Collier County Family Court Filings
Collier County family court records document all family law cases filed in Naples. The 20th 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.
Collier County Quick Facts
Collier County Clerk of Court Office
The Clerk of Court maintains all family court records in Collier County as the official record keeper for the 20th 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. 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, providing convenient access for residents throughout the county.
The Collier County Clerk's Office serves a diverse and growing population in Southwest Florida with modern record-keeping services. The office has made significant investments in technology to provide online access to records while maintaining strict security for sensitive family court documents. Staff members are trained to handle the unique needs of family court cases with professionalism and discretion.
| Clerk of Court | Crystal K. Kinzel |
|---|---|
| Address | 3315 Tamiami Trail E., Naples, FL 34112 |
| Phone | (239) 252-2646 |
| Website | www.collierclerk.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 Collier County family court records online through the clerk's digital portal for convenient case searches from any location. Visit www.collierclerk.com to begin your search using the available tools. The clerk's website provides comprehensive access to case information and document images. Family court services in Collier County include case filing and record retrieval through both online and in-person methods. 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. The Collier County Clerk maintains detailed court records containing case documents from all family law proceedings. You can view most records online or request copies in person depending on your needs.
Types of Collier County Family Court Records
Family courts in Collier 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 or gathering documents for legal proceedings.
Dissolution of marriage records are the most common family court files in Collier 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, 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 significantly.
Domestic violence injunctions protect victims from abuse and move quickly through the court system. Temporary injunctions can be granted the same day as filing in emergency situations. Florida Statute 741.30 governs these protective orders, and all domestic violence filings are free of charge. Adoption and paternity cases also fall under family court jurisdiction in Collier 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.
How to Request Family Court Records
You have several options for obtaining family court records in Collier County depending on your specific needs and timeline. Some requests can be completed online instantly, while others require a visit to the courthouse.
For online access, use the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal at myflcourtaccess.com. This system provides case information from courts across the state. 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.
In-person requests provide immediate access to records and allow direct interaction with clerk staff who can assist with complex searches. 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.
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 with your contact information and return address. Include payment with your request, and processing typically takes several business days.
20th Judicial Circuit Information
Collier County is part of Florida's 20th Judicial Circuit, which serves multiple counties in Southwest Florida 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.
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 Collier County courthouse in Naples. Some cases may be heard at satellite locations depending on case type and judge availability. 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 Collier 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.
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 Collier County.
Legal aid organizations serve low-income residents who qualify for free or low-cost legal assistance based 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 Collier 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 Collier County
Family court records from all cities in Collier 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 Collier County, check these neighboring counties. Cases may have been filed in adjacent jurisdictions.