Fort Lauderdale City felony records contain arrest reports, court filings, charges, hearings, and sentencing details for serious crimes filed within city limits. Anyone can view these records under Florida’s public records law.
The Fort Lauderdale Police Department creates the first report after an arrest. The Broward County Clerk of Court keeps every court document from that point forward. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement runs a statewide criminal history database that includes Fort Lauderdale felony records. This page shows you where to search, what each system holds, and how to get copies in 2026.
What Fort Lauderdale City Felony Records Contain
A felony record in Fort Lauderdale holds the full story of a criminal case from arrest to final sentence. These records stay in three main places: the police department, the county court, and the state criminal database. Each place keeps different parts of the file. Together they form the complete case history.
Types of Felony Charges Filed in Fort Lauderdale
Florida law divides crimes into misdemeanors and felonies. Felonies are the most serious type. Common felony charges in Fort Lauderdale include drug trafficking, aggravated assault, robbery, burglary, fraud, and DUI with injury. Each charge carries a possible prison sentence of more than one year. Capital felonies can bring life sentences or the death penalty. A felony record shows the exact charge, the Florida statute number, and the level of the crime.
- Third-degree felonies carry up to 5 years in prison
- Second-degree felonies carry up to 15 years in prison
- First-degree felonies carry up to 30 years in prison
- Life felonies and capital felonies carry life or death sentences
Who Files the Original Felony Report
The Fort Lauderdale Police Department responds to calls and makes arrests every day. When officers arrest someone for a felony, they write a report. The report lists the date, time, location, and facts of the arrest. It names the officer, the suspect, and any witnesses. This report goes to the Broward County State Attorney’s Office. The State Attorney reviews the report and decides whether to file formal charges. The police report is the start of every felony case file.
Difference Between Felony and Misdemeanor Records
Felony and misdemeanor records stay in separate files in Broward County. Misdemeanors are less serious crimes. They carry a maximum sentence of one year in county jail. Felonies carry longer prison sentences and higher fines. Felony records also stay open to the public longer. Some misdemeanors may be sealed after a set time. Felonies can also be sealed, but only through a court order. Both types of records appear in the same statewide FDLE search.
Where to Search Fort Lauderdale Felony Records
Three main sources hold Fort Lauderdale felony records. Each one gives you different facts. The police department shows the arrest. The county clerk shows the court process. The state database shows the full criminal history across Florida. Use all three sources to build a full picture.
Fort Lauderdale Police Department Reports
The Fort Lauderdale Police Department keeps arrest reports and incident logs. You can ask for copies of police reports by phone, online, or in person. Some reports are ready within 24 hours. Others take a few days to finalize. Recent arrest reports show the person’s name, age, charges, and booking photo. Older reports may need a written request. The police department cannot give you court documents. You must contact the clerk of court for those files.
Broward County Clerk of Court Online Portal
The Broward County Clerk of Court runs an online search system for all court records. This includes felony cases filed in Fort Lauderdale. You can search by name, case number, or date range. The basic search is free. It shows the case status, charges, and hearing dates. Full documents cost a small fee per page. The clerk’s website works on phones, tablets, and computers. You can use it any time of day or night.
Florida Department of Law Enforcement Statewide Search
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement runs the Computerized Criminal History database. This system covers all 67 counties in Florida. It includes Fort Lauderdale felony records. The cost is $25 per search. You pay by credit card. Results show arrests, charges, case outcomes, and sentences. The database updates every day. It is the only place that gives you a full statewide criminal history in one search.
17th Judicial Circuit Court Records
The 17th Judicial Circuit Court handles felony cases for Broward County. This includes all felony filings from Fort Lauderdale. The circuit court handles major crimes that carry prison time. Misdemeanor cases stay in county court. Felony cases start in county court for arraignment. Then they move to circuit court for trial. The clerk of court keeps both records. You can view circuit court felony files through the same online portal.
How to Perform a Fort Lauderdale Felony Case Status Lookup
A case status lookup shows whether a case is open, closed, on appeal, or sealed. The Broward County Clerk of Court makes this easy. You only need a name and date of birth. A case number makes the search faster. Follow these steps to get the most accurate results.
Step-by-Step Broward County Court Search
The clerk’s online search takes a few minutes to complete. Start by opening the clerk’s website. Click on the court records search link. Pick “Criminal” as the case type. Pick “Circuit Criminal” for felonies. Enter the person’s full legal name. Add the date of birth if you know it. Click search to see all matching cases. Each case shows a number, filing date, and current status. Click on a case number to see the full docket.
- Open the Broward County Clerk of Court website
- Select the Criminal Records search option
- Choose Circuit Criminal for felony cases
- Enter the full legal name and date of birth
- Review the list of matching cases
- Click the case number to open the docket
Using a Case Number for Faster Results
A case number gives you the most direct search path. The format for Broward County felony cases starts with the year, then a court code, then a sequence number. For example, a 2024 felony case might look like “2024-CF-012345.” Enter the full number with dashes. The system pulls up that one case only. No name search is needed. This method works best when someone gives you a case number from another record.
Searching by Name and Date of Birth
Name searches work well when you don’t have a case number. The more details you add, the better your results. The system sorts by last name, first name, and middle name. Date of birth removes people with the same name. Gender helps in some cases. You can also set a date range to narrow the results. This is helpful when you know the year of the arrest but not the exact date.
Fees, Copies, and Certified Felony Records
Most basic searches are free. Copies and certified copies cost money. The fees change each year. Broward County sets the rates for all court records. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement sets its own fee for statewide criminal history searches. Check the current fee schedule before you order copies.
Standard Copy Fees in Broward County
Broward County charges a small fee per page for regular copies. As of 2026, the rate is $1 per page for regular letter-size copies. Legal-size copies cost $2 per page. You can pay by cash, check, money order, or credit card. Online credit card payments carry a small processing fee. In-person requests take cash, check, or money order only. Mail requests must include a check or money order.
| Service Type | Fee | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Regular copy per page (letter) | $1.00 | Same day to 5 days |
| Regular copy per page (legal) | $2.00 | Same day to 5 days |
| Certified copy | $3.00 + copy fee | 1 to 3 business days |
| FDLE statewide search | $25.00 | Instant online |
| Written record search fee | $2.00 per name per year | 5 to 10 business days |
Certified Copy Requests
A certified copy carries the official seal of the clerk’s office. It proves the record is a true copy of the original court document. Courts, employers, and licensing boards often ask for certified copies. The fee is $3 plus the regular copy fee. You can request certified copies online, by mail, or in person. Bring a photo ID if you go in person. The clerk can mail the certified copy to you for an extra postage fee.
Free vs Paid Record Options
Basic case information is free on the Broward County clerk website. You can see the names of the parties, the charges, the next court date, and the case status. The docket sheet shows every filing in the case. Full court documents cost money. The FDLE statewide search also costs money. There is no free way to get a certified copy. Plan for fees when you need official records for legal or job purposes.
Sealed, Expunged, and Restricted Records
Not all felony records stay open to the public. Florida law allows some records to be sealed or expunged. A sealed record stays in the system but hides from public search. An expunged record is destroyed. A restricted record is open only to certain agencies. These records do not show up in normal searches.
What Records Stay Sealed
A court can seal a felony record under Florida Statute 943.059. The defendant must file a petition with the court. The court holds a hearing to decide the case. Most people qualify for sealing after they complete their sentence. They must not have other criminal cases. Some felonies cannot be sealed. These include sexual offenses, crimes against children, and certain violent crimes. Sealed records stay hidden from public view but stay available to law enforcement.
How Expungement Works in Florida
Expungement destroys the criminal record. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement holds the record in a separate file. Only a court order can release the file. Most people who get an expunction had charges dropped or dismissed. They also must not have been found guilty. The process takes 6 to 12 months. The court filing fee is around $75. You also pay a fee to FDLE for the expungement order. Expunged felony records do not show up on background checks.
Who Can Still View Restricted Records
Sealed and expunged records stay hidden from the public. Law enforcement agencies can still see them. The court can also order them opened in some cases. Government agencies that issue professional licenses can view restricted records. The military and federal agencies can also see them. Employers who run standard background checks cannot see sealed or expunged records. This protects people who have cleared their cases.
How Long Fort Lauderdale Felony Records Stay on File
Felony records stay on file for life unless they are sealed or expunged. There is no automatic removal after a set number of years. The records stay in the FDLE database forever. They stay in the county clerk’s office as long as the case exists. Older paper files may move to state archives. The arrest record stays on file even if the case was dismissed or the person was found not guilty.
Records of Dismissed or Acquitted Cases
A dismissed case still shows up in court records. The docket shows the charge, the dismissal date, and the reason for dismissal. A person found not guilty at trial also keeps a public record of the case. The record shows the arrest and the trial. It shows the verdict of not guilty. These records stay open to the public. A person can ask the court to seal or expunge the record after the case ends.
Records of Convictions and Sentences
A felony conviction stays on file forever. The record shows the charge, the plea or verdict, and the sentence. It shows any prison time, probation, or fines. The record follows the person for life. It shows up on every background check. The only way to hide a conviction is through a pardon from the governor or president. Most people cannot get a pardon. They must live with the public record.
Common Uses for Fort Lauderdale Felony Records
People search Fort Lauderdale felony records for many reasons. Some need them for a job. Others need them for a court case. Some want to check a new neighbor or family member. Each reason needs a different type of record. Knowing your goal helps you pick the right source.
Background Checks for Employment
Florida law limits how employers can use criminal records. They can look at felony convictions. They can ask about pending cases. They cannot ask about arrests that did not lead to conviction. The background check must relate to the job. A delivery driver may face a driving record check. A child care worker may face a full criminal history check. Many employers use the FDLE statewide search for this purpose.
Court Cases and Legal Filings
Lawyers search felony records to build their cases. They look at past convictions to challenge witnesses. They check criminal history for sentencing arguments. Private investigators search the records for their clients. Self-represented parties also need the records for their own hearings. The clerk’s office gives legal copies for use in court. Certified copies carry weight in legal proceedings.
Personal Safety and Family Research
People search felony records to check a new partner, neighbor, or roommate. They want to know about violent history before they let someone near their family. Parents check the records of people who spend time with their children. This is legal under Florida’s public records law. The search shows felony convictions. It does not show sealed or expunged cases. Most people use the free online search for this purpose.
Florida Public Records Laws and Felony Record Access
Florida’s public records law is one of the strongest in the country. The Florida Constitution says any person can view government records. This includes criminal court records. The law covers felony records held by police, courts, and state agencies. There are some limits. Sealed and expunged records stay hidden. Records of juveniles stay hidden. Active investigation files may stay hidden for a short time.
Florida Sunshine Law Protections
The Florida Sunshine Law covers most government records. Government agencies must open their files to the public. They can charge only the cost of copies. They cannot refuse to show a record without a court order. Law enforcement must follow the same rules once an investigation is closed. Open cases have some limits. After the case ends, the records become public. This law gives Florida residents wide access to court files.
Federal Limits on Criminal Record Access
Federal law adds some rules to criminal records. The Fair Credit Reporting Act limits how consumer reporting agencies use criminal data. They cannot report criminal cases older than seven years in most cases. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission warns employers not to use criminal records in a way that creates unfair bias. Florida law gives the public broad access. Federal law shapes how that data can be used.
Official Broward County Clerk of Court Contact Details
Use the contact details below for official record requests, certified copies, and in-person visits. The clerk’s office is the official record keeper for Fort Lauderdale felony court records. Staff can help you with search questions, fee questions, and document requests.
Broward County Clerk of Courts
201 SE 6th Street
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Phone: (954) 831-4000
Website: www.browardclerk.org
Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Closed on weekends and federal holidays
Fort Lauderdale Police Department
1300 W Broward Blvd
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
Phone: (954) 764-4357
Website: www.fortlauderdale.gov/police
Records Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Florida Department of Law Enforcement
FDLE Headquarters
2331 Phillips Road
Tallahassee, FL 32308
Phone: (850) 410-7000
Website: www.fdle.state.fl.us
Criminal History Search: web.fdle.state.fl.us/search/app/default
Frequently Asked Questions About Fort Lauderdale Felony Records
Many people have questions about felony records in Fort Lauderdale. The questions below cover the most common search needs. Each answer gives you the facts you need. If you have a question not answered here, contact the Broward County Clerk of Court directly for help with your specific case.
How Do I Find Out if Someone Has a Felony in Fort Lauderdale?
Search the Broward County Clerk of Court online portal. Enter the person’s full legal name and date of birth. The system shows all felony cases filed in Fort Lauderdale. The case status shows if charges are pending, dismissed, or resulted in conviction. The FDLE statewide search gives the same data plus records from other Florida counties. Both searches are official and free for basic information. You need the person’s consent for an FDLE search if you are an employer.
Are Fort Lauderdale Felony Records Public for Free?
Basic case information is free. The Broward County clerk website lets you search without paying. You can see case numbers, charges, hearing dates, and case status. Full court documents cost $1 per letter-size page. Certified copies cost more. The FDLE statewide search costs $25. Free searches work well for personal use. Paid searches give you official documents for legal or job purposes.
Can I View Fort Lauderdale Felony Records Online?
Yes. The Broward County Clerk of Court runs an online portal. It works 24 hours a day. You can search by name, case number, or date range. The system shows dockets, filings, and hearing schedules. You can also view images of many court documents. Some older documents are not online. You may need to visit the clerk’s office in person to view paper files from many years ago.
How Long Does a Felony Stay on Your Record in Florida?
A felony conviction stays on your record for life in Florida. The record never goes away on its own. You can seal the record through a court order after you complete your sentence. You can expunge it in some cases. Most people must live with the public record forever. Background checks will show the conviction for the rest of your life. Only a full pardon removes the record.
What Charges Cannot Be Sealed in Fort Lauderdale?
Florida law blocks sealing for many serious crimes. These include sexual offenses, child abuse, kidnapping, murder, attempted murder, and crimes against minors. People who still owe court costs or restitution cannot seal their records. People with other open criminal cases also cannot seal. The clerk’s office can tell you if your charge qualifies for sealing. The State Attorney’s office reviews each petition before it goes to a judge.
How Do I Get a Copy of a Fort Lauderdale Police Report?
Call the Fort Lauderdale Police Department at (954) 764-4357. Give them the case number or the date and location of the arrest. Some reports are ready the same day. Most take 3 to 5 business days. The fee is $1 per page. Bring a photo ID if you go in person. You can also mail a written request with a check or money order. The police department does not release active investigation reports until the case closes.
Can a Felony Be Removed From My Record in Florida?
Yes, in some cases. You can file a petition to seal or expunge the record. You must qualify under Florida Statute 943.059. The court holds a hearing. If the judge agrees, the record is sealed or destroyed. Most felonies can be sealed after sentence completion. Fewer felonies can be expunged. A lawyer can help you with the paperwork. The filing fee is around $75 plus lawyer costs.