Okeechobee County Family Court Cases and Records
Finding Okeechobee County family court records is possible through the Clerk of the Circuit Court. This office maintains all documents related to family law matters. The county is part of Florida's 19th Judicial Circuit. Records include dissolution of marriage, child custody disputes, and domestic violence injunctions. The courthouse is located at 312 NW 3rd Street in Okeechobee. This rural community sits near Lake Okeechobee. Staff process family cases with personal attention. You can search for records online or visit in person.
Okeechobee County Clerk of Court Office
The Okeechobee County Clerk of Court maintains family court records at 312 NW 3rd Street, serving as the main access point for all court documents related to family law matters throughout this rural community. The office operates Monday through Friday from eight in the morning until five in the afternoon, with staff members providing personal assistance with record searches and helping locate specific case files. Bring identification when you visit, as security screening is required at the entrance, and some records require proof of identity while others are open to public view.
Phone support is available at (863) 763-2131 for general questions about records, search procedures, and requirements. Staff can explain search procedures clearly, inform you about required forms, and guide you through available options for accessing the documents you need. The clerk's website offers convenient online tools that let you search cases from home, providing an alternative to in-person visits for many types of record inquiries. This is particularly valuable for residents who may face travel challenges to reach the courthouse.
The Okeechobee location serves a close-knit rural community where staff often know many residents by name, providing personalized service while maintaining professional standards and respecting privacy. The courthouse is easy to reach from all parts of the county with parking available nearby, and the building is fully accessible to accommodate all visitors. Staff understand that family court matters are deeply personal and approach each interaction with appropriate care and sensitivity.
| Address | 312 NW 3rd Street, Okeechobee, FL 34972 |
|---|---|
| Phone | (863) 763-2131 |
| Website | okeechobeecclerk.com |
| Circuit | 19th Judicial Circuit |
| Hours | Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
Okeechobee County Family Court Record Types
The clerk maintains several distinct categories of family court records, each serving different legal purposes for residents of this rural Florida community. Dissolution of marriage files document divorce proceedings from initial petition through final judgment, including property settlements that divide assets and debts between parties. These comprehensive files provide complete documentation of the divorce process under Florida law.
Child custody records detail time-sharing arrangements through visitation schedules that specify when each parent has physical custody, holiday plans designed to prevent conflicts, and decision-making authority assignments regarding important aspects of children's lives. Child support orders specify payment amounts and include provisions for medical and dental coverage. Modifications are documented when circumstances change significantly enough to warrant updating existing orders to reflect new realities.
Domestic violence injunctions protect victims through petitions that begin cases, temporary orders providing immediate help when warranted, and final injunctions establishing longer-term protection. Violations are documented and may result in additional legal action. Access to these records may be limited for safety reasons. Paternity cases establish legal fatherhood, while name changes are processed through the family court system, with the clerk organizing all files carefully according to established procedures.
How to Access Okeechobee County Family Records
Searching for Okeechobee County family court records offers two main options designed to accommodate the needs of this rural community: online tools for convenient remote access or in-person visits for comprehensive document review. Online searches work well for quick status checks and preliminary information, while in-person visits provide full access to complete case files. The My Florida Court Access portal covers Okeechobee County through this statewide system, allowing you to enter a name or case number and view case status, party names, scheduled hearings, and final judgments.
In-person searches at the courthouse on 3rd Street provide the most comprehensive access, with staff available to search by party name, case number, or date range. Public computers are available for self-directed searches. For effective searches, gather information beforehand: know full legal names of all parties involved, have approximate date ranges ready, and bring any case numbers you may have, as these significantly speed up the search process.
The clerk's website provides helpful tips for conducting efficient searches, and staff are trained to assist visitors even with incomplete information. Whether you need a simple status check or comprehensive case file review, understanding the available options and preparing appropriately ensures you receive the records you need.
19th Judicial Circuit Court Information
Okeechobee County belongs to Florida's 19th Judicial Circuit, which includes four counties: Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee, and St. Lucie, with the circuit court handling all family law matters within this jurisdiction. Circuit judges preside over cases involving divorces, custody disputes, and domestic violence matters, issuing binding decisions that affect families throughout the circuit. The circuit maintains consistent standards across all counties to ensure uniformity and fairness.
Family court hearings occur at the Okeechobee courthouse on 3rd Street, with court notices specifying exact rooms and times. Arrive early for security screening, bring required identification, and dress appropriately for court appearances. The 19th Circuit serves the Treasure Coast region efficiently, working to ensure due process and fair resolution of all family law matters.
Okeechobee County Clerk Website and Records Images
The Okeechobee County Clerk of Court provides online access through their website.
The website offers tools for searching family court cases and accessing court records.
Getting Help with Okeechobee County Records
Staff at the Okeechobee County Clerk's office are ready to assist with record searches, guiding you step by step through the process whether you contact them by phone at (863) 763-2131 or visit in person. Calling ahead with questions saves time during your visit. The website has helpful resources including answers to common questions, downloadable forms, and clear instructions that are updated regularly.
The staff know the community well because they live and work here, understanding local needs and approaching family matters with appropriate care. Privacy is always protected throughout all interactions, and the office maintains professional standards while providing the personalized service that characterizes rural community institutions.
Rural Court Services
Okeechobee County is rural in nature with agriculture playing an important role in the local economy, and Lake Okeechobee defining the character of the area. The court serves this unique community with staff who understand rural concerns and provide personal, attentive service to all residents. The courthouse sits near downtown, easily accessible with parking nearby, and the building provides a welcoming environment where staff greet visitors warmly and want to help them succeed.
Family court matters affect everyone in the community, and the clerk treats them with appropriate care and attention. Cases are processed promptly, records are maintained professionally, and the office works diligently to serve the people of Okeechobee County with the efficiency and respect they deserve.