Putnam County criminal history records are official files that show arrests, charges, court rulings, and case outcomes processed through the Seventh Judicial Circuit in Palatka, Florida. These records stay under the care of the Putnam County Clerk of Court and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
Anyone can ask for them for background checks, job screening, legal research, or personal use. This page explains what these records include, how to get them, what they cost, and how Florida handles sealed and expunged files.
What Is Putnam County Criminal History?
A Putnam County criminal history is a written record of every arrest and court action tied to a person within the county. The Putnam County Clerk of Court keeps court papers, and the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office keeps arrest reports. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement pulls these files into one statewide system called the Florida Criminal Justice Information System. FCJIS holds arrest data, fingerprints, charges, and final court outcomes for every person who passed through the Florida court system.
Who Maintains These Records?
Three main offices hold pieces of every criminal history file in Putnam County. The Clerk of Court stores court records, charging papers, and final judgments. The Sheriff’s Office keeps arrest reports and booking photos. FDLE runs the central database and issues official state-level reports. Each office serves a different purpose, so the type of record you need decides which office you contact.
What Information Appears in a Putnam County Record?
A complete criminal history file usually contains the person’s full name, date of birth, race, gender, and a list of every arrest in the county. Each arrest entry shows the charge, the arresting agency, the court case number, the final ruling, and the sentence if one was given. The file may also list prior convictions, any pending cases, and notes about sealed or expunged records.
- Full legal name and known aliases
- Date of birth and physical description
- Arrest dates and arresting agency
- Formal charges and Florida statute numbers
- Court case numbers and final dispositions
- Sentence details, fines, or probation terms
How Florida’s Criminal Justice System Works
Florida’s criminal justice system moves cases from arrest to court to a permanent record in a set order. Putnam County sits inside the Seventh Judicial Circuit, which also covers Flagler, St. Johns, and Volusia counties. After a case ends, FDLE updates the Florida Criminal Justice Information System. The update makes the record part of the statewide file that any approved agency can pull up through FCJIS.
The Role of the Seventh Judicial Circuit
The Seventh Judicial Circuit Court handles all felony cases, major civil suits, and family court matters from Putnam County. Misdemeanor cases go through the Putnam County Court. Both courts send final rulings to FDLE for the central record. This step is required by Florida Statute 943.053, which sets the rules for sharing criminal history data across the state.
How Records Move from Arrest to Court to FDLE
After a person gets arrested in Putnam County, the Sheriff’s Office sends the arrest report to the State Attorney’s Office. The State Attorney files formal charges, and the case moves to court. Once the judge signs the final judgment, the Clerk of Court sends the disposition to FDLE. FDLE then adds the outcome to the person’s Florida criminal history record.
- Arrest and booking at the Putnam County jail
- First appearance before a judge within 24 hours
- Filing of formal charges by the State Attorney
- Court hearings, plea deals, or trial
- Final judgment and sentence
- Disposition reported to FDLE for the central record
Methods to Search Putnam County Criminal History
People can search Putnam County criminal history through several channels. The Clerk of Court handles local court records, while FDLE runs the statewide name-based and certified searches. Florida also allows fingerprint checks through approved channelers for jobs that need the highest level of screening. Each method has its own fee, wait time, and level of detail.
In-Person Requests at the Putnam County Clerk
Walking into the Clerk’s office gives you the most complete view of court records. Staff can help locate cases, pull archived files, and print certified copies on the spot. You must show a valid photo ID and pay the copy fee. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Bring a valid government photo ID
- Know the full name and date of birth of the person
- Have the case number if you have it
- Bring cash, check, or card for fees
Online Search Through the Clerk’s Website
The Putnam County Clerk runs a public search tool on its website. You can look up cases by name, case number, or citation number. The tool shows charges, hearing dates, and final outcomes for cases filed in the county. Basic case data is free, but certified copies cost a fee per page.
Mail-In Record Requests
Mail requests work for people who live outside Putnam County or cannot visit in person. Send a written request with the subject’s full name, date of birth, and the case number if you have it. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope and a check or money order for the copy fee. The Clerk’s office usually responds within five to seven business days.
FDLE Statewide Name-Based Search
FDLE offers a Florida public criminal records search through its online portal. The instant name-based check costs $24 plus a small processing fee and returns Florida results within minutes. The search covers all 67 Florida counties, so it pulls in records from Putnam, Miami-Dade, Hillsborough, Orange County, and every other county in the state.
| Search Type | Cost | Wait Time | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| FDLE Name-Based | $24 plus fee | Instant online | All Florida counties |
| FDLE Certified CHRI | $24 plus fee | 5 to 7 business days | All Florida counties |
| FDLE Fingerprint Check | $36 to $50 | 3 to 5 business days | All Florida counties and FCJIS |
| Clerk of Court Copy | $1 per page | Same day in person | Putnam County only |
| Certified Court Copy | $3 to $7 per page | 1 to 3 business days | Putnam County only |
FDLE Certified Criminal History (CHRI) Request
Some employers and licensing boards need an official certified criminal history record. FDLE issues these through the CCHInet system. The applicant fills out a form, pays the fee, and FDLE mails a sealed certified report. The certified report carries a state seal and works for legal, immigration, and licensing purposes.
Florida Criminal History Fingerprint Check
Fingerprint checks are the gold standard for background screening in Florida. A trained technician scans the applicant’s prints at an FDLE-approved location. The prints are sent to FDLE and the FBI for matching. The result shows every arrest tied to those prints across the state and the country.
- Used for jobs that work with children, elders, or vulnerable adults
- Required for some professional licenses in Florida
- Needed for federal employment and security clearances
- Standard for adoption and foster care approvals
Fees, Timelines, and Payment Methods
Fees for Putnam County criminal history checks depend on the search type. The Clerk of Court charges by the page for copies. FDLE charges a flat fee for name-based and certified searches. Fingerprint checks cost more because of the live scan process. Payment methods include credit card, check, money order, and cash for in-person visits.
| Service | Fee | Turnaround | Payment Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Putnam County Public Search | Free | Instant | Not required |
| Clerk Certified Copy | $3 to $7 per page | 1 to 3 days | Cash, check, card |
| FDLE Instant Search | $24 plus processing fee | Instant | Card only |
| FDLE Certified CHRI | $24 plus processing fee | 5 to 7 days | Card, check |
| FDLE Live Scan Fingerprints | $36 to $50 | 3 to 5 days | Card, cash, check |
Understanding Sealed and Expunged Records in Florida
Florida law gives people a path to hide certain criminal records from public view. The two main options are sealing and expungement. Sealed records still exist but cannot be seen by the public. Expunged records are destroyed by FDLE and the courts, except for limited access by law enforcement and licensing agencies. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement handles all requests through a formal application process.
What Is a Sealed Record?
A sealed record is hidden from public searches but still kept on file. Employers doing a standard background check cannot see it. Law enforcement and certain government agencies can still see the record for active investigations. Florida Statute 943.059 controls who can see sealed records and under what conditions.
What Is an Expunged Record?
An expunged record is destroyed by court order. FDLE removes the record from the Florida Criminal Justice Information System, and the Clerk of Court seals the physical file. The person can legally say they have no record in most cases. Only a court order can bring the record back for review.
Florida Criminal History Retention Policy
FDLE keeps arrest records based on the outcome of the case. Arrest records that did not lead to charges are purged after one year for non-felony arrests. Conviction records are kept permanently. Sealed and expunged records follow special rules and are kept in a separate secure file by FDLE.
Differences Between County, State, and Federal Searches
A county search only shows records from one county, like Putnam. A statewide search covers all 67 Florida counties through FDLE. A federal search covers arrests and convictions in federal court across the country. The FBI runs the federal database through its Identity History Summary Checks. Most employers ask for a statewide search at minimum.
| Search Level | Database | What It Shows |
|---|---|---|
| County Search | Putnam County Clerk | Local court cases only |
| Statewide Search | FDLE FCJIS | All arrests in Florida |
| Federal Search | FBI NGI System | Federal arrests and convictions |
| National Search | Private databases | All states and federal records |
Common Uses for Putnam County Criminal History Checks
People run criminal history checks for many reasons. Landlords use them to screen tenants. Employers use them to make safe hiring choices. Schools and daycares use them to protect children. Individuals use them to confirm their own record is correct or to prepare for a name-based search before a job interview.
- Employment background screening
- Rental and leasing decisions
- Professional licensing applications
- Adoption and foster care approvals
- Personal record review and correction
- Court-ordered background checks
- Volunteer work with vulnerable groups
How to Correct Errors in Your Putnam County Criminal Record
Mistakes in criminal history files are more common than people think. Wrong dates, mis-spelled names, and misidentified charges show up in many Florida records. The first step is to order a copy of your record from FDLE. The second step is to file a challenge with FDLE and the original court. The third step is to provide proof of the error, like a court order or dismissal paper. FDLE has 30 days to review and respond to a written challenge.
- Request a copy of your FDLE record
- Compare it to original court papers
- File a written challenge with FDLE
- Send proof of the error
- Follow up until the record is fixed
Other Florida Counties and Statewide Resources
Putnam County sits in a network of 67 Florida counties, each with its own Clerk of Court. The biggest counties carry most of the state’s case load. Knowing how each system works helps you run a complete statewide check. FDLE pulls data from every county into one central file.
Miami-Dade Criminal History Records
Miami-Dade County runs the largest Clerk of Court system in Florida. The office is in downtown Miami and serves over 2.7 million residents. The Clerk keeps millions of criminal case files dating back decades. Online access is available 24 hours a day through the Clerk’s public portal.
Hillsborough County Florida Criminal Records
Hillsborough County Clerk of Court serves the Tampa area. The office holds records for the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit. Hillsborough uses a strong online search system that lets users pull court records by name, case number, or date. The county also has a Self-Help Center for people who need help running their own search.
Orange County Florida Criminal History
Orange County Clerk of Court covers Orlando and the surrounding area. The office is part of the Ninth Judicial Circuit. Orange County runs a public records portal that lets users search criminal, civil, and family court files. The county also offers kiosk access at the courthouse for people without internet at home.
FDLE Public Access System
The FDLE Public Access System gives Florida residents a way to run their own criminal history search. Users create an account, pay the fee, and see results from every county in the state. The system runs on the CCHInet platform. Results show arrest dates, charges, and dispositions in a single report.
Contact Information for Putnam County Clerk of Court
The Putnam County Clerk of Court is the main office for criminal record requests in the county. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and is closed on state holidays. Walk-in customers can get help at the public service counter on the first floor. Mail requests should be sent to the address listed below with proper postage and a self-addressed return envelope.
| Office | Putnam County Clerk of Court |
|---|---|
| Address | 410 St. Johns Avenue, Palatka, FL 32177 |
| Phone | (386) 326-7600 |
| Website | https://www.putnam-fl.com/clerk |
| Office Hours | Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. |
| FDLE Criminal History | https://www.fdle.state.fl.us/criminal-history-records/florida-checks |
Authority and Entity Expansion List for Future Content
These topics can be added in later articles to build deeper topical authority around Putnam County criminal history records and Florida background screening. Each item links to a real subtopic with separate search demand.
- Florida statewide prosecutor criminal records and how they differ from FDLE
- Florida criminal history apostille for use outside the United States
- FDLE approved channeler list and how to find one in Putnam County
- Florida civil order records and how they appear on a background check
- Florida juvenile criminal history records and expungement rules
- Florida criminal history search by date of birth best practices
- Florida criminal record certificate for immigration and adoption
- How long background checks take for Florida state jobs
Frequently Asked Questions About Putnam County Criminal History
People who search Putnam County criminal history often ask the same questions about cost, timing, and access rules. The answers below cover the most common concerns, including statewide reach, fingerprint checks, sealed records, and error correction. Each answer pulls from current Florida law and FDLE rules for 2026. Read the full FAQ before starting your search to avoid common mistakes and long wait times.
How Long Does an FDLE Statewide Search Take in 2026?
The instant name-based search through FDLE returns results in minutes for most online users. The certified CHRI search takes five to seven business days when filed by mail. Fingerprint checks run three to five business days through live scan locations. Wait times can grow during busy seasons like summer and the end of the year. Always order early if you face a deadline for a job or license application.
Are Sealed or Expunged Records Visible on a Putnam County Search?
No, sealed and expunged records do not show up in a standard public search. FDLE removes expunged files from the public database, and sealed files are hidden from anyone who is not part of law enforcement or a special government agency. Only a court order can bring back the record. The person whose record was sealed can legally say they have no record in most cases.
Can I Run a Putnam County Criminal History Check on Myself?
Yes, Florida law gives every resident the right to request their own criminal history. You can order a self-check through FDLE or the Putnam County Clerk. The self-check helps you spot errors before a job interview. It also helps you prepare paperwork for sealing or expungement if you qualify under Florida law.
What Is the Difference Between a Name-Based and Fingerprint Search?
A name-based search pulls records that match the name and date of birth you provide. A fingerprint search matches prints to the FDLE and FBI databases. Fingerprint checks are more accurate because prints are unique. Jobs that work with children, elders, or money usually need fingerprint checks. Most regular background checks use the cheaper name-based search.
Does a Putnam County Record Include Other Florida Counties?
A local Putnam County Clerk search only covers court cases in Putnam County. To see records from all 67 Florida counties, you need an FDLE statewide search. The statewide check pulls from every county into one report. Most employers ask for the statewide check so they can see the full Florida history of an applicant.
How Do I Fix a Mistake on My Florida Criminal Record?
Start by ordering a copy of your record from FDLE. Compare the report to your original court papers. If you find an error, file a written challenge with FDLE and the court that handled the case. Send proof, like a dismissal order or corrected judgment. FDLE has 30 days to respond. If the issue is not fixed, you can file a petition with the court to correct the record.
What Is the Cost of a Certified Criminal History in Florida?
The FDLE certified criminal history (CHRI) costs $24 plus a small processing fee. Certified copies from the Putnam County Clerk cost $3 to $7 per page. Fingerprint checks through an approved live scan location cost $36 to $50. Apostille services for use outside the U.S. add another fee through the Florida Department of State. Total costs depend on what you need and how you submit the request.