How to Check if Someone Has a Civil or Criminal Case Filed Against Them When Court Websites Don’t Allow Records Searches

It's understandable to feel frustrated when you can't easily access court records online, especially if you need to determine if someone has a civil or criminal case filed against them in a specific county. Fortunately, there are several alternative methods to explore. This guide will walk you through the process and provide several actionable steps to help you gather the information you need.

Contact the Court Directly

The most straightforward approach is to call the court’s front office and request the information you need. Courts are typically able to provide you with this information, but make sure to explain the nature of your inquiry so they can provide assistance promptly.

Steps:

Find the contact information for the court in question. Call the court’s front office and ask for guidance on accessing the public records you need. Be prepared to provide any necessary identifying information to prove your rights to the record. Some clerical staff might even look up the information for you, but be aware of their workloads.

Utilize Public Libraries

Many public libraries offer free access to legal search databases such as Lexis or Westlaw. These resources can provide extensive information on court cases, allowing you to search by names, locations, and case numbers. If your local library has these subscriptions, they can be a valuable tool for your investigation.

Visit the Courthouse in Person

For a more hands-on approach, you can visit the courthouse yourself. Courthouse records are usually stored in digital or microfiche formats, and public records are generally accessible to the general public, unless they are sealed. Here’s how you can do it:

Steps:

Visit the courthouse during business hours and go to the clerk's office. Ask to search the records for the person in question. Be prepared to provide identifying information to access the records. The clerk or legal researchers might charge a small fee for their time and services. If you are denied access, you can usually make an FOI request to obtain the information you need.

Search for Paid Services

For those who prefer not to go to the courthouse or use public libraries, there are paid services available that can help you:

Westlaw: This is a comprehensive legal research database that provides detailed case information. However, it is very expensive, and most individuals cannot afford to pay for access. Lexis/Nexis: Another detailed legal research service that offers a range of plans to accommodate different needs. This service is also expensive but more affordable than Westlaw. Legal Researchers: Many courthouses employ legal researchers who can assist you with your search for a fee. While this can be a cost-effective option, the charges can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the amount of time required.

Ultimately, the easiest method depends on your individual needs and circumstances. If you have the time and interest, visiting the courthouse in person or utilizing a paid service can provide the most thorough and detailed information. However, if speed and convenience are more important, a call to the court office might suffice.

Conclusion

Regardless of the method you choose, the key is to approach the process with patience and persistence. Each step in the process can provide valuable information about court cases. By utilizing a combination of these methods, you can effectively determine if someone has a civil or criminal case filed against them in a specific county.

Keywords: court records, court website, civil or criminal case