Highlands County Public Records /Highlands County Court Records

Highlands County Court Records

What Is Highlands County Court Records

Court records in Highlands County encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's court system. These records serve as the comprehensive documentation of judicial activities and are maintained by the Highlands County Clerk of Courts. Pursuant to Florida Statute § 28.222, the Clerk of Courts is designated as the official custodian of all court records within the jurisdiction.

Court records typically include:

Case files containing pleadings, motions, and petitions
Docket sheets chronicling case events and filings
Court orders and judicial decisions
Judgments and decrees
Hearing and trial transcripts
Evidence and exhibits admitted during proceedings
Sentencing records for criminal cases
Marriage licenses and divorce decrees
Probate documents and estate inventories

These records differ from other public records such as property records, vital statistics, and tax documents, which are maintained by separate county departments. Court records specifically document judicial proceedings and legal matters adjudicated within the county court system.

The courts maintaining records in Highlands County include:

Circuit Court (10th Judicial Circuit)
County Court
Probate Court
Family Court
Small Claims Court

These courts handle various case types including civil litigation, criminal prosecutions, family law matters, probate proceedings, and traffic violations. The Florida court system operates under a unified structure with records maintained according to standardized protocols established by the Florida Supreme Court.

Are Court Records Public In Highlands County

Court records in Highlands County are generally accessible to the public in accordance with Florida's strong commitment to government transparency. The legal foundation for this access is established in the Florida Constitution, Article I, Section 24, which guarantees the public's right to access government records, and the Florida Public Records Law, Chapter 119, which implements this constitutional right.

The following court records are typically available for public inspection:

Civil case files (with certain exceptions)
Criminal case files (post-charging)
Judgments and court orders
Docket sheets and case indices
Hearing schedules and calendars
Marriage licenses and divorce decrees
Probate records and estate inventories

However, public access is subject to certain limitations. Under Florida Rules of Judicial Administration 2.420, specific categories of information are exempt from public disclosure, including:

Social security numbers
Bank account and credit card numbers
Medical and mental health records
Information related to juvenile proceedings
Records sealed by court order
Certain family court records involving minors
Records pertaining to victims of sexual offenses

It is important to note that federal court records for cases heard in U.S. District Courts are governed by different access rules than state court records. Federal records are accessible through the PACER (Public Access to Court Electronic Records) system, while Highlands County records are maintained by the Highlands County Clerk of Courts.

The Florida Supreme Court has established comprehensive standards for public access to court records through its administrative orders and rules of judicial administration, balancing the public's right to information with privacy protections for sensitive personal information.

How To Find Court Records in Highlands County in 2026

Members of the public seeking court records in Highlands County may utilize several methods to locate and access these documents. The county provides multiple pathways for record retrieval, accommodating both electronic and in-person research needs.

To obtain court records in Highlands County:

Online Access:

Visit the Highlands County Clerk of Courts website
Navigate to the "Court Records Search" section
Select the appropriate search option based on case type
Enter relevant search criteria (case number, party name, date range)
Review search results and select desired records
Follow instructions for viewing or requesting copies

In-Person Requests:

Visit the Highlands County Clerk of Courts office during regular business hours
Complete a records request form, available at the public service counter
Provide specific case information to facilitate record location
Pay applicable fees for document copies
Wait for staff to retrieve requested records

Written Requests:

Prepare a written request including specific case details
Include contact information and preferred delivery method
Enclose appropriate payment for copy fees
Mail request to:

Highlands County Clerk of Courts
590 South Commerce Avenue
Sebring, Florida 33870-3867
(863) 402-6565
Highlands County Clerk of Courts

For certified copies of court documents, requestors must specifically indicate this requirement, as additional authentication fees apply. Pursuant to Florida Statute § 28.24, the Clerk of Courts charges standardized fees for document reproduction and certification.

Researchers should note that while many records are available immediately, some archived materials may require additional processing time. The Clerk's office typically processes standard requests within 3-5 business days, though complex or extensive requests may require additional time.

How To Look Up Court Records in Highlands County Online?

Highlands County provides comprehensive digital access to court records through several online portals, each designed to facilitate specific types of record searches. These electronic resources allow for efficient research without requiring physical visits to court facilities.

The primary online resources for Highlands County court records include:

Highlands County Clerk's Court Records Search

Contains records for civil, criminal, traffic, and probate cases
Allows searches by case number, party name, or case type
Provides case summaries, docket entries, and some document images
Requires registration for full document access
Updated daily with new case filings and docket entries

Highlands County Official Records Search

Contains recorded documents including judgments, liens, and marriage records
Allows searches by name, document type, or date range
Provides document images for most recorded instruments
Includes records dating back to establishment of recording systems
Free to search with nominal fees for document copies

Florida Appellate Case Information System

Contains records for cases appealed from Highlands County courts
Allows searches by case number, party name, or attorney
Provides docket information and selected document access
Covers appeals to District Courts of Appeal and Florida Supreme Court
Updated as appellate proceedings progress

To conduct an effective online search:

Determine which court system contains the relevant records
Select the appropriate search portal based on case type
Enter specific search criteria (more specific searches yield better results)
Review search results to identify relevant cases
Access available document images or note case information for in-person retrieval
Follow instructions for requesting copies of documents not available online

Users should note that while basic search functions are available without registration, access to complete document images may require user accounts and payment of statutory fees. The Florida Courts system continues to expand electronic access capabilities, with additional records being digitized regularly.

How To Search Highlands County Court Records for Free?

Florida law guarantees the public's right to inspect court records without charge, though fees may apply for copies or certified documents. Pursuant to Florida Statute § 119.07(4), agencies may charge only the actual cost of duplication for copies of public records.

Free access options for Highlands County court records include:

In-Person Inspection:

Visit the Highlands County Courthouse during regular business hours
Request to view specific case files at the Clerk's public counter
Examine records on-site without charge
Take notes or use personal devices to photograph documents (where permitted)
Return records to staff when finished

Free Online Resources:

Highlands County Court Records Search - Basic case information and docket listings are available without charge
Criminal Court Calendar - Free access to upcoming criminal court schedules
Florida Supreme Court Case Information - Free access to cases appealed to Florida's highest court

Public Access Terminals:

Computer workstations available at the Clerk's office provide free access to electronic court records
Located in the public research area of the courthouse
Offer more comprehensive access than remote online searches
Available during regular business hours
Staff assistance available for search guidance

When utilizing free access options, researchers should note:

While inspection is free, copy fees apply for printed documents
Standard copy fees are $1.00 per page for regular copies
Certified copies incur additional authentication fees
Large volume requests may require advance scheduling
Some confidential records require court order for access

The Highlands County Clerk's office maintains public access terminals at:

Highlands County Clerk of Courts
590 South Commerce Avenue
Sebring, Florida 33870-3867
(863) 402-6565
Highlands County Clerk of Courts

Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (excluding holidays)

What's Included in a Highlands County Court Record?

Highlands County court records contain comprehensive documentation of legal proceedings, with contents varying by case type and court jurisdiction. These records provide an official chronology of case events and serve as the legal record of judicial actions.

A typical Highlands County court record includes:

Case Initiation Documents:

Complaints or petitions in civil cases
Information or indictments in criminal cases
Petitions for dissolution of marriage in divorce proceedings
Applications for probate in estate matters
Small claims statements of claim

Procedural Documents:

Summonses and service of process documentation
Notices of appearance by attorneys
Motions filed by parties
Responses and replies to motions
Discovery documents (when filed with the court)
Notices of hearing
Court orders and rulings

Evidentiary Materials:

Affidavits and sworn statements
Exhibits admitted during hearings or trials
Deposition transcripts (when filed)
Expert witness reports
Documentary evidence

Disposition Documents:

Settlement agreements
Jury verdicts
Judgments and decrees
Sentencing orders in criminal cases
Final orders
Dismissal notices

Post-Judgment Documents:

Appeals notices and briefs
Satisfaction of judgment filings
Motions for modification or enforcement
Probation reports (in criminal matters)
Collection proceedings

The Sixth Judicial Circuit, which includes Highlands County, maintains these records according to standardized protocols established by the Florida Supreme Court. Records are organized by case number and maintained in both physical and electronic formats, with increasing emphasis on digital preservation and access.

Certain sensitive information within court records may be redacted or restricted pursuant to Florida Rules of Judicial Administration 2.420, which establishes standards for confidentiality in court records.

How Long Does Highlands County Keep Court Records?

Highlands County retains court records according to schedules established by the Florida Department of State, Division of Library and Information Services. These retention periods vary based on case type, disposition, and historical significance of the records.

The primary retention periods for Highlands County court records are:

Criminal Cases:

Capital felonies: Permanent retention
Non-capital felonies: 75 years after case closure
Misdemeanors: 10 years after case closure
Criminal appeals: 75 years after final disposition

Civil Cases:

Circuit civil cases: 10 years after case closure
County civil cases: 5 years after case closure
Small claims: 5 years after case closure
Civil appeals: 10 years after final disposition

Family Law Cases:

Dissolution of marriage: 75 years after final judgment
Child support enforcement: 75 years after youngest child reaches majority
Domestic violence: 5 years after case closure
Adoption: Permanent retention

Probate Cases:

Estates: 10 years after case closure
Guardianships: 10 years after termination of guardianship
Mental health proceedings: 5 years after case closure

Traffic Cases:

DUI cases: 10 years after case closure
Other traffic infractions: 3 years after case closure

These retention periods are mandated by Florida Statute § 28.30 and detailed in the General Records Schedule GS11 for Clerk of Courts records. After the prescribed retention period expires, records may be destroyed according to approved disposition procedures, though records of historical significance may be preserved permanently.

Certain records, particularly those with genealogical or historical value, are maintained indefinitely. These include:

Marriage licenses and certificates
Naturalization records (pre-1940)
Land records and property deeds
Historic court proceedings
Records designated for permanent retention by court order

Researchers seeking older records should note that while many historical documents have been digitized, some archival materials may require special handling and advance notice for retrieval.

Types of Courts In Highlands County

Highlands County's judicial system operates within Florida's unified court structure, with several levels of courts handling different case types and jurisdictional thresholds. Each court serves specific functions within the overall justice system.

The courts operating in Highlands County include:

Highlands County Circuit Court (10th Judicial Circuit)
430 South Commerce Avenue
Sebring, Florida 33870
(863) 402-6565
Tenth Judicial Circuit
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM

The Circuit Court has jurisdiction over:

Felony criminal cases
Civil disputes exceeding $30,000
Domestic relations cases (divorce, custody)
Probate and guardianship matters
Juvenile dependency and delinquency
Appeals from County Court decisions

Highlands County Court
430 South Commerce Avenue
Sebring, Florida 33870
(863) 402-6565
Highlands County Clerk of Courts
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM

The County Court handles:

Misdemeanor criminal cases
Civil disputes up to $30,000
Small claims (up to $8,000)
Traffic infractions
Landlord/tenant disputes
Ordinance violations

Highlands County Traffic Court
430 South Commerce Avenue
Sebring, Florida 33870
(863) 402-6565
Highlands County Clerk of Courts
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM

Highlands County operates within Florida's judicial hierarchy, where cases may progress from County Court to Circuit Court, then to the District Court of Appeal, and ultimately to the Florida Supreme Court. This structure ensures multiple levels of review and establishes a consistent body of case law.

The administrative offices for all Highlands County courts are located at the main courthouse complex in Sebring, with the Clerk of Courts serving as the official custodian of records for all court divisions.

What Types of Cases Do Highlands County Courts Hear?

Highlands County courts adjudicate a diverse range of legal matters, with jurisdiction determined by case type, monetary value, and statutory authority. The county's court system processes thousands of cases annually across multiple legal categories.

Circuit Court Cases:

The Highlands County Circuit Court, as part of Florida's Tenth Judicial Circuit, hears the following case types:

Felony Criminal Prosecutions
- Capital felonies (death penalty eligible)
- First-degree felonies
- Second-degree felonies
- Third-degree felonies
- Violations of probation/community control
Major Civil Litigation
- Cases exceeding $30,000 in controversy
- Real property/land disputes
- Complex commercial litigation
- Professional malpractice claims
- Product liability actions
Family Law Matters
- Dissolution of marriage (divorce)
- Child custody and timesharing
- Child support establishment and enforcement
- Paternity determinations
- Domestic violence injunctions
- Adoptions
- Name changes
Probate and Guardianship
- Estate administration
- Will contests
- Trust litigation
- Adult guardianships
- Minor guardianships
- Baker Act proceedings (involuntary mental health examination)
- Marchman Act cases (substance abuse assessment)
Juvenile Proceedings
- Dependency cases (child welfare)
- Delinquency cases (juvenile offenses)
- Truancy matters
- Children in need of services

County Court Cases:

The Highlands County Court handles:

Misdemeanor Criminal Cases
- First-degree misdemeanors
- Second-degree misdemeanors
- Criminal traffic offenses
- County ordinance violations
Civil Disputes
- Cases valued between $8,000 and $30,000
- Small claims (up to $8,000)
- Landlord/tenant evictions
- Replevin actions (recovery of personal property)
Traffic Infractions
- Moving violations
- Non-moving violations
- Parking citations
- Driver's license issues

Case distribution statistics indicate that traffic and misdemeanor cases constitute the highest volume of matters in Highlands County courts, followed by small claims and family law proceedings. The Florida Courts system publishes annual statistical reports detailing caseloads by county and case type.

How To Find a Court Docket In Highlands County

Court dockets in Highlands County provide chronological listings of all actions taken in a case, serving as the official index of proceedings. These dockets are accessible through multiple channels, allowing interested parties to monitor case progress and upcoming hearings.

To locate a court docket in Highlands County:

Online Docket Access:

Visit the Highlands County Clerk of Courts website
Select "Court Records Search" from the available options
Choose the appropriate case type (civil, criminal, traffic, probate)
Enter search criteria (case number, party name, date range)
Review search results and select the desired case
View the docket sheet showing all case events in chronological order

Criminal Court Calendar: For upcoming criminal proceedings, the Criminal Court Calendar provides a schedule of hearings organized by date, judge, and case type.

In-Person Docket Research:

Visit the Highlands County Clerk's office during business hours
Request docket information at the public service counter
Provide case number or party names to facilitate search
Review printed docket sheets or view information on public access terminals

Telephone Inquiries: Basic docket information may be obtained by calling the Clerk's office at (863) 402-6565, though written or online requests are preferred for detailed information.

Docket information typically includes:

Case number and filing date
Party names and attorney information
Complete chronological listing of all filings
Hearing dates and times
Judicial assignments
Orders issued by the court
Final disposition information

For appellate cases originating in Highlands County, docket information is available through the Florida Appellate Case Information System, which tracks cases appealed to higher courts.

Researchers should note that while docket information is generally public, access to some case types may be restricted by statute or court rule. The most current and complete docket information is available through the Clerk's official records system.

Which Courts in Highlands County Are Not Courts of Record?

In the Florida judicial system, courts are designated as either "courts of record" or "not of record" based on their procedural requirements and appeal processes. This distinction affects how proceedings are documented and the pathway for appealing decisions.

Pursuant to Florida Statute § 34.01, courts of record maintain comprehensive verbatim transcripts of all proceedings, while courts not of record typically maintain only minimal documentation of case outcomes.

In Highlands County, the following are not courts of record:

Small Claims Division of County Court

Handles civil disputes up to $8,000
Utilizes simplified procedures
Does not require verbatim transcripts
Appeals proceed to Circuit Court as trials de novo (new trials)
Governed by Small Claims Rules rather than full Rules of Civil Procedure

Traffic Infractions Hearing Officer Program

Adjudicates non-criminal traffic violations
Proceedings are summary in nature
No court reporters present
Decisions may be appealed to County Court
Operates under administrative rather than judicial authority

The distinction between courts of record and those not of record is significant because:

Appeals from courts not of record typically result in completely new trials (de novo review) rather than reviews limited to the existing record
Proceedings in courts not of record generally follow simplified procedures designed for accessibility to self-represented litigants
Courts not of record typically do not establish binding precedent
The rules of evidence may be applied less formally in courts not of record

All other courts in Highlands County, including Circuit Court, the general division of County Court, and specialized divisions handling criminal, family, and probate matters, are courts of record. These courts maintain complete records of all proceedings, including verbatim transcripts when court reporters are present or digital recordings of hearings.

The Florida Courts system continues to evolve, with increasing emphasis on documentation and record-keeping even in courts traditionally designated as not of record.