Lawrence County Court Records

Court records in Lawrence County, Alabama, serve as comprehensive accounts of judicial proceedings, documenting every stage of a legal matter from the initial filing through to the final judgment. These records may encompass a wide array of materials, including but not limited to: petitions, complaints, motions, briefs, docket sheets, sworn statements, exhibits, court transcripts, photographs, audio/video recordings, and final orders or judgments. Both civil and criminal cases are included, as well as specialized proceedings such as probate, juvenile, and family law matters.

For those interested in conducting a record search, Lawrence County court records typically include essential data points, such as case numbers, filing dates, case categories (e.g., civil or criminal), names of involved parties, attorneys of record, and other pertinent details. By accessing these records, residents and researchers can gain valuable insight into how legal disputes are resolved and how justice is administered locally, thereby promoting transparency and fostering trust in the legal system.

In Lawrence County, the responsibility for creating, organizing, and preserving court records falls to the authorized custodians, as designated under Rule 4 of the Alabama Rules of Judicial Administration. Typically, the Lawrence County Circuit Clerk, District Clerk, or Probate Clerk ensures all records are maintained according to state guidelines.

Are Court Records Public in Lawrence County?

Under Alabama law, most government-generated records, including many court records, are subject to public inspection. Specifically, Section 36-12-40 of the Code of Alabama guarantees citizens the right to review and obtain copies of non-confidential public records. This statute empowers residents of Lawrence County to request and access court records that have not been legally restricted.

However, it is important to understand that not all records are open to the public. Alabama’s Open Records Laws do not apply to court documents sealed by statute, court order, or administrative rule. Certain categories—such as juvenile records, adoption files, expunged criminal histories, and specific portions of divorce or guardianship cases—remain confidential and are accessible only through a court order or to authorized individuals defined by law. Researchers should be aware that while most court records in Lawrence County are accessible, these exceptions ensure privacy and protect sensitive information.

Lawrence County Court Records Search

Those seeking Lawrence County court records may obtain them through various official channels or reputable third-party sources. Primary avenues include:

1. The Court of Jurisdiction: Individuals can visit or contact the specific court that originally heard the case—such as the Circuit, District, Probate, or Municipal Court—to request records directly.
2. Alabama Statewide Judicial System Database: The Alabama Judicial System provides limited online access to certain court filings and docket information. Subscribing to the state’s Judicial Information System (JIS) or using Alacourt.com (a fee-based service) may grant remote access to many Lawrence County cases.
3. Authorized Commercial or Third-Party Databases: Some private enterprises aggregate and host public records databases. While these might provide a more user-friendly interface, it is crucial to verify the accuracy and currency of the data obtained from non-government sources.

Lawrence County Courts

Lawrence County’s judicial structure is part of Alabama’s 36th Judicial Circuit and includes Circuit, District, Probate, and Municipal Courts. Each court type manages specific legal matters within its jurisdiction.

Circuit Court (36th Judicial Circuit)

• Lawrence County Circuit Court
  14330 Court Street, Suite 206
  Moulton, AL 35650
  Phone: (256) 974-2438

District Court

• Lawrence County District Court
  14330 Court Street
  Moulton, AL 35650
  Phone: (256) 974-2438

Probate Court

• Lawrence County Probate Court
  14330 Court Street, Suite 108
  Moulton, AL 35650
  Phone: (256) 974-2432

Municipal Courts in Lawrence County: These courts typically handle violations of municipal ordinances, traffic infractions, and select misdemeanor offenses within city limits. Contact each municipality for details:

• Moulton Municipal Court
  720 Seminary Street
  Moulton, AL 35650
  Phone: (256) 974-1074
• Town Creek Municipal Court (Contact Town Creek City Hall for details)
  1851 Church Street
  Town Creek, AL 35672
  Phone: (256) 685-2023
• Courtland Municipal Court (Contact Courtland Town Hall for details)
  361 College Street
  Courtland, AL 35618
  Phone: (256) 637-2707
• North Courtland Municipal Court (Contact North Courtland City Hall for details)
  1181 Davis Street
  North Courtland, AL 35618
  Phone: (256) 637-6793

Lawrence County Criminal and Civil Records

Criminal records compiled in Lawrence County are generally considered public unless sealed or otherwise restricted by law. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) oversees the official statewide repository of criminal history record information. Individuals may request their own criminal records for background checks by completing the ALEA Application to Review Alabama Criminal History Record Information (CHRI), submitting fingerprints, a valid photo ID, and a $25 fee (via cashier’s check or money order). Mail requests and in-person submissions are accepted.

Employers and businesses seeking background checks on prospective employees can utilize the Alabama Background Check System (ABC), managed by ALEA, to access criminal history data. Subscription fees apply, and users can search for records by paying a per-search fee in addition to an annual membership.

Local law enforcement agencies in Lawrence County, such as the Sheriff’s Office or municipal police departments, may provide arrest records. Although arrest records differ from comprehensive criminal history, they form part of the broader criminal record and can be used for preliminary inquiries.

Lawrence County Civil Court Records

Civil court records document non-criminal disputes, including lawsuits over contracts, personal injury claims, property issues, and appeals from lower courts or administrative agencies. In Lawrence County, the Circuit Court generally holds jurisdiction over civil cases exceeding $10,000 in dispute. These records—covering pleadings, motions, and judgments—are meticulously archived by the court clerk.

To access Lawrence County civil court records, individuals can:

1. Online: Use the Alabama Judicial System’s authorized platforms (such as Alacourt.com) for a fee-based search.
2. Onsite: Submit a written request or visit the circuit clerk’s office in person. You will need basic identifying details, such as case numbers or party names, to expedite the search.

Lawrence County Marriage Records

Marriage records are considered public documents in Alabama. The Alabama Center for Health Statistics maintains statewide records of marriages filed since August 1936. For marriage records predating August 1936, individuals can consult the Lawrence County Probate Court.

To request a Lawrence County marriage record, you must provide the full names of both parties prior to the marriage, the date of the ceremony, and the county where the license was issued. Requesters should include their name, signature, mailing address, and a contact number. Certificates may be requested:

• Online: Through an authorized private vendor.
• By Mail: Send the requisite information and fees to Alabama Vital Records.
• In Person: Visit the Lawrence County Probate Court or the local health department.

The standard fee for a marriage certificate is $15.

Lawrence County Divorce Records

Divorce records from 1950 onward are available through the Alabama Public Health Department. For divorces granted before 1950, contact the Lawrence County Circuit Court that issued the final decree. The process for obtaining a divorce certificate mirrors that of marriage certificates. Required information includes the parties’ full names prior to marriage, the date the divorce was finalized, and the county of the proceedings. As with marriage records, divorce certificates are generally accessible to any interested party upon proper request and payment of the applicable fee.

Lawrence County Birth and Death Records

In Alabama, birth and death records are governed by the confidentiality provisions of AL Code § 22-9A-22. Birth records remain restricted for 125 years, and death records are confidential for 25 years following the event. After these periods, they become open to the public. Until then, access is limited to certain eligible individuals, including the named individual (for birth certificates), immediate family members, legal representatives, and others with a demonstrable legal interest.

To request a Lawrence County birth record, provide the full name on the certificate, date of birth, place of birth (hospital and county), and the mother’s maiden name. For death certificates, supply the full name of the deceased, date and county of death, and other identifying details. Both birth and death certificates can be obtained online, by mail, or in person from the Alabama Center for Health Statistics or local health departments. The fee for each record is $15.

Lawrence County Probate Court Records

The Lawrence County Probate Court handles matters involving wills, estates, guardianships, conservatorships, name changes, and involuntary commitments. These records are stored and maintained by the Probate Court Clerk. Members of the public can access non-confidential probate records by submitting a request to the Probate Court, using the state’s online database systems, or visiting the Probate Court Clerk’s office in person.

Lawrence County Property Records

Property records in Lawrence County—covering deeds, mortgages, liens, plats, and other real property documents—are maintained by the Probate Judge’s Office. These records are public and can be inspected to verify property ownership, resolve title disputes, or research the history of a parcel. Interested individuals may search property records online or request assistance at the Probate Court Office.

Lawrence County Court Records Online

Beyond official state and county channels, individuals may also find Lawrence County court records via third-party websites like Alabamacourtrecords.us. Some services provide simplified search tools, although fees may apply, and the scope of available documents can vary. Users should exercise caution when relying on third-party platforms—verifying the accuracy of the information and ensuring compliance with privacy laws is essential. Whenever possible, confirm details through official sources or the Lawrence County court that originally produced the records.