Lauderhill City Family Court Records are public files held by the Broward County Clerk of Courts. Lauderhill sits inside Broward County, which is part of Florida’s 17th Judicial Circuit.
All family law cases from Lauderhill, including divorce, custody, child support, paternity, and adoption, are filed and stored at the county level. The City of Lauderhill does not keep these records. Residents who need divorce decrees, custody orders, or support judgments must contact the county clerk or use online search tools linked to the 17th Circuit Court system.
Where Lauderhill City Family Court Records Are Kept
Family court records for Lauderhill residents live in one main place. The Broward County Clerk of Courts keeps every family law file for the entire county, including cases filed by people who live in Lauderhill. This clerk office acts as the official record keeper for the 17th Judicial Circuit Court, which serves Broward County.
Broward County Clerk of Courts
The Broward County Clerk of Courts is the main office for Lauderhill family court records. This office stores divorce papers, custody orders, child support judgments, paternity filings, adoption decrees, and domestic violence injunctions. Anyone can ask the clerk to view a file or order a certified copy. The main office is in downtown Fort Lauderdale, but branch offices serve other parts of the county.
The clerk’s main office details include:
- Address: 201 Southeast 6th Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301
- Website: www.browardclerk.org
- Phone: (954) 831-6565
Lauderhill residents can visit the main office, mail a request, or use the clerk’s online portal to look up case details from home.
17th Judicial Circuit Family Court
The 17th Judicial Circuit Court handles all family law cases in Broward County. This circuit court is the second largest trial court in Florida, with 90 judges total. Family court judges hear divorce, custody, support, paternity, and adoption cases. The circuit has several family court divisions, each led by a judge who handles specific case types.
Key family court divisions include:
- Division 33: Judge Pascale Achille, phone 954-831-1648
- Division 37: Judge Kristin R. Kanner, phone (954) 831-5895
Lauderhill cases are assigned to a family court division based on case type and filing date. Each division has its own judicial assistant who can answer questions about scheduled hearings and case status.
Lauderhill City Clerk vs County Clerk
Lauderhill has a city clerk, but this office does not handle family court records. The Lauderhill City Clerk manages city commission minutes, local ordinances, city permits, and business licenses. This office serves local government needs only. People who need family court records must skip the city clerk and go directly to the Broward County Clerk of Courts.
The Lauderhill City Clerk is located at:
- Address: 5581 West Oakland Park Boulevard, Lauderhill, Florida 33313
- Phone: (954) 730-3000
- Website: www.lauderhill-fl.gov
Mixing up these two offices causes delays. Family law files never reach the city level in Florida, so the county clerk is always the correct source for Lauderhill family court records.
Types of Family Court Records Available
Family court records cover many case types. Each type produces different documents. Knowing what kind of record you need helps speed up your search. Most family court files are open to the public, but some are sealed by court order.
Divorce and Dissolution Records
Divorce records are among the most requested family court files. A divorce case creates several documents, including the initial petition, financial affidavits, settlement agreements, and the final judgment of dissolution. The Broward County Clerk keeps these files for Lauderhill couples who filed for divorce in the county. People often need divorce records for remarriage, name changes, or property matters.
Common divorce documents include:
- Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
- Marital Settlement Agreement
- Final Judgment of Dissolution
- Financial Affidavit forms
These files remain public unless a judge orders them sealed.
Child Custody and Time-Sharing Records
Child custody cases in Lauderhill fall under the Florida term “time-sharing.” Custody records include parenting plans, visitation schedules, and court orders that decide where a child lives. These files show the rights and duties of each parent. The clerk stores original parenting plans and any later modifications.
Custody records often contain:
- Parenting Plan forms
- Time-sharing schedules
- Modification orders
- Custody evaluation reports
Many custody cases also include mediation reports, which are filed with the clerk after mediation sessions.
Child Support Records
Child support records show payment amounts, income details, and arrears balances. These files are created when a parent files a petition for support or when the state steps in on behalf of a child. The Department of Revenue often works with the court on support cases. The clerk keeps the court’s support orders, but payment history is tracked through the Florida State Disbursement Unit.
Support case files usually include:
- Petition to Establish Child Support
- Income deduction orders
- Support payment ledgers
- Arrears calculations
Paternity Case Files
Paternity cases prove who the legal father of a child is. These cases may involve DNA testing, voluntary acknowledgments, or court hearings. Once paternity is established, the court can order child support, custody, and time-sharing. The clerk stores all paternity filings from Lauderhill residents.
Paternity records may contain:
- Petition to Establish Paternity
- DNA test results
- Acknowledgment of Paternity forms
- Orders on Paternity
Adoption Records
Adoption records in Lauderhill are filed in the 17th Circuit Court. These files are often sealed once the adoption is final. Before sealing, the clerk keeps the petition, home study reports, and final adoption decree. Birth certificates are updated through the Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics after an adoption is complete.
Adoption files typically include:
- Petition for Adoption
- Home study evaluations
- Consent forms from birth parents
- Final Adoption Decree
Sealed adoption records can be opened only through a special court order.
Domestic Violence Injunctions
Domestic violence cases move quickly through the court system. The clerk keeps temporary and final injunctions for protection. These records show who is protected, who is restrained, and what conditions apply. Lauderhill residents can look up active injunctions through the clerk’s online system.
Injunction files may contain:
- Petition for Injunction for Protection
- Temporary Injunction orders
- Final Injunction orders
- Return-of-service documents
How to Search Family Court Records Online
Online search tools make it easy to look up Lauderhill family court records. The Broward County Clerk offers several digital options. These tools work on computers, tablets, and phones. Most basic searches are free.
Broward County Case Search Portal
The Broward County Clerk’s website has a free case search tool. Users can look up cases by name, case number, business name, or citation number. The search shows case type, filing date, judge, and current status. Some case documents are viewable online. Others must be ordered through the clerk’s office.
The search portal works for all case types, including family law. Filters let users narrow results to family court cases only. The system updates daily with new filings and updated docket entries.
The Broward County case search system allows Lauderhill residents to find family court records remotely.
courtMAP Online System
courtMAP is an online management and access platform built on the Broward court management system. This tool gives users a fuller view of case activity, including hearing schedules, party details, and document images. courtMAP is part of the 17th Judicial Circuit’s digital services. Users can register for a free account to access more features.
courtMAP features include:
- Full case detail views
- Hearing schedule lookups
- Document image access
- Party and attorney details
This system works well for people tracking ongoing family cases.
Florida E-Filing Portal
The Florida Courts E-Filing Portal at www.myflcourtaccess.com is the main filing system for all Florida courts. This portal is used by attorneys and self-represented parties to file new cases and submit documents. The portal covers Broward County and the 17th Circuit, so Lauderhill cases appear here as well.
The portal allows users to:
- File new family court cases
- Submit motions and responses
- Pay filing fees online
- Receive electronic notifications
The e-filing portal allows Lauderhill residents to submit family court documents electronically.
How to Request Certified Copies of Records
Certified copies carry the court seal and are accepted by other courts, government agencies, and employers. Basic copies are for personal use. Lauderhill residents can request both types through the clerk’s office.
In-Person Requests at the Clerk’s Office
People can visit the main clerk’s office in Fort Lauderdale to request certified copies. Staff help locate the file and produce copies on the spot for many requests. Bring a valid photo ID and case details such as the case number or party names. Pay fees by cash, check, money order, or card.
The main clerk’s office is open Monday through Friday during business hours. The office serves walk-in customers on a first-come, first-served basis. Arriving early helps avoid long lines, especially near the start of the month.
Online Document Orders
The Broward County Clerk’s website lets users order certified copies online. Users search for the case, select the document they need, and pay the fee. The clerk mails the certified copy to the address on file. Online orders take longer to arrive than in-person requests but save a trip to Fort Lauderdale.
Online ordering works for:
- Certified copies of judgments
- Certified copies of marriage licenses
- Certified copies of divorce decrees
- Plain copies of case documents
Fees and Payment Methods
Fees for certified copies vary by document type. Standard fees cover a set number of pages, with extra charges for longer files. The clerk accepts cash, checks, money orders, and major credit cards. Online orders use a secure payment system.
Typical fee structure:
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Certified copy (per page) | $1.00 – $2.00 |
| Plain copy (per page) | $0.15 – $1.00 |
| Online document order | Convenience fee applies |
| Expedited service | Extra fee applies |
Exact fees change over time, so call the clerk’s office for current pricing before placing an order.
Family Court Self-Help Resources for Lauderhill Residents
People who file family court cases without a lawyer can use self-help tools. These resources help people fill out forms, file documents, and understand court procedures. The 17th Circuit offers several free or low-cost options for Lauderhill residents.
SOFIA Self-Help System
SOFIA stands for State Of Florida Interactive Access. This online tool helps people complete court forms by answering simple questions. SOFIA creates ready-to-file documents for common family law cases, including divorce, custody, and paternity. Users answer plain-language questions, and the system fills out the right forms.
SOFIA supports:
- Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
- Petition for Paternity
- Petition for Custody
- Petition for Child Support
SOFIA is free to use and available 24 hours a day through the Florida Courts website.
DIY Florida Document Creator
DIY Florida is another self-help tool that helps people create legal documents by answering questions about their situation. The system then produces documents that can be filed electronically through the E-Portal or by hand at the clerk’s office. DIY Florida works well for simple family law matters.
DIY Florida helps with:
- Simple divorces with no children
- Uncontested paternity cases
- Name change petitions
- Modifications of existing orders
Family Court Services Pilot Program
In January 2026, the 17th Judicial Circuit launched the Family Court Services Pilot Program. This new program helps families in high-conflict cases connect with therapy, mediation, and community support services. The pilot program acts as a bridge between the courtroom and local help. Lauderhill families involved in tough custody or divorce cases can be referred to this program by a judge.
The pilot program offers:
- Therapy referrals for families
- Conflict-resolution coaching
- Links to community support
- Early intervention services
The program is free for families who qualify and meet program rules.
Filing New Family Court Cases from Lauderhill
People starting a new family court case in Lauderhill must file in the 17th Judicial Circuit. The filing process follows Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, which set out deadlines, forms, and steps. Most new cases are filed electronically through the E-Filing Portal.
Required Forms for New Cases
Florida uses a standard set of family law forms approved by the Florida Supreme Court. These forms can be downloaded from the Florida Courts website. The exact forms depend on the case type, but most family law cases share a few common filings.
Common required forms include:
- Petition (for divorce, custody, paternity, or support)
- Cover sheet for family law cases
- Financial affidavit
- Summons (when serving the other party)
Form updates happen yearly, so always use the current version when filing.
E-Filing Process Step by Step
The E-Filing Portal is the main way to start a new case. Self-represented parties and lawyers both use this system. The portal guides users through each step, from selecting case type to uploading forms and paying fees.
E-filing steps include:
- Create a free account on the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal
- Select Broward County as the filing location
- Choose the case type (divorce, custody, paternity, etc.)
- Upload completed forms in PDF format
- Pay the filing fee using a credit card or e-check
- Receive a confirmation email with the case number
Once filed, the clerk reviews the documents and assigns the case to a family court division.
Filing Fees and Waiver Options
Filing fees vary by case type. A simple divorce costs less than a custody modification, for example. Self-represented parties who cannot afford the fee can apply for a fee waiver by filing a financial affidavit with the court. The clerk’s office can explain current fee amounts.
Typical filing fee ranges include:
| Case Type | Approximate Fee |
|---|---|
| Petition for Dissolution of Marriage | Around $400 |
| Petition for Custody | Around $300 |
| Petition for Paternity | Around $300 |
| Motion for Modification | Around $50 – $100 |
Fees can change, so check the clerk’s current fee schedule before filing.
Contact Information for Lauderhill Family Court Records
Lauderhill residents can reach the family court system through several offices. The main point of contact is the Broward County Clerk of Courts in Fort Lauderdale. Family court judges and their staff can also answer case-specific questions.
Broward County Courthouse Main Office
The main courthouse is the central hub for family court records. Lauderhill cases are filed, stored, and processed at this location. The courthouse is open to the public during business hours.
Main courthouse contact details:
- Address: 201 Southeast 6th Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301
- Phone: (954) 831-6565
- Website: www.browardclerk.org
- Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Visitors should bring a photo ID and any case numbers or party names they have.
The Broward County Courthouse is in downtown Fort Lauderdale and serves as the main family court location for Lauderhill residents.
The Broward County Clerk office maintains Lauderhill family court records for the 17th Judicial Circuit.
Family Court Division Contacts
Each family court division has a judge and a judicial assistant. Lauderhill cases are assigned to a specific division based on filing date and case type. People can call the division directly to check hearing dates and case progress.
Key division contacts include:
- Division 33: Judge Pascale Achille, phone 954-831-1648
- Division 37: Judge Kristin R. Kanner, phone (954) 831-5895
Division procedures for Unified Family Division 37 were last updated in July 2026, and updated rules are posted on the 17th Circuit website.
Lauderhill City Hall
Lauderhill City Hall handles city-level matters, not family court records. Residents should not contact the city clerk for divorce decrees, custody orders, or support judgments. City Hall is still a helpful place for local permits, licenses, and city services.
Lauderhill City Hall contact details:
- Address: 5581 West Oakland Park Boulevard, Lauderhill, Florida 33313
- Phone: (954) 730-3000
- Website: www.lauderhill-fl.gov
- Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lauderhill City Family Court Records
This section answers common questions about Lauderhill family court records. These questions come from people who need to look up, request, or file family court documents in the 17th Judicial Circuit. Answers reflect the current court system and online tools as of 2026.
How do I find a divorce record for someone in Lauderhill?
Start with the Broward County Clerk’s online case search at www.browardclerk.org. Enter the full legal name of either party in the search tool. If the case was filed in Broward County, it will show up in the results. Click the case number to see the full docket, party information, and any documents that are viewable online. For certified copies, use the online ordering tool or visit the clerk’s main office in Fort Lauderdale with a photo ID.
Are Lauderhill family court records public?
Most family court records are public, but some are sealed. Divorce petitions, custody orders, and support judgments are generally open to the public. Sealed records require a special court order to open. Financial affidavits and child custody evaluations may be restricted in some cases. The clerk can tell you which documents in a specific case are public and which are sealed.
Can I look up a Lauderhill child support case online?
Yes. Use the Broward County Clerk’s case search or the courtMAP system to look up child support cases. The search shows the case type, filing date, and current status. Payment history, however, is tracked through the Florida State Disbursement Unit, not the clerk’s office. The SDU website has a separate portal for payment records.
How long does it take to get a certified copy of a family court record?
In-person requests at the clerk’s office are often filled the same day for older cases. Newer cases may take longer because documents are still being processed. Online orders typically arrive by mail within 5 to 10 business days. Expedited service is available for an extra fee. Call the clerk’s office to confirm current turnaround times.
What if I need family court records from another Florida county?
Each Florida county has its own clerk of court. Records from other counties must be requested from that county’s clerk office. Florida does not have a single statewide case search for the public. The Florida Courts E-Filing Portal helps with multi-county filings but is not a public lookup tool. For an older statewide search, contact the Florida Department of Law Enforcement for criminal history or the clerk of the specific county for family records.
Can I seal a family court record in Lauderhill?
Yes, in some cases. A judge can order a family court file sealed if there is a good reason. Common reasons include protecting children, hiding sensitive financial data, or safeguarding identity. The party asking for the seal must file a written motion and explain the reason. Sealing is not automatic and is decided case by case.
What is the difference between sealing and expunging a record?
Sealing hides a record from public view but keeps it in the court system. Expungement physically destroys the record, though some metadata may remain. Family court cases are usually sealed, not expunged. Expungement is more common in criminal cases. Florida law treats these two actions very differently, and expungement is harder to get than sealing.