Union County felony records are court files that track serious criminal cases in Union County, Florida. These records cover felony charges, court hearings, plea deals, trial outcomes, and sentencing orders.
The Union County Clerk of Court in Lake Butler keeps the main set of these records. State agencies in Florida also keep copies of felony history. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement runs a statewide database. The Florida Department of Corrections tracks people serving prison time. Florida law gives the public the right to view these records under Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes. You can search online, send a mail request, or visit the clerk’s office in person. This page explains each step with current details so you can get the records you need.
What Are Union County Felony Records
Union County felony records are official court papers that document felony cases. A felony is a serious crime in Florida. Felonies carry penalties of more than one year in state prison. These records show the charges, court actions, and final outcomes for each case.
Definition of Felony in Florida
Florida law divides crimes into misdemeanors and felonies. A felony is any crime that can lead to time in state prison. Florida lists felony crimes in the Florida Statutes. Examples include burglary, robbery, aggravated assault, drug trafficking, and fraud. Each felony has a level on the Florida Criminal Punishment Code. The level affects how much time a person may serve if convicted.
Who Files Felony Charges in Union County
The State Attorney for the 8th Judicial Circuit files felony charges in Union County. The 8th Judicial Circuit covers eight counties in north central Florida. Union County sits inside this circuit. The State Attorney works with local police and the Florida Highway Patrol to file charges. Once a felony case starts, it moves to the Circuit Court of Union County.
Types of Felony Offenses Recorded
Union County court files cover all felony types that pass through the circuit court. These include violent crimes, property crimes, drug crimes, sex crimes, and white collar crimes. Each case has a case number that stays with it from start to finish. The case number helps you find the record later.
Where Union County Felony Records Are Kept
Several offices in Florida keep felony records tied to Union County. Each office holds a different type of record. Some offices have online search tools. Others need a phone call or a written request.
Union County Clerk of Court Office
The Union County Clerk of Court keeps the full set of court papers for every felony case filed in the county. This office holds arrest warrants, charging documents, motions, orders, judgments, and sentencing orders. The clerk’s office sits in the Union County Courthouse at 55 West Main Street, Lake Butler, Florida 32054. You can reach the clerk at (386) 496-3711. The office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time.
Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE)
The FDLE runs the Florida Crime Information Center (FCIC) and the National Crime Information Center (NCIC). The FDLE keeps a statewide criminal history database. This database shows felony arrests and convictions from every Florida county, including Union County. The FDLE offers a paid online search tool. You can also request records by mail through the FDLE office in Tallahassee.
Florida Department of Corrections (DOC)
The Florida DOC tracks people who serve time in state prison. If a Union County felony case leads to a prison sentence, the DOC keeps a record of that person. The DOC Offender Search tool is free to use. You can search by name or Department of Corrections number. The tool shows current inmates and people on probation or community supervision.
State Archives of Florida
The State Archives of Florida in Tallahassee keeps older felony records. Some Union County felony cases from past decades now sit in the state archive. The archive holds paper files and microfilm records. You can search the State Archives online catalog or visit the research room. The address is 500 South Bronough Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32399. The phone number is (850) 245-6717.
How to Search Union County Felony Case Search Online
You can run a felony case search online using three main tools. Each tool gives a different view of the record. Use more than one tool to get a full picture of a case.
Using the Clerk of Court Online Portal
The Union County Clerk of Court runs an online portal for public records. The portal address is www.unionclerk.org. From the home page, click on Public Records Search or Court Records. The search page lets you look up cases by defendant name, case number, or citation number. Results show the case style, charges, court dates, and the judge assigned to the case. You can view case details and download docket sheets. The portal is free to use.
FDLE Statewide Criminal History Search
The FDLE offers a paid criminal history search. The fee is $25 per name search. You can pay with a credit card. Visit web.fdle.state.fl.us/search/app/default to start. Enter the full legal name, date of birth, and gender. The system pulls records from all 67 Florida counties. The results show arrests, charges, dispositions, and sentences. You get a printable certificate once the search finishes.
DOC Offender Search for Inmates
The Florida DOC offender search tool covers people under state supervision. Go to dc.state.fl.us/OffenderSearch/Search.aspx. Search by last name, first name, or DC number. Results show a photo, current status, and facility location. The tool also shows release dates and parole records when available. Use this tool along with the clerk’s portal and the FDLE search to build a full felony history.
How to Request Union County Felony Court Records Search by Mail
You can send a written request to the Union County Clerk of Court for felony records by mail. Mail requests work well when you cannot visit the courthouse. They also work when you need a certified copy for legal or personal use.
Required Information for Mail Requests
Include the full name of the person on the case. Add the date of birth if you know it. Include the case number if you have it. State the type of record you want, such as a docket sheet, charging document, or final judgment. List the year or years you want to search. Sign the request and add your contact details.
Mailing Address and Contact Details
Send your request to the Union County Clerk of Court, 55 West Main Street, Lake Butler, FL 32054. You can also call the clerk at (386) 496-3711 before you send your letter to confirm the fee and the records you need. Mail requests often need a self-addressed stamped envelope and a check or money order for the fee.
Processing Times for Mail Requests
Mail requests take longer than online or in-person searches. The clerk’s office usually answers mail requests within 7 to 14 business days. Older cases that sit in the archive may take longer. Plan ahead if you need the records for a court date or a deadline.
In-Person Union County Felony Records Lookup
An in-person visit to the Union County Courthouse gives you same-day access to most felony files. The clerk’s staff can help you locate the right case. They can also show you how to use the public access computers in the lobby.
Location and Office Hours
The Union County Courthouse sits at 55 West Main Street, Lake Butler, FL 32054. The clerk’s office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The office closes on state and federal holidays. Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before closing so you have time to search and copy records.
What to Bring to the Clerk’s Office
Bring a photo ID such as a driver’s license or a state ID card. Write down the full name and date of birth of the person you want to search. Bring a case number if you have one. Bring cash or a check for copy fees. The office accepts credit cards for some services.
On-Site Search Assistance
The clerk’s staff can show you the public access terminals. The terminals run the same software as the online portal. Staff can help you print docket sheets and case summaries. They cannot give legal advice or explain what the records mean for your case.
Information Found in Union County Felony Case Files
Felony case files contain many documents. Each document tells part of the case story. Knowing what each paper means helps you read the file.
Charges and Court Documents
The case file starts with the arrest report and the charging document. The State Attorney files an Information or an Indictment. These papers list the charges and the Florida Statute for each charge. The file also contains motions filed by both sides. Court orders follow each hearing. The final judgment shows the plea, verdict, or dismissal.
Sentencing and Probation Records
If the court finds the person guilty, the file includes a sentencing order. The order lists the prison time, probation time, fines, and special conditions. Probation orders lay out the rules the person must follow. Violation of probation paperwork may also appear later.
Financial Records and Restitution
The file may contain a restitution order. Restitution is money the court orders the person to pay the victim. The file also tracks fines, court costs, and attorney fees. Payment records show what the person paid and what they still owe.
Fees and Payment for Union County Felony Case Documents
The clerk charges fees for copies and certified copies. The fees follow Florida law and the Union County fee schedule. Fees can change, so call the clerk at (386) 496-3711 to confirm the current rates before you visit or mail a request.
Standard Copy Fees
Standard copies of court papers cost 15 cents per page. This fee applies to printed copies of dockets, judgments, and motions. The fee is the same whether you print in person or receive copies by mail.
Certified Copy Fees
Certified copies cost $1 per document. A certified copy has a raised or stamped seal from the clerk. Courts and other agencies often require certified copies for legal filings. The clerk signs and dates each certified copy.
Accepted Payment Methods
The clerk’s office accepts cash, checks, money orders, and credit or debit cards for in-person payments. Mail requests need a check or money order. Make the check or money order payable to the Union County Clerk of Court. Add the case number on the memo line.
Record Retention and Access to Older Felony Cases
Florida law sets retention rules for court records. Some records stay with the clerk for years. Other records move to the State Archives. Knowing the retention schedule helps you find older felony records.
Active vs Archived Records
Active felony cases stay at the clerk’s office while the case is open. Closed felony cases stay in the clerk’s office for a set number of years based on Florida retention rules. After that period, the records may move to the State Archives of Florida. The clerk can tell you if a record is still on site or in the archive.
Accessing Records Older Than 50 Years
Felony cases older than 50 years often sit in the State Archives. You can search the State Archives catalog online at info.floridaarchives.org. You may need to visit the archive research room in Tallahassee to view the originals. The archive staff can also send copies for a fee.
Sealed and Expunged Records
Sealed and expunged records do not show up in public searches. Only the person named in the record can ask the court to seal or expunge a case. Once sealed, the record is not open to the public. Expunged records are destroyed under Florida law. The FDLE removes sealed and expunged records from its public search results.
Legal Framework Governing Union County Felony Judicial Records
Florida laws and court rules set the rules for felony records. These rules protect the public right to view records. They also protect privacy in some cases.
Florida Public Records Act (Chapter 119)
Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes is the Florida Public Records Act. This law says that any person can ask to see public records made or kept by a government agency. Court records are public records under this law. Agencies must respond to records requests without delay. Read the full law at leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0100-0199/0119/0119.html.
Florida Rules of Court Procedure
The Florida Rules of Judicial Administration also control access to court records. These rules list which records are open and which records are sealed. Rule 2.420 covers the public access to court records. The rule lists exceptions for things like victim information in sex cases.
Privacy Exceptions and Limitations
Florida law limits access to some records to protect privacy. Juvenile felony records are not open to the public. Records that identify victims of sex crimes are sealed. Mental health records and drug court records also have limits. The clerk can tell you when a record has a privacy block.
Common Uses for Union County Public Felony Records
People search felony records for many reasons. Each use case has a different goal. Knowing your goal helps you pick the right search tool.
Background Checks for Employment
Florida law lets employers run background checks on job applicants. Many employers ask for a 7-year criminal history check. Some jobs need a full lifetime check. The FDLE search tool works well for this purpose. Union County employers in fields like healthcare, education, and finance often check felony records.
Tenant Screening and Housing Decisions
Landlords and property managers may run felony checks on rental applicants. They use the records to make safe rental decisions. A felony conviction may affect a housing decision, but Florida law bars blanket bans on people with felony records. Landlords must follow the federal Fair Housing Act.
Personal Research and Genealogy
Family members and researchers search old felony records for personal reasons. The records can show family history, old court practices, and local crime patterns. The State Archives in Tallahassee holds many old Union County felony files that work well for genealogy and research projects.
Contact Information for Union County Official Felony Records
Use these official contact points to reach the right office. Always call ahead to confirm hours and fees before you visit or send a request.
Union County Clerk of Court
Address: 55 West Main Street, Lake Butler, FL 32054
Phone: (386) 496-3711
Website: www.unionclerk.org
Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time
Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE)
Address: 2331 Phillips Road, Tallahassee, FL 32308
Phone: (850) 410-7000
Criminal History Search: web.fdle.state.fl.us/search/app/default
Fee: $25 per name search
Florida Department of Corrections Offender Search
Website: dc.state.fl.us/OffenderSearch/Search.aspx
Phone: (850) 488-5020
Service: Free public search
State Archives of Florida
Address: 500 South Bronough Street, Tallahassee, FL 32399
Phone: (850) 245-6717
Website: info.floridaarchives.org
Service: Older felony case files
Frequently Asked Questions About Union County Felony Records
This FAQ section answers common questions about felony records in Union County, Florida. Each answer gives current facts based on Florida law and current office practices. Use these answers to plan your search and avoid common delays. The answers below reflect the most common user questions about Union County felony case searches, felony court records, felony docket searches, and felony case lookups.
How do I find felony records in Union County?
You can find Union County felony records through three main tools. First, use the Union County Clerk of Court online portal at www.unionclerk.org to search by defendant name or case number. Second, run a paid statewide search through the FDLE at web.fdle.state.fl.us for $25. Third, visit the courthouse at 55 West Main Street, Lake Butler, FL 32054 during business hours. Mail requests also work for certified copies. Each method gives a different view of the case, so use more than one tool for a full picture.
Are Union County felony case searches free?
The Union County Clerk of Court online portal is free to use. You can search by name or case number without paying a fee. The FDLE charges $25 per name search. The Florida DOC offender search is free. Standard copies cost 15 cents per page, and certified copies cost $1 per document. Court fees can change, so call (386) 496-3711 to confirm the current fee schedule before you place a request.
Can I search Union County felony court records by name?
Yes, the Union County Clerk of Court portal lets you search felony court records by defendant name. Enter the last name first, then narrow the results with a first name and date of birth. The search returns all matching cases in the Union County Circuit Court. You can view the case style, charges, court dates, and final judgment for each result. Add a date of birth to your search to avoid results for people with the same name.
What is the difference between a felony case search and a felony conviction record?
A felony case search shows every case filed in Union County, even cases that ended in dismissal or acquittal. A felony conviction record only shows cases that ended in a guilty plea or guilty verdict. The clerk’s portal shows both outcomes. The FDLE search shows arrests, charges, and dispositions, which include dismissals, acquittals, and convictions. A true conviction record only lists cases with a finding of guilt.
Do sealed or expunged felony records show up in a Union County case search?
No, sealed and expunged records do not appear in public Union County case searches. Florida law lets a person ask the court to seal or expunge certain felony records after they meet the rules under Florida Statute 943.0585. Once the court orders the seal or expunction, the clerk removes the case from the public portal. The FDLE also removes sealed records from its public search results. Only the person named in the record and a few state agencies can view sealed records.
Can I get a certified copy of a Union County felony judgment by mail?
Yes, you can request a certified copy of a Union County felony judgment by mail. Send a written request to the Union County Clerk of Court at 55 West Main Street, Lake Butler, FL 32054. Include the full name, date of birth, and case number if you know it. Add a self-addressed stamped envelope and a check or money order for $1 per certified document. The clerk will mail the certified copy once the fee clears. Mail requests typically take 7 to 14 business days.
What felony records does Union County keep for older cases?
Union County keeps felony records based on the Florida retention schedule. Active and recently closed felony cases stay at the clerk’s office in Lake Butler. Felony cases older than the retention period move to the State Archives of Florida in Tallahassee. You can search the State Archives catalog at info.floridaarchives.org. Some felony records from the 1970s and earlier sit on microfilm. The archive staff can pull these records for viewing or copying for a small fee.