Miami-Dade County Family Court Cases and Records Search

Finding Miami-Dade County family court records is essential for residents of Florida's most populous county. The Clerk of Courts maintains all documents related to family law matters. Juan Fernandez-Barquin serves as the current Clerk of Courts. The county is part of the 11th Judicial Circuit. Records include dissolution of marriage, child custody disputes, domestic violence injunctions, and paternity cases. The main courthouse sits in downtown Miami. Thousands of cases are filed here each year. You can search for records in person or through the online Civil, Family and Probate Courts Online System.

Miami-Dade County Clerk of Courts Office

The Miami-Dade County Clerk of Courts handles all family court records under the leadership of Clerk Juan Fernandez-Barquin, with the main office located at 73 W. Flagler Street in downtown Miami serving as the central hub for court documents throughout the county. The office operates Monday through Friday from eight in the morning until four in the afternoon, with staff members available daily to assist with record searches and help locate specific case files. The courthouse maintains security screening at all entrances to ensure visitor safety, so plan accordingly when visiting for record requests or court appearances.

Phone support is available at (305) 275-1155 for general questions about records, search processes, and identification requirements. Staff can explain the search process in detail, clarify which records require proof of identity versus those open to public view, and guide you through available options for accessing the documents you need. The clerk's website offers extensive online search tools that let you look up cases from home or office, providing convenient alternatives to in-person visits for many types of inquiries.

The downtown Miami location is highly accessible via public transportation, with the Metrorail and Metrobus both serving the area, and parking available in nearby garages for those who prefer to drive. The building is fully accessible to accommodate all visitors, and staff provide professional service while understanding that family court matters are sensitive and deeply personal. Your privacy is respected during all interactions, whether you visit in person, call by phone, or use online resources.

Miami-Dade Online Court System Access

Miami-Dade County provides comprehensive family court records through the Civil, Family and Probate Courts Online System, an advanced platform offering extensive search capabilities that allow users to access case information twenty-four hours a day. The system is free for basic Civil, Family and Probate court records access, making it convenient for residents to check case status at any time from any location with internet connectivity. For advanced search features, the system requires account registration, which unlocks additional tools including more detailed document access and enhanced search functions that can save significant time for frequent users or those handling complex cases.

The online system enables searches by party name or case number, displaying comprehensive case status information, party names, scheduled hearings with specific dates and times, and final judgments or orders entered by the court. Some documents are viewable directly online, providing immediate access to important records, while others require in-person visits for security, privacy, or document authentication reasons. The system is updated regularly with new filings to ensure that the information available reflects current case statuses, though users should note that electronic access is not the official record and certified copies may require in-person visits.

For Official Records advanced searches, the system charges one dollar per search unit, applying to more complex document searches while basic case information remains free. The My Florida Court Access portal also covers Miami-Dade County, providing statewide context that allows you to track matters across county lines and view cases in broader context. This portal works exceptionally well for multi-county searches and is free for basic case information, complementing the county-specific system to provide comprehensive access options for all users.

Miami-Dade County Family Court Record Types

Miami-Dade County maintains extensive categories of family court records reflecting its position as Florida's most populous county and the corresponding volume of family law matters processed through its courts. Dissolution of marriage files document all divorces, including both simplified and regular divorce proceedings, containing petitions that initiate cases, financial affidavits disclosing all assets and debts, marital settlement agreements that resolve disputes between parties, and final judgments that terminate marriages and distribute property according to Florida law. These files may also include alimony determinations, attorney fee awards, and detailed property division orders when complex assets are involved.

Child custody and support records are particularly comprehensive, with parenting plans establishing detailed time-sharing schedules that allocate decision-making authority between parents, specify holiday and vacation arrangements to prevent conflicts, and address school break timing to ensure continuity for children. Child support orders specify monthly amounts calculated according to Florida's guidelines, include medical and dental insurance provisions, address uncovered medical expense allocations, and may include college expense arrangements when applicable. Modifications update existing orders when circumstances change significantly, such as through income changes, relocation, or evolving children's needs.

Domestic violence injunction cases have dedicated files containing petitions for injunction, temporary ex parte orders providing immediate protection when warranted, final injunctions lasting for specified periods, and documentation of violations that may result in criminal prosecution. These records serve critical protective functions, and access may be restricted for victim safety as privacy laws protect sensitive information. Paternity cases establish legal fatherhood and often lead to related custody and support proceedings, while name change petitions for both adults and minors are processed here, along with some guardianship matters, each with specific legal contents organized professionally by the clerk.

How to Search Miami-Dade County Family Records

Searching for Miami-Dade County family court records offers multiple pathways designed to accommodate different needs and levels of urgency. The online Civil, Family and Probate Courts Online System serves as the primary tool for remote access, while in-person visits to the clerk's office provide full document access for matters requiring certified copies or review of documents not available electronically. Online searches work best for quick status checks and preliminary research, allowing you to verify case existence, check hearing dates, and review basic case information from any location, while in-person visits are necessary for obtaining certified copies, viewing sensitive documents, or accessing older records that may not be digitized.

To use the online system effectively, visit the OCS portal and create an account if you need advanced features. Enter a name or case number to begin your search, and the system will display case status, party names, scheduled hearings, and final judgments, with some documents viewable directly online. For in-person searches, visit the Flagler Street courthouse during business hours with valid photo identification, where staff can search by party name or case number and public access computers are available for self-directed research. Large requests or complex searches may take additional time, so planning ahead is advisable.

For optimal results, gather as much information as possible before searching, including full legal names of all parties, approximate date ranges for case filing or resolution, and any case numbers from previous documents or attorney correspondence. The clerk's website at miamidadeclerk.gov provides helpful search tips and instructions, and staff are available to assist with difficult searches or explain procedures when clarification would be helpful. Strategic preparation significantly improves search efficiency and helps ensure you locate the specific records you need.

Understanding the difference between standard and certified copies helps ensure you request appropriate documentation for your specific needs. Standard copies work well for personal reference and research, while certified copies serve as official documentation accepted by courts, government agencies, and other entities requiring verification. The clerk provides both types for applicable fees, with current rates posted on the website.

11th Judicial Circuit Court Information

Miami-Dade County is part of Florida's 11th Judicial Circuit, one of the busiest circuits in the state, with the circuit court hearing all family law matters through multiple judges who manage an extensive caseload. Family law divisions specialize in these matters, providing focused expertise for the complex issues that arise in dissolution, custody, support, and domestic violence cases. The circuit provides comprehensive services to families including family mediation to help resolve disputes without trial, mandatory parenting courses required for divorcing parents, and support enforcement coordinated with state agencies.

Court hearings occur at the main downtown courthouse on Flagler Street, which handles most family matters, though some proceedings may occur in other facilities as specified in court notices. Arrive early for security screening, bring required identification and documents, and dress appropriately for all court appearances as a sign of respect for the judicial process. The 11th Circuit works to serve families efficiently while ensuring due process and fair resolution of all matters.

Miami-Dade Clerk Website and Records Images

The Miami-Dade County Clerk of Courts provides extensive online access through their homepage.

The website offers links to case search systems and public records information.

The online court system provides comprehensive case access tools.

Users can search by name or case number to find family court records and case details.

The records page offers detailed document access options.

The records system helps locate specific family court documents and case information.

Child support services are accessible through the clerk's online portal.

The child support section provides resources for parents seeking support information.

Getting Copies of Miami-Dade County Records

Copies of family court records are available from the Miami-Dade clerk with pricing that varies based on the type of copy needed. Standard copies cost a per-page rate appropriate for personal reference and research purposes, while certified copies cost more but provide official verification of document authenticity required for many legal purposes including court filings, government applications, and professional licensing. Understanding which type you need before requesting saves time and ensures you receive appropriate documentation.

Same-day service is standard for most copy requests, though large orders or archived records may require additional retrieval time. The clerk provides time estimates when orders will take longer than same-day service, allowing you to plan ahead for important deadlines. Rush services may be available for urgent needs, and staff can advise on options when time-sensitive documentation is required.

Payment options include cash, check, credit cards, and debit cards, with online payments available for some services. Current rates are posted on the clerk's website, though fees may change periodically, so checking current pricing before visiting is recommended. Having appropriate payment ready streamlines the process and helps ensure efficient service.