Pasco County Public Court Records are official documents created and maintained by the Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller. These records include civil cases, criminal charges, family law matters, probate filings, and property-related legal actions. Anyone can request access to most of these records under Florida’s public records laws. The clerk’s office stores over 1.2 million digital files and millions more in physical archives. Records go back decades, with some dating to the 1970s. The system is designed for transparency, accountability, and easy public access. Whether you’re a resident, attorney, researcher, or journalist, you can find what you need quickly and securely.
How to Access Pasco County Public Court Records
There are several ways to get Pasco County Public Court Records. You can search online, visit a clerk’s office in person, or submit a formal request by mail or phone. The fastest method is using the Online Court Records Search tool on the official Pasco County Clerk website. This free portal lets you look up cases by name, case number, or document type. For certified copies or older records not available online, you may need to visit one of the three service centers. Each location has self-service kiosks, staffed windows, and research areas. Most standard requests are processed within five business days. Large or complex requests might take longer.
Online Search Tools
The clerk offers multiple digital portals for different needs. The “Section/Division Lookup” covers over 850,000 court filings from 1995 to today across civil, criminal, and family divisions. The “High-Profile Cases” section lists notable trials like the 2022 State v. Thompson homicide case. The “Mental Health Cases” portal includes protective orders and competency hearings under Florida Statute 794.011. There’s also a “Sealed Records” section for authorized users and a “Wills on Deposit” database with nearly 8,000 probate wills. Each tool returns precise docket entries, dates, parties involved, and case status.
In-Person Access Locations
You can visit any of these Pasco County locations during posted hours:
- East Pasco Records Retention Facility
38319 McDonald Street, New Port Richey
Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. - West Pasco Records Retention Facility
4100 Gulf Boulevard, Port Richey
Tuesday–Saturday, 9:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. - Dade City Main Clerk Office
14236 6th Street, Dade City
Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Each site provides free computer access, printing options, and help from trained staff. Certified copies cost extra and require ID verification.
Attorney Access to Pasco County Public Court Records
Lawyers designated as Attorneys of Record get special privileges. They can view full case files, download PDFs of motions and exhibits, and track real-time updates. To qualify, attorneys must complete the Attorney of Record Registration Agreement. This form requires a current Florida Bar ID card, a notarized statement confirming representation, and a $25 processing fee. Submit everything in person or by certified mail to the Information Technology Department at 14236 6th Street, Dade City, FL 33523-3414. Processing takes about three business days. Once approved, the clerk issues a secure login for direct entry into the electronic docket system.
What Attorneys Can View
Approved lawyers see everything related to their cases: pleadings, evidence, hearing transcripts, judge rulings, and scheduling updates. They also get access to sealed or restricted documents if permitted by court order. This level of access helps them prepare stronger arguments and stay compliant with deadlines. Law enforcement officers have a separate login that allows real-time retrieval of expunged or sensitive records under Florida Statute 934.03.
Types of Records Available
Pasco County Public Court Records cover a wide range of legal matters. Civil cases include lawsuits, evictions, contract disputes, and small claims. Criminal records show charges, arrests, sentencing, and probation status. Family law covers divorces, child custody, adoptions, and domestic violence injunctions. Probate records include wills, estate settlements, and guardianship filings. Property-related documents—like deeds, mortgages, liens, and judgments—are also part of the official record system. All are preserved according to Florida Statutes 119.071.
Document Retention Rules
Final judgments and court orders are kept permanently. Other case files must be retained for at least ten years. Some records, like traffic citations or minor misdemeanors, may be destroyed after seven years. The Records Department follows strict schedules for retention and destruction. Digital files are stored on secure servers that meet NIST SP 800-53 standards. Physical archives are kept in climate-controlled facilities to prevent damage.
Searching Official Property and Court Records
The Official Records Search engine handles more than 2.4 million documents. This includes over 1.1 million recorded deeds, 452,000 mortgage assignments, and 980,000 court judgments since 1978. You can search by party name, document type (deed, lien, judgment), or exact date. The system also supports direct lookup using book-page-instrument numbers. For example, typing “Book 12, Page 345, Instrument 6789” pulls up that specific filing instantly. Certified copies cost $7.50 for deeds, $12.00 for mortgages, and $5.00 for judgments, plus a $2.00 processing fee per request.
Certified Copies and Delivery Options
Need an official copy? You can order it online, by phone, or in person. Standard processing takes three business days. Rush service (same-day) costs an extra $20. Delivery methods include electronic PDF, mail, courier pickup, or in-person collection. For bulk requests over 50 documents, the clerk offers courier pickup at no additional charge. Payment options include credit card, check, or cash.
Submitting a Public Records Request
If you can’t find what you need online, submit a formal request. Use the GovQA Public Records Request (PRR) portal for electronic submissions. You can also email, call, mail a letter, or walk into the Main Clerk Office. Include your full name, contact info, and a clear description of the record. Specify the date range, case number, or document type if known. The clerk must acknowledge your request within one business day and respond within ten business days for standard cases.
Fees and Exemptions
Most basic searches are free. Copying fees apply for physical or digital reproductions. Large data sets may require a $15 handling fee for USB or DVD delivery. Some records are exempt under Florida law—such as active law enforcement investigations, medical files, or trade secrets. If your request is denied, the clerk will explain why and cite the relevant statute. You can appeal through the Florida Department of State.
Contact Information and Hours
For help with Pasco County Public Court Records, contact the Public Records Liaison. Call (352) 523-2411 or (727) 847-2411 during business hours. Email requests go to the protected address listed on the clerk’s website. Mail correspondence to: Public Records Liaison, P.O. Box 338, New Port Richey, FL 34654-0338. The main offices operate Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except holidays. Always call ahead if you need certified copies or urgent assistance.
Main Clerk Office Address
14236 6th Street
Dade City, FL 33523-3414
Frequently Asked Questions
People often ask how to find specific Pasco County Public Court Records, whether they’re free, and how long it takes to get them. Below are clear answers based on current procedures and Florida law.
Can I search Pasco County Public Court Records for free?
Yes. The Online Court Records Search tool is completely free to use. You can look up case summaries, docket entries, and status updates without paying anything. However, if you need certified copies, printed documents, or expedited service, fees apply. These charges cover labor, materials, and administrative costs. The clerk publishes a full fee schedule online. Always check before ordering to avoid surprises.
How far back do Pasco County Public Court Records go?
Most digital records start from 1995, but some go back to 1978—especially property-related judgments and deeds. Older physical files are stored at the East and West Pasco retention facilities. If you need a record from the 1980s or earlier, contact the Records Department directly. They’ll tell you if it’s available and how to request it. Note that not all historical documents have been digitized yet.
Are criminal records in Pasco County sealed or expunged?
Some are. Under Florida Statute 934.03, certain non-criminal records can be sealed by court order. Expunged records are destroyed and not accessible to the public. Only authorized users—like law enforcement or attorneys with permission—can view these. If a record appears sealed in the online system, you’ll need a court order or legal authority to access it. The clerk cannot release sealed or expunged files without proper documentation.
Can I get Pasco County Public Court Records by mail?
Yes. Send a written request to the Public Records Liaison at P.O. Box 338, New Port Richey, FL 34654-0338. Include your name, return address, phone number, and a detailed description of the record. Specify if you want a certified copy and your preferred delivery method. Attach a check or money order for any fees. Processing usually takes five to ten business days after receipt.
What if my request is denied?
The clerk must provide a written explanation citing the specific exemption under Florida Statutes 119.07. Common reasons include ongoing investigations, privacy concerns, or national security. You can appeal the decision to the Florida Department of State’s Division of Library and Information Services. Keep all correspondence and request copies of any denial letters for your records.
Do I need a lawyer to access Pasco County Public Court Records?
No. Anyone can request public records, including individuals, journalists, researchers, and businesses. However, attorneys designated as Attorneys of Record get enhanced access—like full PDF downloads and real-time updates. If you’re representing someone else legally, you’ll need to register and provide proof of representation. Otherwise, standard public access rules apply.
How do I correct an error in a Pasco County court record?
Contact the clerk’s office immediately. Provide the case number, document type, and a clear explanation of the mistake. Include supporting evidence like a corrected affidavit or court order. The clerk will review and, if valid, initiate a correction process. Note that only the court that issued the original ruling can amend certain entries. The clerk facilitates but does not decide legal accuracy.