Duval County Court Records Search
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Duval County occupies most of the consolidated City of Jacksonville in northeast Florida and is part of the Fourth Judicial Circuit, which also serves Clay and Nassau counties. The Circuit Court and County Court hear all trial-level matters, from felonies and major civil disputes to misdemeanor offenses, family law proceedings, probate, and small claims. The Duval County Clerk of Courts (currently Jody Phillips) is the constitutionally designated custodian of all court records in the county, responsible for filing, preserving, and providing public access to documents generated throughout the life of a case.
Florida residents and researchers looking for Duval County case information can search through the Clerk’s electronic records portal, visit public-access terminals at the courthouse, or submit written requests. Official clerk offices and online databases maintained by the courts remain the most reliable channels. Statewide tools—including the resource at FloridaStateCourts.us—can also assist users in identifying publicly available case data across Florida counties, including Duval. The guidance below covers each major record category, explains where to find it, what it costs, and how to obtain it.
How to Look Up a Court Case in Duval County?
Duval County provides several pathways for locating court case records, whether you need to check a docket, verify a judgment, or obtain certified copies of filed documents.
Online Case Search — CORE
The Clerk’s primary electronic system is CORE (Clerk Online Resource ePortal), which provides internet access to court case records across all divisions. CORE offers two tiers of access:
- Public Access (no account required): View non-confidential records in non-confidential case types. Users can search by case number, party name, or citation number. However, public-access users cannot request documents that have not already been reviewed and published to CORE, and they cannot view records in cases governed by the Florida Rules of Family Law or the Florida Probate Rules.
- Registered Users (free account): Registered users gain the ability to request that specific documents be reviewed and published to CORE. Once a Clerk employee reviews and redacts a document as needed, the requestor receives an email notification. Registered users can also view non-confidential records in family law and probate cases at no charge.
To register, complete the Registration Agreement to View Records Online and return it to the Clerk’s Office following the instructions on the form. The Security Matrix contained in AOSC24-65 governs what each user role can access.
Official Records Search
For recorded documents—such as final judgments, deeds, liens, mortgages, and marriage licenses—the Clerk maintains a separate Official Records Search portal. Users can search by party name (grantor/grantee), document type, recording date, or instrument number. Uncertified copies are viewable online at no charge.
In-Person Access
Walk-in visitors can search records and request copies at either Clerk office location during business hours (Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., excluding holidays):
| Location | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Duval County Courthouse (Downtown) | 501 West Adams Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 | (904) 255-2000 |
| Beaches Branch | 1543 Atlantic Boulevard, Neptune Beach, FL 32266 | (904) 255-2000 |
The Beaches Branch handles most case types but does not accept new circuit civil filings or certain family law case types (adoptions, child support, custody, and emergency pick-up).
By Mail
Mail requests should be sent to the appropriate Clerk department at 501 West Adams Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202. Include the case number or party names, the specific documents requested, and payment. Accepted payment methods by mail include money orders and cashier’s checks payable to the Duval Clerk of Court. Personal checks are not accepted.
Copy and Certification Fees
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Copies per page | $1.00 |
| Certification per document | $2.00 |
| Exemplification | $7.00 |
| Records search per year | $2.00 |
| eCertified copy ordered online (via CORE) | $2.00 certification + $6.00 processing fee |
eCertified documents purchased online are available for immediate download, include a unique electronic stamp and seal, and can be printed unlimited times within 30 days. A 3.5% nonrefundable service fee applies to all credit/debit card transactions.
Are Court Records Public in Duval County?
Florida’s constitution and the Sunshine Law (Florida Statute § 119.01) establish a broad right of public access to records created or maintained by government agencies, including court documents. Florida Rule of Judicial Administration 2.420 governs public access to judicial branch records specifically, and the Standards for Access Matrix adopted by the Florida Supreme Court regulates which records are available through remote electronic access.
Publicly Accessible Records
Most court filings in Duval County are open to public inspection, including complaints, answers, motions, court orders, judgments, docket entries, and dispositions. Case docket information is freely searchable through CORE without charge.
Confidential and Restricted Records
Rule 2.420 enumerates categories of information that are automatically confidential in court records. Key restricted categories include:
- Juvenile dependency and delinquency records
- Adoption case files
- Sealed and expunged criminal records
- Records containing health or mental health treatment information
- Social Security numbers, bank account numbers, and financial identifiers
- Trial and appellate court drafts, notes, and internal memoranda not filed as part of the court record
- Allegations of judicial misconduct until probable cause is established
- Records deemed confidential by court order or specific statute
Redaction and Confidentiality Procedures
Under Florida Rule of Judicial Administration 2.425, filers are required to submit a Notice of Confidential Information form alongside any document containing confidential data. The Clerk’s office reviews documents before publishing them to CORE to ensure proper redaction. Documents that have not been reviewed display a “View on Request” status and must be requested by a registered user, after which a deputy clerk will process and redact the document before release.
Parties to a case, their attorneys, and certain government agencies may access records that are not available to the general public. Individuals with questions about confidentiality should contact the Clerk’s office directly.
Duval County Criminal Court Records
Criminal matters in Duval County are divided between the Circuit Court, which handles felonies and serious offenses, and the County Court, which adjudicates misdemeanors, traffic infractions, and ordinance violations. The Clerk of Courts maintains case files for both courts.
Searching Criminal Case Records
Criminal case records can be searched through CORE by defendant name, case number, or citation number. Docket entries, charges, hearing dates, and case status are viewable. Confidential records—including sealed or expunged cases—will not appear in search results.
Certified copies can be ordered through CORE’s eCertify feature or requested in person or by mail. Standard fees apply: $1.00 per page for copies, $2.00 per document for certification.
Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) maintains arrest records, incident reports, and booking information. JSO serves as the combined law enforcement agency for the City of Jacksonville and Duval County. Public records requests can be submitted through the following channels:
- Online: Via the JSO Public Records Center
- By mail: Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, Attn: Public Records Unit, 501 East Bay Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202
- In person: At JSO headquarters or any of the six patrol substations throughout Jacksonville
- By phone: (904) 630-2209
The name and date of birth of the search subject are required. A fee may apply for copies.
Statewide Criminal History Checks
For a comprehensive criminal-history report beyond county-level records, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) maintains the state’s central criminal-history repository. An instant name-based search costs $24 per record plus $1 for credit/debit card processing. FDLE results are not certified; certified records must be requested separately. Sealed, expunged, and juvenile records are excluded from FDLE search results.
Duval County Civil Court Records
Civil cases in Duval County are heard in either the Circuit Court or County Court depending on the amount in controversy. The Circuit Civil Department handles disputes exceeding $50,000, including auto negligence, professional malpractice, product liability, contracts and indebtedness, mortgage foreclosures, and eminent domain. The County Civil division processes cases between $8,001 and $50,000, and the Small Claims division covers disputes up to $8,000.
Searching Civil Records
Civil case records are searchable through CORE by party name, case number, or citation number. Users can filter results by case type to narrow searches to civil matters specifically.
Filing and Copy Fees
| Filing Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Circuit civil standard filing fee | $401.00 |
| Non-eviction county civil ($8,001–$15,000) | $300.00 |
| Non-eviction county civil ($15,001–$50,000) | $400.00 |
| Small claims (under $100) | $55.00 |
| Small claims ($101–$500) | $80.00 |
| Small claims ($501–$2,500) | $175.00 |
| Small claims ($2,501–$8,000) | $300.00 |
| Eviction (removal of tenant) | $185.00 |
| Foreclosure ($0–$15,000) | $300.00 |
| Foreclosure ($15,001–$50,000) | $400.00 |
| Issuing a summons (each) | $10.00 |
| Additional defendant after the fifth | $2.50 |
| Cross-claims/counter-claims (over $2,500) | $295.00 |
| Proceedings of garnishment (writ) | $85.00 |
| Foreclosure sale | $140.00 |
| Reopen civil action (claims over $500) | $50.00 |
The complete fee schedule is available on the Clerk’s website. Accepted in-person payment methods include cash, money orders, cashier’s checks, certified checks, and credit/debit cards (with a 3.5% processing fee).
E-Filing
Electronic filing is mandatory for all attorneys in Florida. Self-represented litigants may file electronically through the statewide portal at myflcourtaccess.com or may submit paper filings in person or by mail.
Circuit Civil Department Contact
Duval County Clerk of Courts
Attn: Circuit Civil Department
501 West Adams Street, Room 1046
Jacksonville, FL 32202
Phone: (904) 255-2000
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Duval County Family Court Records
Family law cases in Duval County are adjudicated by the Circuit Court’s family law division. The Family Law Department of the Clerk’s office manages filings, docketing, and records for all family proceedings, including dissolution of marriage (divorce), annulment, child support, child custody, paternity, name changes, adoption, and domestic violence matters.
Accessing Family Court Records
Family court records are accessible through CORE, but only to registered users—public-access users cannot view family law case records under the Florida Supreme Court’s access rules. To gain access, complete the registration agreement and return it to the Clerk’s office.
In-person requests can be made at the Family Law Department at the downtown courthouse. Mail requests should be directed to:
Duval County Clerk of Courts
Attn: Family Law Department
501 West Adams Street, Room 1209
Jacksonville, FL 32202
Phone: (904) 255-2000
Certain family court records—particularly juvenile, adoption, and domestic violence protection cases—contain confidential information and may only be accessible to the parties involved, their attorneys, or persons authorized by court order.
Family Law Filing Fees
| Case Type | Filing Fee |
|---|---|
| Dissolution of marriage (divorce) or annulment | $397.50 |
| Simplified dissolution of marriage | $303.00 |
| Foreign judgment (dissolution) | $343.00 |
| Name change | $401.00 |
| Paternity action | $301.00 |
Filing fee waivers are available for individuals determined to be indigent. Complete an Application for Determination of Civil Indigent Status at the Family Law Department; a $12.00 administration fee still applies.
Forms and Assistance
Family law forms are available from several sources: the Florida Courts website, the 4th Judicial Circuit’s Family Court Services (which provides checklists and guidance), and the statewide e-filing portal. TurboCourt is also available for preparing dissolution of marriage and domestic violence protection filings. The Clerk’s office cannot provide legal advice but can accept filings and collect fees.
Marriage Records
Marriage licenses are issued by the Clerk’s office (downtown courthouse and Beaches Branch). Certified copies of recorded marriage licenses and copies of final divorce judgments are available through the Official Records and Research Department at (904) 255-2025. The Florida Department of Health in Duval County also provides marriage and divorce certificate abstracts. The fee structure for vital-record certificates from the Department of Health is:
- $5.00 search fee for a calendar year (includes one certified copy)
- $4.00 for each additional certified copy in the same order
- $2.00 per year search fee if the exact year is unknown (maximum $50)
- $10.00 for express same-day service (walk-in, primarily for records filed before 1970)
- $1.00 shipping and handling fee
Birth and Death Records
The Florida Department of Health in Duval County maintains birth and death certificates. Applications can be submitted in person, by mail, or electronically through a state-approved vendor. The in-person office is located at 3225 University Boulevard South, Suite 100, Jacksonville, FL 32216 (Phone: (904) 253-1620). Mail requests go to 921 North Davis Street, Building A, Suite 251, MC-21, Jacksonville, FL 32209. Email: DuvalVitalStatisticsInfo@flhealth.gov.
A certified birth certificate costs $15 (plus $14 for each additional copy in the same order). Birth records under 125 years old are confidential under Florida Statutes § 382.025 and available only to the registrant (age 18+), listed parents, or legal guardians. Death records under 50 years old containing cause of death or a complete Social Security number are restricted under Florida Statute § 119.071 to specific authorized individuals, including the decedent’s spouse, parents, adult children, grandchildren, siblings, or persons with documented estate interests.
Duval County Probate Court Records
Probate matters in Duval County are handled by the Circuit Court’s Probate Department, which manages cases involving the administration of decedent estates, the validity and distribution of wills, guardianships of incapacitated adults and minors, and certain trust proceedings. Florida Probate Rule 5.030 generally requires that personal representatives and guardians be represented by an attorney admitted to the Florida Bar.
Probate Filing Fees
| Filing Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Formal administration | $401.00 |
| Summary administration (estate valued at $1,000 or more) | $346.00 |
| Summary administration (estate valued under $1,000) | $236.00 |
| Petition and one order | $232.00 |
| Petition and order to admit will | $232.00 |
| Guardianship of person and property | $400.00 |
| Guardianship of property only | $400.00 |
| Guardianship of person only | $235.00 |
| VA guardianship | $235.00 |
| Caveat | $42.00 |
| Notice of trust | $42.00 |
| Disposition of personal property without administration | $231.00 |
| Modification of trust | $401.00 |
| Reopen fee | $50.00 |
Annual Accounting Audit Fees (Guardianship)
| Estate Value | Fee |
|---|---|
| $25,000 or less | $20.00 |
| $25,001–$100,000 | $85.00 |
| $100,001–$500,000 | $170.00 |
| Over $500,000 | $250.00 |
Searching Probate Records
Probate case records can be searched through CORE, but only by registered users—public-access users are restricted from viewing probate records under the Florida Supreme Court’s administrative order. Once registered, users can search by decedent name, ward name, or case number at no charge.
For cases predating the CORE database, or for records not yet published online, contact the Probate Department directly or visit the office in person.
Probate Department Contact
Duval County Clerk of Courts
Attn: Probate Department
501 West Adams Street, Room 1260
Jacksonville, FL 32202
Phone: (904) 255-1990
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Wills cannot be deposited with the court before the testator’s death. Within ten days after death, a will should be deposited with the Clerk of Court in the county of the decedent’s permanent residence. Guardianship forms are available on the 4th Judicial Circuit’s website, and guardianship training in Duval County is provided by Aging True at 4250 Lakeside Drive, Suite 116, Jacksonville, FL 32210 (Phone: (904) 807-1203).