Florida’s court clerks and comptrollers are observing 2023 Sunshine Week March 12-18, the annual week honoring the state’s commitment to transparency and government in the sunshine.
Clerks of court ensure transparency in county government and the court system with accurate record-keeping and reporting.
“We are taking this opportunity during Sunshine Week to remind both our team and the public about the access to public records provided through the clerk,” said Duval County Clerk of Courts Jody Phillips.
The public has access to official documents such as court records and services to shed light on allegations of fraud and waste.
The clerk’s office enhances access to public information by utilizing current technologies to provide more official documents and services online.
At https://www.duvalclerk.com/departments/county-services/official-records-and-research, the Official Records Department is the keeper of all documents recorded in Duval County including marriage licenses, deeds, mortgages, judgments, claims of lien, satisfactions and other documents recorded according to the laws of Florida.
While official records are public unless otherwise specified by law or placed under seal, standards for online viewing of public records are set by state law.
In honor of Sunshine Week, clerks offer tips for requesting public records from their local offices:
Be precise with your public records requests. Putting your request in writing and being specific with your request helps improve efficiency.
Most public records are available online. In Duval County, official documents recorded since 1988 are accessible online. Marriage licenses recorded since February 1981 also are available.
Uncertified copies may be downloaded or printed from the website. Copies are available for $1 per page at the clerk’s office in the Duval County Courthouse.
If a document predates the online records, or you need a certified copy, call Public Records Custodian Brian Corrigan at 904-255-1828 for assistance.
Requests also can be made in person in Room 1253 at the Duval County Courthouse or by mail:
Duval County Clerk of Courts
Attn: Official Records and Research
501 W. Adams St., Room 1253
Jacksonville, Florida 32202
Visit duvalclerk.com or call 904-255-2000 for more information.