Putnam County felony records are public court files that track serious criminal cases in northeast Florida. These records are held by the Putnam County Clerk of Court in Palatka and the Seventh Judicial Circuit Court.
Anyone can search for felony case details, charges, hearings, and outcomes using a name, case number, or date range. Most felony records stay open under Florida law, but some files get sealed or removed from public view. This page explains where to look, how to search, what fees apply, and what each record shows.
What Are Putnam County Felony Records
Putnam County felony records are official documents that show every serious criminal case filed in the county. A felony is a crime that can carry a sentence of more than one year in prison. These cases move through the criminal division of the Putnam County Circuit Court. The records include the charges, the defendant’s name, court dates, motions filed, plea deals, trial results, and sentencing details. They also list witnesses, attorneys, and the judge assigned to the case. The clerk’s office keeps these files for the entire life of the case and stores them in archives after the case ends.
What These Records Include
Each felony record holds a set of standard court documents that show the full case path. These help the public, employers, attorneys, and law enforcement check the status and outcome of a case.
- Arrest and charging documents from the State Attorney’s Office
- Initial appearance and bond hearing records
- Arraignment details and plea entries
- Motion filings from both the defense and prosecution
- Court orders signed by the judge
- Verdict or plea agreement results
- Sentencing documents and prison commitment orders
- Probation or community control records
- Appeal documents if the case moved to a higher court
Who Can Access Felony Records
Florida law treats most felony records as public records. Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes gives every citizen the right to view or copy court files. There is no requirement to be a lawyer, party to the case, or law enforcement officer. Employers, neighbors, journalists, and family members can all request records. The only limits apply to sealed cases, expunged cases, and juvenile records. Active investigation files held by the police may also stay hidden until the case moves to court.
Putnam County Clerk of Court Felony Records
The Putnam County Clerk of Court is the main keeper of felony records for the county. The office is in Palatka, which is the county seat. The clerk runs the official online portal where most searches happen. Staff also help people in person or by phone. The clerk collects fees for certified copies and handles payment for printed records. The office serves the criminal division of the Seventh Judicial Circuit Court, which handles all felony cases in Putnam County.
Office Location and Contact Details
The clerk’s office sits in the Putnam County Courthouse in downtown Palatka. The building is easy to reach from anywhere in the county. Public parking is free, and security screening is at the front door.
- Address: 410 St. Johns Avenue, Palatka, FL 32177
- Phone: (386) 329-0361
- Website: putnamclerk.org
- Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
- Closed on weekends and state holidays
Online Public Records Portal
The clerk runs an online portal at putnamclerk.org that lets users search felony cases without leaving home. The portal covers criminal cases, civil cases, traffic cases, and family court files. Felony cases appear in the criminal division search. Users can search by full name, case number, or filing date. The portal shows case type, charges, court dates, and current status. Basic search access is free. Printed or certified copies of documents cost a fee per page.
Search by Name
The name search tool is the most common way to look up a felony case. Users enter the last name and first name of the person involved. The system returns all cases linked to that name. Each result shows the case number, filing date, case type, and judge. Clicking on a case opens the full docket, which lists every motion, order, and hearing. The search works best when the full legal name is used. Common misspellings can lead to missing results.
Search by Case Number
A case number search gives the fastest results for a known felony file. Florida case numbers follow a format that includes the year, court type, and sequence number. For example, a 2024 felony case in Putnam County might look like 2024-CF-001234. Users enter the full number in the portal to see the docket. This search removes the chance of pulling the wrong person’s file. It works well for attorneys, defendants, and people who already have paperwork with the case number on it.
Search by Date Range
The date range search helps users find cases filed within a specific time. The portal lets users set a start date and end date. The system returns all felony cases filed in that window. This tool helps researchers, journalists, and employers who want to check a list of cases from a certain period. It also helps family members track the filing history of a relative. The date range search covers both open and closed cases unless the records are sealed.
Putnam County Circuit Court Felony Case Lookup
The Putnam County Circuit Court handles all felony cases in the county. The court is part of Florida’s Seventh Judicial Circuit, which also covers Flagler, St. Johns, and Volusia counties. The criminal division sits in Palatka. Judges in this division hear felony trials, plea hearings, sentencing, and post-conviction motions. The circuit court clerk keeps the felony docket for every case that moves through the system.
How Felony Cases Move Through Court
Felony cases follow a set order in the Putnam County court system. Each step creates a public record that gets added to the docket. The process usually takes several months to over a year depending on the case.
- A law enforcement agency arrests the suspect and files a report.
- The State Attorney’s Office reviews the case and files formal charges.
- The defendant makes a first appearance before a judge within 24 hours.
- The defendant has an arraignment where they enter a plea.
- Discovery happens, where both sides share evidence.
- Pretrial motions and hearings take place.
- A plea deal or trial resolves the case.
- The judge hands down a sentence if the defendant is convicted.
- The defendant may file an appeal to a higher court.
Felony Case Status Updates
The case status field in the clerk’s portal shows where a felony case stands today. Common status codes include pending, open, closed, sealed, and warrant. A pending case has charges filed but no final outcome. A closed case has a sentence, dismissal, or other final order. A warrant status means the clerk has issued an arrest warrant for the defendant. Sealed status means the court has hidden the record from public view. Each status change creates a new entry in the public docket.
Felony Docket Records
The felony docket is a chronological list of every event in a case. It includes the filing of charges, motions, orders, hearings, and judgment. The clerk updates the docket each time a new document or event happens. The public can view the docket online or in person. Attorneys use the docket to track deadlines. Defendants use it to check the next court date. Researchers use it to study the flow of criminal cases in the county.
FDLE Criminal History Search for Putnam County
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement runs a statewide criminal history database. This database covers all 67 Florida counties, including Putnam County. FDLE records include arrests, dispositions, and convictions. The search returns results from any Florida county, so users can find cases filed in Putnam County or other parts of the state. The search costs $24 plus a $1 processing fee. Results show up right after the payment clears.
What FDLE Records Show
The FDLE criminal history report shows a person’s record across Florida. It includes arrest records, charges filed, court outcomes, and sentences. The report covers both felony and misdemeanor cases. The report does not show sealed or expunged records. Juvenile records only show up under certain conditions. The report gives a snapshot of the person’s criminal history at the time of the search.
How to Request an FDLE Search
The public can run an FDLE search online at the department’s official portal. Users enter the full name, date of birth, gender, and optional Social Security number. The system matches the details against the statewide database. The $24 fee plus $1 processing fee covers one search. Results show up on the screen after the payment. A printed copy can be saved for personal records. Certified copies are available by mail within 5 to 7 business days.
Sealed and Expunged Records
FDLE removes sealed and expunged records from public search results. A sealed record still exists in the system but stays hidden from the public. An expunged record gets destroyed in most public systems. Only certain agencies can still see these files. The Florida Statutes set strict rules for who can seal or expunge a record. A first-time offender with no prior seal or expunge order can apply. The FDLE Seal and Expunge Section processes these requests. The certificate of eligibility costs $75 and takes about 12 weeks to process.
Florida Department of Corrections Inmate Search
The Florida Department of Corrections tracks every inmate in the state prison system. This includes people convicted of felony charges in Putnam County who received a state prison sentence. The inmate search is free and available 24 hours a day. Users can search by name or Department of Corrections number. The search shows the inmate’s current location, release date, and offense history. The database updates every day with new inmates and status changes.
What the Inmate Search Shows
The inmate search results show the current status of an inmate in the Florida prison system. The page lists the inmate’s full name, Department of Corrections number, race, sex, and date of birth. It shows the current prison facility, the date of admission, and the release date. It also lists the primary offense and county of conviction. For Putnam County residents, this often shows the case number from the local felony docket.
Search by Name or DC Number
The inmate search works with a last name and first name. The system returns all inmates with matching names. Users can filter by race, sex, and age range. The Department of Corrections number search gives the exact result for a known inmate. Each inmate profile links to a full record of offenses and custody history. The tool is free for the public and runs on the Florida Department of Corrections website.
Florida Public Records Laws and Felony Cases
Florida has some of the strongest public records laws in the country. Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes gives the public the right to access government records. Court records, arrest records, and corrections records all fall under this law. The Putnam County Clerk of Court must respond to public records requests within a reasonable time. The law also allows people to request records in person, by mail, or online. Some records have limits, but felony records are open by default.
Florida Sunshine Law
The Florida Sunshine Law covers court proceedings and government meetings. It allows the public to attend felony hearings, trials, and sentencing. It also lets the public record court proceedings in many cases. The law applies to the Putnam County Courthouse and every state court in Florida. Records of court proceedings become public documents that anyone can request.
How to File a Public Records Request
A person can file a public records request with the Putnam County Clerk of Court. The request can be in writing or made in person. The clerk must respond within a reasonable time. The clerk can charge a fee for copies of records. The fee covers the cost of making the copies. The clerk cannot charge a fee for the time it takes to search for records. The clerk must provide the records in the format requested if the records exist in that format.
Limits on Public Records
Some felony records get sealed or expunged under Florida law. The court hides these records from public view. Active criminal intelligence information held by law enforcement may stay hidden. Juvenile felony records get sealed when the juvenile turns 18 in most cases. Records of victims of certain crimes also get protected. The clerk can tell the public which records are open and which are not.
Types of Felony Records You Can Search
Putnam County felony records come in different forms. The type of record depends on what the user wants to know. The clerk’s office holds court records. The Sheriff’s Office holds arrest records. The State Attorney’s Office holds prosecution records. The Florida Department of Corrections holds prison records. Each agency keeps its own files. The clerk’s portal combines court records into one search.
Court Records vs Arrest Records
Court records show the case as it moves through the court system. Arrest records show the arrest itself, including the date, location, and arresting officer. Court records come from the clerk. Arrest records come from the sheriff or local police. The clerk’s portal covers court records. The sheriff’s office covers arrest records. Users who want a full picture often check both.
Felony Conviction Records
A felony conviction record shows the final outcome of a case. It lists the charges, the plea or verdict, and the sentence. The record stays in the public court file even after the defendant completes the sentence. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement keeps a statewide database of convictions. The Putnam County Clerk keeps the local record. Both sources show the same conviction, but the FDLE database covers the whole state.
Felony Trial Records
Felony trial records include court reporter transcripts, evidence lists, witness lists, and jury instructions. These records become part of the court file after a trial ends. The clerk stores the trial records with the case file. Some trial records take time to prepare because the court reporter needs to type up the transcript. Older trial records may be on paper. Newer trial records are digital. Members of the public can request copies through the clerk.
Felony Court Documents
Felony court documents include motions, orders, subpoenas, warrants, and judgments. The clerk files each document into the case docket. The public can view these documents on the clerk’s portal. Printed copies cost a fee per page. Certified copies cost a higher fee. The clerk can mail certified copies to a requester for an extra postage fee.
Putnam County Felony Record Fees
The Putnam County Clerk of Court charges fees for certain felony records. The fees cover the cost of making copies and certifying documents. The basic search on the clerk’s portal is free. Printed copies cost $1 per page. Certified copies cost $2 per page. The clerk accepts cash, checks, and credit cards. Fees can change, so users should call the clerk to confirm the current rates before requesting records.
Fee Comparison Table
The table below shows the typical fees for felony records in Putnam County. These fees come from the official clerk fee schedule and may change.
| Service | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Online Portal Search | Free | Available 24 hours through putnamclerk.org |
| Printed Copy | $1 per page | Standard copy of a court document |
| Certified Copy | $2 per page | Official copy with clerk’s seal |
| FDLE Criminal History Search | $24 + $1 processing | Covers all Florida counties |
| FDLE Certificate of Eligibility | $75 | For seal or expunge requests |
| Public Records Request Search | Free | Clerk cannot charge for search time |
Seventh Judicial Circuit Court Felony Records
The Seventh Judicial Circuit covers four counties in northeast Florida. Putnam County is one of them. The circuit court handles all felony cases in the county. The chief judge oversees the entire circuit. The felony courtrooms sit in the Putnam County Courthouse in Palatka. Records from the circuit court are available through the clerk of court in each county.
Other Counties in the Seventh Circuit
The Seventh Judicial Circuit covers Putnam, Flagler, St. Johns, and Volusia counties. Each county has its own clerk. Felony records from one county cannot be found in another county’s portal. Users who need records from multiple counties must search each county separately. The FDLE search covers all Florida counties in one query.
- Putnam County Clerk of Court: (386) 329-0361
- Flagler County Clerk of Court: (386) 313-4400
- St. Johns County Clerk of Court: (904) 819-3600
- Volusia County Clerk of Court: (386) 736-5900
How to Get Copies of Putnam County Felony Records
The public can get copies of felony records in three ways. The fastest way is through the clerk’s online portal. Printed copies cost $1 per page. The second way is to visit the clerk’s office in Palatka. Public terminals let users search and print records. Staff can help with older cases. The third way is to mail a records request to the clerk. The clerk will mail back printed copies along with an invoice for the fees.
In-Person Records Request
Walk-in requests happen at the clerk’s office on the first floor of the Putnam County Courthouse. Visitors bring a photo ID for security. Public terminals are free to use. Staff can help with searches and copies. The clerk accepts cash, checks, and credit cards. Most requests get filled the same day. Old archive requests may take longer because the clerk needs to pull files from storage.
Mail-In Records Request
Mail requests work for people who cannot visit the office in person. The request must include the full name, date of birth, case number if known, and the specific documents needed. The requester includes a self-addressed stamped envelope and a check for the fees. The clerk mails the copies back within a few business days. Mail requests take longer than in-person requests because of the mail time.
Online Portal Records Request
The online portal is the fastest way to get felony records. Users create a free account on the clerk’s website. The account lets users search cases, view documents, and print or save PDFs. Payments happen through the portal for paid services. The portal works on any device with a web browser. The portal is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Victim Notification and Felony Case Alerts
Florida offers a free service that sends case updates to victims of felony crimes. The service is called VINELink. Victims can sign up online or by phone. The service sends alerts when the defendant gets released, escapes, or has a court hearing. The alerts help victims stay safe and informed. The service is free and confidential. Family members of victims can also sign up.
How VINELink Works
VINELink connects to the Florida Department of Corrections and county jails. The system sends alerts by phone, email, or text. Users pick the alert method that works best for them. The service covers inmates in state prison and county jails. The service does not cover every court hearing, but it covers custody changes. The service runs on a national platform that works in every state.
Frequently Asked Questions About Putnam County Felony Records
Below are common questions about felony records in Putnam County, Florida. The answers cover the most common search needs, fees, and access issues. The information comes from the Putnam County Clerk of Court, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and Florida public records law.
How do I search Putnam County felony records for free?
You can search felony records for free on the Putnam County Clerk of Court website at putnamclerk.org. The online portal lets you search by name, case number, or date range. The search results show charges, court dates, and case status. You can view the docket for free. Printed copies cost $1 per page. The service is available 24 hours a day from any device with a web browser.
What is the difference between the clerk’s portal and FDLE records?
The clerk’s portal shows court records from Putnam County only. FDLE shows a person’s full criminal history across all 67 Florida counties. The clerk’s portal gives docket details, court documents, and hearing dates. FDLE gives a list of arrests, charges, and convictions statewide. The clerk’s search is free. FDLE charges $24 plus $1 processing. Most users check both sources for a full picture.
Can I find sealed or expunged felony records?
No. Sealed and expunged records do not show up in public searches. The court removes them from the clerk’s portal and the FDLE database. Only certain agencies can still see these records. A person who wants their own sealed or expunged record back must apply through the FDLE Seal and Expunge Section. The process takes about 12 weeks and costs $75 for the certificate of eligibility.
How long does Putnam County keep felony records?
Putnam County keeps felony records permanently. The clerk stores older cases in the county archive. Newer cases are digital. Cases from the 1990s and earlier may be on paper or microfilm. The clerk can pull old records by name or case number. Very old records may take longer to find because staff need to retrieve them from the archive. The clerk charges a fee for copies of archived records.
Can I run a background check on someone using Putnam County felony records?
You can use the clerk’s portal and FDLE search to run a basic background check. The results show court cases, convictions, and arrest records. The background check covers only Florida records. For a full national background check, you need a third-party service. Employers often use FDLE for pre-employment checks. Landlords and volunteer groups also use these records to screen applicants.
What is the Putnam County Courthouse address and phone number?
The Putnam County Courthouse sits at 410 St. Johns Avenue, Palatka, FL 32177. The clerk’s office phone number is (386) 329-0361. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The office closes on weekends and state holidays. Free public parking is available near the courthouse. Security screening is required at the front door, so bring a photo ID.
How do I find out if someone is in prison for a Putnam County felony?
You can search the Florida Department of Corrections inmate database for free. The search works by name or Department of Corrections number. The results show the inmate’s current location, release date, and offense. The database updates daily. The inmate profile includes the county of conviction, which shows if the case came from Putnam County. The search is available 24 hours a day online.
Can I attend a felony hearing in Putnam County?
Yes. Most felony hearings in the Putnam County Courthouse are open to the public under the Florida Sunshine Law. You can watch the hearing from the gallery. Arrive early to clear security. Bring a photo ID. Some hearings may be closed, such as juvenile cases and certain family matters. The clerk’s office can tell you which courtrooms have felony hearings on a given day.
How do I get a certified copy of a Putnam County felony record?
You can request a certified copy from the Putnam County Clerk of Court. The fee is $2 per page. You can order the copy in person, by mail, or through the online portal. The certified copy has the clerk’s seal and signature. Courts, employers, and government agencies usually require certified copies. The clerk can mail the certified copy to you for an extra postage fee.
Is there a way to remove a felony from my record in Putnam County?
You may qualify for a seal or expunge under Florida law. First-time offenders with no prior seal or expunge order can apply. The process starts with the FDLE Seal and Expunge Section. You must get a Certificate of Eligibility from FDLE before petitioning the court. The certificate costs $75 and takes about 12 weeks to process. After getting the certificate, you file a petition with the Putnam County court. The court holds a hearing and decides whether to grant the request.