Miami Dade County family court records are official court files that hold details about family law cases filed in the 11th Judicial Circuit of Florida. These records cover divorce, child custody, child support, paternity, adoption, and domestic violence cases.
The Miami Dade Clerk of Courts keeps these files and makes them open to the public under Florida law. People search these records for legal checks, background checks, genealogy, court date lookups, or to check the status of their own case.
What Are Miami Dade County Family Court Records
Family court records are written papers created during a family law case. Each case gets a unique case number. The papers show what each side asked for, what the judge decided, and the final order. These records are kept at the Miami Dade Clerk of Courts office in downtown Miami and online through the county’s court system.
Types of Family Court Cases Filed
Miami Dade County handles many kinds of family law cases each year. The most common types include dissolution of marriage, also called divorce, paternity actions, child custody disputes, child support orders, adoptions, and domestic violence injunctions. Each case type has its own paperwork and court process.
- Dissolution of marriage (divorce)
- Child custody and time-sharing
- Child support
- Paternity establishment
- Adoption
- Domestic violence injunctions
- Name changes for adults and minors
Who Can Access These Records
Florida law makes most family court records public. Any person can search for and view basic case details. Some papers stay sealed by court order. These include records with Social Security numbers, financial account numbers, or details about minors. The parties named in a case, their lawyers, and people with a court order can see sealed records.
Florida Public Records Law and Family Cases
Florida has a strong public records law under Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes. This law gives the public the right to see most government records, including court files. Family court records follow this rule unless a judge orders the file sealed. The clerk must follow both state law and court orders when deciding what to share.
Miami Dade Clerk of Court and Family Division
The Miami Dade Clerk of Courts manages all family court records for the county. The current Clerk is Juan Fernandez-Barquin. The clerk’s office is the official record keeper for the 11th Judicial Circuit Court. The family division handles cases that involve family relationships.
Office Location and Contact Details
The main clerk’s office sits at 73 West Flagler Street, Miami, Florida 33130. This is the Richard E. Gerstein Justice Building. The office is in downtown Miami near the Government Center. The phone number for the clerk is (305) 275-1155. The official website is miamidadeclerk.gov.
Office Hours and Service Options
The clerk’s office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The office closes on weekends and on all state and federal holidays. People can visit in person, call by phone, or use the online search system. For mail requests, the office accepts written record requests with payment.
Clerk’s Role in Family Cases
The clerk receives all court papers, assigns case numbers, files documents into the court record, and issues certified copies. The clerk does not give legal advice. The clerk also collects court fees and fines. When a judge signs an order, the clerk enters the order into the official record.
How to Search Miami Dade Family Court Case Records Online
The fastest way to search family court records is online. Miami Dade County offers two main online systems. Each system has its own search tools and rules.
Using the Civil, Family and Probate Courts Online System
The Civil, Family and Probate Courts Online System (OCS) is the main search tool for Miami Dade. The web address is www2.miamidadeclerk.gov/ocs. This system lets users search by party name or case number. Basic case information is free to view. The system shows case status, party names, hearing dates, and final judgments. Some documents can be viewed online as images.
To use OCS, go to the website and click the search option. Enter the full legal name of a party or the case number. The system will show matching cases. Click on a case to see more details. Users can register for a free account to save searches and get extra features.
My Florida Court Access Portal
My Florida Court Access (also called Florida ePortal) is a statewide system. The web address is myflcourtaccess.com. This portal works for Miami Dade and other Florida counties. It is useful when someone needs to check if a case was filed in another county. Basic searches are free. Some advanced features require payment.
Search by Name vs Case Number
Searching by case number gives the most exact result. A case number has a format like 2024-FC-012345. Searching by name works well when the case number is not known. Users should enter the full legal name. Variations in spelling or use of nicknames can cause missed results. Date of birth helps narrow down the search when many people share the same name.
How to Request Family Court Records in Person
Some records are not online. Older records, sealed records, and certified copies need an in-person visit. The clerk’s office has public computers for self-search. Staff members are also available to help with searches.
Required Identification and Documents
A valid photo ID is needed for in-person requests. Acceptable IDs include a Florida driver’s license, state ID card, passport, or military ID. If someone else picks up records on a person’s behalf, a signed written authorization is needed along with the requester’s ID copy and the pick-up person’s ID.
Fees for Standard and Certified Copies
Standard copies cost a per-page fee set by Florida law. Certified copies cost more because they include the clerk’s seal and signature. Certified copies prove the document is a true copy of the court record. Many legal and government agencies require certified copies. The clerk accepts cash, checks, money orders, and credit or debit cards.
| Copy Type | Fee | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Standard copy | $1.00 per page | Personal reference |
| Certified copy | $3.00 per document plus page fee | Court and government use |
| Authenticated copy | Additional fee | Use outside the United States |
Same-Day Service and Rush Options
Most copy requests are filled the same day. Large requests or records stored off-site may take longer. The clerk can give a time estimate when a request is made. There is no formal rush service, but staff try to help when deadlines are tight.
Types of Family Court Records Available
Each family case has many documents. The exact papers depend on the case type. Below are the main record types in Miami Dade County family court.
Divorce and Dissolution Records
Divorce records include the petition, response, financial affidavits, marital settlement agreement, and final judgment of dissolution. The final judgment is the order that ends the marriage. It also covers property division, alimony, and attorney fees. These records are public unless a judge orders them sealed.
Child Custody and Time-Sharing Records
Custody records include the parenting plan, time-sharing schedule, and any custody orders. The parenting plan shows when each parent has the child and how decisions are made. The court requires a parenting plan in all cases involving minor children. These records help parents and lawyers track the custody order.
Child Support Records
Child support records show the support order, payment history, and any modifications. The order includes the monthly amount, payment due date, and where payments go. Florida uses the Department of Revenue for many child support cases. The clerk’s office holds the official court order. Payment records are kept by the State Disbursement Unit.
Paternity and Adoption Records
Paternity records include the petition, genetic test results, and order establishing fatherhood. After paternity is set, the court can order custody, time-sharing, and child support. Adoption records are sealed after the adoption is final. Before the adoption is granted, the records are open like other family cases. After final adoption, only the adoptive parents and adult adoptees can get copies of the original birth record.
Domestic Violence Injunction Records
Domestic violence records include the petition, temporary ex parte order, final injunction, and any violation reports. Florida law protects the address and contact details of the person seeking protection. Some details may be redacted from public copies. Police agencies and the courts have full access.
Understanding the 11th Judicial Circuit Family Court
Miami Dade County is part of the 11th Judicial Circuit of Florida. This circuit is one of the largest in the state. The family court has many judges and staff to handle the high case volume.
Court Divisions and Judges
The family division has several courtrooms. Each judge handles a group of cases. The family division hears dissolution, paternity, custody, support, adoption, and domestic violence cases. The current list of family court judges is on the 11th Judicial Circuit website.
Family Mediation Services
Family mediation helps parties reach a deal without a trial. A neutral mediator meets with both sides and helps them talk through issues. Mediation works well for custody, time-sharing, and property matters. Many judges order mediation before a final hearing. Mediation is faster and cheaper than a full trial.
Parenting Course Requirements
Florida law requires parents in custody and divorce cases to take a parenting course. The course covers how children react to divorce and how parents can help. Parents must file proof of completion with the court. The course is offered online and in person. The certificate must be filed before the final hearing.
Sealed and Confidential Family Court Records
Not all family court records are open to the public. Some records are sealed by court order. Sealed records are kept private and cannot be viewed without permission from the court.
What Records Are Sealed
Common sealed records include adoption records after finalization, juvenile dependency records, and any record a judge orders sealed. Financial records with account numbers may be redacted even when the file is open. Domestic violence records may have the petitioner’s address removed for safety. Mental health records used in a case are usually sealed.
How to Request Access to Sealed Records
A person who wants to see a sealed record must file a motion with the court. The motion explains why the person needs the record. The other side can object. A judge reviews the motion and decides. If the judge grants the request, the clerk will let the person view the record under the court’s rules.
Common Issues and How to Solve Them
People often run into problems when searching for family court records. Most issues have a simple fix.
Old Records Not Found Online
Records from before the late 1990s may not be online. The clerk’s office has these records on microfilm or in paper files. An in-person visit is needed to view them. The clerk can pull the file for a small fee. Same-day service is common for older files.
Name Variations and Search Problems
Search problems happen when names have different spellings. Married names, maiden names, and typos can cause missed results. Try different name forms. Add a date of birth if known. The clerk can help with a manual search by name in the public indexes.
Requesting Certified Copies by Mail
People who cannot visit in person can mail a record request. The request must include the case number or full names, the documents needed, a daytime phone number, and payment. The clerk accepts checks, money orders, and sometimes credit card authorizations. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for the return. Mail requests can take one to three weeks.
Miami Dade Family Court Records Contact
For direct help with family court records, contact the Miami Dade Clerk of Courts using the details below. Staff can answer questions about search tools, fees, copy requests, and case status.
Office: Miami Dade County Clerk of Courts, Family Division
Address: 73 W. Flagler Street, Miami, FL 33130
Phone: (305) 275-1155
Website: miamidadeclerk.gov
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Frequently Asked Questions
This section answers common questions about Miami Dade County family court records. These answers cover the most searched topics and help users solve real problems when looking for family court files.
How Do I Find Out If Someone Filed for Divorce in Miami Dade?
You can search the Civil, Family and Probate Courts Online System at www2.miamidadeclerk.gov/ocs. Enter the full legal name of either spouse and search family cases. The system will show the case number, filing date, and current status. If the case is not online, visit the clerk’s office at 73 W. Flagler Street with a photo ID. Staff can search the public index by name. You will need to know the approximate year of filing and the full legal names of both parties for the best results.
Are Miami Dade Divorce Records Public?
Yes, most divorce records in Miami Dade are public under Florida law. Anyone can view the case file, but some sensitive details may be redacted. Financial account numbers, Social Security numbers, and minor children’s details are usually redacted from public copies. Sealed divorce records are not open to the public. To get a certified copy of a divorce judgment, visit the clerk’s office with a photo ID and pay the certified copy fee. You can also mail a request to the clerk with payment.
How Can I Get a Copy of a Child Custody Order in Miami Dade?
To get a child custody order, search for the case on the OCS online system first. Many custody orders are viewable as images online. If not, visit the clerk’s office in person with a photo ID. Provide the case number if you have it. The clerk will pull the file and make copies. Certified copies cost more but prove the order is real. Mail requests are accepted with payment and a self-addressed envelope.
Can I View Sealed Family Court Records in Miami Dade?
Sealed family court records are not open to the public. Only the parties named in the case, their lawyers, and people with a court order can see sealed files. To ask for access, file a written motion with the court. The motion should explain why you need the record. The other side can object. A judge will review and decide. If the judge grants the motion, the clerk will let you see the record under court rules.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Certified Copy of a Family Court Record?
Most certified copy requests are filled the same day when made in person. Large requests or records stored off-site can take longer. The clerk will give a time estimate when you make the request. Mail requests take one to three weeks. The clerk accepts checks, money orders, cash, and credit or debit cards. Plan ahead for important deadlines to avoid delays in your legal or personal matters.
What Is the Cost to Search Family Court Records in Miami Dade?
Basic case searches on the OCS online system are free. Viewing case information is also free. The only fees apply to certified copies and some advanced search features. Standard copies cost one dollar per page. Certified copies cost more. The clerk posts current fees on the website at miamidadeclerk.gov. Fees are set by Florida law and may change over time.
Can I Search Miami Dade Family Court Records From My Phone?
Yes, the OCS system works on mobile phones and tablets. Go to www2.miamidadeclerk.gov/ocs from any browser. The site is mobile-friendly. You can search by name, view case details, and check hearing dates from your phone. The My Florida Court Access portal also works on mobile devices. For certified copies, you must visit the clerk’s office in person or mail a request. The mobile site gives you 24-hour access to basic case information.