Find Criminal History Records in Miami-Dade County

Miami-Dade County criminal history records are maintained by the Clerk of Court in Miami. These documents contain arrest data, court proceedings, and case outcomes for incidents within county boundaries. Residents can request access through official channels, with the Clerk providing both in-person and online search options. Understanding this system helps you locate information quickly. The records cover misdemeanor and felony cases from recent years, offering comprehensive documentation of criminal activity in Florida's most populous county. Whether you need background checks for employment, legal proceedings, or personal research, the Clerk's office serves as the primary resource for accessing these important public documents in South Florida.

About Miami-Dade County Criminal Records

Criminal records in Miami-Dade County document arrests, charges, and court dispositions. The Clerk of Court maintains these files at the courthouse in downtown Miami, ensuring that records from misdemeanor and felony cases are properly archived. Each file holds the arrest report, charging documents, and final judgment, creating a complete picture of the legal proceedings from initial arrest through case resolution.

The Miami-Dade County Clerk of Court manages millions of documents for cases from the Eleventh Judicial Circuit, which serves only Miami-Dade County due to its large population. The main courthouse sits at 73 West Flagler Street in the heart of Miami. Public access is granted under Florida law through Statute 943.053, which governs how criminal history information is shared. You can review this law at the Florida Legislature website. This statute ensures transparency while protecting certain personal data, and the Clerk follows these rules in all record releases.

How to Search Local Records in Miami-Dade County

Searching criminal records in Miami-Dade County starts with the Clerk's office, where you have several options for finding the records you need. Each method has its own process and timeline. Visit the Clerk's office in person for the fastest service, as staff can help you locate specific cases when you bring identification and any case numbers you have. The office is open Monday through Friday during regular business hours, with trained staff ready to assist with record requests.

Online search options provide convenient twenty-four-hour access to court records through the Clerk's website, where you can search by name or case number. Some records may require fees for copies or detailed reports. Mail requests are also accepted for those who cannot visit in person; simply send a written request with the subject's full name and date of birth, including a self-addressed stamped envelope. Processing takes several business days.

FDLE Statewide Search Options

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement offers statewide criminal history checks that are useful when you need records beyond Miami-Dade County. FDLE maintains the central repository for all Florida criminal records, covering all sixty-seven counties in the state. Visit FDLE's official page to learn about search options, including instant searches online that cost twenty-four dollars plus processing fees.

For certified results, use the non-certified or certified search options through the CCHInet portal, which take five to seven business days. You will need accurate name and date of birth information. Remember that FDLE searches only show Florida records, meaning federal arrests or out-of-state convictions will not appear. Some records may be sealed or expunged by court order and will not appear in any search.

Contact Information for Miami-Dade County

Reach out to the Miami-Dade County Clerk of Court for assistance with criminal records. Their staff can answer questions about the search process and help you understand what records are available. Call during business hours for the fastest response.

The Clerk's office also maintains official records for property, marriage licenses, and court documents. Their website offers many online services for convenience. You can pay traffic tickets, search records, and file documents online. Visit their site to learn about all available services.