Citrus County Court Records
What Is Citrus County Court Records
Court records in Citrus County encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's jurisdiction. These records constitute a comprehensive repository of judicial activities maintained by various courts operating within Citrus County, Florida. Pursuant to Florida Statutes § 119.011(3)(c), court records are defined as "all documents, papers, letters, maps, books, tapes, photographs, films, sound recordings, data processing software, or other material, regardless of the physical form, characteristics, or means of transmission, made or received pursuant to law or ordinance or in connection with the transaction of official business by any agency."
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 in criminal matters
- Marriage licenses and divorce decrees
- Probate and estate documentation
These records differ from other public records such as property records (deeds, mortgages, liens) and vital records (birth, death certificates), which are maintained by separate county departments.
In Citrus County, court records are maintained by several judicial bodies:
- Fifth Judicial Circuit Court (circuit court)
- Citrus County Court (county court)
- Probate Court
- Family Court
- Small Claims Court
The records maintained by these courts encompass various case types including civil litigation, criminal proceedings, family law matters, probate cases, and traffic violations. The Citrus County Clerk of Circuit Court serves as the official custodian of these records as mandated by the Florida Constitution and state statutes.
Are Court Records Public In Citrus County
Court records in Citrus County are generally accessible to the public in accordance with Florida's Public Records Law, commonly known as the "Sunshine Law," codified in Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes. Additionally, Article I, Section 24 of the Florida Constitution establishes the constitutional right of access to public records. Under these provisions, members of the public have the legal right to inspect and copy records made or received in connection with official government business, including court records.
The following court records are typically available for public inspection:
- Civil case files (including complaints, answers, and motions)
- 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
It is important to note that access to court records in Citrus County varies between federal and state courts. Records from the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida, which has jurisdiction over Citrus County, are governed by federal rules and policies, while records from state courts follow Florida's public records laws.
However, certain court records may be exempt from public disclosure or subject to confidentiality restrictions. Pursuant to Florida Rules of Judicial Administration 2.420, records containing sensitive information such as social security numbers, financial account numbers, and certain family court records may be redacted or sealed. Additionally, juvenile records, certain mental health proceedings, and adoption records typically have restricted access.
The Citrus County Clerk of Circuit Court serves as the custodian of court records and is responsible for facilitating public access while ensuring compliance with applicable confidentiality provisions.
How To Find Court Records in Citrus County in 2026
Members of the public seeking court records in Citrus County may utilize several methods to locate and access these documents. The Citrus County Clerk of Circuit Court maintains and provides access to court records through multiple channels.
To obtain court records in person:
- Visit the Citrus County Courthouse Records Department
Citrus County Clerk of Circuit Court
110 N. Apopka Avenue
Inverness, FL 34450
(352) 341-6424
Citrus County Clerk of Circuit Court
- Complete a records request form, available at the public counter
- Provide specific case information (case number, party names, filing date)
- Present valid photo identification
- Pay applicable copy fees ($1.00 per page for certified copies, $0.15 per page for uncertified copies)
For written requests:
- Submit a detailed written request to the Clerk's Office at the address above
- Include specific case information and contact details
- Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope for return delivery
- Include payment for applicable fees (check or money order)
Pursuant to Florida Statutes § 119.07(1)(a), the custodian of public records must acknowledge requests promptly and respond in good faith. The Citrus County Clerk's Office currently processes most routine records requests within 3-5 business days, though complex requests may require additional time.
For expedited service, the Clerk's Office recommends utilizing their online access options or calling ahead to confirm record availability and any special retrieval requirements.
How To Look Up Court Records in Citrus County Online?
Citrus County provides several digital platforms for accessing court records electronically. These online resources offer convenient alternatives to in-person visits for many record types.
The primary online resources for Citrus County court records include:
-
Citrus County Clerk of Court Records Search
- Access via the Citrus County Clerk's website
- Navigate to "Court Records" or "Records Search"
- Create a user account (free registration required)
- Search by case number, party name, filing date, or case type
- Available records include civil, criminal, traffic, and probate cases
- Documents viewable online with nominal fee for downloads
-
Florida Courts E-Filing Portal
- Access via Florida Courts E-Filing Portal
- Registration required (free for basic access)
- Search by case number or party name
- View docket information and case status
- Access to filed documents (fees may apply)
-
Florida Supreme Court Statewide Records Search
- Visit the Florida Supreme Court Records Search
- Select "Fifth Judicial Circuit" and "Citrus County"
- Search by case number, party name, or attorney
- Access to case summaries and docket information
- Limited document access (primarily docket entries)
-
PACER (Public Access to Court Electronic Records)
- For federal court records affecting Citrus County
- Register at PACER
- Select "U.S. District Court, Middle District of Florida"
- Search by case number, party name, or filing date
- Fees apply ($0.10 per page, maximum $3.00 per document)
When searching online, users should note that:
- Some older records (generally pre-2000) may not be available electronically
- Certain confidential or sealed records are not accessible online
- Document downloads may incur fees (typically $1.00-$2.00 per document)
- Technical assistance is available by contacting the Clerk's Office IT Department at (352) 341-6424
The Citrus County Board of County Commissioners also maintains certain administrative records through their website, though these are separate from court records maintained by the Clerk's Office.
How To Search Citrus County Court Records for Free?
Florida law guarantees the public's right to inspect court records without charge. Pursuant to Florida Statutes § 119.07(4), while agencies may charge reasonable fees for copies of records, inspection of records at the custodian's office must be permitted without charge.
Free options for accessing Citrus County court records include:
- In-Person Inspection
- Visit the Citrus County Courthouse Records Department
Citrus County Clerk of Circuit Court
110 N. Apopka Avenue
Inverness, FL 34450
(352) 341-6424
Citrus County Clerk of Circuit Court
- Public access terminals are available during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM)
- No appointment necessary for general record searches
- Staff assistance available for locating records
- While inspection is free, printing or copying incurs standard fees
-
Online Basic Case Information
- The Citrus County Clerk's website offers free access to basic case information
- Registration required but no fee for viewing basic docket information
- Search by case number, party name, or case type
- View case status, hearing dates, and party information
- Document downloads may incur fees
-
Public Law Library Access
- The Citrus County Law Library provides free public access to legal resources
Citrus County Law Library
110 N. Apopka Avenue, 3rd Floor
Inverness, FL 34450
(352) 341-6430
Citrus County Law Library
- Computer terminals with access to court records databases
- Reference assistance available from law library staff
- Open Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
- Florida Supreme Court Public Access System
- Free access to basic case information via Florida Courts Public Access
- No registration required for basic searches
- Limited to docket information and case status
- Document access restricted
According to the Citrus County Board of County Commissioners' public records policy, "Access to public records is a statutory right. Every person has the right to inspect and copy any public record" with certain exemptions as provided by law.
What's Included in a Citrus County Court Record?
Court records in Citrus County contain various documents depending on the case type and court of jurisdiction. The content of these records is governed by the Florida Rules of Judicial Administration and relevant statutes.
A typical Citrus County court record includes:
For Civil Cases:
- Complaint or petition initiating the action
- Summons and proof of service
- Defendant's answer or response
- Motions filed by either party
- Court orders and rulings
- Exhibits admitted into evidence
- Transcripts of hearings (if ordered)
- Final judgment or dismissal
- Post-judgment motions and orders
- Appeal documentation (if applicable)
For Criminal Cases:
- Charging documents (information or indictment)
- Arrest warrant or probable cause affidavit
- Defendant's plea
- Bond information
- Discovery materials
- Motions to suppress or dismiss
- Trial exhibits and evidence logs
- Verdict forms
- Sentencing documents
- Probation reports
- Appeal documentation (if applicable)
For Family Law Cases:
- Petition for dissolution of marriage
- Financial affidavits
- Parenting plans
- Child support worksheets
- Mediation agreements
- Temporary relief orders
- Final judgment
- Post-judgment modification requests
For Probate Cases:
- Petition for administration
- Death certificate (restricted access)
- Will (if testate)
- Letters of administration
- Inventory of assets
- Claims against the estate
- Accounting reports
- Orders of distribution
- Closing documents
Each court record also contains a docket sheet or register of actions that chronologically lists all events and filings in the case. This serves as an index to the case file and provides a summary of proceedings.
Pursuant to Florida Rules of Judicial Administration 2.420(d), certain information within court records may be redacted, including social security numbers, bank account numbers, and other sensitive personal information.
How Long Does Citrus County Keep Court Records?
Citrus County retains court records according to schedules established by the Florida Department of State, Division of Library and Information Services, pursuant to Florida Statutes § 257.36. These retention periods vary based on record type and significance.
Standard retention periods for Citrus County court records include:
Criminal Court Records:
- Capital felony cases: Permanent retention
- Non-capital felony cases: 75 years after final disposition
- Misdemeanor cases: 10 years after final disposition
- Traffic infractions: 3 years after final disposition
Civil Court Records:
- Circuit civil cases: 10 years after final disposition
- Small claims cases: 5 years after final disposition
- Eviction proceedings: 5 years after final disposition
- Domestic relations cases: 75 years after final disposition
Probate Records:
- Wills: Permanent retention
- Estate administration: 10 years after closing
- Guardianship: 10 years after termination of guardianship
Special Case Types:
- Adoption records: Permanent retention
- Juvenile dependency: 10 years after 18th birthday
- Juvenile delinquency: 5 years after 18th birthday or 5 years after final disposition, whichever is later
The Florida Records Management Program oversees these retention schedules, which are periodically updated. Records scheduled for destruction are reviewed by the Clerk's Office to ensure compliance with retention requirements before disposal.
Historically significant cases may be preserved beyond the minimum retention period and transferred to the State Archives of Florida for permanent preservation. Additionally, the Clerk's Office has undertaken digitization efforts to preserve older records in electronic format.
Individuals seeking older records that may have reached their retention limit should contact the Clerk's Office Research Department at (352) 341-6424 for assistance in determining if the records still exist or have been transferred to archival storage.
Types of Courts In Citrus County
Citrus County's judicial system consists of several courts operating within a hierarchical structure established by the Florida Constitution and statutes. Each court has specific jurisdiction and authority.
Citrus County Circuit Court (Fifth Judicial Circuit)
110 N. Apopka Avenue
Inverness, FL 34450
(352) 341-6700
Fifth Judicial Circuit Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
The Circuit Court is Citrus County's court of general jurisdiction, handling felony criminal cases, civil disputes exceeding $30,000, family law matters, probate cases, and appeals from County Court decisions.
Citrus County Court
110 N. Apopka Avenue
Inverness, FL 34450
(352) 341-6700
Citrus County Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
The County Court handles misdemeanors, civil disputes up to $30,000, small claims (up to $8,000), traffic infractions, and ordinance violations.
United States District Court, Middle District of Florida
(Federal cases affecting Citrus County are handled at the Ocala Division)
207 N.W. Second Street
Ocala, FL 34475
(352) 369-4860
Middle District of Florida
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM
The federal district court handles cases involving federal law, constitutional questions, diversity jurisdiction cases, and bankruptcy proceedings.
Fifth District Court of Appeal
300 South Beach Street
Daytona Beach, FL 32114
(386) 947-1530
Fifth District Court of Appeal
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
This appellate court reviews decisions from the Circuit Courts within its jurisdiction, including Citrus County.
Florida Supreme Court
500 South Duval Street
Tallahassee, FL 32399
(850) 488-0125
Florida Supreme Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
The state's highest court has discretionary review of District Court of Appeal decisions and mandatory review of certain cases, including those involving capital punishment.
The judicial hierarchy in Florida follows this progression: County Courts → Circuit Courts → District Courts of Appeal → Florida Supreme Court. Federal cases follow a separate path: U.S. District Court → U.S. Court of Appeals (11th Circuit) → U.S. Supreme Court.
What Types of Cases Do Citrus County Courts Hear?
Citrus County's courts adjudicate a diverse range of legal matters, with jurisdiction determined by case type, monetary value, and severity of charges. The distribution of cases among the courts is established by the Florida Constitution and statutes.
Citrus County Circuit Court handles:
- Felony criminal prosecutions (punishable by more than one year imprisonment)
- Civil disputes involving amounts exceeding $30,000
- Real property and title disputes
- Domestic relations cases (divorce, child custody, support)
- Probate and estate administration
- Guardianship proceedings
- Juvenile dependency and delinquency matters
- Mental health proceedings
- Appeals from County Court decisions
- Extraordinary writs (mandamus, prohibition, quo warranto)
Citrus County Court adjudicates:
- Misdemeanor criminal cases (punishable by less than one year imprisonment)
- Civil disputes with amounts in controversy up to $30,000
- Small claims cases (up to $8,000)
- Traffic infractions and violations
- County and municipal ordinance violations
- Landlord/tenant disputes and evictions
- Domestic violence injunctions
- First appearance hearings in criminal cases
United States District Court (Middle District of Florida) handles:
- Federal criminal prosecutions
- Civil cases arising under federal law
- Constitutional challenges
- Civil rights claims under federal statutes
- Bankruptcy proceedings
- Patent, copyright, and trademark disputes
- Admiralty and maritime cases
- Cases between citizens of different states where the amount exceeds $75,000 (diversity jurisdiction)
According to the Florida Office of the State Courts Administrator, Citrus County courts process approximately 25,000 new cases annually, with traffic, misdemeanor, and small claims matters constituting the majority of the caseload.
The assignment of judges to specific case types is determined by administrative orders issued by the Chief Judge of the Fifth Judicial Circuit. Currently, four circuit judges and two county judges serve Citrus County, with specialized divisions for criminal, civil, family, and juvenile matters.
How To Find a Court Docket In Citrus County
Court dockets in Citrus County provide chronological listings of all actions taken in a case, serving as an index to court proceedings and filings. Members of the public can access docket information through several methods.
To locate a court docket:
-
Online Docket Search
- Visit the Citrus County Clerk's website
- Select "Court Records" or "Case Search"
- Enter search criteria (case number, party name, date range)
- Review docket entries showing filings, hearings, and orders
- Note that some older cases may have limited online information
-
In-Person Docket Review
- Visit the Clerk's Office at the Citrus County Courthouse
Citrus County Clerk of Circuit Court
110 N. Apopka Avenue
Inverness, FL 34450
(352) 341-6424
Citrus County Clerk of Circuit Court
- Request assistance from the records department
- Provide case information for clerk to locate the docket
- Public access terminals are available for self-service searching
-
Court Calendar Information
- For upcoming hearings, visit the Fifth Judicial Circuit website
- Select "Court Calendars" or "Hearing Schedules"
- Search by judge, date, or case type
- Calendars typically show scheduled hearings for the next 30-60 days
-
Telephone Inquiry
- Contact the Clerk's Office Records Department at (352) 341-6424
- Provide case number or party names
- Staff can provide basic docket information over the phone
- Detailed information may require in-person visit or written request
For federal cases affecting Citrus County residents, docket information is available through the PACER system maintained by the U.S. Courts.
Pursuant to Florida Rules of Judicial Administration 2.420, docket entries for confidential cases or those containing exempt information may be redacted or restricted from public view.
The Clerk's Office updates docket information daily, though there may be a slight delay between court actions and their appearance in the electronic docket system.
Which Courts in Citrus County Are Not Courts of Record?
In Florida's judicial system, a distinction exists between "courts of record" and "courts not of record." Pursuant to Florida Statutes § 34.01(5), courts of record maintain formal transcripts of proceedings and have established appellate procedures, while courts not of record typically handle minor matters with simplified procedures.
In Citrus County, the following are not courts of record:
-
Small Claims Division of County Court
- Handles civil disputes up to $8,000
- Proceedings are less formal with simplified rules
- While basic records are maintained, verbatim transcripts are not automatically created
- Appeals from small claims proceed to the Circuit Court for trial de novo (new trial)
-
Traffic Infractions Hearing Officer Program
- Adjudicates contested traffic citations
- Hearing officers (not judges) preside over proceedings
- No court reporters present unless specifically requested
- Appeals from hearing officer decisions go to County Court
-
Code Enforcement Boards
- Established under Florida Statutes § 162.03
- Handle violations of county and municipal ordinances
- Administrative in nature rather than judicial
- Appeals proceed to Circuit Court through certiorari review
-
Value Adjustment Board
- Reviews property tax assessment challenges
- Quasi-judicial administrative body
- Maintains records but not to judicial standards
- Appeals go directly to Circuit Court
By contrast, Citrus County Circuit Court and County Court (for matters other than small claims) are courts of record, maintaining verbatim transcripts of proceedings when requested and following formal rules of procedure. The Fifth District Court of Appeal and Florida Supreme Court are also courts of record.
The distinction between courts of record and those not of record affects appellate procedures. Appeals from courts of record typically involve review of the existing record, while appeals from courts not of record often result in entirely new proceedings (trial de novo) at the higher court level.
Individuals involved in proceedings before courts not of record who wish to preserve their right to appeal should consider arranging for a court reporter at their own expense, as transcripts are not automatically created in these forums.
Lookup Court Records in Citrus County
Federal Court Records for Citrus County
Citrus County Public Records Access