Pinellas Clerk Of Court Records Search gives you instant online access to over 2 million pages of official documents including deeds, mortgages, liens, civil filings, and probate records. The system follows Florida Statute 119.72 for record retention and was updated in March 2024 with new staff training materials. You can search by name, document type, or instrument number to find current and historical records dating back to 1907. Results appear within seconds and include certified copies, electronic delivery options, and docket entries. For help, call (727) 464-7000 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or visit the Public Records Liaison at 315 Court Street, Room 400, Clearwater, FL 33756.
How to Use the Official Records Search Portal
The Official Records Search portal offers a Simple Search tool with three main options: Deed Copy, Lien Search, and Mortgage History. You can also run a Party Name search using a grantor or grantee name, or an Instrument Number search for specific recorded documents. The database refreshes weekly and includes sample results like a 1998 deed, 2005 lien, and 2022 mortgage for common names. Each record shows filing date, book and page number, legal description, and parties involved. Click any result to view a high-resolution image or request a certified copy online.
Search Types Available
- Deed Copy: Find property transfer documents including warranty deeds, quitclaim deeds, and special warranty deeds.
- Lien Search: Locate liens filed against individuals or businesses such as tax liens, mechanic’s liens, or judgment liens.
- Mortgage History: View active and satisfied mortgages with lender names, loan amounts, and recording details.
- Party Name Search: Enter a full name to see all documents where that person or business is listed as grantor or grantee.
- Instrument Number Search: Use the unique number assigned at recording to pull one specific document instantly.
Accessing Case Records and Court Filings
The All Case Records Search portal provides public access to civil, family, criminal, traffic, and probate cases. You can view docket entries, judgments, court calendars, and scheduled hearings. Attorneys with verified bar credentials see full case details, while public users get summaries with party names, case numbers, and filing dates. The site also lists weekly mortgage foreclosure sales and links to sheriff and public defender resources. Most requests are processed within five business days, and certified copies cost $1 per page plus a $2 certification fee.
Types of Court Records Available
| Record Type | What’s Included | Access Level |
|---|---|---|
| Civil Cases | Complaints, answers, motions, final judgments | Public summary; full details for attorneys |
| Family Cases | Divorce decrees, custody orders, name changes | Redacted public view; sealed portions restricted |
| Criminal Cases | Charges, dispositions, sentencing documents | Public unless sealed by court order |
| Traffic Cases | Tickets, fines, court appearances | Fully public |
| Probate Cases | Wills, estate inventories, guardianship orders | Public with sensitive data redacted |
Public Records Inventory and Department Services
Pinellas County maintains a wide range of public records across multiple departments. The Clerk’s office handles court filings and official recordings, while other agencies manage permits, contracts, utilities, and death certificates. For example, the Medical Examiner’s office holds over 10,000 death certificates and can be reached at (727) 582-6800. The Utilities department manages water-service records for 350,000 accounts, and Parks & Conservation Resources has more than 12,000 permit files. All requests must go through the proper channel, and many offer online submission forms.
Major Record Categories by Department
- Parks & Conservation: Over 12,000 permit files for land use, construction, and environmental compliance.
- Public Works: Approximately 5,000 road-improvement documents including plans, inspections, and contracts.
- Purchasing: Contracts totaling more than $250 million with vendors and service providers.
- Real Estate Management: 1,200 property deeds and lease agreements for county-owned land.
- Risk Management: Incident reports since 2015 covering accidents, claims, and safety reviews.
- Safety & Emergency Services: 3,500 inspection reports for fire, building, and code compliance.
- Solid Waste: Disposal permits, recycling logs, and compliance letters.
- Utilities: Water-service records for 350,000 residential and commercial accounts.
Records Management and Long-Term Storage
The Clerk’s Records Management unit operates a 100,000-square-foot climate-controlled facility for long-term storage of archived documents. Legacy files are preserved under hundred-year standards, and requests must start with Form R-12 from the originating department. Once approved, items are transferred via secure courier within 48 hours. The department also offers file re-indexing, digitization of old paper records, and annual training on retention compliance. These services ensure accurate, fast retrieval while meeting state archival requirements.
Storage and Retrieval Process
- Submit Form R-12 to your department head.
- Records Management verifies the request and checks availability.
- Approved files are pulled from climate-controlled storage.
- Secure courier delivers documents to the owning department.
- Digitized copies may be available for electronic delivery.
Certified Copies and Authentication Services
You can request certified copies of any official record through the Clerk’s office. These documents carry the Clerk’s seal and signature, making them valid for legal, financial, or out-of-state use. Fees are $1 per page plus $2 for certification. Electronic delivery is available for most records and typically arrives within 24 hours. For authentication under the Hague Apostille Convention, ask for an Apostille certificate when placing your order. This is required when submitting documents to foreign governments.
Steps to Request a Certified Copy
- Search for your document using the Official Records portal.
- Note the instrument number, book, and page.
- Call (727) 464-7000 or visit Room 400 at 315 Court Street.
- Provide your name, contact info, and document details.
- Pay the fee and choose pickup or electronic delivery.
Sunshine Law Compliance and Transparency
Pinellas County follows the Florida Sunshine Law to ensure open government and public access to records. The Public Records Liaison verifies requester identity, logs every disclosure, and maintains a transparency log for accountability. All staff receive annual training on compliance, and policies were last updated in March 2024. Requests can be made in person, by phone, mail, or email. The office responds within three business days as required by law.
Your Rights Under Florida Law
- You have the right to inspect and copy public records.
- No reason is needed to request records.
- Fees must be reasonable and based on actual cost.
- Exemptions exist for active investigations, personal privacy, and security.
- Denials must be in writing with a legal citation.
Contact Information and Office Locations
The main Clerk of Court office is at 315 Court Street, Room 400, Clearwater, FL 33756. Phone inquiries go to (727) 464-3341 during business hours. The Tyrone Branch Office at 1800 66th Street North, St. Petersburg, FL 33710, is open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For records requests, call (727) 464-7000 or email [email protected]. The Medical Examiner’s Records Custodian can be reached at (727) 582-6800. All locations follow state-mandated hours and holiday schedules.
Office Hours and Services
| Location | Address | Phone | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Office | 315 Court St, Rm 400, Clearwater | (727) 464-3341 | Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. |
| Tyrone Branch | 1800 66th St N, St. Petersburg | (727) 464-7000 | Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m. |
| Medical Examiner | 101 6th St S, St. Petersburg | (727) 582-6800 | Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions include how to request certified copies, fees for electronic delivery, turnaround times, and how to authenticate records for use outside Florida. The FAQ page on mypinellasclerk.org answers these and more. Staff are trained to assist with technical issues, search tips, and form submissions. If you can’t find what you need, call during business hours for personalized help.
Top User Questions
- How much does a certified copy cost?
- Can I get records sent by email?
- How far back do the records go?
- Do I need to show ID to request records?
- Are divorce records public?
Related Search Terms and Common Queries
People often search for similar services like inmate lookup, birth certificate requests, criminal history checks, and address verification. While Pinellas County doesn’t handle all these directly, we provide links to partner agencies. For example, arrest records may be available through the Sheriff’s Office, and vital records come from the Florida Department of Health. Always verify which agency holds the record you need before submitting a request.
Common Related Searches
- Pinellas County arrest records
- Pinellas County court case lookup
- Pinellas County deed search
- Pinellas County lien search
- Pinellas County probate records
- Pinellas County mortgage records
- Pinellas County civil filings
- Pinellas County certified copy request
Data Accuracy and Verification
All data on the Official Records portal comes directly from the Clerk’s electronic database and is cross-checked against original certificates. The system was last verified in June 2024. While we strive for accuracy, users should confirm critical information with the original record before making legal or financial decisions. The County does not guarantee the completeness of external sites linked from our portal.
Verification Best Practices
- Compare online results with the imaged document.
- Check dates, names, and legal descriptions carefully.
- Request a certified copy for official use.
- Contact the Clerk if you spot an error.
Digital Access and Online Tools
The Clerk’s website offers multiple search tools: Official Records Search, All Case Records Search, and View Records. Each serves a different purpose. Official Records covers deeds and liens. Case Records shows court filings. View Records provides imaging services and FAQs. All portals are mobile-friendly and updated weekly. Users can save searches, download PDFs, and track request status online.
Online Portal Features
- Simple Search with dropdown options
- Advanced filters by date, document type, or party
- High-resolution document images
- Electronic delivery via secure email
- Request tracking and status updates
Training and Staff Support
Clerk staff receive annual training on records retention, Sunshine Law compliance, and customer service. Training materials were refreshed in March 2024 to reflect new state guidelines. The Public Records Liaison coordinates access requests and ensures every disclosure is logged. Staff can assist with search strategies, form completion, and explaining legal terms. For complex cases, they may refer you to a supervisor or legal resource.
Staff Assistance Options
- Phone support: (727) 464-7000
- In-person help at Room 400
- Email requests to [email protected]
- Online FAQ and video tutorials
- Appointment scheduling for large requests
Legacy Records and Historical Archives
Records dating back to 1907 are available, including early deeds, court minutes, and probate files. Many older documents have been digitized and are searchable online. Physical archives are stored in a secure, climate-controlled facility to prevent deterioration. Requests for pre-1950 records may take longer due to manual retrieval. The County follows hundred-year preservation standards to protect historical integrity.
Historical Record Highlights
- 1907: First recorded deed in Pinellas County
- 1920s: Land boom mortgage records
- 1950s: Post-war housing deeds
- 1970s: Environmental and zoning filings
- 1990s: Digital transition begins
Third-Party Sites and Data Accuracy
Some third-party sites index Pinellas County records, but they may not be current. For example, one site offers an August 2022 snapshot with attorney directories and case excerpts. Always verify information with the official Clerk’s portal. The County does not endorse or guarantee third-party data. Use official sources for legal, financial, or real estate transactions.
Why Use Official Sources?
- Most up-to-date information
- Certified copies available
- Direct access to staff support
- Guaranteed compliance with state law
- Secure and private handling of requests
Fees and Payment Methods
Fees vary by service: $1 per page for copies, $2 for certification, and $10 for electronic delivery sets. Payment can be made by cash, check, money order, or credit card in person. Online requests accept major credit cards. Fee waivers are not available except for government agencies. All fees follow Florida Statutes and are posted publicly.
Current Fee Schedule
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Copy (per page) | $1.00 |
| Certification | $2.00 |
| Electronic delivery (set) | $10.00 |
| Research (per hour) | $25.00 |
Turnaround Times and Processing
Most requests are processed within five business days. Simple searches return instant results. Certified copies take 1–2 days for pickup or electronic delivery. Large or complex requests may take longer. Rush service is not offered, but you can call to check status. The office does not process requests on weekends or holidays.
Expected Timeframes
- Online search: Instant
- Certified copy: 1–2 business days
- Physical retrieval: Up to 5 business days
- Historical records: 5–10 business days
Security and Privacy Protections
All requests are logged, and personal information is protected under Florida law. The Clerk does not sell or share requester data. Document images are watermarked to prevent misuse. Access to sensitive records like juvenile cases or sealed files requires court authorization. Staff are trained to redact Social Security numbers, bank details, and other private data before release.
Privacy Safeguards
- Requester identity verified
- Disclosure logged for transparency
- Sensitive data redacted
- No commercial use of request data
- Secure servers and encrypted transfers
Accessibility and Language Support
The website is ADA-compliant with screen reader support and keyboard navigation. Forms are available in Spanish upon request. Staff can provide basic translation assistance, but legal documents remain in English. Large-print copies can be made for visually impaired users. Call ahead to arrange accommodations.
Accessibility Features
- Screen reader compatibility
- High-contrast mode
- Keyboard-only navigation
- Spanish forms available
- Large-print options
Internal Links and Resource Navigation
Use these official links to access services quickly:
Final Notes and Best Practices
Always start your search on the official Clerk website. Use exact names and dates when possible. Keep your request specific to avoid delays. For legal matters, request certified copies. Check the FAQ before calling. And remember, the Public Records Liaison is there to help with any issue.
Contact Summary
Official Website: https://www.mypinellasclerk.org
Phone: (727) 464-7000
Email: [email protected]
Address: 315 Court Street, Room 400, Clearwater, FL 33756
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are common questions about Pinellas Clerk Of Court Records Search with clear, direct answers based on current policies and procedures.
How do I find a property deed in Pinellas County?
Go to the Official Records Search portal and select “Deed Copy” from the Simple Search menu. Enter the property address or owner name. Results show all deeds linked to that property, including date, book, page, and parties. Click any result to view the full document image. You can request a certified copy by calling (727) 464-7000 or visiting Room 400. Fees are $1 per page plus $2 for certification. The system includes records back to 1907 and updates weekly.
Are court records public in Pinellas County?
Yes, most court records are public under Florida law. You can view civil, family, criminal, traffic, and probate cases on the All Case Records Search portal. Public users see summaries with party names and case numbers. Attorneys with bar credentials access full details. Some records, like juvenile cases or sealed files, are restricted. Requests for restricted records require court approval. All disclosures are logged for transparency.
How long does it take to get a certified copy?
Certified copies are ready in 1–2 business days. Simple requests may be processed same-day if submitted early. Electronic delivery takes 24 hours or less. Physical pickup is available at 315 Court Street, Room 400. Large or complex orders may take up to five days. Call (727) 464-7000 to check status. Rush service is not offered. Payment is required before processing.
Can I search records by name only?
Yes, use the Party Name search on the Official Records portal. Enter a full name as grantor or grantee. The system returns all matching deeds, liens, mortgages, and other documents. Results include dates, instrument numbers, and property details. For best results, use the exact legal name. Nicknames or partial names may miss records. You can refine searches by date range or document type.
What records are not available online?
Some older or sensitive records are not digitized. Pre-1950 files may require manual retrieval from off-site storage. Sealed court cases, juvenile records, and active investigations are restricted. Medical examiner reports have limited public access. For these, submit Form R-12 through the owning department. Processing takes 5–10 business days. Call ahead to confirm availability.
Is there a fee to search records online?
No, searching is free on all Clerk portals. Viewing document images is also free. Fees apply only for copies: $1 per page, $2 for certification, $10 for electronic sets. Payment is required before delivery. Fee waivers are not available except for government agencies. All charges follow Florida Statutes and are posted publicly.