Dallas County Court Clerk Records give you direct access to official documents like marriage licenses, property deeds, birth and death certificates, civil case files, and criminal dockets. These records are managed by two main offices: the Dallas County Clerk and the Dallas County District Clerk. Both operate under Texas state law and follow strict rules to protect public access while keeping sensitive data secure. Whether you need a copy of a deed, a certified marriage license, or court case details, these offices provide reliable, official information. Most services are available in person or online, with clear steps for requesting records. This page explains exactly how to find, request, and use Dallas County Court Clerk Records for personal, legal, or research needs.
What Are Dallas County Court Clerk Records?
Dallas County Court Clerk Records include all legal documents filed with the county’s court system. These cover civil cases, family law matters, felony criminal cases, property transactions, vital records, and corporate filings. The records start from 1990 for criminal and arrest data, 1995 for civil and family cases, and 2000 for felony court files. Each document is stored either digitally or in physical form and can be accessed by the public unless sealed by a judge. These records serve legal, genealogical, real estate, and background check purposes. They are official government sources, making them trusted for court, employment, or personal verification.
Types of Records Available
- Marriage licenses issued in Dallas County
- Property deeds and land transaction records
- Birth and death certificates (vital statistics)
- Civil case files including lawsuits and judgments
- Family court records such as divorces and custody orders
- Felony criminal case files and indictment records
- Corporate filings and assumed name certificates
- Arrest logs and warrant histories from 1990 onward
Where to Access Dallas County Court Clerk Records
You can access Dallas County Court Clerk Records at two main locations. The Dallas County Clerk’s Office is in the Records Building at 500 Elm Street, Suite 2100, Dallas, TX 75202. This office handles marriage licenses, property deeds, and vital records. The District Clerk’s Office is in the George L. Allen Sr. Courts Building at 600 Commerce Street, Suite 103, Dallas, TX 75202. It manages civil, family, and felony court files. Both offices are open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except on court-approved holidays. A public search portal is also available on the second floor of 509 Main Street, Suite 200, where you can look up property records, criminal dockets, and corporate filings online.
Online Access and Digital Records
Many Dallas County Court Clerk Records are now available online. The public search portal at 509 Main Street allows free preliminary searches for property deeds, corporate filings, and criminal docket entries from 1990 to today. You can view basic details without cost. For full documents or certified copies, a small per-page fee applies. The Texas Judicial Portal lets you file civil and family cases electronically. Felony records not digitized must be requested in person at the Frank Crowley Courts Building, 133 N. Riverfront Blvd., second floor, Felony Records Desk. Online access saves time, but some older or sensitive files still require an in-person visit.
How to Request Certified Copies
To get certified copies of Dallas County Court Clerk Records, you can visit the office in person or mail a written request. Certified copies have an official seal and are accepted by courts, banks, and government agencies. For property deeds or marriage licenses, go to the County Clerk’s Office at 500 Elm Street. For civil or felony court records, visit the District Clerk’s Office or the Felony Records Desk. Bring a valid ID and know the case number or document details if possible. If mailing, include a completed request form, payment, and a self-addressed stamped envelope. Processing takes 3 to 5 business days. Fees vary by document type but are typically under $10 per page.
Fees and Payment Options
| Document Type | Fee (Approx.) | Payment Methods |
|---|---|---|
| Marriage License Copy | $8–$12 | Cash, check, money order, credit card |
| Property Deed Copy | $5–$10 per page | Cash, check, money order |
| Civil Case Document | $7–$15 | Cash, check, credit card |
| Felony Record Copy | $10–$20 | Cash, check, money order |
| Vital Record (Birth/Death) | $20–$25 | Cash, check, credit card |
Dallas County Clerk Responsibilities
The Dallas County Clerk is the official keeper of land records, marriage licenses, and vital statistics. This office operates under Texas Government Code Chapter 601 and ensures public access to non-confidential records. The Clerk’s Office at 509 Main Street, Dallas, TX 75202, maintains over 2 million documents, including deeds dating back to the 1800s. It also manages voter registration and notary public commissions. The County Court Civil File Desk was temporarily closed for system upgrades, but document requests can still be made by phone or electronic submission. The Clerk’s team helps with searches, certifications, and guidance on legal document use.
Key Services Offered
- Issuing marriage licenses (both in person and by mail)
- Recording property deeds and liens
- Providing birth and death certificates
- Maintaining corporate and assumed name filings
- Offering public access to land transaction history
- Publishing annual reports on filing volumes and tech upgrades
District Clerk and Court Records
The Dallas County District Clerk manages civil, family, and felony court records for state district courts. This office preserves court orders, judgments, and docket entries from 1995 to the present. It does not handle county courts-at-law, probate courts, or justice-of-the-peace cases—those are managed by the County Clerk or individual JP offices. The District Clerk’s main location is at 600 Commerce Street, Suite 103. In-person filings at the Civil/Family File Desk stopped on Fridays after May 13, 2022. Now, all filings must be done electronically through the Texas Judicial Portal or by appointment Monday through Thursday. This change speeds up processing and reduces wait times.
Felony Records Access
Felony court records not available online can be obtained at the Felony Records Desk in the Frank Crowley Courts Building, 133 N. Riverfront Blvd., second floor. This desk is open during regular business hours and sits between the Jury Room and Cashier Windows. Staff provide certified copies of indictment files, sentencing reports, and case dispositions for incidents from 2000 onward. Bring a case number or defendant name if known. If the record is older than 2000, it may be stored offsite and require extra time to retrieve. Contact the District Clerk at (214) 653-7307 for help locating specific files.
Public Search Portal and Online Tools
The public search portal at 509 Main Street, Suite 200, offers free access to property records, corporate filings, criminal dockets, and arrest logs. You can search by name, address, or document number. Results show basic info like filing date, party names, and document type. To view full images or get certified copies, you must pay a fee. The portal is updated daily and includes records from 1990 to today. It’s designed for quick lookups by homeowners, lawyers, researchers, and background check services. No login is needed for public searches, but some advanced features require registration.
How to Use the Search Portal
- Go to the second floor of 509 Main Street, Suite 200
- Use a public computer or bring your own device
- Search by name, address, or record number
- Review results and note document details
- Request certified copies at the counter or online
Marriage Licenses in Dallas County
Dallas County issues marriage licenses at the County Clerk’s Office, 500 Elm Street, Suite 2100. Both parties must appear in person with valid photo IDs and proof of age. There is a 72-hour waiting period after issuance before the marriage can take place. The license is valid for 90 days. You do not need to be a Texas resident to marry in Dallas County. Blood tests are not required. The fee is $80 for a standard license or $28 if you complete a premarital education course. Certified copies of issued licenses can be requested anytime for legal or personal use.
Required Documents
- Valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport)
- Proof of age (birth certificate if under 18)
- Social Security card or number
- Divorce decree or death certificate if previously married
Property Deeds and Land Records
Property deeds in Dallas County are recorded by the County Clerk to establish legal ownership. These records include warranty deeds, quitclaim deeds, liens, mortgages, and easements. Anyone can search these records to verify ownership, check for liens, or research property history. The search portal at 509 Main Street provides instant access to digital copies from 1990 onward. Older records may be on microfilm or in storage. Certified copies are used for real estate transactions, title reports, and legal disputes. Recording fees are paid by the person filing the deed, typically the buyer or lender.
Common Property Record Types
- Warranty Deed – guarantees clear title
- Quitclaim Deed – transfers interest without warranty
- Mortgage or Deed of Trust – shows loan secured by property
- Mechanic’s Lien – claim by contractor for unpaid work
- Easement – right to use part of the land
Vital Records: Birth and Death Certificates
Birth and death certificates in Dallas County are maintained by the County Clerk’s Office. These are official vital records used for passports, school enrollment, Social Security, and inheritance. Only eligible individuals can request them, such as the person named, parents, spouses, or legal representatives. Requests require ID and proof of relationship. Fees are $20 for a birth certificate and $25 for a death certificate. Processing takes 3 to 7 days. Some older records may be delayed if stored offsite. These documents are not available online due to privacy laws.
Who Can Request Vital Records?
- The person named on the certificate
- Parents listed on the birth certificate
- Spouse or legal guardian
- Attorney or authorized representative with notarized letter
Corporate and Business Filings
The Dallas County Clerk records corporate filings, including assumed name certificates (DBA), LLC formations, and corporation registrations. These documents show business ownership and are public record. You can search by business name or file number at the 509 Main Street portal. Certified copies are used for banking, licensing, and legal compliance. Filing fees vary by document type. The office does not provide legal advice on business formation—consult an attorney for that. All filings must be submitted in person or by mail with correct forms and payment.
Contact Information and Office Hours
Dallas County Court Clerk Records can be accessed at the following locations:
- County Clerk’s Office: 500 Elm Street, Suite 2100, Dallas, TX 75202 | Phone: (214) 653-7099
- District Clerk’s Office: 600 Commerce Street, Suite 103, Dallas, TX 75202 | Phone: (214) 653-7307
- Public Search Portal: 509 Main Street, Suite 200, Dallas, TX 75202
- Felony Records Desk: 133 N. Riverfront Blvd., 2nd Floor, Dallas, TX 75202
All offices are open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., excluding court-approved holidays. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are recommended for complex requests. For mailed requests, send to the County Clerk’s Office at P.O. Box 1230, Dallas, TX 75221.
Frequently Asked Questions
People often have questions about how to access, use, and verify Dallas County Court Clerk Records. Below are answers to the most common inquiries, based on real user needs and official procedures. These responses are clear, accurate, and designed to help you get what you need quickly and correctly.
How do I find a specific court case in Dallas County?
To find a specific court case, start by visiting the public search portal at 509 Main Street, Suite 200. Use the computer terminals to search by party name, case number, or attorney name. Civil and family cases from 1995 onward are included. For felony cases, go to the Felony Records Desk at 133 N. Riverfront Blvd. If you know the case number, bring it with you to speed up the process. You can also call the District Clerk at (214) 653-7307 for guidance. Certified copies cost a small fee and take 3 to 5 days to process. Always bring a valid ID when requesting records in person.
Can I get a marriage license online in Dallas County?
No, you cannot get a marriage license online in Dallas County. Both parties must appear in person at the County Clerk’s Office, 500 Elm Street, Suite 2100, with valid photo IDs and proof of age. The license costs $80, or $28 with proof of a premarital education course. There is a 72-hour waiting period after issuance before the wedding can occur. The license is valid for 90 days. You can download the application form online, but it must be signed in person. Certified copies of issued licenses can be requested later for legal or personal use.
Are property records public in Dallas County?
Yes, property records are public in Dallas County. Anyone can search deeds, liens, and ownership history at the public portal in the Records Building or online through the search system. These records include warranty deeds, quitclaim deeds, mortgages, and easements. They are used by buyers, real estate agents, and title companies to verify ownership and check for debts. Certified copies are available for a fee and are often required for closing on a home. Older records may take longer to retrieve if stored offsite.
How long does it take to get a birth certificate in Dallas County?
It takes 3 to 7 business days to get a birth certificate in Dallas County. You must request it in person or by mail from the County Clerk’s Office, 500 Elm Street, Suite 2100. Bring a valid ID and proof of eligibility, such as being the person named, a parent, or a legal representative. The fee is $20. Rush service is not available. If the record is older than 50 years, it may be stored offsite and take longer. Birth certificates are not available online due to privacy laws.
Can I file court documents online in Dallas County?
Yes, you can file most civil and family court documents online in Dallas County using the Texas Judicial Portal. In-person filings at the Civil/Family File Desk are no longer accepted on Fridays since May 13, 2022. You can file Monday through Thursday by appointment or electronically. Felony filings must still be done in person at the Frank Crowley Courts Building. Online filing reduces wait times and errors. Make sure your documents are complete and signed before submitting. The District Clerk’s office can help with technical issues.
What if I can’t find the record I’m looking for?
If you can’t find a record, contact the County Clerk at (214) 653-7099 or the District Clerk at (214) 653-7307. Staff can help locate files, check storage locations, or confirm if the record exists. Some older records may be on microfilm or in offsite storage, which can delay access. Provide as much detail as possible, such as names, dates, and case numbers. If the record was filed in another county, you’ll need to contact that office instead. Always double-check spelling and dates when searching.
Are criminal records public in Dallas County?
Yes, most criminal records in Dallas County are public. Arrest logs, docket entries, and felony case files from 1990 onward are available at the public search portal or the Felony Records Desk. However, some records may be sealed by a judge and not accessible. Juvenile records are confidential. Certified copies are used for background checks, employment, or legal matters. Always bring ID when requesting records. Fees apply for copies. The District Clerk maintains these files and can assist with questions.
https://www.dallascounty.org/government/county-clerk/ https://dallascounty.org/government/district-clerk/