Case Search: Court Records by Name, Number & Date Lookup

A Case Search allows users to look for court cases and related case information using details such as a case number, party name, attorney name, filing date, court, division, or case type. Depending on the available search system, users may find information about civil, criminal, family, probate, juvenile, misdemeanor, felony, and traffic cases. Search results may include the case number, case title, parties, attorneys, filing date, court, case type, and current case status.

When searching for a specific court case, using accurate information can help narrow the results and identify the correct record. Users may search by name, case number, filing date, or other available criteria and review matching cases for detailed information. Some cases may not appear because records are recently filed, archived, sealed, restricted, incomplete, or not yet updated in the online system. For records assistance, contact the relevant records office to confirm availability and access options.

How to Search Court Cases

Court case records in Palm Beach County, Florida are managed by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Central Records Division. The case search tool lets you find public court records by name, case number, attorney, filing date, court division, or case type. Official court calendar details and verified records are maintained through local county databases. You can review party details, attorney details, assigned judges, filing dates, and current case status without visiting the courthouse in person. Most records are available online around the clock through the official portal, with phone and email support offered during regular business hours for records questions.

Official Search Portal: https://www.pbso.org/inside-pbso/general/central-records/

Steps to Search

1. Visit the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Central Records page using the official search portal listed above.
2. Select your preferred search method from the available dropdown or filter options, such as case number, party name, attorney name, filing date, or court division.
3. Type the requested details in the search field, checking spelling carefully and entering full case numbers where required.
4. Use filters to narrow your results by case type, court division, filing date range, or case status.
5. Review the matching cases displayed in your results list to find the correct record.
6. Click on the case entry you want to see full case records, party details, attorney details, and the assigned judge.

Search by Case Number

A case number search gives the fastest path to one specific court case when the identifier is on hand. Each case filed with the Palm Beach County court system receives a unique case number at the time of filing. The identifier often covers letters that point to the case type or court division, followed by a sequence of numbers and sometimes a year reference. Entering the full case number returns the matching case along with party details, attorney details, filing dates, and current status.

Search by Party Name

A party name search helps when you know the name of a plaintiff, defendant, petitioner, respondent, or other listed party. A court case search by name follows the same logic, letting you locate cases tied to any person or entity in the record. Type the last name first, followed by the first name, to match the typical format used by court clerks. Names that are common may produce many results, so adding a middle initial or date of birth helps narrow the list.

Search by Attorney Name

An attorney name search locates cases where a specific lawyer served as the record holder for one or more parties. Type the attorney’s bar name, which is the formal name listed with the Florida Bar, to get the most accurate results. Many attorneys handle dozens of cases each month, so this search method often returns a long list. Use filters such as case type, filing date range, or court division to find a specific case handled by the attorney.

Search by Filing Date

A filing date search narrows results to cases opened on a specific day. Filing dates mark the moment a party submitted paperwork to start a case or filed a new motion within an existing case. This search method works best when paired with a court division or case type filter to keep results short. Records filed within the last few days may not appear right away, as processing times vary based on the case category.

Search by Court or Division

A court or division search lets you see all cases handled by a specific court branch or judicial division in Palm Beach County. Each division manages different case types, such as civil, criminal, family, probate, or juvenile matters. Selecting a particular court filters the results to cases assigned only to that location. This method helps when you need to find a case filed at a particular courthouse or under a specific judge.

Search by Case Type

A case type search sorts results by the legal category of the case, such as civil, criminal, family, probate, juvenile, traffic, or other court matters. Each case type follows different procedural rules and may have different public access rules. Selecting a case type from the available options shows only those cases that match your selection. This method pairs well with party name searches when you need to confirm the legal nature of a particular case.

Search by Case Status

A case status search sorts results by the current stage of the case in the court process. Common status labels cover open, closed, pending, dismissed, transferred, and archived. Selecting a status value lets you track active matters or look up closed cases for background checks or record-keeping needs. Sealed or restricted cases will not appear in standard status searches, as those records are protected by court order.

Case Search Results

After running a case search, the system displays a results page listing every case that matches your search criteria. Each row in the results table shows enough case details for you to identify the correct record before opening the full file. The summary view prevents you from needing to open each case one at a time just to check basic facts. Reviewing the results page carefully helps you pick the right case and avoid confusion from similar names or shared case numbers.

Case Number and Case Title

The case number appears in the first column of most search results and serves as the primary identifier for the case. The case title typically appears next to the case number and lists the parties involved in the format used by the court, such as “Plaintiff v. Defendant” or “In re: Estate of [Name]”. The case title tells you at a glance which people or entities are involved in the matter. Comparing the case number and title against your records confirms whether the result matches the case you need.

Party Names and Roles

Party names are listed with the role each person or entity plays in the case, such as plaintiff, defendant, petitioner, respondent, or other court-defined position. The role tells you which side the party is on and helps you understand the nature of the dispute. Some cases involve many parties, covering third-party defendants, intervenors, or witnesses listed as relevant. Comparing party names and roles against your own records helps confirm the correct case before opening the full record.

Attorney Details

Attorney details appear for each party represented by counsel, listing the attorney’s bar name, bar number, and contact details. Each attorney is tied to one or more parties in the case, so the same lawyer may appear on multiple rows for different clients. Attorney details help you reach the correct lawyer if you need to contact them about the case. The attorney of record may change during the life of a case, so the system shows the current record holder at the time of the search.

Court and Judge

The court and assigned judge appear for each case result to show where the matter was filed and which judicial officer oversees it. Court details include the courthouse name and division, such as civil, criminal, family, probate, or juvenile. The assigned judge field shows the name of the judicial officer who received the case assignment. Comparing the court and judge against your records helps confirm the correct case, as similar cases may be filed in different courthouses.

Filing Date

The filing date shows the day the case was opened with the clerk’s office, marking the official start of the court action. Filing dates follow the calendar date format used by the court, typically listed as month, day, and year. Recent filings may not yet appear in the search system, as records take time to process before becoming public. Comparing the filing date against your own records confirms the timeline of the case and matches it to events you may remember.

Case Type

The case type field identifies the legal category of the matter, such as civil, criminal, family, probate, juvenile, misdemeanor, felony, or traffic. Case type labels follow the categories used by the Florida court system and may list subcategories for specific legal issues. The case type tells you which procedural rules apply and what kind of relief or penalty the case addresses. Selecting the correct case type during a search helps narrow results when parties share similar names across different legal matters.

Case Status

The case status field shows the current stage of the matter in the court process, such as open, closed, pending, dismissed, transferred, or archived. Status values update as the case moves through hearings, motions, trials, and final rulings. Closed cases may still receive post-judgment filings, so the status field reflects the most recent activity in the record. Reviewing the status field helps you understand whether the case remains active, has concluded, or has been sealed by court order.

Case Search by Case Type

Case searches can be filtered by legal category to help you find records within a specific area of law. Each case type follows its own set of procedural rules, public access standards, and document requirements. Limiting your search to one case type keeps results short and focused on matters within a particular legal area. The table below lists the main case types available in the Palm Beach County case search tool.

Civil Case Search

A civil case search covers disputes between private parties over money, property, contracts, personal injury, and other non-criminal matters. Civil cases may be filed by people, businesses, or organizations seeking damages, specific performance, or other court-ordered relief. Common civil case subcategories cover contract disputes, negligence claims, real estate conflicts, and debt collection matters. Filtering by civil case type keeps search results focused on non-criminal court actions.

Criminal Case Search

A criminal case search covers matters filed by the State of Florida against persons accused of criminal conduct. Criminal cases cover both misdemeanor and felony charges, depending on the severity of the alleged offense. Public access to criminal case records varies based on the charge, the defendant’s history, and any active protective orders. Selecting the criminal filter narrows your results to records involving criminal prosecution by the state or local authority.

Family Case Search

A family case search covers domestic relations matters filed in family court, such as divorce, child custody, child support, adoption, paternity, and domestic violence protective orders. Family cases often involve sensitive personal details, so some records may be sealed or restricted to protect children and other family members. Filtering by family case type helps you focus on domestic relations records filed in the family division. Many family case searches require party name or case number due to restricted access rules.

Probate Case Search

A probate case search covers matters related to wills, estates, guardianship, and the administration of property owned by deceased or incapacitated persons. Probate records list filings for formal administration, summary administration, intestate estates, and guardianship of minors or adults. Filtering by probate case type helps you find records involving estate matters, guardianship appointments, and related fiduciary duties. Probate searches often see higher activity around the time of a death or incapacity determination.

Juvenile Case Search

A juvenile case search covers matters involving minors, including delinquency cases, dependency proceedings, and truancy actions. Juvenile records are generally more restricted than adult records to protect the privacy of minors. Public access to juvenile case records depends on the charge, the age of the minor, and any court orders limiting disclosure. Filtering by juvenile case type shows only those records designated as juvenile matters in the court system.

Misdemeanor Case Search

A misdemeanor case search covers less serious criminal offenses carrying a maximum penalty of less than one year in county jail. Common misdemeanor charges cover simple assault, petty theft, disorderly conduct, and minor drug possession. Filtering by misdemeanor case type narrows results to lower-level criminal matters filed in county court. Misdemeanor cases may resolve quickly through plea agreements, diversion programs, or bench trials.

Felony Case Search

A felony case search covers serious criminal offenses carrying penalties of more than one year in state prison. Felony charges cover aggravated assault, robbery, burglary, drug trafficking, and other serious crimes defined by Florida statute. Filtering by felony case type narrows results to cases handled by the felony division of the circuit court. Felony cases typically involve longer timelines, more extensive motion practice, and more complex procedural rules than misdemeanor matters.

Traffic Case Search

A traffic case search covers moving violations, driving infractions, and related motor vehicle citations issued in Palm Beach County. Common traffic case types cover speeding, reckless driving, driving under suspension, and driving without a valid license. Filtering by traffic case type narrows results to citations handled by the traffic division or county court. Many traffic cases resolve through payment of fines, traffic school, or bench trials.

Case Search by Person

Person-based case searches let you find court records tied to a specific person or legal entity. Common person-based searches cover plaintiffs, defendants, petitioners, respondents, and attorneys of record. Searching by person requires accurate spelling and may benefit from middle initials or date of birth filters. The table below lists the main roles you can search by in the Palm Beach County case search system.

Search by Plaintiff or Defendant

Searching by plaintiff or defendant helps you find civil cases where a specific person or business is involved as a named party. Plaintiffs file the initial claim, and defendants respond to the allegations or filings made by the plaintiff. Enter the full legal name of the party, covering any business entity designations such as LLC or Inc., to get accurate results. Many names appear in both plaintiff and defendant roles across different cases, so checking both columns helps confirm the correct record.

Search by Petitioner or Respondent

Searching by petitioner or respondent helps you find family, probate, or other specialized cases where a specific party filed or responded to a petition. Petitioners initiate the legal action by filing a petition with the court, and respondents answer the petition. Official case lookup details and verified records are maintained through local county databases. These roles appear most often in family law matters such as divorce and custody, and in probate matters such as guardianship and estate administration. Confirming both the petitioner’s name and the respondent’s name helps identify the correct case.

Search by Attorney

Searching by attorney helps you find cases handled by a specific lawyer acting as the record holder for one or more parties. The search uses the attorney’s bar name, which is the formal name listed with the Florida Bar. Attorney searches often return many results, as lawyers may represent clients in dozens of cases each year. Filtering by case type or court division narrows the results to matters relevant to your search.

Search by Party Name

Searching by party name covers any person or legal entity named in the case record, regardless of role. The party name field accepts last name, first name, and middle name formats used by the court clerk. Names with hyphens, suffixes, or generational indicators require careful entry to match the official court record. Selecting all party roles in the search options widens the result list to every case mentioning the name.

Handling Common or Similar Names

Common names often return large lists of matching cases, making it harder to find the right record. Adding details such as middle initials, dates of birth, or known case numbers narrows the result list quickly. Party roles help separate matches, as the same person may appear as a plaintiff in one case and a defendant in another. Reviewing case type, court division, and filing date for each match confirms which record corresponds to the person you need.

Case Search by Date

Date-based searches let you locate court cases filed within a specific timeframe. Filing dates mark when the case was opened with the clerk, making them reliable anchors for chronological searches. Date searches pair well with other filters such as case type, court division, or party name to keep results short. The list below shows the main date-based search methods supported by the system.

• Filing date search by a single calendar date.
• Date range search across weeks, months, or years.
• Recently filed cases search for the latest records.
• Historical case search for older archived records.

Search by Filing Date

A single-day filing date search returns cases opened on one specific calendar date. Enter the month, day, and year in the format requested by the search form to avoid errors. Single-day searches work best when paired with case type or court division filters to keep results focused. Records filed very recently may take time to process before appearing in the search results, depending on the case category and the clerk’s workload.

Search by Date Range

A date range search covers cases filed between a starting date and an ending date you specify. Date range searches are useful when you need to review cases opened across a particular month, quarter, or year. Narrowing the date range keeps the result list manageable and focused on the period of interest. Combining date ranges with party name or attorney searches adds precision for persons handling multiple cases across time.

Recently Filed Cases

Recently filed cases refer to matters opened within the last few days to weeks. New filings take time to process before appearing in the search system, so delays of one to several days are common. Some case categories, such as criminal and traffic matters, move through intake faster than civil or probate cases. Checking back after a short delay helps you locate records that were filed but not yet visible in the search results.

Historical Case Searches

Historical case searches look up matters filed months or years in the past. Archived cases remain searchable through the online portal, with some records dating back many years. Older cases may have been digitized from microfilm or paper records, with possible variations in formatting. Historical searches often require patience, as the result list may be longer and require careful review of party names and case numbers.

Case Search Results and Filtering

After running a case search, the results page shows every case that matches your search criteria. Filtering and sorting options help you refine the results list to find the correct record faster. Using filters keeps results short, focused, and easy to review. Reviewing the results page systematically helps you avoid confusing similar cases and prevents you from opening the wrong record.

Reviewing Matching Cases

Each entry in the results list shows the case number, case title, party names, filing date, court division, and current status. Comparing these details against your own records helps confirm whether the result matches the case you need. Take time to review each matching entry before clicking through to the full record, as opening the wrong case wastes time. The matching cases view gives you a summary snapshot for each record without opening the full file.

Filtering Search Results

Filtering search results narrows the results list by case type, court division, filing date range, case status, or party role. Filters appear as dropdown menus or checkboxes next to the results list. Adding a filter refreshes the list to show only those cases that meet all selected criteria. Filters can be added or removed at any time to expand or narrow the result set.

Sorting Case Results

Sorting case results arranges the list by case number, filing date, party name, case title, or status. Sorting by filing date in descending order shows the most recent cases first, helpful for active matter tracking. Sorting alphabetically by party name helps when you need to find a specific person in a long list. Each sort order gives a different perspective on the same set of matching cases.

Identifying the Correct Case

Identifying the correct case requires careful review of the case number, case title, party names, filing date, court division, and judge. Cross-referencing each detail against your own records confirms the right match. Common errors include selecting a case with the same party name but a different case number, or a similar case number from a different year. Reviewing multiple details reduces the risk of opening the wrong record.

Opening Detailed Case Records

Opening detailed case records shows the full case file, covering all parties, attorneys, court actions, hearing dates, and document filings. The detailed view lists each event in the case history with the date and description. Document filings appear as separate entries that can be opened individually to see the original paperwork. Closing the detailed view returns you to the search results without losing your filters or sort order.

Case Search Problems

Case searches sometimes return unexpected results, from zero matches to lists that are too long to review. Common issues cover case not found errors, too many search results, incorrect search details, and record availability limitations. Understanding why a search fails helps you adjust your approach and find the right case. The list below covers the most common search problems and how to address them.

• Case not found errors when the case number or party name is entered incorrectly.
• Too many search results when the search criteria are too broad.
• Incorrect search details causing the system to miss the correct case.
• Recently filed cases not yet available in the search system.
• Incomplete case details when records are still being processed.
• Sealed or restricted cases that are not visible in public searches.
• Delayed record updates after recent court actions.

Case Not Found

A case not found error appears when the system cannot match any record to your search criteria. The most common cause is a typo in the case number or party name. Double-check the spelling, order, and format of your search entry before resubmitting. Removing filters or expanding the date range may reveal cases that were excluded by an overly narrow search.

Too Many Search Results

Too many search results happen when the search criteria are too broad to narrow the list effectively. Adding filters such as case type, court division, or party role reduces the result count. Using specific date ranges limits results to a particular time window. Narrowing party names with middle initials or date of birth details helps when working with common names.

Incorrect Search Details

Incorrect search details refer to misspelled names, wrong case numbers, or wrong date ranges entered into the search form. Errors as small as a transposed digit in a case number can prevent a match. Reviewing the original paperwork or court notice helps you verify the correct details. Re-entering the search with corrected details often resolves the issue.

Recently Filed Cases

Recently filed cases may not appear in search results for several days after the filing date. Processing time varies by case type, with traffic and criminal cases typically appearing faster than civil or probate matters. Waiting a few business days and re-running the search often resolves the issue. Calling the records office during business hours can confirm whether a specific case has been processed.

Incomplete Case Details

Incomplete case details appear when the system shows partial records for cases still being processed. New cases may show only the case number, parties, and filing date, with later filings added as they occur. Incomplete records typically fill in over time as clerks add documents and update status. Checking back after a few days usually shows the full case file.

Sealed or Restricted Cases

Sealed or restricted cases are protected by court order and do not appear in standard public searches. Common sealed matters cover juvenile cases, certain family law records, and cases involving trade secrets or protected witnesses. Sealed cases may be accessed only by authorized parties or through a court order. The records office cannot bypass sealing orders through phone or email requests.

Delayed Record Updates

Delayed record updates happen when the system has not yet refreshed to show the most recent court actions. Updates typically process overnight, with most changes appearing within one business day. Court actions filed late in the day may not appear until the next business morning. Refreshing the search or reloading the page often shows the most recent records.

Case Search and Related Court Records

Case search is one of several tools used to access court records in Palm Beach County. Related tools cover different aspects of court records, from docket entries to scheduled hearings. Understanding the differences between each tool helps you pick the right one for your specific needs. The list below explains how case search compares to other court record tools.

• Case lookup for single record searches by case number.
• Case details for full record views after a search.
• Court calendar for scheduled hearings and events.
• Court docket for chronological filing histories.
• Court records for the broader clerk archive.

Case Search vs. Case Lookup

Case search and case lookup are sometimes used as interchangeable terms, though lookup often refers to a single record lookup by case number. Case search supports broader queries by name, date, attorney, or other criteria. Use lookup when you know the exact case number and need a quick path to one record. Use search when you need to scan many records or do not know the case number.

Case Search vs. Case Details

Case search returns the list of matching records, then you open individual case records to see full case details. Case details cover party details, attorneys, judges, hearing history, document filings, and current status. The two tools work together, with search narrowing the list and records showing the full file. Search results show summary details for each match before you open the full file.

Case Search vs. Court Calendar

Court calendar shows scheduled hearings, trials, and other court events by date, judge, or courtroom. Case search shows the underlying records for each case. Use the calendar to find hearing dates, times, and locations for a specific case. Use case search to find case numbers, party details, and the overall status of a matter.

Case Search vs. Court Docket

Court docket lists every filing and court action in a case in chronological order. Case search returns the matching cases, with the docket accessible through the detailed view. The docket helps you track what has happened in a case, from initial filing to final judgment. Case search helps you find which case to look at before reviewing the docket.

Case Search vs. Court Records

Court records refer to the broader collection of all case files, dockets, calendars, and document images held by the clerk. Case search is the tool used to find specific records within that broader collection. Use court records broadly when you need access to physical or digital archives. Use case search when you need to find a specific case by name, number, date, or attorney.

Contact the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Central Records Division

For questions about specific case records, search results, or record availability, you can reach the Central Records Division during regular business hours. The office handles records requests, search support, and questions about sealed or restricted cases. Use the contact details below to reach the records office by phone, email, or in person at the listed address.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Case Search system lets anyone view public court records in Palm Beach County. You can look up cases by name, number, attorney, filing date, or court division without traveling to the courthouse. Results show party details, judges, filing dates, and current status. The portal updates several times a day, so the information is usually current.

What steps let me find a case by its case number?

Locate the “Case Number” field on the search page. Type the exact number, including any leading letters or hyphens, then submit the query. The system returns the exact match, displaying full case details, docket entries, and any public filings. If no result appears, verify the number for typos or check whether the case is sealed.

Can I search for cases using an attorney’s name?

Yes. Select “Attorney” as the search criteria, then type the attorney’s last name or full name. The results list every case where that attorney appears as counsel. Each entry includes the case number, parties, and filing date. This helps track an attorney’s recent activity or locate a specific representation.

How do I narrow a case search by filing date or date range?

Use the “Filing Date” fields to set a start and end date. After entering the dates, run the search with any other criteria such as name or case type. The system filters out cases outside the range, making it easier to locate recent filings or historic records. Date format must be mm/dd/yyyy.

Why might a court case not appear in my search results?

Some records are sealed, confidential, or still being processed, so they stay hidden from public view. Juvenile cases, trade‑secret matters, and certain family cases fall into this group. If you suspect the case exists, contact the clerk’s office at 561‑688‑3140 for verification or request access through a formal petition.

How can I receive alerts when a case I follow receives a new filing?

Register for a free account on the Central Records portal, then create a “Case Alert” for the specific case number. Choose email notification and set the frequency. The system will email you each time a new document is added, ensuring you stay up‑to‑date without repeatedly checking the site.