Jackson County criminal history records document arrests, charges, and court outcomes for cases handled inside the county. These records are stored at the Jackson County Clerk of Court in Marianna, Florida, and they cover both misdemeanor and felony cases from the Fourteenth Judicial Circuit.
Anyone can request these records for employment checks, housing applications, personal verification, or legal needs. The Clerk of Court keeps the official files, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) holds statewide records through the Computerized Criminal History (CCH) system. This page covers what these records contain, how to request them, what fees apply, and how long the process takes.
What Jackson County Criminal History Records Contain
A Jackson County criminal history record is a complete file that shows every stage of a criminal case. The file starts with an arrest and ends with the final court decision. Each record holds personal details, the charges filed, and the final outcome. These records help employers, landlords, and individuals check a person’s legal background in the county.
Arrest Records
Arrest records show when a person was taken into custody by law enforcement. Each arrest record lists the date of arrest, the agency that made the arrest, the location, and the reason for the arrest. The record also holds booking photos and fingerprints collected at the time of arrest. In Jackson County, arrests are recorded by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, the Marianna Police Department, and other local agencies. These records feed into the county’s criminal history file through the Clerk of Court system.
Court Dispositions and Final Judgments
Court dispositions show the final decision made by a judge in each case. A disposition can show a conviction, an acquittal, a dismissal, a deferred adjudication, or a withhold of adjudication. The court document lists the sentence, fines, probation terms, or any other outcome tied to the case. Both the Jackson County Courthouse and the Clerk of Court keep these files, and they form the legal backbone of a criminal history record.
Misdemeanor and Felony Classifications
Jackson County criminal history covers both misdemeanor and felony cases. Misdemeanors are less serious offenses that usually carry a sentence of less than one year in county jail. Felonies are serious crimes that can lead to state prison time. The Clerk of Court files both types, and the Fourteenth Judicial Circuit handles felony cases at the courthouse in Marianna. Each case type follows a different path through the court system, and the records reflect that path.
The Jackson County Clerk of Court Records System
The Jackson County Clerk of Court serves as the main office for criminal history records in the county. The Clerk keeps court files, processes record requests, and runs the online search portal. The office sits inside the Jackson County Courthouse, and it serves the public Monday through Friday during regular business hours. The Clerk also handles marriage licenses, property records, and other public documents.
Office Location and Mailing Address
The Jackson County Clerk of Court is located at 4445 Lafayette Street, Marianna, Florida 32446. Mail requests can be sent to the same address. Visitors need to bring a valid photo ID when they come in person for record searches. The Marianna office is the only physical location for criminal record requests in Jackson County.
Phone, Email, and Website Access
The Clerk’s office can be reached by phone at (850) 482-9552. The official website at jacksonclerk.com offers online search tools, court calendars, and forms for record requests. Users can look up cases by name or case number through the online portal. The website runs around the clock, so records can be searched at any time.
Office Hours and Public Service Window
The Clerk of Court office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Central Time. The office closes on weekends and state holidays. Visitors who need criminal history records should arrive at least 30 minutes before closing to allow time to process the request.
How to Request Jackson County Criminal History Records
There are three ways to request criminal history records in Jackson County: in person, online, or by mail. Each method has its own steps, fees, and turnaround times. The right method depends on how fast you need the records and whether you need certified copies.
In-Person Requests at the Clerk’s Office
Walk-in requests are processed the same day in most cases. Visitors need to provide the full legal name of the person being searched, the date of birth, and a valid photo ID. The Clerk’s staff will run the search through the court records system and print the results. Certified copies cost more than regular printouts, and a raised seal is added for legal use.
Online Search Through the Clerk’s Portal
The online portal at jacksonclerk.com gives 24-hour access to court records. Users can search by name, case number, or citation number. Basic case details are free to view, but printed copies or certified reports carry a fee. Online results are not certified, so they cannot be used for court or employment purposes that require a certified record.
Mail-In Record Requests
Mail requests are a good option for people who live outside Jackson County or who do not need records right away. The request must include the full name, date of birth, and a self-addressed stamped envelope. A check or money order for the search fee should be included. Mail requests take five to seven business days to process, plus mail delivery time.
Required Information for All Requests
Every request, no matter the method, must include the following details to get accurate results:
- Full legal name (first, middle, last)
- Date of birth
- Race and sex (optional but helpful)
- Social Security Number (only for fingerprint-based FDLE checks)
- Valid photo ID for in-person requests
- Payment for applicable fees
FDLE Statewide Criminal History Search Options
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement runs the statewide criminal history database through the Computerized Criminal History (CCH) system. This database covers all 67 Florida counties, including Jackson County. FDLE searches are useful when you need records beyond one county or when a state-level check is required by law or employer policy.
Instant Online Search (Non-Certified)
FDLE offers an instant search through the CCHInet portal at cchinet.fdle.state.fl.us. The search costs $24 plus a processing fee per name. Results appear online right away and can be printed for personal use. Instant searches are not certified and cannot be used for legal, immigration, or licensing purposes. The instant option works best for personal checks that do not require official proof.
Certified Criminal History Records
Certified records come with a raised seal and meet the legal standard for official use. FDLE certified searches take five to seven business days to process. The cost is higher than the instant option. A certified record can be used for employment, court filings, professional licensing, and immigration cases. The FDLE Civil Workflow System handles official background checks for state agencies and certain employers.
FDLE Fees and Processing Times
The cost and turnaround time depend on the type of search you order. Here is a breakdown of current FDLE fees and timelines for Florida criminal history searches:
| Search Type | Fee | Processing Time | Certified? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Instant Online Search | $24 + processing fee | Immediate | No |
| Certified Mail-In Request | $24 + processing fee | 5–7 business days | Yes |
| Fingerprint-Based Check | $42 standard / $42 plus tax for electronic | 3–5 business days | Yes |
| FDLE Florida Criminal History Request Form | $24 per name | 5–7 business days | Yes |
What FDLE Records Do Not Include
FDLE searches only show Florida arrests and convictions. They do not include federal arrests, out-of-state convictions, or sealed records. For a complete background check, you may need to run an FBI background check or check records from other states through the National Crime Information Center (NCIC). Federal crimes and warrants from other states will not show up in an FDLE search.
Certified vs. Non-Certified Criminal History Records
The difference between certified and non-certified records matters for legal and employment use. A non-certified record is a printout or digital copy that shows the data but has no official seal. A certified record carries the state seal or Clerk’s seal and is accepted by courts, licensing boards, and government agencies.
When You Need a Certified Record
Certified records are required for criminal history check for employment in many Florida industries, including education, healthcare, childcare, and law enforcement. They are also required for immigration applications, professional licensing, adoption, and name changes. If you are not sure whether you need a certified copy, contact the agency that requested the check.
Authentication and Legal Use
Certified records are considered authentic under Florida law. The seal acts as proof that the record is a true copy of what the Clerk or FDLE has on file. Apostille services may be needed for certified records used outside the United States. The Florida Department of State handles apostille requests at the state level.
Florida Criminal History Retention, Sealing, and Expungement
Florida has strict rules about how long criminal history records are kept and which records can be sealed or expunged. These rules are set in Florida Statute 943.05 and related laws. Jackson County follows the same state rules for retention and dissemination of criminal history data.
Retention Policy for Florida Criminal Records
Florida criminal history records are kept permanently in the CCH database unless they are legally sealed or expunged. Misdemeanor and felony arrests stay on record even if the person was found not guilty or the case was dismissed. The only way to remove a record from public view is through a court order to seal or expunge the record.
Sealed Criminal Records in Florida
Sealed records are not available to the public. Only specific parties can view sealed records, including the person named in the record, certain law enforcement agencies, and courts. Florida law allows sealing for certain misdemeanor and felony cases after the waiting period is over. A sealed record will not show up in a standard FDLE search.
Expunged Criminal Records
An expunged record is physically destroyed or deleted from public view. The person can legally say they have never been arrested for the expunged offense. Expungement is granted in limited cases, and the process goes through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the court in the county where the case was handled. Jackson County expungement criminal records requests are filed through the Clerk of Court and the State Attorney’s Office.
Common Uses for Jackson County Criminal History Records
Criminal history records are used for many reasons. Some checks are required by law, and others are done for personal peace of mind. The most common uses include employment, housing, and personal verification.
Employment Background Checks
Many Florida employers require a criminal history check for employment. State law requires background checks for teachers, healthcare workers, child care workers, security staff, and people who work with vulnerable adults. Employers usually ask for a certified FDLE record and sometimes an FBI background check. Private employers may also run their own checks before making a hiring decision.
Housing and Rental Applications
Landlords in Florida often run criminal background checks on rental applicants. A criminal history check for housing can include county, state, and national records. Jackson County landlords need to follow the federal Fair Housing Act and Florida tenant laws when using criminal records to deny an application.
Personal Verification and Family Safety
People run criminal history searches for personal reasons. Parents may check the background of a person who spends time with their children. Family members may check on a relative’s legal status. Individuals may check their own records to make sure the data is correct and to spot errors that need to be fixed.
Volunteer and Licensing Requirements
Coaches, volunteers, and people seeking professional licenses often need a criminal history check. Florida law requires background checks for many volunteer positions that involve children or vulnerable adults. Licensing boards for healthcare, real estate, and law also require criminal history reports as part of the application process.
Jackson County Courthouse Details and Map
The Jackson County Courthouse is at 4445 Lafayette Street, Marianna, FL 32446. The courthouse handles felony cases, including those reviewed by the Fourteenth Judicial Circuit Court. Public parking is available near the building. Visitors can enter through the main entrance and stop at the Clerk’s office for criminal record requests.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Office Name | Jackson County Clerk of Court |
| Street Address | 4445 Lafayette Street, Marianna, FL 32446 |
| Phone Number | (850) 482-9552 |
| Website | jacksonclerk.com |
| Office Hours | Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CT |
| FDLE Statewide Portal | cchinet.fdle.state.fl.us |
| FDLE Phone | (850) 410-8100 |
| Court Jurisdiction | Fourteenth Judicial Circuit |
Frequently Asked Questions About Jackson County Criminal History
Below are answers to common questions about criminal history records in Jackson County, Florida. These cover searches, fees, processing times, sealed records, and statewide checks. The answers are based on current Florida law and the rules of the Clerk of Court and FDLE.
How long does a Jackson County criminal history search take?
An in-person search at the Jackson County Clerk of Court is usually done the same day if you have the right ID and the person’s full name and date of birth. Online searches through the Clerk’s portal are instant, but the results are not certified. FDLE statewide searches take five to seven business days for certified records and just a few minutes for the instant online option. Mail requests can take up to two weeks total, including mail delivery both ways.
How much does a criminal history check cost in Jackson County?
The Clerk of Court charges a small fee for printed copies of court records. FDLE charges $24 plus a processing fee for a statewide name-based search. Fingerprint-based checks from FDLE cost $42 including the Livescan fee. Fees must be paid by check, money order, or credit card, depending on the office. Current fees are listed on the FDLE website and the Jackson County Clerk’s website.
Can I check criminal history by date of birth in Florida?
Yes. The FDLE statewide search uses the full name and date of birth to run a Florida criminal history search by date of birth. The Clerk of Court at the county level also uses date of birth as a key data point to pull up court records. A date of birth helps narrow the search and prevents confusion with people who have similar names.
What is the difference between sealed and expunged records in Florida?
Sealed records are hidden from public view but still exist in the system. Expunged records are destroyed or deleted from public databases. With an expungement, the person can legally say they were never arrested for that offense. Both options require a court order and go through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Florida criminal records that are sealed or expunged will not show up in a standard FDLE search.
Does a Florida criminal history check include other states?
No. FDLE only holds Florida criminal records. Out-of-state convictions and federal arrests will not show up in an FDLE search. For a full background check, you need to run an FBI background check or check each state where the person has lived. The FBI check covers federal crimes and can include records from other states through the NCIC system.
Can I request someone else’s criminal history in Jackson County?
Yes, public records are open to anyone who asks. The Clerk of Court does not limit who can request a record, but certified records may only be given to the person named in the record or to someone with a court order. For employer checks, the applicant must sign a release form before the report is shared. Florida law under Statute 943.053 controls who can get these records and how they can be used.
What counties near Jackson County can I search the same way?
Nearby Florida counties use the same FDLE system but each has its own Clerk of Court. The most common nearby counties for criminal records are:
- Bay County – panhandle county, county seat Panama City
- Calhoun County – small county east of Jackson
- Gulf County – coastal county in the panhandle
- Holmes County – north of Jackson County
- Washington County – west of Jackson County
- Orange County Florida criminal records – serves the Orlando area
- Miami-Dade County criminal history – serves the Miami region
- Hillsborough County criminal records – covers Tampa
- Broward County criminal history search – serves Fort Lauderdale
- Duval County Florida criminal records – covers Jacksonville
- Palm Beach County criminal history – serves West Palm Beach
Each county has its own Clerk of Court office, but all Florida county records feed into the FDLE statewide database.