellas County case?
You may be able to seal or expunge a record in Pinellas County if you meet specific legal conditions, such as a dropped charge or acquittal. This process includes applying through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and submitting a petition to the court. If approved, the record becomes hidden from public view but may remain accessible to certain government entities.
How long are court records available in Pinellas County?
Retention depends on the type of case. Criminal records are often permanent, while civil or traffic cases may be kept for a limited time, such as seven to ten years. Older or archived records might not appear online and could require a manual request through the Clerk’s office or archives division.
Can I get certified copies of court records online?
Yes, certified copies of many court records can be ordered online via the Pinellas County Clerk of Court’s official portal. Secure payment and mailing options are typically offered. However, some records requiring physical seals or notarization might only be available via mail or in person.