Sarasota County felony records are public court files that show serious criminal cases filed in the 12th Judicial Circuit. These files list felony charges, court hearings, pleas, verdicts, and sentences for cases in Sarasota, Florida.
Most felony records stay open to the public under Florida law. You can search these records online, by phone, or by visiting the Sarasota County Clerk of Court. This page covers what felony records include, where to search them, how to use name or case number lookups, and what fees apply for certified copies.
What Sarasota County Felony Records Include
Sarasota County felony records hold a full set of facts about each felony case. The Clerk of Court keeps these files for every felony charge in the county. Each file tracks the case from arrest through final sentencing. The records come from police reports, court filings, and judge orders linked to the same case number.
Types of Felony Charges Listed
Felonies are the most serious crimes under Florida law. Sarasota County felony records cover all felony levels, including life felonies, first-degree felonies, second-degree felonies, and third-degree felonies. Common charges include drug trafficking, burglary, aggravated assault, robbery, sexual battery, fraud, and murder. Each felony has a felony score based on the Florida Criminal Punishment Code, which the judge uses to set a sentence range.
- Capital felonies: punishable by death or life without parole
- Life felonies: punishable by life in prison and a $15,000 fine
- First-degree felonies: up to 30 years in prison and a $10,000 fine
- Second-degree felonies: up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine
- Third-degree felonies: up to 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine
Personal Details Shown in Each File
Each felony record lists personal data for the person charged. The Clerk of Court files include full legal name, date of birth, race, gender, and address at the time of arrest. You will also see the arrest date, booking number, and the name of the arresting agency. The record shows the assigned judge, state attorney, and defense attorney for the case. Any prior felony cases from Sarasota County also appear in the same person file.
Court Action and Outcome Details
Filing court records show each step in the case. The file lists the arrest report, criminal complaint, and formal charges. It also tracks arraignment dates, plea entries, motion filings, and trial results. Sentencing orders, probation terms, and restitution amounts all appear in the public record. Appeals and post-conviction filings are also part of the file when filed. The Clerk of Court assigns a unique case number to each felony that follows it through the system.
Where to Search Sarasota County Felony Records
You have three main ways to search Sarasota County felony records. You can use the Clerk of Court online portal, visit the courthouse in person, or use the Florida Department of Law Enforcement statewide search tool. Each option has its own use case based on how much detail you need.
Sarasota County Clerk of Court Online Portal
The Clerk of Court runs a free online portal for public records. The portal lets you search felony cases by name, case number, or hearing date. You can view charges, court dates, and document images from the public case docket. To start your search, go to sarasotaclerk.com and click on the public records search link. The portal runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Search results on the portal list the case number, party names, filing date, current status, and judge assigned. You can click on any case to see a full docket sheet. The docket shows each document filed, the date filed, and a link to view the file image. Most files are free to view on screen. Printed copies and certified copies cost extra at the clerk rates.
Sarasota County Courthouse Public Terminals
Public computer terminals sit in the main courthouse in downtown Sarasota. These terminals run the same search system as the online portal. You can use them free of charge during business hours. Court staff can help you run a search or print case files. Public terminals are a good choice when the online portal is slow or down for maintenance.
The main courthouse address is 2000 Main Street, Sarasota, Florida 34237. The courthouse opens Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The building closes on weekends and court holidays. You must pass a security check at the entrance and show a valid photo ID. Cell phones must be turned off inside the courtrooms.
Florida Department of Law Enforcement Statewide Search
The FDLE runs a statewide criminal history search that covers all 67 Florida counties, including Sarasota County. This search is the best choice when you need a full criminal record across the state. The FDLE database pulls from state and county records updated daily. The result shows every felony on file, no matter which county handled the case.
You can run a search online at the FDLE website. You need the person’s full name, date of birth, and gender. A Social Security number is optional. The search fee is $24 plus a $1 processing charge, paid by credit card. You can also order a search by mail for the same $24 fee, with results returned in 5 to 7 business days.
How to Search by Name, Case Number, or Date
Each search method works for a different need. Use a name search when you only know the person’s name. Use a case number search when you already have the case number. Use a date range search when you know roughly when the case was filed. The Clerk of Court portal supports all three options.
Name-Based Search Steps
A name search is the most common way to look up felony records. The Clerk of Court portal lets you enter a last name and first name. You can add a middle name or date of birth to narrow the results. The system pulls all matching felony cases in Sarasota County linked to that name. Name searches work best with a full legal name and date of birth.
- Open the Sarasota County Clerk of Court website at sarasotaclerk.com
- Click on “Public Records” or “Court Records Search”
- Enter the last name and first name in the search fields
- Add a date of birth if you have it
- Click “Search” to view all matching felony cases
- Click on a case number to view the full docket
Case Number Lookup Process
Each felony case has a unique case number. The format is a year, then a court code, then a sequence number. For example, case 2024-CF-012345 means a 2024 criminal felony case. You can use this number to pull up the exact case file without sifting through other results.
Enter the full case number in the search bar on the Clerk portal. The system will pull up only that one case. This search is the fastest way to check the status of a specific case. You can also use case number searches to track hearings, motions, and final judgments. Attorneys and self-represented parties rely on case number searches daily.
Date Range Search Method
A date range search helps you find cases filed in a certain time frame. The Clerk portal lets you enter a start date and end date for filings. You can also combine the date range with a name or case type filter. This helps you narrow a large list of cases down to a smaller set that matches your needs.
Date range searches are useful for employers running background checks. They help journalists and researchers looking at case trends. They also help family members who know the year of an arrest but not the exact day. The portal lets you set a date window of up to 12 months at a time.
Costs, Fees, and Certified Copies
Most felony record searches are free to run. The cost comes in when you need printed or certified copies. Each office has its own fee schedule. The Clerk of Court sets copy fees under Florida Statute 28.24. The FDLE sets its own search fees under Florida law.
| Service | Fee | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Online docket search (Clerk portal) | Free | Instant |
| Public terminal search at courthouse | Free | Instant |
| Regular copy (per page) | $1.00 | Same day |
| Certified copy (first page) | $7.00 | Same day |
| Certified copy (each extra page) | $2.00 | Same day |
| FDLE statewide criminal history search | $24.00 + $1.00 processing | Instant (online) |
| FDLE mail request | $24.00 | 5 to 7 business days |
| Personal record review (your own record) | Free | 30 to 60 days |
The Clerk of Court accepts cash, checks, money orders, and credit cards at the courthouse. Online payments go through a secure portal with a small card fee. FDLE accepts credit cards online and checks by mail. Fee waivers are available for indigent parties who file a sworn affidavit with the court.
Sealed and Expunged Sarasota County Felony Records
Some Sarasota County felony records can be sealed or expunged. Sealing hides the record from public view. Expungement destroys the record. Only certain felony cases qualify for either option. Florida law sets strict rules on who can seal or expunge a felony.
Who Can Seal a Record
Florida law allows sealing or expungement for first-time felony offenders in some cases. You may qualify if you have never had a record sealed or expunged before. You must have completed all sentence terms, including probation. The case must not have ended in a conviction for certain serious charges.
Some felonies can never be sealed. These include capital felonies, life felonies, first-degree felonies, and certain sex offenses. Murder, aggravated child abuse, and trafficking of minors also cannot be sealed. Check the full list under Florida Statute 943.0585 before applying. The State Attorney’s Office can also tell you if your charge qualifies.
Steps to Seal a Felony in Sarasota
The sealing process takes several steps. You must first apply for a Certificate of Eligibility from FDLE. The certificate shows that you meet the basic legal rules. You then file a petition with the Sarasota County Clerk of Court. A judge reviews the petition and signs a final order. The whole process usually takes 4 to 6 months from start to finish.
- Confirm you meet the legal rules under Florida Statute 943.0585
- Apply to FDLE for a Certificate of Eligibility ($75 fee)
- Wait about 12 weeks for FDLE to process your application
- File a petition to seal with the Sarasota County Clerk of Court
- Pay the court filing fee set by the clerk
- Attend a court hearing if the judge schedules one
- Receive the signed court order to seal or expunge
FDLE Certificate of Eligibility Details
The FDLE Certificate of Eligibility costs $75 and stays valid for 12 months from the issue date. You must file your court petition within that 12-month window. If you miss the deadline, you must reapply and pay the fee again. The certificate does not guarantee the court will grant your petition. A judge still has the final say after reviewing the case facts and any objection from the State Attorney.
Sarasota County Felony Court Process
Felony cases in Sarasota County follow a set legal path. Each step has its own public record. You can track every step using the Clerk portal. The 12th Judicial Circuit Court hears all felony cases in Sarasota County. Cases start with an arrest and end with sentencing or acquittal.
Arrest and Initial Appearance
The first step is the arrest. Police agencies book the person into the Sarasota County Jail. A first appearance judge reviews the case within 24 hours. The judge sets a bond and explains the charges. The arrest record, booking photo, and bond order all become part of the public file. Most first appearances happen by video from the jail.
Arraignment and Plea Entry
Within 21 days of arrest, the State Attorney files formal charges. The arraignment is the first court hearing. The judge reads the charges. The defendant enters a plea of guilty, no contest, or not guilty. The arraignment record shows the plea, the attorney of record, and any bond changes. Many felony cases resolve at arraignment through a negotiated plea deal.
Pretrial Motions and Discovery
After arraignment, both sides prepare for trial. Defense attorneys file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges. The state files motions to limit defense access. Discovery exchanges happen between lawyers. Each filing adds a new entry to the public docket. Pretrial motions can take months to resolve before a trial date is set.
Trial, Sentencing, and Appeal
If the case reaches trial, a jury hears the evidence. The verdict appears in the public record. After a guilty verdict, the judge holds a sentencing hearing. The sentence can include prison time, probation, fines, or a mix of all three. The defendant can file an appeal within 30 days of sentencing. The appeal record lists all briefs, rulings, and final decisions from the appeals court.
Florida Public Records Laws and Felony Files
Florida has strong public records laws. Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes gives the public broad rights to view government records. Most court records, including felony files, are open by default. The Sarasota County Clerk of Court must follow these rules for every felony case file.
Florida Sunshine Law Chapter 119
The Florida Public Records Act, also called the Sunshine Law, requires government agencies to make records open to the public. The Sarasota County Clerk of Court must provide access to felony case files under this law. Any person can request records without giving a reason. The agency must respond within a reasonable time. There is no fee for viewing records in person.
Limits on Public Access
Some records have limits. Sealed files are private. Expunged files are destroyed. Juvenile felony records follow a separate set of rules. Active warrant information is also limited. Federal charges filed in Sarasota County follow federal rules, not Florida state rules. Mental health records tied to a case may also be sealed by court order.
Victim Notification Programs
Florida offers a free service called VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday). Crime victims can sign up online to get alerts about court hearings, custody status, and release dates. The service runs 24 hours a day. You can register at vinelink.com. Sarasota County also has a local victim advocate program linked to the State Attorney’s Office.
Common Reasons People Search Felony Records
People search Sarasota County felony records for many reasons. The most common reasons relate to safety, jobs, and family matters. Public record searches are a legal way to gather facts about someone before making an important decision.
Employment Background Checks
Many Florida employers run criminal background checks before hiring. The check often includes a search of Sarasota County felony records. The employer looks at the charge, the outcome, and the date of the case. Some jobs, like those working with children or vulnerable adults, require a full records check by law. The Fair Credit Reporting Act sets rules for how employers can use this data.
Housing and Rental Applications
Landlords in Sarasota County often run background checks on rental applicants. A felony conviction does not always block a rental. Landlords look at the type of felony, how long ago it happened, and other factors. The check pulls records from the Clerk of Court portal. Federal housing rules apply to subsidized housing applications.
Personal Safety and Family Matters
People also search felony records for personal safety. Parents may check on new romantic partners. Family members may check on relatives dealing with the court system. Friends may want to support someone through a case. The Clerk portal makes these checks simple and free. Many users run searches before getting engaged, signing a lease with a roommate, or hiring a home contractor.
Sarasota County Felony Records Contact Details
You can reach the Sarasota County Clerk of Court for help with felony record searches. The main office is in downtown Sarasota. You can call, email, or visit in person during business hours. The clerk’s office also runs branch locations in Venice and North Port for residents in those areas.
- Sarasota County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller
- 2000 Main Street, Sarasota, Florida 34237
- Phone: (941) 861-7400
- Website: sarasotaclerk.com
- Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Branch Locations: Venice and North Port offices also serve the public
For statewide criminal history checks, contact the Florida Department of Law Enforcement at fdle.state.fl.us or call (850) 410-7000. The FDLE office is at 2331 Phillips Road, Tallahassee, Florida 32308. The FDLE Seal and Expunge Section handles seal and expunge applications for all Florida counties, including Sarasota.
Frequently Asked Questions
These questions cover the most common things people ask about Sarasota County felony records. The answers give you clear, direct facts you can act on right now. Each answer is based on Florida law, Clerk of Court rules, and FDLE policy as of 2026.
How Do I Check If Someone Has a Felony in Sarasota County?
You can check for a Sarasota County felony by using the Clerk of Court online portal at sarasotaclerk.com. Enter the person’s full name and date of birth in the public records search. The portal will list all felony cases linked to that name. You can also use the FDLE statewide search for a broader check across Florida. Both tools are open to the public and need no login. Results are free to view online.
Are Sarasota County Felony Records Free to Search?
Yes, felony record searches through the Sarasota County Clerk portal are free. You can view case dockets, charges, and hearing dates at no cost. Fees only apply when you request printed or certified copies of documents. The FDLE statewide search costs $24 plus a $1 processing fee for a full criminal history report. Certified copies from the Clerk of Court start at $7 for the first page.
What Does a Sarasota County Felony Record Show?
A Sarasota County felony record shows the person’s full name, date of birth, the felony charge, the date of arrest, the case number, the judge assigned, the state attorney, and the defense attorney. It also lists each court hearing, the plea entered, the verdict, and the final sentence. Public dockets show every document filed in the case from start to finish. Sealed or expunged records do not appear in any public search.
Can I Remove a Felony From My Sarasota County Record?
You may be able to seal or expunge a Sarasota County felony under Florida law. You must first apply to FDLE for a Certificate of Eligibility. The fee is $75. If approved, you then file a petition with the Sarasota County Clerk of Court. A judge makes the final call. Not all felonies qualify, and some serious crimes can never be sealed. Most first-time nonviolent felonies do qualify for sealing.
How Long Does Sarasota County Keep Felony Records?
Sarasota County keeps felony records permanently. Digital records go back many years. Paper records from older cases are stored in archives. The Clerk can pull older files with notice. You should plan ahead when searching for cases more than 20 years old. Recent cases from the last 10 years are usually all digital. The Clerk charges an extra research fee for archive searches that take more than 15 minutes.
Can I Search Sarasota County Felony Records by Date?
Yes, the Clerk of Court portal lets you search felony cases by date range. Enter a start date and end date to see all felony filings in that window. You can also filter by case type, party name, or judge. Date searches help when you know the year of a case but not the case number. You can set a search window of up to 12 months at a time on the portal.
Does Florida Allow Employers to See Sealed Felony Records?
No, sealed felony records are not open to employers, landlords, or the general public. Once a court orders a record sealed, only specific government agencies can still view it. These include police agencies, the courts, and some licensing boards. Expunged records are destroyed and treated as if they never happened. Employers who access sealed records through improper channels can face lawsuits under Florida law.