Clay County Family Court Documents
Clay County family court records document all family law cases filed in Green Cove Springs. The 4th Judicial Circuit Court hears divorce, custody, and support matters here. Residents can search these public records to find case details. The Clerk of Court maintains files at the courthouse. Records include petitions, judgments, and orders from family proceedings.
Clay County Quick Facts
Clay County Clerk of Court Office
The Clerk of Court maintains all family court records in Clay County as the official record keeper for the 4th Judicial Circuit. This elected office handles case filings and public record requests with professional staff who assist residents needing copies of court documents. You can visit the clerk's office in person to request family court records by bringing identification and case information if available. Staff can help you locate files by name or case number, and the office provides certified copies for legal purposes. Many records are available through online search portals as well, making access more convenient for residents throughout the county.
The Clay County Clerk's Office serves a growing population with efficient record-keeping services. The office has invested in modern technology to improve access while maintaining the security and integrity of sensitive family court documents. Staff members receive regular training on Florida public records law to ensure compliance while serving the public effectively.
| Clerk of Court | Tara S. Green |
|---|---|
| Address | 825 N. Orange Avenue, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 |
| Phone | (904) 269-6302 |
| Website | www.clayclerk.com |
Note: Office hours are typically Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, excluding holidays.
Online Family Court Records Access
You can access Clay County family court records online through the clerk's digital portal for case searches. Visit www.clayclerk.com to begin your search using the available tools for searching cases by name or number. The clerk's website provides comprehensive access to case information and document images when available. Family court services in Clay County include case filing and record retrieval through both online and in-person channels. The clerk's office handles all family law matters with staff who can guide you through the record request process.
Visit the clerk's office during business hours for in-person assistance with family court records. Staff can help with complex searches, certified copies, or questions about specific documents. The online system provides convenient 24/7 access to basic case information from any computer or mobile device.
Types of Clay County Family Court Records
Family courts in Clay County handle several types of cases, and each creates records that become part of the public file. These documents detail the legal proceedings and court orders that resolve family disputes. Understanding what records exist helps you know what to request when conducting research. Dissolution of marriage records are the most common family court files in Clay County. These include petitions for divorce, financial affidavits, and settlement agreements between spouses. The final judgment ends the marriage and divides assets according to Florida law. Chapter 61 of Florida Statutes governs divorce proceedings in Clay County, requiring that at least one spouse must have lived in Florida for six months before filing.
Child custody cases create detailed parenting plans that outline time-sharing schedules and parental responsibilities. Child support records include financial calculations and payment orders established under Florida guidelines. The Florida Department of Revenue handles enforcement statewide when payments are not made. Modifications to existing orders are also filed with the family court when circumstances change. Domestic violence injunctions protect victims from abuse and move quickly through the court system with priority handling. Temporary injunctions can be granted the same day as filing in emergencies. Florida Statute 741.30 governs these protective orders, and all domestic violence filings are free of charge to ensure victim access to protection.
Adoption and paternity cases also fall under family court jurisdiction in Clay County. These establish legal parent-child relationships through formal court processes. Records include petitions, home studies for adoptions, and final judgments. Each case type has specific filing requirements and procedures.
Post-judgment modifications are common in family court when circumstances change significantly after the original order. These may involve changes to custody arrangements, support amounts, or other terms based on new evidence or changed conditions.
How to Request Family Court Records
You have several options for obtaining family court records in Clay County, and the method you choose depends on your specific needs and timeline.
For online access, use the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal at myflcourtaccess.com. This system provides case information from courts across the state of Florida. You can search by party name or case number to locate relevant files. Basic case details are often available at no cost, while document images may require payment depending on the document type.
In-person requests provide immediate access to records and allow direct interaction with clerk staff. Visit the Clerk of Court office at the courthouse with valid identification and specific case information. Staff will locate the file and provide copies while you wait. Certified copies are available for an additional fee when required for legal proceedings.
Mail requests are accepted for record copies when you cannot visit in person. Send a written request to the clerk's office including case numbers and document descriptions. Provide your contact information and return address, and include payment with your request. Processing typically takes several business days.
4th Judicial Circuit Information
Clay County is part of Florida's 4th Judicial Circuit, which serves multiple counties in the region with a coordinated court system. The circuit court has jurisdiction over family law matters including divorce, custody, support, and domestic violence cases. Judges are elected to preside over cases in this circuit and bring diverse legal experience to the bench.
The circuit maintains standards for court procedures across all counties while allowing for local variations. Check the circuit website for specific filing requirements, and contact the clerk's office with questions about local procedures.
Family court hearings take place at the Clay County courthouse in Green Cove Springs. Some cases may be heard at satellite locations depending on case type. Confirm the hearing location before your court date and plan to arrive early for security screening.
Self-Help Resources for Family Court
Many people handle family court matters without an attorney, and Clay County provides resources to support self-represented litigants. The Florida Courts website provides approved family law forms at no cost that meet all legal requirements for formatting and content.
The Family Law Self-Help Program offers guidance for pro se litigants who need assistance with procedures and form completion. Staff cannot give legal advice about specific situations, but they can explain general procedures. Contact the courthouse to learn about self-help services available in Clay County.
Legal aid organizations serve low-income residents who qualify for free or low-cost legal assistance. Eligibility depends on income and case type. Call the Florida Bar Lawyer Referral Service for attorney recommendations. Note that court staff cannot recommend specific attorneys.
Important Links for Clay County
These websites provide valuable information about family court records and services:
Additional resources include the Florida State Courts System and the Florida Court Clerks & Comptrollers association.
Cities in Clay County
Family court records from all cities in Clay County are filed at the county courthouse. Residents of these communities use the same clerk's office for record requests.
Nearby Counties
If you cannot find the records you need in Clay County, check these neighboring counties. Cases may have been filed in adjacent jurisdictions.