Criminal Records in Hernando County
Hernando County criminal history records are maintained as public documents by the Clerk of Courts in Brooksville, providing comprehensive access to arrest records, court proceedings, and case dispositions spanning many decades of the county's legal history. As a member of Florida's 5th Judicial Circuit, Hernando County adheres to the state's open records principles while maintaining the infrastructure necessary to preserve and provide access to these important historical documents.
Hernando County Quick Facts
Hernando County Clerk of Courts
The Clerk of Courts in Brooksville serves as the official custodian of all criminal court records for Hernando County, managing the entire lifecycle of case documentation from initial filing through final disposition. This office receives and processes new criminal cases as they are filed by law enforcement and prosecutors, maintains secure storage facilities for both active and archived court documents, and fulfills copy requests from the public, attorneys, and other interested parties. The experienced staff can assist researchers in locating specific cases using various search criteria.
Criminal records maintained by the Hernando County Clerk encompass a broad spectrum of documentation including arrest affidavits, formal charging documents, court orders entered by judges, negotiated plea agreements, and detailed sentencing papers. While Florida's public records laws ensure broad access, juvenile records are routinely sealed, and some adult records may have redacted portions to protect victim identities.
| Office | Hernando County Clerk of Courts |
|---|---|
| Address | 20 N Main St, Brooksville, FL 34601 |
| Phone | (352) 754-4201 |
| Hours | Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Website | www.hernandoclerk.com |
Criminal Records Available in Hernando County
The Clerk of Courts maintains a diverse array of criminal record types that serve different functions within the Hernando County justice system. Arrest records provide the initial documentation of custody, noting the date, location, and circumstances of detention along with specific charges. Court records then build upon this foundation by documenting every procedural step in the case, from initial charging through all motions, hearings, and final disposition.
Types of criminal records in Hernando 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
While the presumption favors public access, juvenile cases are typically sealed, and adult defendants may petition for expungement. Crime victim information is protected from disclosure.
How to Search Hernando County Criminal Records
Multiple search methods are available for accessing criminal records. Online searches provide immediate access to recent records, while in-person visits offer access to complete physical files including older records. For in-person searches, visit the Clerk of Courts office in Brooksville with valid photo identification. The website at www.hernandoclerk.com provides online access.
For comprehensive statewide coverage, the FDLE operates a centralized database at fdle.state.fl.us covering all 67 Florida counties.
Background Checks in Hernando County
Background checks serve various purposes from employment screening to tenant verification. Local checks through the Brooksville clerk reveal Hernando County cases, while statewide checks provide broader coverage. Florida Statute Chapter 943 mandates screening for certain occupations involving children, elderly, or disabled individuals.
Record Sealing and Expungement in Hernando County
Florida law allows qualifying individuals to seal or expunge criminal records. The process begins at the Hernando County Clerk's office in Brooksville. Eligibility is limited by statute, with serious crimes generally ineligible. Applicants must complete all sentence requirements and typically wait one year. The process requires obtaining an FDLE Certificate of Eligibility.
Florida Department of Law Enforcement Records
The FDLE maintains Florida's central criminal history repository, aggregating records from all counties. 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 Hernando County
Hernando 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.