Collier County Court Records
Per Rule 2.420 of the Florida Rules of Judicial Administration, court records are defined as contents of court files, dockets, and other similar records generated to document activity in a case. They also include transcripts, documentary exhibits, and deposition records in the custody of the court clerk. Court records can be used to conduct legal research, verify the status of a case, and check an individual’s criminal history. In Collier County, the Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller is responsible for maintaining court records according to the provisions of the Florida Rules of Court.
Are Court Records Public in Collier County
Yes. According to Florida’s Rule of Judicial Administration 2.420 and Public Records Laws, the public can access all records of court proceedings in Collier County. However, certain court records are deemed confidential and are exempt from public access. Examples of such records are medical, adoption, and juvenile records, Social Security and bank account numbers, records relating to dependency matters, and guardianship reports. Confidential court records are only released to parties involved in a case and other persons, attorneys, or organizations permitted by law, statute, or court order.
Where to Conduct a Collier County Case Lookup
Individuals who wish to conduct a case lookup of court proceedings in Collier County can do so at the following record custodian offices:
- Supreme Court of Florida
- Florida State Archives
- Sixth District Court
- Collier County Court
- Twentieth Circuit Judicial Circuit of Florida
How to Conduct a Collier County Case Records Search
Collier County case records search can be done online or in person. Individuals seeking court records may begin their search by visiting the court where the case was filed. Record seekers must provide information about the case, such as names of parties involved and case numbers, to aid the search.
To search for case records online, inquirers can use the Online Case Search tool on the Collier County Clerk’s website. The tool allows users to conduct a search using the case number, date of hearing, citation number, or names of the parties involved. Inquirers can also request copies of court records via email (PublicRecordsRequest@CollierClerk.com) or by sending a mail to the address below:
Collier County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller
3315 Tamiami Trail E., Suite 102
Naples, FL 34112
Phone: (239) 252-7531
Obtaining court records in person or by mail costs $1 per document page and $2 per certified document.
Collier County Civil Court Case Records
Civil case records are official documents of non-criminal proceedings heard in a court of law. These include disputes between individuals, corporate bodies, or entities. Civil cases are usually initiated to enforce a contract, an agreement, or an obligation.
The Civil Division of Collier County Circuit Court hears civil cases where the monetary value of the disputes or disagreements exceeds $50,000. Collier County Civil Court handles civil cases in which damages sought are up to $8,000 but less than $50,000, excluding attorney’s fees, costs, and interest. The Small Claims Division settles minor legal disputes among parties where the amount involved is $8,000 or less.
To obtain Collier County civil court records, inquirers can submit a request in person to the clerk of the civil court where the case was heard or send an email request to civilhelp@collierclerk.com. Alternatively, the general public can access civil court records through the Online Case Search tool the Collier County Court Clerk provides.
Collier County Criminal Court Case Records
Criminal court records are official documents of legal proceedings against individuals who have broken a criminal law. The Criminal Division of Collier County Circuit Court hears felony and gross misdemeanor cases like grand theft, murder, sex-related crimes, armed robbery, and drug offenses. Misdemeanor charges such as battery, petit theft, DUI, and possession of Marijuana under 20 grams are tried in Collier County Misdemeanor Court.
Individuals who wish to obtain copies of Collier County's criminal court records may do so via the Collier County Clerk’s Case Search tool. Alternatively, inquirers can send a formal request by email to criminalhelp@collierclerk.com or visit the courthouse in person to request copies of the court records.
How to Get Court Records Online for Free
Inquirers can access court records online for free using the Online Case Search portal hosted on the County Clerk’s website. To locate the search tool, click the “Records Search” menu at the top bar and select “Search Court Records” from the dropdown. Click the Search link to access the tool. The search criteria are by case number, last name/business name, first name, citation number, or date range.
Courts in Collier County
Here’s the address and contact information of the courthouse in Collier County:
Collier County Courthouse
3315 Tamiami Trail East
Naples, FL 34112
Phone: (239) 252-8800
Fax: (239) 252-8272