St Johns County Clerk Of Courts Public Records gives people direct online access to more than 150 years of official documents. These include court filings, land deeds, marriage licenses, probate records, and property transfers. The digital archive updates every night with new entries. Each record shows the filing date, case number, names of people involved, and a downloadable PDF. Users can search by document type, year, case number, party name, or parcel number. While the system aims for full accuracy, small errors can happen during data entry. For important decisions, always confirm details with the Records Management Division.
How to Search St Johns County Clerk Of Courts Public Records
Start by visiting the official search portal on the St. Johns County Clerk of Court website. You must fill in at least one required field marked with a red asterisk. These include document type, filing year, or case number. Optional fields like party name or parcel number help narrow results. After you submit your search, the system shows a list you can sort by date or case. Click any entry to view full details or download the PDF. For records older than 1990, some files may only show a microfilm number. In those cases, visit the office in person or mail a request to get the full document.
Required vs. Optional Search Fields
| Field Type | Examples | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Required | Document Type, Filing Year, Case Number | Yes (at least one) |
| Optional | Party Name, Parcel Number, Attorney Name | No |
Types of Records Available
The St. Johns County Clerk Of Courts Public Records system holds many kinds of documents. Court records cover civil, criminal, and family law cases. Each file includes the case caption, judge assigned, filing date, and current status. Land records contain deeds, mortgages, liens, and property transfers. Marriage licenses are available from recent years, with older ones kept on microfilm. Probate records include wills, estate settlements, and guardianship papers. All records follow Florida Statute 119.071 for public access and privacy rules.
Most Requested Record Types
- Civil court cases (contracts, injuries, evictions)
- Criminal case dockets and judgments
- Property deeds and mortgage documents
- Marriage licenses issued in St. Johns County
- Probate and estate files
- Liens and judgments against property
Brandon J. Patty – Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller
Brandon J. Patty leads the St. Johns County Clerk of Court office. He serves as both Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller. His duties include managing court records, handling money for the county, and keeping the official ledger of all spending. His team processes about 2,300 filings each day and answers up to 1,200 civil case questions per month. The office is at 4010 Lewis Speedway in St. Augustine, FL 32084. It’s open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., except on state holidays.
Main Responsibilities
- Overseeing court record storage and access
- Managing county finances and tax collections
- Running the e-recording system for deeds
- Providing certified copies to the public
- Maintaining secure vaults for historical records
Electronic Recording (e-Recording) System
The St. Johns County Clerk Of Courts Public Records office uses an electronic recording system for mortgages and property deeds. This lets lenders, title companies, and residents submit documents online. Processing time drops from days to minutes. The system follows Florida law and keeps all files safe in digital vaults. For help with e-recording, call 985-497-3331 and ask for the e-Recording Help Desk. This service is available to anyone who needs to file a deed or lien quickly.
Benefits of e-Recording
- Faster document processing
- Fewer errors from manual entry
- 24/7 submission availability
- Instant confirmation of receipt
- Secure storage under state law
In-Person Services and Public Terminals
Visitors can use free public terminals inside the clerk’s office to search records. These computers connect directly to the official database. You can view scanned images, print copies, or save files to a USB drive. Printing costs a small fee per page. Staff members are available to help with basic searches but cannot give legal advice. If you need certified copies, ask at the front desk. They will check your ID and provide an official stamp.
How to Request Records in Person
- Go to 4010 Lewis Speedway, St. Augustine, FL
- Bring a valid photo ID
- Use the terminal or ask for help
- Pay the copy fee at the counter
- Receive your documents before leaving
Mail, Email, and Fax Requests
You can also request St Johns County Clerk Of Courts Public Records by mail, email, or fax. Send your request to Records Management at 4010 Lewis Speedway, St. Augustine, FL 32084. Include the case number, party names, and document type. For mailed requests, add a self-addressed stamped envelope. Turnaround time is usually five business days. Email requests should go through the protected gateway. Call (904) 819-3600 to get the correct email address. Always include your phone number in case staff need to clarify your request.
Sample Request Format
| Item | Details to Include |
|---|---|
| Your Name | Full legal name |
| Contact Info | Phone and email |
| Record Details | Case number, names, document type |
| Delivery Method | Mail, email, or in-person pickup |
Record Accuracy and Verification
The St. Johns County Clerk Of Courts Public Records database is updated nightly and checked regularly. However, human errors can occur during data entry or scanning. Spelling mistakes, wrong dates, or missing pages may appear in rare cases. The office recommends verifying critical information—like property ownership or court judgments—before making financial or legal decisions. Call (904) 819-3600 or visit the Records Management Division to confirm any detail that seems unclear.
When to Verify Records
- Buying or selling property
- Applying for a loan using real estate
- Resolving a legal dispute
- Checking criminal history for employment
- Establishing inheritance rights
Historical Records and Microfilm
Records dating back to 1858 are stored in secure vaults at the clerk’s office. Many older documents are on microfilm due to their age and fragility. If your search returns a microfilm number instead of a PDF, you’ll need to visit in person or request a copy by mail. Staff will retrieve the film and make a readable copy for you. This process may take extra time, so plan ahead if you need old records for research or legal purposes.
Eras Covered in the Archive
- 1858–1900: Early land grants and court logs
- 1901–1950: Property deeds and probate files
- 1951–1990: Marriage licenses and civil cases
- 1991–Present: Fully digitized records
Court Docket and Case Status
The clerk’s office maintains a live docket for all active and closed cases in the Circuit Court. This includes civil disputes, criminal charges, and family law matters. Each entry shows the judge, hearing dates, and current status—such as “pending,” “dismissed,” or “judgment entered.” Researchers, attorneys, and the public can use this to track ongoing litigation or verify past outcomes. Call (904) 819-3600 for help finding a specific case or scheduling a courtroom observation.
Common Case Types in the Docket
- Contract and debt collection lawsuits
- Personal injury claims
- Landlord-tenant disputes
- Divorce and child custody cases
- Criminal charges and sentencing
Certified Copies and Legal Use
Only certified copies from the St. Johns County Clerk Of Courts Public Records office are valid for legal use. These include an official seal and signature from the clerk. You can get them in person, by mail, or sometimes by email. Certified copies are needed for court filings, loan applications, immigration paperwork, and property transfers. Uncertified printouts from the online system are for reference only and not accepted by government agencies.
When You Need a Certified Copy
- Submitting evidence in court
- Applying for a mortgage or refinancing
- Proving identity or marital status
- Transferring property title
- Responding to a government request
Privacy and Public Access Rules
Florida law allows public access to most court and property records. However, some information is protected. Juvenile records, sealed cases, and certain personal details (like Social Security numbers) are redacted or withheld. The clerk’s office follows Florida Statute 119.071 to balance transparency with privacy. If you believe a record should be sealed or see sensitive data exposed, contact the Records Management Division immediately.
Redacted Information Examples
- Full Social Security numbers
- Bank account details
- Home addresses in protective cases
- Names of minors in family court
Fees and Payment Options
Copy fees for St Johns County Clerk Of Courts Public Records are set by state law. Most single-page documents cost $1.00. Larger files or certified copies may cost more. Payment is accepted in cash, check, or credit card at the office. Mail requests must include a check or money order. The office does not accept cryptocurrency or wire transfers. Fee waivers are not available for general public requests, but legal aid organizations may qualify under special programs.
Standard Fee Schedule
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Copy (per page) | $1.00 |
| Certified copy | $2.00 |
| Document search (if staff-assisted) | $15.00/hour |
| Fax transmission | $1.00 per page |
Contact Information and Hours
The St. Johns County Clerk of Court office is located at 4010 Lewis Speedway, St. Augustine, FL 32084. Phone: (904) 819-3600. Fax: (904) 819-3661. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed on state holidays. The public lobby has free Wi-Fi, self-service kiosks, and seating for record searches. Parking is available on-site. For after-hours emergencies, call the main number and follow the prompts for urgent court matters.
Frequently Asked Questions
People often ask how to find specific records, whether online copies are legal, and how long requests take. Below are clear answers based on current policies and Florida law. These responses reflect the most common concerns from residents, researchers, and legal professionals using the St Johns County Clerk Of Courts Public Records system.
Can I trust the online records for buying a house?
Yes, but always get a certified copy before closing. The online database is accurate for most recent deeds and liens. However, small errors can happen. A certified copy from the clerk’s office has an official seal and is accepted by banks and title companies. Never rely solely on a printout from the website for real estate transactions. Visit the office or mail a request to ensure you have the correct, up-to-date document. This protects you from surprises like unpaid liens or boundary disputes.
How fast are mailed record requests processed?
Mailed requests take about five business days if they include a complete case number or exact party names. If your request is vague, it may take longer. Always include your phone number so staff can call if they need more details. Send your request to Records Management, 4010 Lewis Speedway, St. Augustine, FL 32084. Use a self-addressed stamped envelope for return mail. Rush service is not available, so plan ahead if you need records for a deadline.
Are old marriage licenses available online?
Most marriage licenses from 1991 onward are online as PDFs. Older ones may only show a microfilm number. If you see a microfilm reference, you must visit the office or request a copy by mail. Staff will pull the film and make a readable copy for you. This process can take extra time, especially for records from the 1800s or early 1900s. Bring ID and know the names and approximate year to speed up your search.
Can I search records for someone else?
Yes, anyone can search St Johns County Clerk Of Courts Public Records. Florida law allows public access to court and property files. You do not need permission from the person named in the record. However, you must follow privacy rules—do not misuse personal data. If you’re acting on behalf of a client, bring a signed authorization letter. Staff cannot give legal advice, but they can help you find the right document type or case number.
What if I find an error in a record?
Contact the Records Management Division right away at (904) 819-3600. Provide the case number, document type, and description of the mistake. The clerk’s office will review and correct errors caused by their staff. If the error came from a court filing or third party, you may need to file a correction with the judge. Never alter a record yourself. Always get official confirmation before using disputed information for legal or financial decisions.
Is there a fee to search records online?
No. Searching the St Johns County Clerk Of Courts Public Records database is free. You can view case details, party names, and filing dates at no cost. Fees only apply when you print, download, or request certified copies. On-site terminals are free to use. Printing costs $1.00 per page. Certified copies cost $2.00 each. The system does not charge for basic searches, making it easy for anyone to research without spending money upfront.
How do I get a record sealed or restricted?
Only a judge can seal a record. Contact the court where the case was filed and ask about filing a motion to seal. The clerk’s office cannot remove or hide records on its own. If your record involves minors, domestic violence, or other sensitive issues, speak to a lawyer. Once a judge orders sealing, the clerk will restrict access and update the system. This process takes time and requires legal paperwork.
Official Website: stjohnsclerk.com
Phone: (904) 819-3600
Address: 4010 Lewis Speedway, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed state holidays)