How do I search Charleston County court records?

You can search Charleston County court records in three ways: 1) Visit the Clerk's office at 100 Broad Street, Charleston, SC 29401 for in-person searches, 2) Use the South Carolina Judicial Department's online case search for basic information, 3) Request records by phone at (843) 958-5000. Search fees are $10 per search, and certified copies cost $5 per document.

What types of records are available from Charleston County Clerk of Court?

The Charleston County Clerk of Court maintains: Common Pleas civil case files, Family Court records (with restrictions), criminal case records, jury verdict forms, judgments and liens, court orders and decrees, and historical court documents. Some Family Court and juvenile records have access restrictions for privacy.

How much do certified copies cost in Charleston County?

In Charleston County, certified copies cost $5 per document from the Clerk of Court. Additional fees include: $10 for record searches, $1 per page for regular copies, $30 for exemplified copies, and $25 for authentication certificates. Payment accepted by cash, check, or money order.

Can I access Charleston County court records online?

Yes, basic Charleston County court records are available online through the South Carolina Judicial Department's Public Index. However, full case documents and certified copies must be obtained in person or by mail from the Clerk's office at 100 Broad Street. Some records, particularly Family Court cases, have restricted online access.

How long does it take to get court records from Charleston County?

In-person requests at the Charleston County Clerk's office are typically processed same-day. Mail requests take 3-5 business days for processing plus mailing time. Expedited service is available for an additional $25 fee. Complex searches or older records may take longer.

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Charleston County Clerk of Court Records

Access civil, criminal, and family court records from Charleston County. Search online or in-person at the Clerk's office.

Quick Records Access Guide

Search Fee

$10

Per search request

Certified Copy

Per document

Processing

Same Day

In-person requests

Need court records? Search the SC Judicial Public Index

Available Court Records

Common Pleas Records

Civil lawsuits over $7,500
Contract disputes
Property disputes
Personal injury cases

Family Court Records

Divorce proceedings
Custody orders
Support orders
Some records restricted

Criminal Records

Criminal case files
Court dispositions
Sentencing orders
Appeal documents

How to Search Court Records

Online Search

Basic Information Only

Access basic case information through SC Judicial Department's public index.

• Case numbers and party names
• Filing dates and case status
• Court dates and dispositions
• Limited document access

Full documents require in-person or mail request

In-Person Search

Recommended

Visit the Clerk's office for comprehensive records access.

• Same-day service
• Access to full case files
• Certified copies available
• Staff assistance provided

Location:

100 Broad Street

Charleston, SC 29401

Mail Request

3-5 Days

Submit written requests for records by mail.

• Include case information
• Specify documents needed
• Include payment
• Allow processing time

Call (843) 958-5000 for requirements

Court Records Fee Schedule

Service	Fee	Details
Record Search	$10.00	Per search request
Certified Copy	$5.00	Per document
Regular Copy	$1.00	Per page
Exemplified Copy	$30.00	With raised seal
Authentication Certificate	$25.00	For out-of-state use
Expedited Service	$25.00	Rush processing

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Step-by-Step Records Request Process

Gather Case Information

Before requesting records, collect:

• Case number (if known)
• Party names (plaintiff and defendant)
• Approximate filing date
• Type of case (civil, criminal, family)

Choose Request Method

Select the best method for your needs:

• Online: Quick for basic information
• In-Person: Best for urgent or complex requests
• Mail: Convenient for non-urgent requests

Submit Request & Payment

Complete your request with payment:

• Fill out request form completely
• Include $10 search fee
• Add $5 per certified copy needed
• Payment by cash, check, or money order

Receive Your Records

Processing times vary by method:

• In-Person: Same day service
• Mail: 3-5 business days
• Expedited: 1-2 business days (add $25)

Need to File a Case in Charleston County?

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Related Charleston County Resources

Charleston County Clerk Main

Summary Court

Charleston Courthouse