Criminal Records in Hendry County
Hendry County criminal history records are maintained as public documents by the Clerk of Courts in LaBelle, preserving comprehensive records of arrest reports, court proceedings, and case dispositions. As part of Florida's 20th Judicial Circuit, Hendry County follows state open records laws while providing residents with accessible channels to obtain these important documents.
Hendry County Quick Facts
Hendry County Clerk of Courts
The Clerk of Courts in LaBelle serves as the official custodian for all criminal court records in Hendry County, managing the intake, storage, and dissemination of case files throughout their entire lifecycle. This office processes new criminal cases as they arrive from law enforcement and prosecutors, maintains secure facilities for active and archived records, and responds to public requests. The staff can assist visitors with locating specific cases and explaining file contents.
Hendry County's criminal records encompass the complete range of documentation from initial arrest reports through final judgments. These records are presumptively public under Florida law, though juvenile records receive special protection and are typically sealed, while adult records may have redactions to protect victim privacy.
| Office | Hendry County Clerk of Courts |
|---|---|
| Address | 25 E Hickpochee Ave, LaBelle, FL 33935 |
| Phone | (863) 675-5217 |
| Hours | Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Website | www.hendryclerk.org |
Criminal Records Available in Hendry County
The Clerk of Courts maintains various categories of criminal records documenting different aspects of case processing. Arrest records capture initial law enforcement actions, while court records trace each case's progression through the judicial system, containing charging instruments, motions, hearing records, plea agreements, and sentencing documents.
Types of criminal records in Hendry County include:
- Arrest reports and booking records
- Charging documents and indictments
- Court motions and hearing records
- Plea agreements and trial transcripts
- Sentencing orders and judgments
- Probation and parole records
Access follows Florida's public records law with certain exemptions. Juvenile matters are confidential, while adult records may be partially restricted.
How to Search Hendry County Criminal Records
Several search methods are available. Online searches through the clerk's website offer convenience for recent records, while in-person visits provide access to complete files including older records. To search in person, visit the Clerk of Courts office in LaBelle with valid photo identification. The website at www.hendryclerk.org provides online access.
The FDLE maintains a statewide database at fdle.state.fl.us covering all Florida counties, charging per search.
Background Checks in Hendry County
Background checks serve important functions for employment and tenant screening. Local checks through the clerk reveal Hendry County cases, while statewide checks through the FDLE provide broader coverage. Florida Statute Chapter 943 mandates screening for certain occupations involving vulnerable populations.
Record Sealing and Expungement in Hendry County
Florida law allows qualifying individuals to seal or expunge criminal records. The process begins at the Hendry County Clerk's office in LaBelle. Sealing restricts public access while expungement orders destruction. Both require meeting statutory criteria including qualifying offense, completed sentence, and typically a one-year waiting period.
Florida Department of Law Enforcement Records
The FDLE operates Florida's central criminal history repository. Individuals may request their own records through the Personal Review process. For employment purposes, online background checks are available at fdle.state.fl.us.
Legal Resources in Hendry County
Hendry County residents have access to legal resources including legal aid organizations, the Florida Bar Lawyer Referral Service at 1-800-561-9690, and Florida Legal Services at floridalegal.org.
Nearby Counties
Each county maintains separate criminal records.