St Lucie County civil court records are public files that show civil lawsuits filed in the county’s court system. The St Lucie County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller keeps these records, which cover contract disputes, evictions, small claims, debt collection, and other non-criminal cases.
Anyone can look up these records online through the official clerk portal or visit the courthouse in person at 201 S Indian River Drive in Fort Pierce.
Who Maintains St Lucie County Civil Court Records
Michelle R. Miller serves as the Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller for St Lucie County. Her office stores every civil case file, processes new filings, and gives the public access to court documents. The clerk’s office works under the 19th Judicial Circuit, which also covers Indian River, Martin, and Okeechobee counties. All civil cases in St Lucie County pass through this single clerk’s office, no matter which city the case started in.
Office Location and Contact Details
The main clerk’s office sits in the county courthouse in Fort Pierce. You can reach the office by phone, email, or in person during business hours on weekdays. The clerk staff can answer questions about record searches, copy fees, and filing procedures. They cannot give legal advice, but they can point you to the correct forms and systems.
| Contact Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Office Address | 201 S Indian River Drive, Fort Pierce, FL 34950 |
| Phone Number | (772) 462-6900 |
| Email Support | ezsupport@stlucieclerk.gov |
| Office Hours | Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Official Website | stlucieclerk.gov |
| Court Docket System | dockettoday.stlucieclerk.gov |
Role of the Clerk in Civil Cases
The clerk’s office has three main jobs in civil cases. First, staff accept new lawsuits, motions, and other legal papers. Second, they keep the official case docket, which lists every event in a lawsuit from start to finish. Third, they give copies of case files to the public, attorneys, and the parties named in the case. All civil case records, whether filed on paper or electronically, end up in the clerk’s digital system.
How to Search St Lucie County Civil Court Records Online
The clerk’s website has a free court case search tool that lets you look up civil cases by name, case number, or filing date. You do not need to register or pay a fee to use the basic search. Results show the case type, the names of the parties, the judge assigned, and the next court date. You can also see the docket entries, which list every paper filed in the case.
Using the Court Case Search Tool
The court case search lives on the clerk’s main website under the “Court Case Search” menu. The system covers civil, criminal, family, probate, and traffic cases. When you search by name, enter the last name first and then the first name. The system shows all cases where that person is a party. When you search by case number, use the full number with the year and court code. The case number format in St Lucie County uses two-letter codes that show the case type, such as “CA” for civil action or “SC” for small claims.
Searching by Party Name
Searching by party name works for anyone, not just lawyers. Type the last name and first name of the person you are looking up. The system returns a list of all matching cases with the case number, filing date, and current status. Click on any case to see the full docket and available documents. Name searches are open to the public under Florida’s public records law, but some cases may be sealed or restricted by court order.
Searching by Case Number
If you already have a case number, the search is faster and more exact. Civil case numbers in St Lucie County start with a two-letter code, followed by the year, then a sequence of numbers. The two-letter code tells you the court level and case type. Common codes include CA for circuit civil, CC for county civil, and SC for small claims. Type the full case number in the search box to pull up the complete case file.
Searching by Date Range
Date range searches help when you know roughly when a case was filed. The clerk’s search tool lets you set a start and end date. You can combine the date range with a name or case type filter. This method works well for background checks, tenant screening, or research on a specific lawsuit. The online records go back to 1993 for most case types.
Civil Case Types in St Lucie County
St Lucie County courts hear many types of civil cases. Each type follows its own rules and dollar limits. The two main courts are Circuit Court and County Court, and they split cases based on how much money is at stake.
Circuit Civil Cases
Circuit Court handles civil cases where the amount in dispute is more than $30,000. These cases also include matters that the law assigns only to circuit court, such as real property disputes, personal injury lawsuits, and complex business litigation. The Circuit Court clerk accepts filings, assigns judges, and keeps the docket. Most circuit civil cases take between 12 and 24 months to reach trial, though many settle sooner.
County Civil Cases
County Court handles civil cases where the amount in dispute is $30,000 or less. Common county civil cases include smaller contract disputes, personal injury claims, and automobile accidents. The process is faster and simpler than circuit court. County civil cases often resolve within 6 to 12 months. The same clerk’s office files and stores these records, so you use the same search tool.
Small Claims Cases
Small claims is a special branch of county court for cases up to $8,000. These cases use simpler procedures, and people often represent themselves. Small claims records show up in the same online search tool under the “SC” case code. Common small claims matters include unpaid debts, security deposit disputes, and minor property damage claims. The clerk’s office can give you a small claims packet that includes all the forms you need.
Eviction and Landlord-Tenant Cases
Eviction cases get their own case type in the clerk’s system, with a code that starts with “CC” or “DR” depending on the situation. Landlords file these cases to remove tenants who do not pay rent or break lease terms. The clerk’s office stores every eviction filing, judgment, and writ. These records are public and often used by landlords and tenant screening services. Eviction cases move quickly, and the court often issues a judgment within 30 days of filing.
Fee Schedule for Civil Court Records
The clerk’s office charges fees for copies, certifications, and certain searches. Florida law caps these fees, so they are the same across most counties. You can pay by cash, check, money order, or credit card in person. Online payments are also available through the clerk’s portal for some services.
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Standard Copy (per page) | $1.00 |
| Certified Copy (per page) | $2.00 (first page) + $1.00 each additional |
| Document Search (per year) | $2.00 per year searched |
| Online Search | Free |
| E-Certified Records | $10.00 per document |
| Fax Filing Fee | $8.00 per filing |
How to Request Certified Copies
Certified copies carry the clerk’s seal and are accepted by courts, government agencies, and financial institutions. You can request a certified copy online, by mail, or in person. The clerk checks the original document, makes a copy, and stamps it with the official seal. Mail requests should include the case number, document description, your contact information, and a check or money order for the fee. Processing times for mail requests run between 5 and 10 business days.
E-Certified Records Through Clerk E-Record
The E-Record portal at clerkezrecord.stlucieclerk.gov lets you order electronically certified copies of recorded documents. This service covers deeds, mortgages, liens, and other recorded instruments. E-certified records carry the same legal weight as paper certified copies. You must create a free account to use the portal. Once logged in, you can search, view, and purchase certified copies anytime.
Confidential and Sealed Civil Records
Florida law protects certain data in civil court records. The clerk’s office must redact social security numbers, bank account numbers, and credit card numbers from public documents. If you find protected information in a public file, you can ask the clerk to remove it at no charge.
How to Request Redaction
Fill out the “Request to Redact Confidential Number” form and file it with the St Lucie County clerk. The form asks for the case name, case number, document title, and page where the confidential data appears. The clerk will then black out the protected data from the public version of the document. There is no fee for redaction requests. The clerk’s office processes most redaction requests within 30 days of filing.
Sealed and Expunged Records
Some civil cases are sealed by court order. Sealed records are not available to the public, even through the online search tool. The court seals a record only when the law allows it and the judge agrees. Common reasons for sealing include trade secrets, sensitive personal data, and the safety of a party. If you search for a sealed case, the system will show a “confidential” or “sealed” status instead of the case details.
Self-Help Resources for Civil Cases
People who file civil cases without a lawyer can use the clerk’s self-help resources. The Florida Courts website has free form packets for common civil case types. The St Lucie County clerk’s office also has printed forms available at the front counter. Staff can show you which forms to use, but they cannot help you fill them out or give legal advice.
DIY Florida for Online Filing
DIY Florida is a free tool inside the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal. It walks you through a series of questions and fills out the correct forms based on your answers. The tool covers more than 20 form sets, including small claims, eviction, and debt collection. Once you finish the interview, you can file the forms directly through the portal. The clerk charges the standard filing fee at the end of the process.
E-Filing Portal Help Desk
The E-Filing Portal help desk answers technical questions about online filing. You can reach the help desk at (850) 577-4609 on weekdays from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Eastern time. The portal also has training videos and a written manual on the Florida Courts website. The help desk can help with login problems, payment errors, and document upload issues.
Visiting the Clerk’s Office in Person
If you need to see original documents, request old records, or get a certified copy the same day, visiting the office is the fastest option. The clerk’s office is in the St Lucie County Courthouse in Fort Pierce. The building is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays and closes on weekends and holidays.
What to Bring
Bring a valid photo ID when you visit the clerk’s office. If you are requesting records on behalf of someone else, bring a signed authorization letter. Have the case number or full party name ready to speed up the search. If you need certified copies, know exactly which documents you want. The clerk charges per page, so the more specific you are, the less you pay.
Parking and Building Access
The courthouse has a public parking lot behind the building. Enter through the main doors on Indian River Drive. You will go through a security screening similar to an airport. Leave weapons, large bags, and outside food or drinks in your car. Wheelchair access is available at the main entrance. Once inside, follow the signs to the clerk’s office on the first floor.
Court Structure for Civil Cases in St Lucie County
St Lucie County sits in the 19th Judicial Circuit. This circuit covers four counties on Florida’s east coast. The chief judge of the circuit oversees all court operations. Civil cases follow the Florida Rules of Civil Procedure, which apply statewide. Local administrative orders may set specific procedures for filings, motions, and hearings.
Difference Between Circuit and County Court
Circuit Court has unlimited jurisdiction in civil cases, meaning it can hear any dispute regardless of dollar amount. County Court has limited jurisdiction, with a $30,000 cap on civil cases. If your case involves more than $30,000, you must file in Circuit Court. If you file in the wrong court, the judge will transfer the case or dismiss it without prejudice. The clerk can help you figure out which court fits your case.
Where Civil Cases Are Heard
Civil cases in St Lucie County are heard at two main locations. The downtown Fort Pierce courthouse at 201 S Indian River Drive handles most civil, criminal, and family cases. The South County Courthouse at 250 NW Country Club Drive in Port St Lucie handles some civil hearings, jury trials, and family cases. The clerk’s office can tell you which courthouse your case is assigned to when you file.
Florida Public Records Law and Civil Cases
Florida has one of the strongest public records laws in the country. Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes says that all government records are open to the public. This includes civil court records filed with the St Lucie County clerk. You do not need to be a party in a case, and you do not need to give a reason for your request. The only exceptions are records sealed by court order and records protected by specific privacy laws.
Limits on Public Access
Some civil records are not public even if they are part of the official file. Section 119.0714 of the Florida Statutes protects social security numbers, bank account numbers, and credit card numbers. Records that contain information about minors in family court cases may also be restricted. The clerk’s office follows these rules when they post records online and when they hand out copies at the counter.
Requesting Bulk Records
Companies and researchers who need many records at once can request bulk data from the clerk’s office. Bulk requests are common for title companies, background check firms, and journalists. The clerk charges a fee for bulk records based on the number of pages or records provided. You must submit a written request and agree to use the records only for lawful purposes. The clerk’s office can also provide electronic exports in CSV or PDF format for an extra fee.
Cities and Communities Served by the Clerk
St Lucie County has several cities and unincorporated communities, and the clerk’s office serves them all. The most populated city is Port St Lucie, followed by Fort Pierce. Other communities include Tradition, St Lucie West, and White City. No matter where you live or where a case was filed, all civil court records go through the same clerk’s office in Fort Pierce.
Port St Lucie Cases
Port St Lucie is the largest city in St Lucie County, with a population over 200,000. Many civil cases filed each year come from Port St Lucie residents and businesses. You can search these cases using the same online tool. The court does not separate Port St Lucie cases from Fort Pierce cases in the search results. All cases appear in the same system under the same county.
Fort Pierce Cases
Fort Pierce is the county seat and the main site for the courthouse and clerk’s office. People who want to see original documents often visit the Fort Pierce office. The clerk staff process most filings here and answer questions about the records system. If you need a same-day certified copy or want to file a new case in person, the Fort Pierce office is the place to go.
Official Website Links and Phone Numbers
St Lucie County Clerk’s Office: 201 S Indian River Drive, Fort Pierce, FL 34950. Phone: (772) 462-6900. Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Official Website: stlucieclerk.gov. Court Docket System: dockettoday.stlucieclerk.gov. E-Record Portal: clerkezrecord.stlucieclerk.gov. EZ Record Email Support: ezsupport@stlucieclerk.gov. Florida Courts E-Filing Portal: myflcourtaccess.com. E-Filing Help Desk: (850) 577-4609.
Frequently Asked Questions About St Lucie County Civil Court Records
Below are answers to common questions about civil court records in St Lucie County. These cover the most frequent topics that people ask the clerk’s office and the courts. Each answer gives you the facts you need to look up records, file cases, or understand how the system works.
How far back do online civil court records go in St Lucie County?
Online civil court records in St Lucie County go back to 1993 for most case types. Records before 1993 are stored on microfilm or in paper files at the clerk’s office. You can ask the clerk to search older records, but the search may take longer and cost more. The clerk charges a search fee for every year they look through, even if they do not find a matching case. If you need old records for a legal case or historical research, contact the clerk’s office ahead of time to confirm the records still exist.
Can I view civil court records for free in St Lucie County?
Yes, the basic online case search on the clerk’s website is free. You can look up case numbers, party names, and docket entries without paying anything. The clerk charges fees only for printed copies, certified copies, and formal record searches. If you visit the clerk’s office in person, you can use the public computer terminals to search the records for free. You only pay when you ask for printed or certified documents.
How do I find out if a civil case is sealed in St Lucie County?
The online search tool will show a “sealed” or “confidential” status if a case is not available to the public. Sealed cases do not show party names, case details, or documents. The clerk’s office cannot confirm or deny the existence of a sealed case. The court seals records only when the law allows and the judge signs an order. Common reasons include protection of trade secrets, personal safety, and sensitive family matters.
What is the difference between Circuit Court and County Court civil cases?
Circuit Court handles civil cases where the dispute involves more than $30,000 or matters assigned to circuit court by Florida law. County Court handles civil cases where the amount in dispute is $30,000 or less. The procedures are similar, but Circuit Court cases often take longer and involve more paperwork. Small claims is a special branch of County Court for cases up to $8,000, with simpler rules and faster timelines.
Can I file a new civil case in St Lucie County online?
Yes, you can file a new civil case through the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal at myflcourtaccess.com. The portal accepts new lawsuits, motions, and other filings for St Lucie County. You must register for a free account before you can file. The portal accepts credit card payments for filing fees. After you submit a filing, the clerk reviews it and either accepts it or sends it back for correction. Most filings are accepted within one business day.
How long does the clerk keep civil court records?
Florida law requires the clerk to keep most civil court records permanently. Older records are stored in secure facilities and may be transferred to the State Archives of Florida. Digital records stay in the clerk’s system for as long as the office exists. Microfilm records from before the digital age are kept in temperature-controlled storage. You can ask the clerk about the status of a specific record if you are not sure whether it still exists.
What happens if I find a mistake in a civil court record?
If you spot a mistake in a civil court record, contact the clerk’s office right away. The clerk can fix clerical errors like typos, wrong addresses, or misspelled names. The clerk cannot change a judge’s ruling or the substance of a court order. For those changes, you need to file a motion with the court that issued the order. Mistakes in personal data, like a wrong date of birth, should be corrected as soon as possible to avoid problems with future filings.