Criminal Records in Hillsborough County
Hillsborough County criminal history records are maintained as public documents by the Clerk of Courts in Tampa, providing comprehensive access to arrest records, court proceedings, and case dispositions spanning many decades. As Florida's fourth most populous county and part of the 13th Judicial Circuit, Hillsborough maintains extensive criminal records dating back to its founding in 1834, serving a population of over 1.5 million residents with a sophisticated records management system.
Hillsborough County Quick Facts
Hillsborough County Clerk of Courts
The Clerk of Courts in Tampa serves as the official custodian of all criminal court records for Hillsborough County, managing one of Florida's largest criminal case processing systems. This office receives and processes thousands of new criminal cases annually, maintains extensive digital and physical archives, and responds to hundreds of public records requests daily. The experienced staff can assist with complex searches and provides multiple access methods including online portals, public terminals, and in-person research assistance.
Hillsborough County's criminal records encompass the complete range of documentation from initial arrest reports through final judgments. Given the high volume of cases, the clerk maintains sophisticated electronic filing systems alongside traditional paper archives. While Florida's public records laws ensure broad access, juvenile records are sealed and certain adult records may be restricted.
| Office | Hillsborough County Clerk of Courts |
|---|---|
| Address | 800 E Twiggs St, Tampa, FL 33602 |
| Phone | (813) 276-8100 |
| Hours | Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Website | www.hillsclerk.com |
Criminal Records Available in Hillsborough County
The Clerk of Courts maintains a comprehensive array of criminal record types documenting the high volume of case processing in Hillsborough County. Given the county's size and caseload, the records system includes sophisticated digital archives alongside traditional paper files.
Types of criminal records in Hillsborough 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 standard exemptions for juvenile records and victim protection.
How to Search Hillsborough County Criminal Records
Hillsborough County offers multiple search methods including robust online portals and in-person access at the Tampa courthouse. The website at www.hillsclerk.com provides comprehensive case search capabilities. For in-person research, visit the Clerk of Courts office with valid photo identification. The FDLE statewide database at fdle.state.fl.us provides additional coverage.
Background Checks in Hillsborough County
Given Hillsborough County's large population, background checks are frequently requested for employment, licensing, and housing purposes. Local checks through the Tampa clerk reveal county cases, while statewide checks through the FDLE provide essential broader coverage. Florida Statute Chapter 943 mandates screening for many occupations.
Record Sealing and Expungement in Hillsborough County
Florida law allows qualifying individuals to seal or expunge criminal records. The process begins at the Hillsborough County Clerk's office in Tampa. Given the county's caseload, processing times may vary. Eligibility requires meeting statutory criteria including qualifying offense, completed sentence, and typically a one-year waiting period.
Florida Department of Law Enforcement Records
The FDLE maintains 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 Hillsborough County
Hillsborough County residents have access to extensive legal resources including legal aid organizations, the Florida Bar Lawyer Referral Service at 1-800-561-9690, and Florida Legal Services at floridalegal.org. Given Tampa's size, numerous attorneys specialize in criminal records matters.
Nearby Counties
Each county maintains separate criminal records.