Search Jefferson County Court Records

Court records in Jefferson County are maintained by the Circuit Clerk at the 10th Judicial Circuit, which operates two divisions in Birmingham and Bessemer.

Jefferson County Circuit Clerk

The Circuit Clerk's office serves as the official custodian of all court records in Jefferson County. Jackie Anderson-Smith holds the position of Circuit Clerk for the Birmingham Division. The office handles filing of new cases, maintains case files, processes requests for copies, and manages the court calendar system. Both civil and criminal matters go through this office.

Jefferson County is unique in Alabama because it has two court divisions. The Birmingham Division handles cases from the eastern portion of the county. The Bessemer Division serves the western part. Each division has its own courthouse and staff, though records from both are part of the same circuit court system.

The Family Court Division handles domestic relations matters including divorce, child custody, child support, and protection orders. This division is located at 120 2nd Court North in Birmingham. Family court records require special handling due to privacy concerns involving minors. Some family court documents are sealed or have restricted access under Alabama law.

How to Access Court Records

Online Access

The primary way to search Jefferson County court records online is through Alacourt Access at pa.alacourt.com. This statewide system lets you look up case information, view docket entries, and find case status updates. You can search by name, case number, or other criteria. The system covers civil, criminal, and traffic cases from circuit and district courts.

Registration is free for basic searches. However, you will need a paid subscription to view full case documents and detailed records. The subscription costs vary based on usage level. Many attorneys, title companies, and background check firms use Alacourt regularly.

Jefferson County also uses the LANDMARK WEB system for probate and property-related records. This includes some civil judgments that affect real property. The probate court website at jeffcoprobatecourt.com provides access to this system.

In-Person Access

You can visit either courthouse during business hours to search records. Public access computer terminals are available in the clerk's office. Staff can help you locate specific cases if you have trouble using the system. Bring identification and be prepared to pay fees for any copies you need.

The Birmingham courthouse is located downtown near Linn Park. Parking is available in nearby lots and decks, though it can be expensive during business hours. The Bessemer courthouse has more convenient parking options. Both buildings have security screening at the entrance, so plan extra time if you have a deadline.

Mail Requests

Written requests can be mailed to either division. Include the full case number if you have it, or provide as much identifying information as possible. State exactly what documents you need. Include a check or money order for the estimated fees. The clerk's office will contact you if additional payment is required.

Mail requests typically take one to two weeks to process, sometimes longer for older records. If you need something urgently, calling ahead or visiting in person is usually faster. The staff can also tell you the exact fees before you submit payment.

Types of Court Records Available

Civil Records

Civil case files include lawsuits between parties seeking money damages or other relief. Common types include contract disputes, personal injury cases, property disputes, and collections matters. Circuit court handles civil cases with amounts over $20,000. Smaller claims go to district court. The records contain complaints, answers, motions, orders, and final judgments.

Criminal Records

Criminal case records document prosecutions for violations of state law. Circuit court handles felony cases, which are the more serious offenses. District court handles misdemeanors. Records include charging documents, bail information, plea records, trial transcripts when available, and sentencing orders. Some records may be sealed or expunged under court order.

Family Court Records

The domestic relations docket includes divorce cases, child custody disputes, child support matters, and adoption proceedings. Protection from abuse cases are also part of this docket. Many family court records have restricted access to protect the privacy of children and domestic violence victims. You may need to show a legitimate legal interest to view certain documents.

Appeals

Appeals from lower courts and administrative agencies are filed in circuit court. These records include the original trial court record, briefs filed by the parties, and the appellate decision. Appeals to the Alabama Court of Civil Appeals or Court of Criminal Appeals are handled at the state level in Montgomery.

Probate Records

While technically separate from circuit court, probate records are often relevant to court record searches. The Probate Court handles estate matters, wills, guardianships, and conservatorships. Mental health commitment proceedings are also part of the probate docket. The Probate Court is located in the same building as the Circuit Clerk in Birmingham.

Fees for Court Records

Jefferson County charges fees for copies and certified documents. Fees can vary depending on the document type and certification requirements. Contact the clerk's office for the most current fee schedule. Payment is accepted by cash, check, or credit card at both locations.

Many people find it helpful to call ahead and ask about fees before visiting. This lets you bring the right amount and avoid delays. Large copy orders may take time to prepare, so consider calling ahead for those as well.

Jefferson County Court Search Portal

The screenshot below shows the Circuit Clerk website for Jefferson County, which provides information about court services and links to online record searches.

Nearby Counties

Cases involving parties from neighboring counties may have records filed in multiple jurisdictions. Here are the counties that border Jefferson County.

Major Cities in Jefferson County

Jefferson County contains the largest city in Alabama and several other major municipalities. The following cities have populations over 50,000 and maintain their own city pages with additional local information.

Note: Hoover spans both Jefferson and Shelby counties. Court cases for Hoover residents may be filed in either county depending on where the incident occurred or where the parties reside.