Duval County family court records are public files that document every family law case filed in Jacksonville and surrounding cities. The 4th Judicial Circuit Court handles these cases at the Duval County Courthouse.
Records include petitions, court orders, judgments, and final decrees. The Clerk of Court keeps all files and gives the public access through online tools, mail requests, and in-person visits.
What Are Duval County Family Court Records
Family court records are written documents that show what happened in a family law case from start to finish. In Duval County, these records cover divorce, child custody, child support, paternity, adoption, and domestic violence matters. Each file holds the papers filed by both sides, the orders issued by the judge, and the final outcome. Florida law makes most family court records open to the public, with a few exceptions for sealed files.
Who Maintains the Records
The Duval County Clerk of the Circuit Court serves as the official keeper of family court records. This office stores paper files from older cases and digital files from newer ones. The Clerk’s office also runs the online search system where anyone can look up basic case data. The Clerk is an elected position that operates under Florida statutes and court rules.
What Information Each Record Contains
A typical family court file includes the initial petition, financial affidavits, parenting plans, and the final judgment. It also contains motions, hearing transcripts in some cases, and proof of service. Each document shows the case number, the names of the parties, the judge’s name, and the date filed. The level of detail varies based on the case type and how long it has been open.
Types of Family Court Cases in Duval County
Duval County family court handles many different case types, each with its own file structure. Knowing the case type helps you search the right records. The Family Division of the circuit court oversees all of these matters and assigns them to specific judges based on the docket.
Dissolution of Marriage and Divorce
Divorce cases are the most common family court filings in Duval County. These records include the petition for dissolution, financial disclosures, settlement agreements, and the final judgment. Florida law requires at least one spouse to live in the state for six months before filing. Divorce files often hold sensitive financial data, so some sections may be redacted in public view.
Child Custody and Time-Sharing
Custody cases create parenting plans that detail where children live and how parents share time. Records include custody petitions, mediation reports, psychological evaluations in some cases, and the court’s final order. Parents can also file for modification later if life circumstances change. All custody-related documents become part of the public file unless sealed by a judge.
Child Support Cases
Child support files show the financial calculations based on Florida’s child support guidelines. Records include the petition, income information from both parents, the support order, and payment history. The Florida Department of Revenue helps enforce support orders statewide when payments fall behind. Parents can also request a review and modification of support amounts when income changes.
Paternity Filings
Paternity cases establish legal fatherhood for children born to unmarried parents. Records include the petition, DNA test results when filed, and the final order of paternity. Once paternity is established, the court can also order child support and custody. These cases often run alongside related family court matters in the same file.
Adoption Records
Adoption cases create new legal parent-child relationships through a court process. Records include the adoption petition, home study, background checks, and the final adoption decree. Many adoption files are sealed by law to protect the privacy of birth parents and adoptive families. Sealed records require a court order before they can be opened.
Domestic Violence Injunctions
Domestic violence cases involve petitions for protective injunctions against an abuser. Records include the petition, the temporary injunction, and the final injunction after a full hearing. Florida Statute 741.30 governs these filings, and there is no filing fee for the petitioner. Some details in these files may be sealed to protect victims.
How to Search Duval County Family Court Records Online
The fastest way to look up family court records in Duval County is through the Clerk’s online search system. The system is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, from any computer or phone with internet access. Most basic case data is free to view, though certified copies and full document images may carry a fee.
Using the CORE Public Search System
The Clerk of Court runs the CORE (Case Online Records and Electronic) portal for public searches. The portal allows users to search by party name, case number, or attorney bar number. Each search returns a list of matching cases with the case type, filing date, and current status. Clicking on a case opens a full docket view that shows every filing in the case.
Searching by Party Name
To search by name, enter the last name and first name of the person involved in the case. The system will show all matching cases filed in Duval County. Narrow the results by selecting the right case type, such as family or domestic relations. Each result includes the case number, which you can use to pull up more details.
Searching by Case Number
If you already know the case number, enter it directly into the search box for a faster result. The case number format includes a year, a sequence number, and a code that shows the case type. For family cases, the code is usually DR for dissolution, IN for injunction, or AD for adoption. The portal will pull up the full case file immediately.
Using the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal
The Florida Courts E-Filing Portal at myflcourtaccess.com gives statewide access to court records. The system works for all 67 Florida counties, including Duval. Users can search by name, case number, or citation. Registered users can also file new documents and pay fees online through the same system.
How to Request Family Court Records in Person
Some requests require a trip to the courthouse, especially for certified copies or older paper files. The Duval County Courthouse is open to the public during regular business hours. Bring valid photo ID and any case details you have to speed up the search.
Visiting the Clerk’s Office
The Clerk’s office is located in the Duval County Courthouse at 501 West Adams Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202. Office hours run Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closing on weekends and court holidays. The main phone number for general questions is (904) 255-2000. Visitors must pass through courthouse security before reaching the Clerk’s counters.
Requesting Certified Copies
Certified copies carry the Clerk’s seal and serve as legal proof of a court order or judgment. The fee for a certified copy is set by Florida law and listed on the Clerk’s fee schedule. You can pay by cash, check, money order, or card depending on the office location. Certified copies are often required for name changes, remarriage, or other legal matters.
Requesting Records by Mail
Mail requests work for people who cannot visit the courthouse in person. Send a written request that includes the case number, the names of the parties, and a list of the documents you need. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope and payment by check or money order. Processing time for mail requests can take several business days.
4th Judicial Circuit Court Details
Duval County is part of Florida’s 4th Judicial Circuit, which also covers Clay, Nassau, and St. Johns counties. The circuit has its own set of local rules and administrative orders that apply to all four counties. Family court cases follow the Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure plus any local rules set by the circuit chief judge.
Circuit Court Judges
Judges in the 4th Circuit are either elected by voters or appointed to fill a vacancy. Each family court judge presides over cases assigned to his or her division. The current list of judges is posted on the Clerk’s website and the Florida Court System site. Knowing the assigned judge can help when checking hearing dates and order entries.
Family Court Division Structure
The Family Division handles dissolution, custody, support, paternity, adoption, and domestic relations cases. Cases are assigned to a judge based on the filing date and case type. The division also runs the Unified Family Court docket, which links related cases such as custody and support for the same family.
Filing Fees and Costs for Family Court
Filing fees in Duval County family court follow the statewide fee schedule set by Florida statute. The filing fee for a new petition in 2026 is listed on the Clerk’s website under court costs. Additional costs include service of process, certified copies, and mediation where required.
Standard Filing Fees
The base filing fee for a new family court case covers court costs and the clerk’s processing fee. Costs may be waived for low-income filers who submit the approved indigency form. Domestic violence injunctions have no filing fee for the petitioner. Adoption filings carry a higher fee because of the extra processing required.
Additional Costs
Extra charges apply for things like summons issuance, document certification, and expedited service. Mediation costs depend on the provider and may be income-based for qualifying families. Attorney fees are separate and depend on the lawyer’s rate and the case complexity.
Sealed and Confidential Family Court Records
Most family court records are public, but some files can be sealed by a judge’s order. Sealing hides the records from public view, though certain officials can still access them. Common reasons to seal a file include protecting children, hiding sensitive financial data, or keeping adoption details private.
How Records Get Sealed
A party must file a motion to seal records and explain the legal basis. The judge reviews the motion and holds a hearing in some cases before ruling. If the motion is granted, the Clerk’s office restricts public access to the file. Sealed records can be reopened only by a new court order.
What Records Stay Confidential
Adoption files, juvenile dependency records, and some domestic violence documents are automatically confidential under Florida law. Financial affidavits in divorce cases may be partially sealed. Bank account numbers, Social Security numbers, and minor children’s information are often redacted from public view.
Self-Help Resources for Family Court Users
Many people handle family court cases without a lawyer, and Duval County offers several self-help services. These resources help people understand court procedures, fill out forms, and follow local rules. Court staff can explain how things work but cannot give legal advice.
Florida Family Law Forms
The Florida Courts website provides official family law forms for free download. Each form has instructions that explain how to fill it out and where to file it. Forms cover petitions, financial affidavits, parenting plans, and motions. Using the approved forms is required in all Florida family court cases.
Self-Help Program at the Courthouse
The Self-Help Program assists people who file without an attorney. Staff can review forms for completeness, explain court procedures, and help with procedural questions. The program does not offer legal advice or represent people in court. Contact the courthouse to confirm current self-help hours and services.
Legal Aid and Lawyer Referral
Low-income residents may qualify for free legal help through local legal aid groups. The Florida Bar Lawyer Referral Service can also connect people with family law attorneys in the Jacksonville area. Many lawyers offer low-cost initial consultations for family court matters.
Contact Details for Duval County Family Court
The following contact details are based on the most recent information available for the Duval County Clerk of Court and the 4th Judicial Circuit Court. Office hours may change on court holidays, so call ahead before visiting. The main address, phone, and website for family court records are listed below.
| Contact Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Office | Duval County Clerk of the Circuit Court |
| Address | 501 West Adams Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 |
| Phone | (904) 255-2000 |
| Website | duvalclerk.com |
| Hours | Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
| E-Filing | myflcourtaccess.com |
Frequently Asked Questions About Duval County Family Court Records
Below are answers to common questions people ask about family court records in Duval County. These questions cover searching online, requesting copies, sealing files, and using the Clerk’s services. Each answer is based on Florida law and 4th Judicial Circuit procedures as of 2026.
How Do I Find a Family Court Case Number in Duval County?
You can find a family court case number by searching the CORE online portal at duvalclerk.com. Enter the full legal name of either party and select the family case type. The search results show the case number, filing date, and current status. You can also call the Clerk’s office at (904) 255-2000 with the party’s name and date of birth to ask for the case number over the phone. Older paper-only files may require an in-person visit to the records department.
Are Duval County Divorce Records Available to the Public?
Yes, most divorce records in Duval County are public under Florida law. The final judgment of dissolution, the petition, and most supporting documents can be viewed by anyone who searches the CORE portal or visits the Clerk’s office. Some financial information may be partially redacted, and full financial affidavits may require a court order. Sealed divorce files exist in limited cases where a judge granted a motion to seal based on a legal basis.
Can I Get a Certified Copy of a Family Court Order Online?
Certified copies of family court orders can be requested online through the Clerk’s eCertify service or in person at the courthouse. Online requests are processed by the Clerk’s office and mailed or made available for pickup. You will need the case number, the names of the parties, and payment for the certification fee. Standard processing takes a few business days, and expedited service is available for an extra charge.
What Family Court Records Are Sealed in Florida?
Adoption records, certain domestic violence files, and juvenile dependency records are sealed by law in Florida. Other family court records can be sealed only by a judge’s order based on a specific motion. Sealed records are hidden from public view but can still be accessed by the parties, their lawyers, and certain court officials. To unseal a record, a new motion and court order are required.
How Long Does It Take to Get Family Court Records by Mail?
Mail requests for family court records in Duval County typically take 5 to 10 business days to process. The exact time depends on the volume of requests and whether the file needs to be pulled from archive storage. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope, payment, and the case details in your request to avoid delays. For faster service, use the in-person counter or the eCertify online system.
Can I View Family Court Records for Free in Duval County?
Yes, basic case data is free to view through the CORE portal and the Florida Courts E-Filing site. You can see the case number, party names, filing dates, and docket entries without paying a fee. Fees apply only for certified copies, full document images, and certain premium services. The free search option works well for people who just need to confirm case status or check hearing dates.
What Happens If I Cannot Find the Record I Need?
If you cannot find a family court record in Duval County, check whether the case was filed in a different county or sealed by a judge. Cases involving parties who moved may show up under a different jurisdiction. You can also contact the Clerk’s office directly with the names and approximate year to ask staff to search manually. Court staff can pull older paper files from storage that may not be online yet.