Search Criminal History Files in Sarasota County

Sarasota County criminal history records are maintained by the Clerk of Court in Sarasota, serving as the official custodian for all court documents within the Twelfth Judicial Circuit. These comprehensive archives contain detailed arrest data, court rulings, case disposition results, and final judgments representing many years of judicial proceedings. The Clerk's office manages records for Sarasota, DeSoto, and Manatee counties, providing public access through both digital platforms and in-person services. Whether you need to conduct employment background checks, verify tenant applications, research legal precedents, or obtain certified copies for official purposes, this guide will help you navigate the Sarasota County system efficiently.

About Sarasota County Criminal Records

Criminal records in Sarasota County provide official documentation of arrests, charges filed, and court outcomes processed through the Twelfth Judicial Circuit. The Sarasota County Clerk of Court operates from the main office at 2000 Main Street in Sarasota, serving the circuit that encompasses Sarasota, DeSoto, and Manatee counties. Each case file contains essential documentation including the original arrest report, formal charging documents submitted by the State Attorney, motions and pleadings filed by attorneys, detailed court minutes from hearings, and the final judgment or disposition. These records span many years of criminal justice activity and remain accessible to the public.

Public access derives from Florida Statute 943.053, which establishes the framework for sharing criminal history information while protecting certain private facts. You can review this statute at the Florida Legislature website.

How to Search Local Records in Sarasota County

The Sarasota County Clerk offers several methods for accessing criminal records. In-person visits provide comprehensive access with staff available to assist in locating specific cases, explaining file contents, and providing certified copies when needed. Bring valid photo identification and any case information you have, as the office operates during regular weekday hours.

For remote convenience, online search tools on the Clerk's website allow you to look up cases by name or case number. While basic information is typically available without charge, copies and certified records require payment of fees. Mail-in requests serve as an alternative—send a detailed letter with the subject's full name, date of birth, and a self-addressed stamped envelope, allowing several days for processing.

FDLE Statewide Search Options

When your search needs extend beyond Sarasota County, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement offers comprehensive statewide criminal history checks through their centralized database covering all 67 Florida counties. FDLE aggregates data from local law enforcement, courts, and correctional facilities to provide the most complete criminal history picture available.

Visit FDLE's official page to explore options. Instant name-based searches cost $24 plus fees and deliver immediate results. For certified results required for official purposes, use the certified search through the CCHInet portal, typically taking five to seven business days.

FDLE searches only show Florida records and will not include federal arrests or out-of-state crimes.

What Records Are Available in Sarasota County

The Sarasota County Clerk maintains various criminal case files including arrest records, charging documents, court minutes tracking hearings, and final judgments showing case outcomes. The repository includes both current and historical records spanning many decades, though older files may be stored on film or in archives.

Traffic cases, civil suits, and family court records are maintained in separate sections. Staff can help you identify the right file type and access procedures.

Contact Information for Sarasota County

Contact the Sarasota County Clerk of Court for assistance with records. Staff can answer questions and guide you through the search process.

The Clerk's office also manages property records, marriage licenses, and court papers, with their site offering tools for public access.