Madison County family court records are public files kept by the Clerk of Court in Madison, Florida. These records cover divorce cases, child custody orders, child support actions, paternity filings, adoption decrees, and domestic violence petitions.
The Clerk of Court office stores every family law case filed in the 3rd Judicial Circuit for Madison County. You can look at most records online, in person, or by mail. This page shows you how each method works, what files you can see, what fees you may pay, and where to call for help.
Madison County Clerk of Court Office
The Clerk of Court is the main record keeper for all family law cases in Madison County. Billy Washington serves as the current Clerk. His office keeps divorce papers, custody orders, support judgments, paternity tests, adoption files, and domestic violence petitions. The office is the legal home of these records. Court staff manage the files each day and help people who come in to look at cases.
Office Location and Hours
The clerk’s office sits at 125 SW Range Avenue in downtown Madison. The building stands near the historic town square. Staff work Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The office closes on state and federal holidays. You can walk in during work hours to ask for records or use office computers to search files.
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Clerk Name | Billy Washington |
| Street Address | 125 SW Range Avenue, Madison, FL 32340 |
| Phone Number | (850) 973-1500 |
| Office Hours | Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
| County | Madison County, Florida |
| Judicial Circuit | 3rd Judicial Circuit |
Contact Methods and Phone
You can call the clerk’s office at (850) 973-1500. Phone lines open at 8:00 AM and close at 5:00 PM on workdays. Staff answer questions about case status, filing fees, and how to order copies. You can also email the office through the contact form on the clerk’s website. For mail requests, send letters to the street address listed above.
Clerk Services for Family Cases
The clerk’s office helps people search records, file new cases, pay fees, and get certified copies. Staff can pull a case file by name, case number, or filing date. They can also print copies of judgments, orders, and other court papers. Certified copies carry a raised court seal and are accepted by other courts and government agencies.
- Record search by name or case number
- Filing new family law cases
- Accepting court fees and fines
- Issuing certified copies of orders
- Maintaining the court calendar
- Administering oaths to witnesses
Types of Family Court Records
Madison County keeps many types of family court records. Each case type has its own set of papers. The clerk files them by case number and party name. Most records are open to the public, but a few stay sealed by law. Here are the main record types you can ask for.
Divorce and Dissolution Records
Divorce records cover the end of a marriage. They include the petition, the response, financial affidavits, and the final judgment. The final judgment lists how the court splits property, debts, and other assets. You can view most divorce papers at the clerk’s office. Older divorce decrees from the 1970s and 1980s may be on microfilm.
Child Custody and Time-Sharing Records
Custody records show how parents share time with their children. They include parenting plans, time-sharing schedules, and custody orders. The court makes these orders during divorce or in separate custody cases. Most custody orders stay public, but a judge can seal parts of a file to protect a child.
Child Support Order Records
Child support records list the amount one parent must pay the other. They include the support order, payment history, and any changes made by the court. The Florida Department of Revenue also keeps its own payment records. You can check payments through the state child support system or ask the clerk for a copy of the order.
Paternity and Adoption Records
Paternity records show who the legal father of a child is. These cases often lead to support orders and custody rights. Adoption records are sealed by Florida law. Only the people named in the case, their lawyers, and certain state agencies can see adoption files. Birth certificates are updated after an adoption is final.
How to Search Family Court Records
You have three ways to look at Madison County family court records. You can search online, visit the clerk’s office, or mail a request. Each method works for different needs. Online search is fast and free for basic lookups. In-person visits give you access to full files. Mail requests work for people who live far from Madison.
Searching Online Through State Portal
The My Florida Court Access portal lets you search cases from any Florida county. You can look up cases by party name, case number, or filing date. The portal shows case status, hearing dates, and party names. Basic search is free. You need a paid account to see certain sealed documents. The portal updates each night with new filings.
In-Person Record Requests
You can visit the clerk’s office to look at files. Staff can pull a case from the public records room. Bring a photo ID and the full legal name of at least one party in the case. You can use office computers to search the index. Printers charge a small fee per page. Plan to spend 30 minutes to one hour for a basic search.
Requesting Certified Copies
Certified copies carry the court seal. Banks, employers, and other courts often need certified copies. You can order them in person, by mail, or online. Each certified copy costs a set fee set by Florida law. Mail orders take 5 to 10 business days. In-person orders print while you wait.
- Fill out a records request form
- Show a valid photo ID
- Pay the copy and certification fee
- Wait for staff to pull the file
- Receive the certified copy by mail or hand
3rd Judicial Circuit Court System
Madison County belongs to the 3rd Judicial Circuit of Florida. The circuit covers seven rural counties in north Florida. Family cases follow the same rules in each county. The chief judge oversees the circuit, and the circuit court office helps manage cases across the region.
Counties Covered by the Circuit
The 3rd Judicial Circuit includes Madison and six other counties. Each county has its own clerk of court. Records are kept at the county level. You must contact the correct county clerk to see files from a specific case. Cases filed in one county do not transfer to another without a court order.
- Columbia County
- Dixie County
- Hamilton County
- Lafayette County
- Madison County
- Suwannee County
- Taylor County
Family Court Filing Process
To start a family case, you file a petition with the clerk. The clerk stamps the petition and gives you a case number. The court then schedules a hearing. The other party gets a copy of the petition and a summons. Both sides can file motions and paperwork before the hearing. The judge makes the final order.
Fees and Costs for Court Records
Florida law sets the fees for court records. The fees cover copying, certification, and search time. The clerk’s office posts its fee schedule online. Most fees are the same across all Florida counties. You can pay by cash, check, money order, or credit card.
Certification and Copy Fees
A standard photocopy costs $1.00 per page. A certified copy costs $2.00 per page plus a $1.00 certification fee. The clerk can also charge a $2.00 fee for searching older records. Long case files may cost more. The clerk gives you a receipt for every payment.
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Standard Photocopy | $1.00 per page |
| Certified Copy | $2.00 per page + $1.00 certification |
| Record Search (over 5 years) | $2.00 per name |
| Fax Filing Fee | $8.50 per document |
| Electronic Filing Fee | Varies by case type |
Accepted Payment Methods
The clerk accepts cash, personal checks, money orders, and major credit cards. Credit card payments carry a small processing fee. Checks must have the payer’s name and address printed on them. The clerk does not accept postdated checks. Online payments use a secure state payment portal.
Confidentiality and Access Rules
Florida law protects some family court records. Judges can seal files to protect children, victims, and private financial data. Sealed records cannot be opened without a court order. Public records are open to anyone. Restricted records need proof of identity or a judge’s approval.
Sealed and Confidential Files
Adoption files are always sealed. Some divorce records can be sealed if both parties ask the court. Domestic violence injunction files may be sealed to protect the victim. Paternity files stay open in most cases. A judge can also seal financial affidavits that hold bank account numbers or social security numbers.
Public Inspection Rules
Most family court records are open to the public. You do not need to live in Madison County to see them. You can take notes and make copies. You cannot remove original documents from the clerk’s office. Office staff can deny access to records that are under court seal or that contain protected personal data.
Florida State Courts Online Tools
Florida runs a statewide court records system. The system links every county clerk to one online portal. You can search cases, file new papers, and check court calendars. The tools work on phones, tablets, and computers. Most searches are free.
My Florida Court Access Portal
The My Florida Court Access portal covers all 67 Florida counties. You can search by name, case number, or citation number. The portal shows case parties, filing dates, hearing dates, and final orders. You can sign up for a free basic account or pay for an attorney account. The portal updates each night with new filings from each county.
State E-Filing System
Lawyers and self-represented people can file family court papers online. The e-filing portal accepts petitions, motions, responses, and other court papers. You upload a PDF and pay the filing fee. The clerk reviews the filing and stamps it the next business day. You get an email when the filing is accepted.
The Florida State Courts website gives statewide resources for family court records and forms.
The state courts website offers forms, self-help resources, and links to case information across all judicial circuits including Madison County.
The My Florida Court Access portal and state e-filing system help manage cases statewide.
The e-filing portal allows attorneys and self-represented parties to submit documents electronically for family court cases across Florida.
Office Location and Contact Details
You can visit the Madison County Clerk of Court office in person. The office sits in downtown Madison, near the town square. Free parking is available on Range Avenue and side streets. The building has ramps for wheelchair access. Bring a photo ID if you plan to ask for records.
Mailing Address and Phone
Send mail to the clerk at the street address listed in the table. Phone support runs during regular office hours. For urgent matters, walk in to the office. Email support is for general questions and may take 1 to 2 business days for a reply.
| Contact Type | Value |
|---|---|
| Office Phone | (850) 973-1500 |
| Mailing Address | 125 SW Range Avenue, Madison, FL 32340 |
| Office Website | madisoncountyclerk.com |
| State Court Portal | myflcourtaccess.com |
| State Courts Website | flcourts.gov |
Driving Directions and Map
The clerk’s office is at 125 SW Range Avenue, Madison, FL 32340. From Interstate 10, take exit 258 for Highway 53 north. Drive into Madison and turn east on Base Street. Turn south on Range Avenue. The office sits on the east side of the street across from the Madison County Courthouse.
Common Questions About Family Records
People ask the clerk’s office many questions about family court records. The answers below cover the most common questions about divorce, custody, support, and adoption files. Each answer lists the basic rules in plain language. If your case is complex, talk to a family law lawyer for legal advice.
What Records Are Public in Madison County?
Most family court records are public in Madison County. Divorce petitions, custody orders, support orders, and paternity filings are open to anyone who asks. Adoption records stay sealed under Florida law. Domestic violence injunctions can be sealed by a judge to protect the victim. Financial affidavits with bank or social security numbers may be redacted before the public sees them. You can view public records at the clerk’s office during business hours. Some records are also available on the My Florida Court Access portal. The clerk’s office staff can help you pull a file from the public records room. You can also ask for printed copies of orders and judgments for a small fee per page. Bring a valid photo ID and the full legal name of at least one party named in the case. The clerk will pull the file from the records room. You can read it at the public table. You can also ask the clerk to print copies for you. Most files print the same day for a small fee. Old files from before 1990 may be on microfilm. Microfilm records take longer to print.
How Do I Locate an Old Divorce Decree?
You can search for an old divorce decree in three ways. First, check the My Florida Court Access portal with the party’s full name. Second, visit the Madison County Clerk of Court office and ask staff to search the index. Third, mail a written request with the case details and a $2.00 search fee. Records older than 20 years may be on microfilm and take longer to pull. The clerk’s office can also search by case number if you have it. Old records from before 1980 may need extra research time. You can pay a small fee for a certified copy with the court seal. Mail requests take 5 to 10 business days. Walk-in requests print while you wait. The clerk’s office can also fax you a copy for an extra fee. When you call the clerk, give the full legal name of both parties and the year of the divorce. The clerk will then tell you what files are open. If the file is on microfilm, the clerk may need one extra day. You can also order a copy by mail. Send your request to 125 SW Range Avenue, Madison, FL 32340. Include a check for the copy fee.
Are Custody Records Open to the Public?
Yes, most custody records are open to the public. You can see the parenting plan, time-sharing schedule, and custody order. The court can seal parts of a custody file to protect a child’s identity or safety. If a file is sealed, you need a court order to see it. Contact the clerk’s office to check if a specific case file is open or sealed. The clerk can also tell you which parts of a file are redacted. Redacted parts usually show up as black boxes on the page. The clerk’s office charges a small fee per page for copies. You can also see basic custody case data on the My Florida Court Access portal. Some judges seal the home address of a parent to protect the family. A redacted address still shows the city and state. Custody orders can be modified later, so a file may have many orders inside. Each order changes part of the parenting plan. You can ask the clerk for a copy of the most recent order. Court staff can also pull the full file for you to read in the office.
Can I Remove My Family Court Records?
You cannot remove public family court records. Court records are permanent files kept by the clerk. You can ask a judge to seal sensitive parts of your file, but the full file stays in the court system. Expungement applies to criminal cases, not family cases. You can ask the clerk to redact personal data like social security numbers from public copies. A lawyer can file a motion to seal on your behalf. The judge will look at the case and decide. The judge’s order may seal part or all of the file. You must show a good reason for sealing. Safety concerns are a common reason. The court will weigh your safety against the public’s right to see court records. Family court records often include the names of children. A judge may seal names and addresses of children to protect them. Domestic violence victims can also ask for sealing. The motion must be filed in writing. You must serve the other party with the motion. The other party can object. The judge will hold a hearing before ruling.
How Long Does a Record Request Take?
Walk-in requests print while you wait. Online requests through the state portal show basic case data right away. Mail requests take 5 to 10 business days. Old record searches may take longer if staff need to check microfilm. The clerk will contact you if your request needs more time or more payment. You can call the clerk’s office to check on the status of a mail request. Email requests for basic case data may get a reply within 1 to 2 business days. Certified copies need extra time because staff must add the court seal. Rush service may be available for an extra fee. Plan ahead for time-sensitive requests. Court staff can answer questions about your timeline. The clerk’s office also takes fax requests for an extra fee. A faxed request can arrive the same day. You must include a credit card number with the fax. The clerk will then fax the records back to you. Some records cannot be faxed because they are too long. Those records must be mailed or picked up in person. The clerk will let you know if a record is too long to fax.
What Forms Do I Need to File?
Florida family court forms are on the Florida Courts website. You need a petition, a family law financial affidavit, and a summons for most family cases. The clerk’s office can give you paper copies of common forms. Lawyers file most family cases, but you can file on your own if you follow the court rules. You can also use the e-filing portal to submit forms online. You must pay a filing fee when you submit the petition. If you cannot afford the fee, you can ask the court to waive it. Fill out every form in full and sign each one. Missing data or unsigned forms can cause delays. Court staff cannot give legal advice but can explain which forms you need. Some forms need a notary. You can locate a notary at the clerk’s office or at a local bank. Bring a photo ID to the notary. Court staff can also answer questions about the filing process. They cannot tell you what to write in the form. That is up to you or your lawyer.
Do I Need a Lawyer for Family Court?
You do not need a lawyer, but a lawyer can help. Family cases cover child custody, support, property, and other serious matters. A lawyer knows the local rules and judges. If you cannot afford a lawyer, contact Legal Aid of North Florida for free help. Self-represented people must follow the same court rules as lawyers. The court does not give you a break for not having a lawyer. You must file the right forms, show up on time, and speak in court. Many people hire a lawyer for the hearing even if they filed on their own. A lawyer can speak for you in court. You can also ask the clerk for a list of self-help resources. The Florida courts website has a self-help section for family cases. You can download forms, read guides, and watch videos. You can also visit the law library at the county courthouse. Law librarians can help you locate statutes and case law. You can also hire a lawyer for part of your case, like just the hearing. This is called limited scope representation. It costs less than full representation.