Pasco County Court Records

What Is Pasco County Court Records

Pasco County court records encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's judicial system. These records are maintained by the Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller as the official custodian of court records. Pursuant to Florida Statute § 28.222, the clerk is responsible for recording and maintaining all court documents filed within the county's jurisdiction.

Court records in Pasco County typically include:

• Case files containing pleadings, motions, and other filed documents
• Docket sheets chronicling all actions taken in a case
• Judicial orders and final judgments
• Hearing and trial transcripts
• Evidence and exhibits admitted during proceedings
• Sentencing records in criminal matters
• Marriage licenses and divorce decrees
• Probate and guardianship documentation

These records differ from other public records maintained by the county, such as property records (deeds, mortgages, liens), vital statistics (birth and death certificates), and tax records. Court records specifically document judicial proceedings and determinations made by the courts.

The Florida Courts system in Pasco County maintains records across multiple jurisdictional levels:

• Circuit Court (6th Judicial Circuit) - felony criminal cases, civil matters exceeding $30,000, probate, family law
• County Court - misdemeanors, civil cases under $30,000, small claims, traffic infractions
• Appellate records from cases appealed to the Second District Court of Appeal

The comprehensive nature of court records serves the dual purpose of documenting judicial decisions and providing transparency in the legal system, allowing public access to the administration of justice in accordance with Florida's strong public records tradition.

Are Court Records Public In Pasco County

Court records in Pasco County are generally accessible to the public under Florida's robust public records laws. The Florida Constitution Article I, § 24 establishes the public's right to access government records, including court documents. Additionally, Florida Statute § 119.01 affirms that all records made or received in connection with official business are public records available for inspection.

The following court records are typically available for public access:

• Civil case files (complaints, answers, motions, orders)
• Criminal case files (post-charging documents, including indictments and informations)
• Judgments and final orders
• Docket sheets listing case activities and filings
• Hearing schedules and calendars
• Marriage and divorce records
• Probate and guardianship proceedings

However, certain records may be exempt from public disclosure or subject to confidentiality restrictions. According to Florida Rules of Judicial Administration 2.420, the following records are typically not available for public inspection:

• Records pertaining to juvenile proceedings
• Adoption records
• Mental health proceedings
• Certain family court matters involving minors
• Records sealed by court order
• Social security numbers, bank account information, and other personal identifiers
• Grand jury proceedings

The Florida Supreme Court has established comprehensive rules governing public access to court records, balancing transparency with privacy concerns. These rules apply uniformly across all courts in Pasco County, though federal courts operating in the region follow separate federal access protocols.

Members of the public seeking access to court records should be aware that while most records are public, specific confidentiality protections may apply to certain case types or document categories.

How To Find Court Records in Pasco County in 2026

Members of the public may access Pasco County court records through several established channels. The primary custodian of these records is the Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller's Office, which maintains both physical and digital archives of court proceedings.

In-Person Requests:

To obtain court records in person, individuals may visit one of the following Clerk's Office locations:

Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller - New Port Richey
West Pasco Judicial Center
7530 Little Road
New Port Richey, FL 34654
(727) 847-8199
Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller

Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller - Dade City
East Pasco Government Center
14236 6th Street, Suite 201
Dade City, FL 33523
(352) 521-4542
Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller

Both locations operate Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. When requesting records in person:

1. Complete a public records request form (available at the counter)
2. Provide specific case information (case number, party names, filing dates)
3. Present valid photo identification
4. Pay applicable copy fees ($1.00 per page for certified copies, $0.15 per page for standard copies)

Online Requests:

The Pasco County Clerk's Records Search provides 24-hour access to many court records. Users can:

1. Access the official records search portal
2. Create a free account or continue as a guest
3. Search by case number, party name, or filing date
4. View non-confidential documents directly online
5. Download or print available records (fees may apply)

Written Requests:

Written requests for court records may be submitted via:

1. Mail to either Clerk's Office location listed above
2. Email to recordsrequest@pascoclerk.com
3. Fax to (727) 847-8969

All written requests should include:

• Requestor's contact information
• Specific case details
• Document types needed
• Preferred delivery method

Pursuant to Florida Statute § 28.24, standard processing fees apply to all record requests. Expedited service is available for an additional fee.

How To Look Up Court Records in Pasco County Online?

Pasco County offers comprehensive digital access to court records through several online portals. Each system provides access to different types of court documents based on jurisdiction and case type.

Pasco County Clerk's Official Records Search:

The Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller's Records Search serves as the primary online repository for county-level court records. This system provides access to:

1. Civil court cases (county and circuit level)
2. Criminal court proceedings
3. Traffic citations and dispositions
4. Probate and guardianship matters
5. Family court cases (with confidentiality restrictions)
6. Small claims court records

To utilize this system:

• Navigate to the official records search portal
• Select the appropriate record type from the dropdown menu
• Enter search criteria (case number, party name, date range)
• Review search results and select desired documents
• View, download, or request certified copies as needed

Florida Courts E-Filing Portal:

For accessing recently filed documents and case status information, the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal provides:

1. Case docket information
2. Recently filed pleadings
3. Court orders and judgments
4. Hearing schedules

This system requires registration and primarily serves attorneys and frequent users of the court system.

Florida Appellate Case Information System:

For appellate cases originating in Pasco County, the Florida Appellate Case Information System offers:

1. Appellate dockets
2. Filed briefs
3. Court opinions
4. Oral argument schedules

Specialized Court Record Systems:

Additional online resources include:

• Pasco County Criminal Justice Information System - Inmate and booking information
• Florida Department of Corrections Offender Search - State prison records
• Florida Supreme Court Case Information - Supreme Court cases

When using these online systems, users should note that pursuant to Florida Statute § 28.2221, certain personal information is automatically redacted from online court records to protect privacy while maintaining public access to judicial proceedings.

How To Search Pasco County Court Records for Free?

Pasco County provides several no-cost options for accessing court records in compliance with Florida's public records laws. Under Florida Statute § 119.07, all persons have the right to inspect public records without charge, though fees may apply for copies or certified documents.

Free In-Person Inspection:

Members of the public may inspect court records at no cost by visiting either Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller location:

Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller - New Port Richey
West Pasco Judicial Center
7530 Little Road
New Port Richey, FL 34654
(727) 847-8199
Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller

Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller - Dade City
East Pasco Government Center
14236 6th Street, Suite 201
Dade City, FL 33523
(352) 521-4542
Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller

The inspection process includes:

1. Completing a records request form
2. Presenting identification
3. Viewing records at designated public terminals
4. Taking notes as needed (photography may be restricted)

Free Online Search Options:

Several online resources provide free search capabilities for Pasco County court records:

1. Pasco County Clerk's Public Records Search - Basic search functions are available without charge, though document viewing may require fees
2. Pasco County Court Case Search - Free docket information and case status
3. Florida Courts Public Access System - Basic case information for appellate and some trial court cases

Public Law Libraries:

The Pasco County Law Library provides free access to court records and legal research materials:

Pasco County Law Library
7530 Little Road, Room 102
New Port Richey, FL 34654
(727) 847-8110

Library services include:

• Free public access terminals
• Assistance from law librarians
• Access to legal research databases
• Reference materials for understanding court documents

While basic inspection and search functions are available at no cost, fees may apply for:

• Printed copies ($0.15 per page)
• Certified copies ($1.00 per page plus certification fee)
• Research assistance beyond basic lookup ($10.00 per name/case)
• Expedited service

These fee structures are established pursuant to Florida Statute § 28.24, which outlines the clerk's service charges for court-related functions.

What's Included in a Pasco County Court Record?

Pasco County court records contain comprehensive documentation of legal proceedings, with contents varying by case type. These records provide an official chronological account of all actions taken within a case from filing through disposition.

Civil Case Records Typically Include:

• Complaint or petition initiating the case
• Summons and proof of service
• Defendant's answer or response
• Motions filed by either party
• Court orders and rulings
• Discovery documents (if filed with the court)
• Hearing and trial transcripts
• Evidence and exhibits admitted during proceedings
• Final judgment or dismissal order
• Post-judgment motions and orders
• Appeal documentation (if applicable)

Criminal Case Records Typically Include:

• Charging documents (information or indictment)
• Arrest warrant or probable cause affidavit
• Defendant's plea
• Bond or bail information
• Pretrial motions and rulings
• Discovery materials (if filed with the court)
• Trial transcripts
• Verdict forms
• Sentencing documents
• Probation reports (non-confidential portions)
• Appeal documentation (if applicable)

Family Law Case Records Typically Include:

• Petition for dissolution of marriage or other family action
• Financial affidavits (with certain redactions)
• Parenting plans
• Child support worksheets
• Mediation agreements
• Court orders regarding custody, support, and property division
• Final judgment

Probate Case Records Typically Include:

• Petition for administration
• Death certificate (partially redacted)
• Will (if applicable)
• Letters of administration
• Inventory of assets
• Claims against the estate
• Accounting reports
• Orders of distribution
• Final discharge

Each court record also contains a docket sheet or register of actions that lists all documents filed, hearings held, and actions taken in chronological order. This serves as an index to the complete case file.

Pursuant to Florida Rules of Judicial Administration 2.420, certain sensitive information is either automatically redacted or filed confidentially, including social security numbers, bank account information, and certain records involving minors.

How Long Does Pasco County Keep Court Records?

Pasco County maintains court records according to retention schedules established by the Florida Department of State, Division of Library and Information Services. These schedules, authorized under Florida Statute § 257.36, provide standardized timeframes for preserving different types of judicial records.

Permanent Retention Records:

The following court records are maintained permanently:

• Circuit civil case files
• Felony criminal case files
• Probate case files
• Guardianship case files
• Juvenile dependency and delinquency cases
• Adoption proceedings
• Marriage licenses and divorce decrees
• Official court minutes and judgment books
• Mortgage foreclosure cases
• Tax deed applications

Long-Term Retention Records (25+ Years):

• Domestic violence injunctions (25 years)
• Child support enforcement cases (25 years after youngest child reaches majority)
• Paternity cases (25 years)
• Baker Act proceedings (mental health) (25 years)

Medium-Term Retention Records (5-10 Years):

• County civil cases under $30,000 (10 years after final judgment)
• Small claims cases (10 years after final disposition)
• Misdemeanor criminal cases (10 years after final disposition)
• Traffic infractions (5 years after final disposition)
• Parking violations (5 years after final disposition)

Short-Term Retention Records (Less than 5 Years):

• Administrative orders (3 years)
• Notices of hearing (1 year after hearing)
• Subpoenas (1 year after issuance)
• Correspondence (3 years)
• Witness lists (1 year after final disposition)

The Florida Records Management Program oversees these retention schedules, which are periodically updated to reflect changes in law and administrative needs.

It's important to note that while physical documents may be destroyed after their retention period expires, many records are now maintained electronically in perpetuity. Additionally, records of significant historical value may be transferred to the State Archives of Florida for permanent preservation rather than being destroyed.

Individuals seeking older records should contact the Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller's Office to determine if the desired records are still available or have been transferred to archival storage.

Types of Courts In Pasco County

Pasco County's judicial system consists of multiple court levels, each with distinct jurisdictions and authority. These courts operate within Florida's unified court system as part of the Sixth Judicial Circuit.

Circuit Court - Sixth Judicial Circuit:

The Circuit Court is Pasco County's court of general jurisdiction, handling major civil and criminal matters.

West Pasco Judicial Center
7530 Little Road
New Port Richey, FL 34654
(727) 847-8199
Sixth Judicial Circuit
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

East Pasco Judicial Center
38053 Live Oak Avenue
Dade City, FL 33523
(352) 521-4274
Sixth Judicial Circuit
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Circuit Court divisions include:

• Civil (cases exceeding $30,000)
• Criminal (felonies)
• Family (divorce, custody, support)
• Probate (estates, guardianships)
• Juvenile (dependency, delinquency)

County Court:

County Courts handle less serious cases and operate from the same facilities as the Circuit Court.

West Pasco County Court
7530 Little Road
New Port Richey, FL 34654
(727) 847-8199
Pasco County Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

East Pasco County Court
38053 Live Oak Avenue
Dade City, FL 33523
(352) 521-4274
Pasco County Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

County Court divisions include:

• Civil (cases up to $30,000)
• Criminal (misdemeanors)
• Traffic
• Small Claims (up to $8,000)

Second District Court of Appeal:

While physically located in Tampa, this court hears appeals from Pasco County cases.

Second District Court of Appeal
1700 N. Tampa Street, Suite 300
Tampa, FL 33602
(813) 272-3430
Second District Court of Appeal
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Florida Supreme Court:

The state's highest court hears select cases from Pasco County involving constitutional questions or matters of great public importance.

Florida Supreme Court
500 South Duval Street
Tallahassee, FL 32399
(850) 488-0125
Florida Supreme Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

This hierarchical structure allows cases to progress from initial filing through potential appeals, with each court level serving specific functions within the judicial system. The Florida Courts website provides additional information about the structure and function of these courts.

What Types of Cases Do Pasco County Courts Hear?

Pasco County courts adjudicate a wide range of legal matters according to jurisdictional authority established by the Florida Constitution Article V and implementing statutes. Each court level handles specific case types based on subject matter and monetary thresholds.

Circuit Court Case Types:

The Sixth Judicial Circuit Court in Pasco County has jurisdiction over:

• Felony criminal prosecutions (all degrees)
• Civil actions where the amount in controversy exceeds $30,000
• Real property and mortgage foreclosure matters
• Domestic relations cases (divorce, child custody, support)
• Probate and estate administration
• Guardianship proceedings
• Juvenile dependency and delinquency
• Mental health commitments (Baker Act)
• Appeals from County Court decisions
• Extraordinary writs (mandamus, prohibition, quo warranto)

County Court Case Types:

Pasco County Court handles:

• Misdemeanor criminal cases (punishable by less than one year imprisonment)
• Civil actions with amounts in controversy up to $30,000
• Small claims (up to $8,000)
• Traffic infractions and violations
• Landlord/tenant disputes
• Ordinance violations
• Domestic violence injunctions
• Civil infractions

Specialized Court Programs:

Pasco County also operates several specialized court programs addressing specific case types:

• Drug Court - Alternative sentencing for qualifying drug offenses
• Veterans Treatment Court - Specialized services for veterans in the criminal justice system
• Mental Health Court - Therapeutic approach for defendants with mental health issues
• Teen Court - Diversionary program for juvenile offenders
• Dependency Drug Court - Specialized services for parents with substance abuse issues in dependency cases

Appellate Jurisdiction:

The Second District Court of Appeal reviews cases originating in Pasco County, including:

• Appeals from final judgments of Circuit Courts
• Appeals from non-final orders as prescribed by court rules
• Review of administrative actions as prescribed by law
• Original proceedings for extraordinary writs

The Florida Supreme Court has discretionary jurisdiction over Pasco County cases involving:

• Constitutional questions
• Conflicts between District Court decisions
• Matters of great public importance
• Capital cases with death sentences

This distribution of case types ensures efficient administration of justice while providing appropriate forums for resolving legal disputes based on complexity and subject matter. The jurisdictional boundaries between courts are established by Florida Statute § 26.012 for Circuit Courts and Florida Statute § 34.01 for County Courts.

How To Find a Court Docket In Pasco County

Court dockets in Pasco County provide chronological listings of all actions taken in a case, serving as an index to the complete case file. These dockets are accessible through multiple channels depending on the user's needs and the case type.

Online Docket Access:

The primary resource for electronic docket information is the Pasco County Clerk's Court Records Search. This system allows users to:

1. Search by case number, party name, or filing date
2. View comprehensive docket entries showing all filings and court actions
3. Access links to viewable documents (where available)
4. Check upcoming hearing dates and times
5. Monitor case status and disposition

For criminal cases, the Pasco County Criminal Justice Information System provides additional docket information related to arrests, charges, and court appearances.

Appellate case dockets for Pasco County cases under review by higher courts are available through the Florida Appellate Case Information System.

In-Person Docket Access:

Physical docket information can be obtained at:

Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller - New Port Richey
West Pasco Judicial Center
7530 Little Road
New Port Richey, FL 34654
(727) 847-8199
Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller

Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller - Dade City
East Pasco Government Center
14236 6th Street, Suite 201
Dade City, FL 33523
(352) 521-4542
Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller

At these locations, public access terminals provide comprehensive docket information for all case types.

Daily Court Calendars:

Current court calendars showing scheduled hearings are available:

1. Online through the Sixth Judicial Circuit Court Calendar
2. Posted daily in the lobbies of both courthouse locations
3. By telephone inquiry to the Clerk's Office

Specialized Docket Information:

• Probate dockets: Available through the Pasco County Probate Division
• Family law dockets: Accessible with proper identification due to confidentiality restrictions
• Juvenile dockets: Generally confidential with limited access

When searching for docket information, users should have:

• Case number (preferred)
• Party names (full legal names)
• Approximate filing date
• Case type

Pursuant to Florida Rules of Judicial Administration 2.420, certain docket entries may be confidential or contain limited information to protect sensitive matters while maintaining the public's right to access court proceedings.

Which Courts in Pasco County Are Not Courts of Record?

In Pasco County's judicial system, the distinction between courts of record and courts not of record is established by Florida Statute § 34.01. A court of record maintains comprehensive documentation of all proceedings, including verbatim transcripts, while courts not of record maintain more limited documentation and typically allow de novo (new) trials on appeal rather than reviews based on the record.

Courts Not of Record in Pasco County:

Currently, Pasco County does not operate any courts that are formally designated as "not of record." All judicial proceedings in the county are conducted through the Circuit Court or County Court system, both of which are courts of record under Florida law.

Historically, the following were courts not of record but have been phased out through judicial reorganization:

• Justice of the Peace Courts (abolished in 1973)
• Municipal Courts (replaced by County Court divisions)

Quasi-Judicial Proceedings:

While not technically courts, Pasco County does maintain several administrative and quasi-judicial bodies that conduct hearings but are not courts of record:

Pasco County Code Enforcement Board
8731 Citizens Drive, Suite 360
New Port Richey, FL 34654
(727) 847-8103
Pasco County Code Enforcement

Pasco County Value Adjustment Board
7530 Little Road, Suite 220
New Port Richey, FL 34654
(727) 847-8179
Pasco County Value Adjustment Board

Pasco County Construction Board
8731 Citizens Drive, Suite 230
New Port Richey, FL 34654
(727) 847-8126
Pasco County Building Construction Services

These bodies:

• Hold hearings on specific administrative matters
• Issue findings and orders
• Maintain records of proceedings, though not at the same level as courts of record
• Have decisions that may be appealed to the Circuit Court through certiorari review

Under Florida Statute § 26.012, the Circuit Court has appellate jurisdiction over decisions from these quasi-judicial proceedings, reviewing them for procedural due process, compliance with essential requirements of law, and substantial competent evidence.

The comprehensive court reorganization implemented through Article V of the Florida Constitution has established a unified court system where all formal judicial proceedings in Pasco County are conducted by courts of record, ensuring complete documentation of proceedings for potential appellate review.

Lookup Court Records in Pasco County

Pasco County Court Records Search

Florida Courts System

Pasco County Property Appraiser Records

Florida Appellate Case Information System

Florida Supreme Court Case Information

Pasco County Official Website