Search Crenshaw County Court Records

Court records in Crenshaw County are maintained by the Circuit Clerk at the courthouse in Luverne. The county is part of the 2nd Judicial Circuit, which also includes Butler and Lowndes counties.

Crenshaw County Circuit Clerk

The Circuit Clerk's office is the official custodian of court records in Crenshaw County. This office maintains files for civil cases, criminal matters, domestic relations, and appeals from District Court. The clerk processes new filings, issues certified copies, and handles public record requests. All records are indexed in the statewide Alacourt system.

The Crenshaw County Courthouse sits on Glenwood Avenue in downtown Luverne. Visitors can access the clerk's office during regular business hours. Government-issued identification is required for most record requests. The staff can assist with locating case files, printing copies of documents, and explaining court procedures.

How to Access Court Records

Online Search via Alacourt

The fastest way to search Crenshaw County court records is through Alacourt Access at pa.alacourt.com. This state-run system lets you look up cases by name or case number. Search results show the case type, filing date, parties involved, and current status. A fee applies for each search. The system includes records from both Circuit Court and District Court.

When searching by name, you will need the person's last name at minimum. Adding a first name or middle initial narrows the results. The system searches across all case types unless you filter by civil, criminal, domestic, or traffic. Results are returned quickly, usually within seconds.

In-Person Requests

You can visit the Circuit Clerk's office at the Crenshaw County Courthouse to search records in person. The clerk's staff will help locate case files using the office computers. Public access terminals may be available during busy periods. Bring any case numbers or party names you have. The more details you provide, the easier it is to find what you need.

Once you find a case, you can request copies of specific documents. Plain copies cost less than certified copies. Certified copies have an official seal and signature, which you need for legal purposes like proving a case outcome or filing an appeal. Cash and checks are typically accepted. Some offices now take credit cards too.

Mail Requests

Written requests can be sent to the Circuit Clerk at the courthouse address. Your letter should include the full names of all parties, the type of case if known, and approximate dates. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for the response. Payment by check or money order should cover the estimated fees. The clerk's office will contact you if additional payment is needed.

Processing time for mail requests varies. Simple requests may be completed in a week or two. Older records or complex searches take longer. The clerk's office prioritizes in-person visitors and active case work, so mail requests are handled as time permits.

Types of Court Records

Circuit Court Records

Circuit Court is the trial court of general jurisdiction in Alabama. In Crenshaw County, the Circuit Court hears all felony criminal cases, civil lawsuits over $10,000, and domestic relations matters including divorce, custody, and child support. Appeals from District Court also go to Circuit Court. Case files contain the complaint or indictment, motions, orders, and final judgments.

District Court Records

District Court handles smaller civil cases, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and preliminary hearings for felonies. The dollar limit for civil cases is $20,000. Small claims cases fall under District Court as well. These records are maintained separately but indexed in the same Alacourt system. District Court is located in the same courthouse building.

Domestic Relations Records

Divorce cases, custody disputes, child support enforcement, and protection from abuse petitions are classified as domestic relations matters. These cases are filed in Circuit Court. Records include the petition, financial disclosures, parenting plans, and final decrees. Some documents in domestic cases may be sealed to protect minor children or sensitive information.

Criminal Records

Criminal case files show the charges, court dates, plea information, trial results, and sentencing details. Felonies are prosecuted in Circuit Court while misdemeanors stay in District Court. The case docket lists every action taken from arrest to disposition. Expunged records are removed from public view and cannot be accessed without a court order.

Court Records Fees

Fees for court record services in Crenshaw County follow state guidelines with some local variations.

Payment methods vary by location. The courthouse typically accepts cash, personal checks, and money orders. Credit card acceptance depends on available equipment. Online payments through Alacourt are processed by credit or debit card.

Crenshaw County Court Resources

2nd Judicial Circuit

Crenshaw County shares the 2nd Judicial Circuit with Butler County and Lowndes County. Circuit judges rotate between the three counties to hold court sessions. This arrangement is common in rural Alabama where caseloads don't support a full-time judge in each county. The circuit has both a Circuit Court judge and a District Court judge.

Court schedules vary by session type. Criminal dockets, civil trials, and domestic matters are set on different days. The clerk's office can tell you when the next session is scheduled. Jury trials require advance notice and are set according to the judge's calendar.

Legal Aid Resources

Residents who cannot afford an attorney may qualify for free legal help. Legal Services Alabama provides assistance with civil matters including family law, housing disputes, and public benefits. The statewide intake line is 866-456-4995. Income limits apply. The AlabamaLegalHelp.org website has self-help forms and information.

For criminal cases, the court appoints a public defender if the defendant qualifies based on income. The application is submitted at the first court appearance. Private attorneys can be found through the Alabama State Bar lawyer referral service at 1-800-392-5660.

Related Court Offices

Probate Court

The Crenshaw County Probate Court handles wills, estates, guardianships, and marriage licenses. Property records including deeds and mortgages are also filed with the Probate Judge. This is a separate office from the Circuit Clerk, though both are in the courthouse. Contact the Probate Office directly for records related to estates or real property.

District Attorney

The 2nd Judicial Circuit District Attorney prosecutes criminal cases in Crenshaw County. The DA's office works with law enforcement to file charges and present cases in court. Victim assistance services are available through this office. Contact information is available through the Alabama District Attorneys Association.

Federal Courts

Federal cases involving Crenshaw County residents are heard in the Middle District of Alabama. The nearest federal courthouse is in Montgomery. Federal records are accessed through PACER at pacer.uscourts.gov. Bankruptcy cases, federal criminal matters, and civil rights lawsuits fall under federal jurisdiction.

Nearby Counties

Crenshaw County is located in south-central Alabama. Neighboring counties maintain their own court records through their respective Circuit Clerks.

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