Greenville County Clerk Of Court Records are stored in the historic Greenville County Circuit Court building at 101 East North Street, downtown Greenville. This three-story red-brick structure, built in 1918, sits on a limestone foundation and features marble staircases and a copper dome. A metal sign reading “Greenville County Circuit Court” marks the left side of the entrance. The courthouse covers the full block between Church, East North, Main, and Court Streets. It opens Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closing on state holidays. Every visitor passes through a security checkpoint before entering.
What Are Greenville County Clerk Of Court Records?
Greenville County Clerk Of Court Records include every docket, case file, deed, marriage license, and legal document filed in the county since 1970. These records cover criminal, civil, probate, and family law cases. The Clerk of Court’s office maintains both digital and physical copies. Residents can search the 13th Judicial Circuit Public Index using a case number, party name, or filing date. Physical records are available for review on the second floor, Room 202, during business hours. Certified copies are issued as PDFs or printed documents for a small fee. The office also helps with requests for expunged or sealed records.
How to Access Greenville County Clerk Of Court Records
There are three main ways to access Greenville County Clerk Of Court Records: online, in person, or by mail. The online Public Index allows searches by case number, party name, or date. Results show case type, status, and key dates. For full documents, visit the courthouse at 101 East North Street. Bring a valid photo ID and know the case number or party name. Staff will guide you to Room 202 on the second floor. Mail requests must include a completed form, payment, and a self-addressed stamped envelope. Processing takes 5 to 10 business days.
Online Access
The 13th Judicial Circuit Public Index is the official online database for Greenville County Clerk Of Court Records. It is free to use and updated daily. Users can search by case number, party name, or filing date. The system shows basic case details but not full documents. To get certified copies, you must visit in person or request by mail. The online index covers records from 1970 to today.
In-Person Access
Visit the Clerk of Court’s office at 101 East North Street, Room 202, between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Bring a government-issued photo ID and the case number or party name. Staff will retrieve the file for review. You can take notes or request copies. Certified copies cost a small fee and are available the same day. The office does not allow photography of records.
Mail Requests
Send a written request to the Clerk of Court, 101 East North Street, Greenville, SC 29601. Include the case number, party names, and document type needed. Add a check or money order for fees and a self-addressed stamped envelope. Allow 5 to 10 business days for processing. Mail requests are best for certified copies or records not available online.
Types of Records Available
Greenville County Clerk Of Court Records include several key types. Criminal records show charges, court dates, and case outcomes. Civil records cover lawsuits, judgments, and liens. Probate records include wills, estates, and guardianships. Family law records contain divorce decrees, child custody orders, and adoptions. Deeds and property records are also maintained. Marriage licenses issued in the county are on file. All records are public unless sealed by court order.
Criminal Records
Criminal records list charges, court appearances, and final rulings. They include misdemeanors and felonies. These records are used by employers, landlords, and law enforcement. Expunged records are not visible to the public. Sealed records require a court order to access. The Clerk’s office can guide you on how to request these.
Civil Records
Civil records involve lawsuits between individuals or businesses. They include contract disputes, personal injury claims, and debt collection cases. Judgments and liens are part of these records. They help determine creditworthiness and legal standing. All civil cases from 1970 onward are available.
Probate and Estate Records
Probate records include wills, estate inventories, and guardianship appointments. These help settle debts and distribute assets after death. They are vital for heirs and executors. Records date back to 1970 and are open for review.
Family Law Records
Family law records cover divorce, child custody, adoption, and domestic violence cases. These are sensitive and may have access restrictions. Certified copies require ID and a valid reason. Some files are sealed by law.
Property and Deed Records
Deeds, mortgages, and liens are recorded here. These show property ownership and financial obligations. They are used in real estate transactions. All property records are public and searchable.
Marriage Licenses
Marriage licenses issued in Greenville County are kept on file. They include names, dates, and officiant details. Certified copies are needed for name changes or legal proof. Requests require ID and a small fee.
Fees and Payment Options
Fees for Greenville County Clerk Of Court Records vary by service. Searching the online index is free. Certified copies cost $5 to $10 per document. Printed copies are $0.50 per page. Payment is accepted in cash, check, or money order. Credit cards are not accepted at the counter. Mail requests must include a check or money order. Fee waivers are available for low-income individuals with court approval.
Public Access Rules and Restrictions
Most Greenville County Clerk Of Court Records are public. However, some are restricted. Juvenile records, adoption files, and sealed cases are not open. Expunged records are removed from public view. Access to sensitive data requires a court order. Visitors must follow courthouse rules: no food, drinks, or phones in the records room. Staff may deny access for disruptive behavior.
Contact Information and Hours
The Clerk of Court’s office is located at 101 East North Street, Greenville, SC 29601. It is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The office is closed on state holidays. For questions, call (864) 467-8500. Email requests can be sent to clerkofcourt@greenvillecounty.org. The official website is https://www.greenvillecounty.org/ClerkOfCourt/. Certified copies and record searches are handled in Room 202 on the second floor.
Common Uses for Court Records
People use Greenville County Clerk Of Court Records for many reasons. Employers check criminal history during background checks. Landlords review civil judgments before renting. Lawyers use case files for legal research. Genealogists trace family history through probate and marriage records. Homebuyers verify property liens. These records support transparency and accountability in the justice system.
How to Request Expunged or Sealed Records
Expunged or sealed records are not public. To request access, you must file a motion with the court. The Clerk’s office can provide the correct forms. You will need case details, a valid reason, and a filing fee. A judge will review your request. If approved, the Clerk will release the records. This process can take several weeks.
Online Search Tips
When using the 13th Judicial Circuit Public Index, use exact names and dates. Misspellings may return no results. Try partial names if unsure. Case numbers are the fastest way to find a record. The system does not show full documents online. For complete files, visit in person or request by mail. The index is updated every 24 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get records from before 1970? No, the online index starts in 1970. Older records may be in storage. Contact the Clerk’s office for help. Are records free? Searching is free. Copies cost money. Can I email my request? No, email requests are not accepted for certified copies. Use mail or visit in person. Is the courthouse accessible? Yes, it has ramps and elevators. Call ahead for special needs.
Related Services
The Clerk of Court also handles jury duty, notary services, and small claims filings. Jury notices are sent by mail. Notaries can be scheduled by appointment. Small claims cases start with a filing form and fee. Visit the website for forms and instructions.
Security and Privacy
All visitors pass through a metal detector and bag check. No weapons or large bags are allowed. Records are stored in locked rooms. Staff monitor access. Personal information is protected by law. Unauthorized copying or sharing is prohibited.
Historical Significance
The courthouse was built in 1918 and is a local landmark. Its copper dome and marble staircases reflect early 20th-century design. It has hosted major trials and community events. The building is maintained by the county and open for tours by request.
Technology and Digital Records
Since 2010, new records are scanned and stored digitally. Older files are being digitized. The online index makes searching faster. Future plans include mobile access and e-filing. The goal is to improve public access while protecting privacy.
Staff and Support
The Clerk of Court’s office has trained staff to assist the public. They can explain search tools, fees, and procedures. They do not give legal advice. For complex cases, consult an attorney. Staff speak English and Spanish. Interpretation services are available by request.
Errors and Corrections
If you find a mistake in a record, notify the Clerk’s office. Provide proof of the error, such as a corrected judgment. The office will review and update the file if needed. This process may take up to 30 days.
Bulk Requests and Research
Researchers and journalists can request bulk data. Submit a written plan and purpose. Fees may apply. The office does not provide data mining tools. All use must follow state privacy laws.
Disaster Preparedness
Records are backed up daily. Offsite storage protects against fire or flood. In case of emergency, access may be limited. The office posts updates on the website and social media.
Community Outreach
The Clerk’s office hosts workshops on record access and legal rights. Events are free and open to the public. Topics include expungement, property records, and jury duty. Check the website for dates.
Future Improvements
Plans include a mobile app, online payment, and expanded e-filing. The county aims to make record access faster and easier. Public feedback is welcome through the website.
Official Links and Resources
Official website: https://www.greenvillecounty.org/ClerkOfCourt/ Public Index: https://publicindex.greenvillecounty.org Phone: (864) 467-8500 Address: 101 East North Street, Greenville, SC 29601 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Map of Location
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about Greenville County Clerk Of Court Records. Below are the most common ones with clear, direct answers.
How do I find a specific case file?
Use the 13th Judicial Circuit Public Index online. Enter the case number, party name, or filing date. If you don’t have the case number, try the full name of a person involved. The system will show basic details. For full documents, visit Room 202 at the courthouse or send a mail request. Bring ID and know the case number if visiting in person.
Can I get a copy of my divorce decree?
Yes. Divorce decrees are part of family law records. Visit the Clerk’s office with your ID and case number. You can get a certified copy the same day for a small fee. If you don’t have the case number, staff can help locate it using your name and divorce date. Mail requests take longer but are also accepted.
Are criminal records public in Greenville County?
Most criminal records are public. You can search them online or in person. However, records that are expunged or sealed are not visible. Juvenile records are also private. To access restricted files, you must get a court order. The Clerk’s office can explain the process.
How much does it cost to get certified copies?
Certified copies cost between $5 and $10 per document. Printed copies are $0.50 per page. Payment is accepted in cash, check, or money order. Credit cards are not accepted. Fee waivers are available for low-income individuals with court approval. Mail requests must include a check or money order.
Can I search records from my phone?
Yes. The Public Index works on smartphones and tablets. Visit the official website and click the search link. You can look up cases anywhere. However, full documents are not available online. To get copies, you must visit in person or request by mail.
What if I can’t find a record I need?
If a record is missing, contact the Clerk’s office. It may be in storage or not yet digitized. Staff can check older files or help with special requests. For records before 1970, allow extra time. You may need to file a formal request.
Is the courthouse wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The building has ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Staff can assist with special needs. Call ahead to arrange help. The records room is on the second floor and fully accessible.