Flagler County family court records are public files kept by the Flagler County Clerk of Court in Bunnell, Florida. These records cover divorce, child custody, child support, paternity, adoption, and domestic violence cases filed in the 7th Judicial Circuit.
Any person can search these records online, by phone, by mail, or in person. This page shows you exactly how to find, read, and request copies of these records in 2026.
What Are Flagler County Family Court Records?
Flagler County family court records are written files and electronic documents created during family law cases in the local court system. The Clerk of Court stores every paper, order, and form filed in these cases. Florida law makes most of these records open to the public.
Types of Family Court Cases Handled
Flagler County hears several kinds of family law cases. Each type creates its own set of records that the Clerk keeps on file.
- Divorce and marriage dissolution
- Child custody and time-sharing plans
- Child support orders and payments
- Paternity tests and rulings
- Adoption petitions and decrees
- Domestic violence injunctions
- Name changes for adults and minors
Who Maintains These Records
The Flagler County Clerk of Court keeps all family court records. The current Clerk is Tom Bexley. His office runs the paper files and the online database. The Clerk must follow Florida’s public records laws when storing and sharing these files.
Why These Records Matter
People need these records for many reasons. Lawyers check them before court. Parents look up support payment history. Researchers study family law trends. The press uses them for news reports. The public has a right to see how local courts handle family cases.
How to Search Flagler County Family Court Records
There are four main ways to search family court records in Flagler County. Each method works for different needs. Pick the one that fits your situation best.
Online Search Through Clerk Website
The Flagler County Clerk runs a free online case search tool. Go to flaglerclerk.com and click on the court records link. You can search by name, case number, or filing date. The site shows case status, hearing dates, and many filed documents.
The online system works for cases filed after 2000. Older cases may not show up online. You may need to visit the office for very old files.
In-Person Records Request
Visit the Clerk’s office in Bunnell to see the full paper file. Staff will pull the case folder for you. You can read every document in the file. Bring a photo ID when you go.
Public terminals are open during business hours. The staff can help you find the right case number. They can also make copies for a small fee.
Phone and Mail Requests
Call the Clerk at (386) 313-4400 for basic case status. The phone line runs Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For copies, send a written request by mail. Include the case number, your name, and a self-addressed stamped envelope.
Statewide Portal Access
MyFloridaCourtAccess.com lets you search all Florida counties at once. This statewide portal links to the 7th Judicial Circuit records. Use it when you need to check cases in Flagler and other counties at the same time.
Family Court Case Types and Documents
Each family law case type has its own set of documents. Knowing what files exist helps you find what you need faster.
Divorce and Dissolution Records
Divorce files include the original petition, financial statements, and the final judgment. You will also find parenting plans if children are part of the case. Settlement agreements show how the couple split property and debts. Chapter 61 of Florida Statutes governs these cases.
Child Custody and Time-Sharing
Custody records list where children live and when they spend time with each parent. These files include parenting plans, time-sharing schedules, and any court orders about decision-making. Judges in Flagler County focus on the child’s best interest when making these decisions.
Child Support Orders
Child support files show the amount owed and payment history. The Florida Department of Revenue helps track payments in some cases. The Clerk keeps the original support orders. Parents can check their payment records any time.
Paternity Cases
Paternity records include DNA test results and court orders naming the legal father. These cases also set child support and custody once paternity is confirmed. The Clerk files these under the family law division.
Adoption Records
Adoption files are often sealed by the court. The Clerk can tell you if a record is open or closed. Many adoption records from before 2026 remain sealed by Florida law. Only certain people can read them.
Domestic Violence Injunctions
Domestic violence files include the petition, sworn statements, and the final injunction. These cases move fast. A judge can grant a temporary order on the same day. A full hearing happens within 15 days. Florida Statute 741.30 covers these cases.
Fees, Copies, and Certification
The Clerk charges set fees for copies and certified records. Knowing the costs helps you plan your request.
Standard Copy Costs
Regular copies cost $1.00 per page. The Clerk accepts cash, check, money order, and most credit cards. There is no charge to view records in person. You only pay if you want copies to take home.
Certified Copy Fees
Certified copies cost more. Each certified page runs $3.50. The Clerk’s seal makes the document legal for court use. Many agencies require certified copies for official matters. Plan to pay more for these special copies.
| Service | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Copy | $1.00 per page | No certification |
| Certified Copy | $3.50 per page | Includes Clerk seal |
| Online Search | Free | Basic case info |
| Document View Online | Free to $2.50 | Per document |
Payment Methods Accepted
The Clerk accepts cash, personal checks, money orders, and credit cards. A small fee may apply to credit card payments. Bring exact cash when possible. The office does not accept bills over $50 without prior notice.
Sealed and Restricted Records
Some family court records are sealed or partly hidden from public view. Florida law protects certain sensitive details. The Clerk follows these rules on every file.
What Gets Sealed by Default
Adoption records are sealed in most cases. Mental health records attached to family cases are also sealed. Some financial details may be restricted in divorce files. Children’s identifying information is removed from public online access.
How to Request Sealing
A party in the case can file a motion to seal. The judge decides if the seal is needed. The Clerk then marks the file as sealed. The public can no longer see sealed records without a court order.
Accessing Sealed Records
Only named parties and their lawyers can see sealed files. A judge can grant access to others for good cause. The Clerk checks ID before showing sealed records. Always call ahead if you need sealed files.
Flagler County Clerk of Court Office Details
The Clerk’s office is the main place for all family court records in the county. Here is how to find and contact them.
Location and Hours
The Flagler County Clerk of Court sits at 1769 E. Moody Boulevard, Bunnell, FL 32110. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The office closes on state and federal holidays. Free parking is available on site.
Contact Methods
Call the main line at (386) 313-4400 for general questions. Visit flaglerclerk.com for online services and forms. The office also accepts fax requests for some documents. Email is not used for record requests due to security rules.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Office Name | Flagler County Clerk of Court |
| Current Clerk | Tom Bexley |
| Street Address | 1769 E. Moody Boulevard, Bunnell, FL 32110 |
| Phone Number | (386) 313-4400 |
| Website | https://www.flaglerclerk.com/ |
| Business Hours | Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. |
| Judicial Circuit | 7th Judicial Circuit |
Staff and Services
The Clerk’s office has trained staff who know the record system. They help you find cases, pull files, and explain procedures. The office also handles passport applications, marriage licenses, and other public services.
7th Judicial Circuit Court System
Flagler County sits in the 7th Judicial Circuit of Florida. This circuit covers four counties along the east coast. The circuit runs a shared family court system with local clerk offices in each county.
Circuit Structure
The 7th Circuit includes Flagler, St. Johns, Volusia, and Putnam counties. Family court judges rotate through the circuit. The chief judge assigns cases based on caseload and location. Each county keeps its own paper records at its local clerk office.
The circuit website at 7thcircuit.org offers local forms and court calendars. You can find judge assignments and hearing schedules there. The site also lists self-help resources for people without lawyers.
Family Division Judges
Family cases in Flagler County go to judges who specialize in family law. These judges handle divorce trials, custody hearings, and adoption petitions. They also rule on domestic violence injunctions. Judge assignments change as cases move through the system.
Electronic Filing Requirements
Most family court papers must be filed online through the Florida Courts eFiling Portal. Lawyers and self-represented parties can both use this system. The portal accepts new cases, motions, and responses. You must create an account before filing.
The e-filing portal charges a small fee per submission. Credit cards and e-checks are accepted. Documents filed online get a timestamp and tracking number. You will get email updates as the court processes your filing.
Common Court Forms and Filing
Family court cases use standard Florida Supreme Court forms. The Clerk provides these forms in person and online. Always use the latest version of each form.
Standard Family Law Forms
Florida uses numbered forms for family cases. Form 12.901 starts a petition for divorce. Form 12.902 covers financial statements. Form 12.950 handles family law injunctions. The Clerk’s office and the 7th Circuit website both have these forms.
E-Filing Process
Open an account on the Florida eFiling Portal. Pick the correct case type and county. Upload your forms in PDF format. Pay the filing fee. Get a confirmation email. The court reviews and accepts or rejects the filing within a few days.
Filing Fees
Filing fees depend on the case type. A new divorce costs about $409. A petition for custody costs around $301. Adoption fees vary based on the type of adoption. The Clerk can give you the exact fee before you file.
Public Access Rights and Florida Law
Florida has strong public records laws. Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes opens most court files to the public. This law covers family court records kept by the Flagler County Clerk.
Florida Public Records Act
This state law says any person can see most government records. Court files fall under this rule. You do not need to be a party to a case to view it. You only need a valid reason to look at the file.
Personal Information Redaction
The Clerk must remove certain personal details from public files. Social security numbers, bank account numbers, and credit card numbers get redacted. Children’s names may be partially hidden in online records. This protects people from identity theft.
Requesting Restricted Access
You can ask the court to seal part of your case file. File a written motion that explains the reason. A judge will hold a hearing and rule on the motion. The Clerk then marks the file as restricted based on the court order.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following questions cover the most common things people ask about Flagler County family court records. Each answer gives you clear steps and current rules for 2026.
How Do I Find Old Family Court Records in Flagler County?
Old family court records from before 2000 may not show up in the online search tool. Visit the Clerk’s office in Bunnell to look at paper files. Bring a photo ID and the case number if you have it. The staff will pull the physical file for you. Some very old records may have been moved to a state archive. The Clerk can tell you if your case is still in the local office or sent away.
Can I See Adoption Records in Flagler County?
Most adoption records are sealed under Florida law. The Clerk cannot show these files without a court order. Birth parents and adult adoptees can request access through a court petition. The court may grant access for medical reasons or family history research. You should talk to a family law lawyer if you need to open an adoption file.
What Is the Cost to Get a Certified Copy of a Divorce Record?
Certified copies of divorce judgments cost $3.50 per page. You also need to pay a small search fee. The Clerk accepts cash, checks, and credit cards. You can order in person or by mail. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope with mail requests. The Clerk will return your certified copies within a few business days.
Are Family Court Records Free to View Online?
Basic case information is free on the Clerk’s website. You can see party names, filing dates, and hearing schedules at no cost. Viewing full documents online costs up to $2.50 per document. This fee helps pay for the online system. In-person viewing of paper files is free, but copies cost extra.
How Long Does Flagler County Keep Family Court Records?
Florida law requires the Clerk to keep most family court records permanently. Divorce decrees, adoption orders, and custody judgments stay on file forever. Some temporary documents may be purged after 10 years. The Clerk can tell you which records are still on file and which have been moved to storage.
Can I Get Family Court Records From Another State?
You can only get Flagler County records from the Flagler County Clerk. If you need records from another state, contact that state’s court system directly. MyFloridaCourtAccess.com covers all Florida counties. For other states, visit the National Center for State Courts website for links to each state’s record system.
What Happens if a Family Court Case Is Sealed?
A sealed case is removed from public access. The Clerk will not show the file to anyone without a court order. Named parties and their lawyers can still see the file. The public, including the press, cannot see sealed records. You would need to file a motion and get a judge’s permission to open a sealed file.