Broward County Criminal History Records

Broward County criminal history records are maintained by the Clerk of Court in Fort Lauderdale, serving as the official repository for one of Florida's most populous and busiest judicial jurisdictions. As a major metropolitan county, Broward handles a significant volume of criminal cases each year, ranging from minor misdemeanors and traffic infractions to complex felony prosecutions requiring extensive court proceedings. The Clerk's office preserves detailed records of arrests, court proceedings, case outcomes, and final dispositions, ensuring comprehensive documentation of the criminal justice process. Access to these records supports background checks, legal research, employment verification, and various other legitimate purposes as authorized by Florida law. Understanding the search process and available options helps you obtain information efficiently from this busy office, whether you're conducting personal research, professional background screening, or legal discovery.

About Broward County Criminal Records

The Broward County Clerk of Court maintains an extensive criminal records repository documenting every stage of criminal proceedings within the county jurisdiction. From initial arrest reports and booking records through charging documents, motions, hearings, and final disposition, all records are carefully preserved for public access in accordance with Florida's open government laws. The Seventeenth Judicial Circuit serves Broward County, representing one of Florida's busiest judicial circuits handling thousands of cases annually. The main courthouse complex is located in downtown Fort Lauderdale, with multiple satellite locations serving different areas of this sprawling county to improve access for residents throughout the jurisdiction.

Public access to criminal records is authorized under Florida Statute 943.053, which establishes guidelines for record dissemination while protecting sensitive personal information from unrestricted disclosure. This statute ensures transparency in government operations and public access to judicial proceedings while maintaining appropriate safeguards for individual privacy rights. You can review the complete law online to understand your rights as a requester and any limitations that may apply to certain types of records or specific circumstances. The Clerk's office provides numerous services beyond criminal records, including official records management, jury duty administration, marriage license issuance, and extensive online resources for public convenience.

The Clerk's office provides numerous services beyond criminal records. They handle official records, jury duty, and marriage licenses. Their website offers extensive online resources for public convenience.

How to Search Local Records in Broward County

Broward County offers multiple ways to search criminal records, with the Clerk's office accommodating high volumes of public requests through several accessible methods. These various approaches ensure that all users, regardless of their technical capabilities, location, or urgency level, can obtain the records they need through the most appropriate channel.

In-person searches can be conducted at the Fort Lauderdale courthouse or satellite locations, where Clerk's staff assist with locating specific cases using their comprehensive record systems. You may search by defendant name, case number, or other identifying criteria depending on what information you have available. Valid identification is required for all record requests as mandated by Florida law, and staff can provide certified copies on-site if needed for official purposes. This option provides the most direct access to records and allows for immediate assistance with complex searches or questions about the documents.

The Broward County Clerk website provides comprehensive online search tools that allow you to conduct research from any location with internet access. Their system handles name-based and case number searches across their extensive database, with many records available for immediate viewing or download. Some documents may require fees for access, particularly for certified copies needed for legal proceedings or employment verification. This option proves especially valuable for attorneys, background screening companies, and individuals who cannot easily visit courthouse locations during regular business hours.

Mail and phone requests provide alternatives for those who prefer traditional communication methods or cannot utilize other options. Submit detailed written requests including all relevant identifying information such as full names, dates of birth, and case numbers if known. Include your contact information for any follow-up questions and allow adequate time for processing and response, keeping in mind that high request volumes may extend turnaround times during peak periods.

FDLE Statewide Search Options

For criminal history extending throughout Florida beyond Broward County's individual jurisdiction, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement provides comprehensive statewide search services. Their database includes Broward County records along with millions of other criminal history entries from all 67 Florida counties, creating a centralized resource for thorough background checks requiring multi-jurisdictional verification. This service proves essential for employers conducting statewide pre-employment screening, individuals seeking their complete Florida criminal history, or any situation requiring verification beyond a single county's records.

Visit the FDLE criminal history page for detailed information about available search options, including both instant and certified services with their associated fees and processing times. They offer instant searches that provide quick results online for $24 plus a processing fee, making them suitable for preliminary background checks and time-sensitive situations. Certified searches require additional processing time but provide official documentation suitable for legal proceedings, formal employment verification, and other purposes requiring authenticated records.

Use the CCHInet portal for electronic record requests, which streamlines the submission process and provides immediate confirmation of your request. Accurate demographic data improves search results, so provide complete identifying information including full name, date of birth, and any other available details. Fees apply per search regardless of findings, so accurate information helps ensure successful matching with database records. The system only reports Florida records, meaning federal arrests and out-of-state convictions will not appear in these results.

Note: Contact FDLE at (850) 410-8161 for questions about criminal history record checks.

Contact Information for Broward County

The Broward County Clerk of Court can assist with your criminal record needs, providing guidance from experienced staff who handle numerous requests daily and understand the complexities of the records system. They can guide you to the appropriate resources, explain available options, and help you navigate the various methods for obtaining the documents you need.

Given the high volume of requests, consider calling ahead. This can save time and ensure you have all required documentation.