Nassau County family court records are public court files held by the Clerk of the Circuit Court in Yulee, Florida. These records cover divorce, child custody, child support, paternity, adoption, and domestic violence cases.
Anyone can search these files for free using the county website or the statewide Florida court access portal. You can request records in person at the courthouse on Veteran’s Way. The clerk’s office keeps all files current and makes them easy to reach for residents, attorneys, and the general public. This page explains what records exist, how to get them, and where to look in 2026.
What Nassau County Family Court Records Include
The clerk’s office in Nassau County holds many types of family court records. Each type of case has its own file with court orders, petitions, and judgments. The records show how each case moved through the court. Anyone can review these files to learn about a past or active family case. Below are the main kinds of family court records stored in the system.
Divorce and Dissolution Records
Divorce and dissolution of marriage records show the full history of a married couple’s case. The files contain the initial petition, financial affidavits, and the final judgment. Parenting plans and property settlements are part of these records. Many people look at these files to check past divorce terms or to see if a former spouse filed new motions. Records for divorces filed in Nassau County are kept at the Yulee courthouse. You can search them by name or by case number on the clerk’s portal.
Child Custody and Time-Sharing Records
Child custody and time-sharing records cover the court orders for where a child lives and how parents share time. These files contain visitation schedules, holiday plans, and decision-making rules for education and health. Each time a parent files a motion to change custody, a new entry is added to the record. The clerk keeps both open and closed custody files. Parents, attorneys, and other parties named in the case can ask for copies of these documents.
Child Support Order Records
Child support order records list the amount one parent must pay the other for the care of a child. The files contain the original support order, payment history, and any changes made over time. Medical and dental insurance terms are part of the record. If a parent falls behind on payments, the clerk’s office will show the arrears in the case docket. Nassau County follows Florida’s child support guidelines when setting or changing payment amounts.
Paternity and Adoption Records
Paternity records confirm the legal father of a child. These files contain DNA test results, court orders, and the father’s name listed on the birth record. Adoption records show the legal process that gave a new parent full rights over a child. Paternity and adoption files are kept at the Yulee courthouse. Some adoption records are sealed by the court. Sealed records can only be opened by a court order or by the people named in the case.
Domestic Violence Injunction Files
Domestic violence injunction files hold petitions, temporary orders, and final injunctions. These cases protect people from harm by a family member or partner. The clerk keeps a record of every order, including those that have expired. Some injunction files are limited to the parties named in the case. The clerk can explain which files are open to public view and which are sealed for safety reasons.
Where to Search Nassau County Family Court Records
You can search Nassau County family court records online or in person. The clerk’s office runs the records system and provides free search tools. The two main ways to search are the county clerk’s website and the Florida statewide portal. For files that are not online, a visit to the courthouse is needed. Each method has its own steps and benefits.
Nassau County Clerk of Court Office
The Nassau County Clerk of Court office is the main place where all family court records are kept. The office is located at 76347 Veteran’s Way, Yulee, FL 32097. Staff can help you search by name, case number, or date. They also sell certified and plain copies of court documents. The office is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. You can call the office at (904) 548-4600 for help before you visit.
My Florida Court Access Portal
The My Florida Court Access portal, known as Odyssey, is a statewide online system. Nassau County family court records appear in this portal. You can search by name, case number, or party type. The portal shows case status, hearing dates, and final judgments. Most records are free to view. To get a printed or certified copy, contact the Nassau County clerk’s office directly.
Nassau County Clerk Online Tools
The Nassau County clerk’s website at nassauclerk.com has its own search tool. The tool links to the Odyssey portal for most family cases. The site has forms, fee schedules, and contact details. You can look up court dates and view dockets without creating an account. The website works on phones, tablets, and computers.
Steps to Search Records by Name or Case Number
You can search family court records using one of three main methods. Each method works for different types of cases. The right method depends on what data you have. If you know the full name of a party, a name search is the best way. If you have a case number from a past filing, use that. A date search works when you need files from a specific year. Below are the steps for each method.
Searching by Full Legal Name
To search by name, open the My Florida Court Access portal or the Nassau County clerk’s site. Enter the last name first, then the first name. You can add a middle name or initial to narrow the results. The system will show all matching family cases. Click on a case to see its docket, hearings, and orders. The search covers both active and closed files.
Searching by Case Number
If you have a case number, type it into the case number search field on the portal. Nassau County family cases start with a specific code for the year, the court type, and the case number. A divorce case filed in 2024 may have a number like 2024-DR-000123. The case number search gives the fastest, most exact result.
Searching by Date or Party Type
You can search by date range or by the type of family case. The portal lets you pick a start date and end date. You can pick a case type such as divorce, custody, or paternity. This method helps when you only know the year a case was filed. It helps when you have many people with the same name in the system.
What You Need for In-Person Record Requests
If you plan to visit the Nassau County clerk’s office, follow a few rules. The clerk asks for photo ID at the front desk. You must pass through a security screening before entering the records area. The clerk charges a small fee for copies. The fees depend on the type of copy you want.
Photo ID and Visitor Requirements
Bring a valid photo ID, such as a driver’s license or state ID. You must pass through a metal detector at the entrance. Bags are scanned, and some items may not be allowed inside. Cell phones are permitted, but cameras and recording devices are not. The clerk’s office provides lockers for small items if needed. Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before closing so staff can help with your search.
Copy Fees and Payment Methods
The clerk charges set fees for copies of court documents. The standard fee is $1.00 per page for a regular copy. Certified copies cost $2.00 per page plus a $1.00 certification fee. Some long documents have lower per-page rates. You can pay with cash, check, money order, or credit card. Card payments have a small processing fee. The clerk can quote the exact fee before making your copies.
| Copy Type | Fee Per Page | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Copy | $1.00 | Plain paper copy, no seal |
| Certified Copy | $2.00 | Plus $1.00 certification fee |
| Long Document (over 30 pages) | $0.50 | Reduced rate for large orders |
| Search Fee (no case found) | $2.00 | Per name searched |
| Credit Card Processing Fee | Varies | Small percentage added to card payments |
What to Know Before You Visit the Clerk
Before you visit the Nassau County clerk’s office, gather the details you can. Write down full legal names, dates of birth, and any case numbers you have. Bring a photo ID and a form of payment for copy fees. The office can get busy on Mondays and the day after holidays. Try to visit in the middle of the week for shorter wait times. The clerk’s staff can answer questions by phone if you are not sure what to ask for in person.
Parking and Building Access
The Yulee courthouse has free parking for visitors. Handicap spaces are near the main entrance. The building has ramps and elevators for people who cannot use stairs. Service animals are allowed. The clerk’s office is on the first floor of the building. Public restrooms are near the lobby area.
Computer Access for Self-Service Searches
The clerk’s office has public computers for self-service record searches. The computers connect to the My Florida Court Access portal. You can search by name, case number, or date. The clerk’s staff can help you if you get stuck. There is no charge to use the public computers. You can print documents from the computers for a small fee per page.
E-Filing and Remote Access Options
You can file family court documents in Nassau County by e-filing through the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal. The portal accepts petitions, motions, and proposed orders. You must set up an account with a credit card for filing fees. Most filings are processed within 24 hours during business days. E-filing saves time and lets you file from home. Some documents, such as original wills, must still be filed in person.
Setting Up an E-Filing Account
To set up an e-filing account, visit the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal website. Create a username and password. Add your contact data and bar number if you are an attorney. Link a credit card or bank account to pay filing fees. The first time you file, you will need to pick the Nassau County Clerk as the filing location. After setup, you can file from any computer with internet access.
E-Filing Fees and Processing Times
E-filing fees are the same as paper filing fees. The clerk charges an additional $1.00 per document for the e-filing service. Most family court documents are processed within one business day. Some documents need a judge’s review, which takes longer. You will get an email when your filing is accepted. Rejected filings show the reason and let you fix the problem before re-submitting.
The 4th Judicial Circuit and Nassau County
Nassau County is part of Florida’s 4th Judicial Circuit. The circuit covers four counties: Clay, Duval, Nassau, and St. Johns. Duval County, where Jacksonville sits, is the largest. Family court cases in Nassau County are heard at the Yulee courthouse. Circuit judges handle divorces, custody, support, and other family law cases. The circuit uses the same rules, forms, and procedures across all four counties. Records from one county can be transferred to another when parties move within the circuit.
Types of Family Law Cases in Nassau County
Family court in Nassau County handles many kinds of cases. Each type has its own filing process and rules. The clerk tracks all cases from start to finish. Below are the most common family law cases filed in the county.
Dissolution of Marriage Cases
Dissolution of marriage is the legal end to a marriage. A spouse files a petition, and the other spouse has 20 days to respond. Cases may be simple or contested. Simple cases with no children or property can wrap up in a few months. Contested cases take longer. The final judgment ends the marriage and lists how assets, debts, and parenting duties are split.
Child Custody and Support Cases
Child custody and support cases decide where a child lives and how costs are shared. Florida courts now use the term “time-sharing” for custody. The court looks at the best interests of the child when setting time-sharing. Child support is set using a state formula based on each parent’s income. Orders can be changed later if a parent’s income or the child’s needs change.
Dependency and Juvenile Cases
Dependency cases involve children removed from a parent’s care due to abuse, neglect, or danger. The state files a petition, and the court reviews the case. Judges set up services for the family and review progress. Juvenile cases cover minors charged with crimes. Some juvenile records are sealed to protect the minor’s future. The clerk can tell you which records are open and which are sealed.
Adoption and Paternity Cases
Adoption cases create a new legal parent for a child. Stepparent, relative, and agency adoptions all run through the family court. Paternity cases confirm a child’s legal father. These cases often set child support and custody at the same time. Both types of cases are handled at the Yulee courthouse.
Contact and Office Details for Nassau Clerk
The Nassau County Clerk of Court is the main office for family court records. The office handles all family law filings, copies, and dockets in the county. You can reach the office by phone, in person, or by mail. The clerk’s website has up-to-date office hours and fee schedules for 2026.
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Office Name | Nassau County Clerk of Court |
| Street Address | 76347 Veteran’s Way, Yulee, FL 32097 |
| Phone Number | (904) 548-4600 |
| Official Website | nassauclerk.com |
| Office Hours | Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Judicial Circuit | 4th Judicial Circuit of Florida |
| Counties in Circuit | Clay, Duval, Nassau, St. Johns |
The Yulee courthouse sits near Interstate 95, with clear signs from the highway. Visitors from Fernandina Beach can drive south for about 20 minutes. Visitors from Jacksonville can drive north for about 30 minutes. Free parking is on site, and the building is fully accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
People often ask the same kinds of questions about Nassau County family court records. The answers below cover the most common points. They are based on the latest clerk’s office rules and Florida public records law. If you have a specific legal question, contact a licensed attorney in Florida.
Are Nassau County family court records public?
Yes. Most family court records in Nassau County are public under Florida law. Anyone can view the docket, party names, hearing dates, and final orders. Some records are sealed by court order. Sealed records include adoption files, some paternity cases, and cases involving minors. Domestic violence injunction records may be limited when the court decides public access could create a safety risk. You can check the public access status of a file by calling the clerk’s office before you search.
How do I get a certified copy of a divorce record?
You can get a certified copy of a Nassau County divorce record by visiting the clerk’s office in Yulee. Bring a photo ID and the case number if you have it. The clerk charges $2.00 per page plus a $1.00 certification fee. You can pay with cash, check, money order, or credit card. Certified copies are accepted by other courts, government agencies, and most employers. You can mail your request to the clerk’s office with a self-addressed stamped envelope.
Can I search family court records for free?
Yes. The My Florida Court Access portal lets you search Nassau County family court records for free. The Nassau County clerk’s website also has free search tools. You can look up case status, hearing dates, and party names at no cost. The clerk charges fees only for printed or certified copies. If you need many copies, the fee can add up, so call ahead for a quote.
Sealed vs Public Family Court Records
A public record can be viewed by anyone. A sealed record is closed to the public by a court order. The clerk’s office can only open sealed records when a court order says so. Common sealed records include adoption files, some juvenile cases, and cases where public view could harm a child or a victim of violence. You can ask the clerk’s office to check if a file is sealed before you search. The clerk will tell you the next steps to request a sealed record.
How long does the clerk keep family court records?
Florida law sets the minimum time the clerk must keep family court records. Most family case files are kept for at least 20 years. Divorce and adoption files are kept for 50 years or more. Older files may be moved to the Florida State Archives. Some sealed files are kept permanently. The Nassau County clerk can tell you the exact retention time for a specific case type.
Can I look up my own sealed family court record?
Yes, in most cases. A party named in a sealed family case has the right to view their own file. You must show photo ID at the clerk’s office. The clerk may ask for proof of your identity and your link to the case. Some sealed files require a court order even for the parties involved. Adoption files for adult adoptees may have special rules under Florida law.
How do I request a record by mail?
You can mail a request to the Nassau County Clerk of Court at 76347 Veteran’s Way, Yulee, FL 32097. Include the case number, full party names, and the specific documents you need. Add a self-addressed stamped envelope and a check or money order for the copy fees. The clerk will mail the copies back to you. Mail requests can take one to two weeks to process.