Access Court Criminal Records in Seminole County

Seminole County criminal history records are maintained by the Clerk of Court in Sanford, serving as the official custodian for all court documents within the Eighteenth Judicial Circuit. These comprehensive archives contain detailed arrest data, court rulings, case disposition results, and final judgments representing many years of criminal justice proceedings. The Clerk's office manages records for both Seminole and Brevard counties, providing public access through online platforms and in-person services that balance transparency with appropriate privacy protections. Whether you need to conduct background checks for employment, verify tenant applications, or obtain certified copies for legal purposes, this guide will help you navigate the Seminole County system effectively.

About Seminole County Criminal Records

Criminal records in Seminole County provide official documentation of arrests, charges filed, and court outcomes processed through the Eighteenth Judicial Circuit. The Seminole County Clerk of Court operates from the main office at 301 N Park Avenue in Sanford, serving Seminole and Brevard counties within the circuit jurisdiction. Each case file contains essential documentation including the original arrest report, formal charging documents, motions and pleadings filed by attorneys, detailed court minutes from proceedings, and the final judgment or case disposition. These records span many years and remain accessible to the public under Florida Statute 943.053.

Public access is governed by Florida law. Statute 943.053 guides how records are shared while protecting certain private facts. You can review this law at the Florida Legislature website.

How to Search Local Records in Seminole County

The Seminole County Clerk offers several methods for accessing criminal records. In-person visits provide comprehensive access with knowledgeable 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 possess, as the office operates during regular weekday business hours.

For remote access, 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, obtaining copies or certified records requires payment of fees. Mail-in requests serve as an alternative—send a detailed request 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 extends beyond Seminole County, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement offers comprehensive statewide criminal history checks through their centralized database covering all 67 Florida counties. FDLE maintains the state's central repository, aggregating data from law enforcement agencies, courts, and correctional facilities.

Visit FDLE's official page for search 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 Seminole County

The Seminole 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 microfilm or in archives.

Traffic cases, civil suits, and family court records are maintained in separate sections. Staff can direct you to the appropriate department.

Contact Information for Seminole County

Contact the Seminole 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 website offering digital tools for public access.