DeKalb County Court

DeKalb County Court is the main resource for all county-level judicial services in DeKalb County. It provides residents and legal professionals with access to case records, court services, e‑filing, and official court contact information. Whether handling civil disputes, criminal matters, probate cases, or family court issues, the court supports organized and accessible legal processes. The court also offers public resources to help users understand filing procedures, court fees, and available forms. Its services are designed to make legal procedures straightforward and clear for everyone.

Serving as a central hub for local legal needs, DeKalb County Court offers tools to check court schedules, track case progress, and submit filings online. From traffic cases and small claims to estate administration and family hearings, the court helps people manage legal matters efficiently while keeping important information clear and available. Visitors can contact court staff for assistance or find detailed instructions for attending hearings. The court’s website and office services work together to provide timely and accurate support for all users.

DeKalb County Court System Explained

DeKalb County offers a structured judicial system that handles civil, criminal, probate, and juvenile matters efficiently. The county’s courthouse divisions work together to provide fair hearings and clear resolutions for residents and legal professionals.

The DeKalb County judicial services include several court jurisdictions, each responsible for specific types of cases:

• Magistrate Court: Handles initial appearances, arrest warrants, bail hearings, and minor criminal matters. This division ensures that due process begins promptly for all individuals entering the legal system.
• State Court: Oversees misdemeanor criminal cases, traffic violations, and civil claims involving moderate financial amounts. It also handles certain administrative functions like issuing restraining orders.
• Superior Court: Responsible for felony criminal cases, major civil disputes, and appeals from lower courts. It serves as the primary court for high-stakes legal matters.
• Probate Court: Focuses on wills, estates, guardianships, and conservatorships. This judicial division ensures that estate matters are settled according to Georgia law.
• Juvenile Court: Deals with cases involving minors, including delinquency, dependency, and child protection matters. It works closely with social services to support children and families.
• Specialty Divisions (if applicable): Some courthouses maintain divisions for traffic, family, or small claims cases, providing a more focused approach to specific legal needs.

By centralizing information on courthouse divisions and judicial divisions, DeKalb County judicial services make it easier for the public to identify which court handles each type of legal matter. Clear explanations of court jurisdictions help residents, attorneys, and community members save time and avoid confusion when seeking assistance.

Why a Centralized DeKalb County Court Website Matters

DeKalb County’s official court information is often spread across multiple websites, which can make it hard for residents to find what they need. A unified homepage brings all judicial divisions together in one place, reducing confusion and streamlining the process for everyone.

Benefits include:

• Faster access to records: Users can quickly locate case filings, court dates, or contact information without switching between sites.
• Clarity on court responsibilities: Each court jurisdiction is clearly listed with its functions, helping users understand which court handles specific matters.
• Time savings: By consolidating links, forms, and instructions, users spend less time searching and more time taking action.
• Reduced errors: Confusion about which division to contact can lead to missed deadlines or misfiled paperwork. A central homepage prevents these issues.

A single point of entry for DeKalb County judicial services simplifies the user experience and improves accessibility. Residents, legal professionals, and community members benefit from a consistent layout and clear information across all courthouse divisions.

How to Search for Records

First, explain how a person can search and what information they must enter.
Then explain which websites they can use, plus the fees for copies, downloads, or documents.

Below is the full English version you asked for.

How to Search Step

1. Go to the official court website where the county provides its case lookup tools.
2. Choose your search method, such as:
   • Name of the person
   • Case number
   • Citation or ticket number
   • Driver’s license number
   • Vehicle tag
   • Date range
   • Court type (civil, criminal, traffic, etc.)
3. Enter the details in the search fields.
4. Check the results and open the matching case.
5. If needed, request copies, downloads, or certified documents from the clerk’s office.

Key Sites / Courts for DeKalb County — Contact, Services & Fees

Court Services — What We Provide

DeKalb County Court offers a wide range of services to support residents, attorneys, and businesses with legal processes. These services make it easier to manage court matters, access records, and handle payments efficiently.

Case / Records Search

Residents can quickly locate court cases and public records through the court’s online system. This includes searching the court docket, submitting a records request, or performing a case search. Users can access information on past and current cases, helping with research or legal preparation.
Case Search:

• Court Records & Public Records Search: Find official filings, judgments, and court documents.
• Court Docket: Check daily or weekly court schedules.
• Records Request: Submit requests for certified copies of case files.

E‑Filing & Online Filing

Electronic filing simplifies the submission of court documents. Attorneys and self-represented parties can use e‑filing or online case filing to submit forms safely and efficiently. The system reduces in-person visits and ensures timely document processing.
E‑File Portal:

• Submit Case Documents: File petitions, motions, or other legal documents electronically.
• Track Filing Status: Monitor your submitted documents in real time.

Online Payments

Paying fines, fees, and traffic tickets is straightforward with online payment options. The system supports paying traffic tickets, paying fines, and court fees, saving time and avoiding late penalties.
Pay Online:

• Traffic Tickets: Resolve citations quickly from home.
• Court Fees & Fines: Securely pay using debit, credit, or e-check.
• Payment History: Access records of prior payments.

Court Forms

DeKalb County Court provides electronic forms and downloadable PDF forms for a variety of legal matters. Forms cover filings for civil, criminal, probate, and family cases.
Forms:

• Downloadable Court Forms: Fill out forms offline and submit electronically.
• PDF Forms: Official court forms ready for printing or e‑submission.

Court Calendars & Dockets

Stay informed about upcoming hearings and case schedules using the court’s calendar and docket system. This includes access to docket PDFs, case schedules, and hearing dates.
Court Calendar:

• Daily & Weekly Schedules: See which cases are being heard each day.
• Hearing Notifications: Plan attendance or attorney preparation.
• Case Updates: Monitor changes in hearing times or courtroom assignments.

Record Requests, Archives & Transcripts

For historical or detailed records, residents can request archive records, transcripts, or public records. The court maintains a secure process for retrieving official documents.
Request Records:

• Transcript Requests: Obtain official court hearing transcripts.
• Archived Records: Access older case files stored in court archives.
• Public Record Requests: Submit formal requests for certified documents.

Pre‑trial, Probation & Court Services

DeKalb County Court provides probation, pre-trial services, and community restitution programs. These services support case management and rehabilitation for individuals under court supervision.
Court Services:

• Probation Department: Manage probation requirements and reporting schedules.
• Pre-Trial Services: Evaluate and support defendants before trial.
• Community Restitution Programs: Opportunities to fulfill court-mandated community service.

Each service is designed to make court interactions more efficient and transparent. By offering online tools, payment options, and accessible records, DeKalb County Court ensures that the public can engage with the legal system effectively.

Court Divisions & Their Jurisdiction

DeKalb County has multiple court divisions, each handling specific types of cases. Knowing which court manages a matter helps residents resolve legal issues efficiently.

Magistrate Court

The Magistrate Court handles civil, criminal, and ordinance matters in DeKalb County. It oversees cases such as small claims, dispossessory actions, garnishments, landlord-tenant disputes, and bad checks. The court also issues warrants for arrests or property seizures and deals with minor criminal misdemeanors and ordinance violations.

Civil matters heard in the Magistrate’s Court usually involve lower monetary claims. Dispossessory cases allow landlords to recover property in eviction situations, while garnishments help creditors collect unpaid debts. Landlord-tenant disputes, bad checks, and ordinance violations are also common. Magistrate Court provides a faster, simpler process for these types of legal matters.

Locations:

• Civil Matters: 556 N. McDonough Street, 2nd Floor, Room 230, Decatur, GA 30030
• Criminal / Ordinance Matters: 3630 Camp Circle, Decatur, GA 30032

Residents often use the Magistrate Court for everyday legal concerns because of its accessibility and straightforward procedures.

State Court

State Court in DeKalb County addresses civil cases beyond the scope of the Magistrate Court and handles misdemeanor criminal cases. This court also manages traffic-related offenses, including DUI cases. The State Court is divided into Division A and Division B, with Division B often focusing on traffic matters.

Key responsibilities include:

• Civil cases with claims above the magistrate’s limit
• Misdemeanor offenses
• Traffic citations and DUI cases
• General civil and criminal jurisdiction
• Special divisions, such as traffic court

The State Court locations are:

• DeKalb County Courthouse: 556 N. McDonough Street, Decatur, GA 30030
• State Court Division B (Traffic): Camp Circle Complex

Online services provided by the State Court include:

• Case search for civil and criminal matters
• E-filing of legal documents
• Forms for civil claims, traffic citations, and misdemeanors
• Traffic ticket payment

By offering digital access, the State Court helps residents manage legal responsibilities efficiently without unnecessary court visits.

Superior Court

Superior Court handles serious civil and criminal cases, including felonies and jury trials. It also oversees family law matters, land and real estate disputes, domestic relations, and appeals from lower courts. This court plays a central role in safeguarding property rights, resolving high-stakes disputes, and maintaining the legal process for complex cases.

Typical matters include:

• Felony criminal cases and jury trials
• Civil cases with high monetary claims
• Family law cases, such as divorce or custody disputes
• Land records and real estate disputes
• Appeals from Magistrate or State Court

The Clerk of Superior Court manages records, land transactions, transfer taxes, and filings related to estates or real property. This office ensures that legal documents are preserved and publicly accessible.

Probate Court & Juvenile Court

Probate Court oversees legal matters like wills, estates, guardianships, and marriage licenses. It ensures proper estate administration and may issue firearms licenses in some counties. This court focuses on non-jury proceedings and provides legal oversight for personal matters requiring formal documentation.

Juvenile Court handles cases involving minors, including delinquency, dependency, and other juvenile offenses. It also addresses family law matters affecting children, emphasizing protection and rehabilitation rather than punishment. Both courts specialize in cases that require careful attention and a structured approach.

How to Use the Court — Step

Using DeKalb County Court involves clear steps for filing cases, paying fines, requesting records, and checking hearing schedules. Knowing what to do at each stage can save time and prevent mistakes.

Filing a Case Civil / Criminal / Traffic

Filing a case at DeKalb County Court can be done online through the e-file system or in person at the courthouse. Civil, criminal, and traffic cases are handled in separate court divisions, and each requires specific forms and fees.

For civil cases, a complaint form must be completed and submitted either online or at the clerk’s office. Criminal charges are typically initiated by the state, but individuals may need to file related motions or documents. Traffic citations can often be filed electronically, which is faster and avoids a trip to the courthouse. Filing fees vary by case type, so it is important to check the current fee schedule on the court’s website. After filing, the court provides a case number and outlines the next steps, such as scheduled hearings or required notices.

Paying Fines / Traffic Tickets / Court Costs

DeKalb County Court offers online payment options for traffic tickets, fines, and court costs. Paying promptly avoids late fees and keeps your record clear.

How to pay fines:

• Online payment: Visit the official court website, enter your ticket or case number, and pay using a credit or debit card.
• In-person payment: Payments can be made at the clerk’s office using cash, check, or card.
• By mail: Send a check or money order with your citation number to the court.

Key points:

• Keep the receipt for your records.
• Court fees vary depending on the offense or case type.
• Some payments can be split into installments if approved by the court.

Requesting Court Records or Transcripts

Anyone can request court records, transcripts, or judgment copies from DeKalb County Court. This includes archived records from past cases or current proceedings.

How to request records:

1. Identify the type of record: Options include transcripts, public records, or judgment copies.
2. Complete a request form: Forms are available online or at the court clerk’s office.
3. Submit the request: You can submit in person, by mail, or sometimes online, depending on the record type.
4. Pay applicable fees: Fees vary based on the document type and number of pages.
5. Receive the records: Copies are typically mailed or provided digitally.

Checking Court Calendar / Dockets / Hearing Dates

DeKalb County Court provides a court calendar and docket PDFs to keep the public informed about upcoming hearings. The docket lists key details such as the parties involved, the judge assigned, the court division, and the hearing time.

Residents and attorneys can check the schedule online to confirm hearing dates or view a full case list for a specific day. Docket PDFs are updated regularly, making it easy to plan and ensure attendance. For ongoing cases, contacting the clerk’s office directly can clarify any updates or changes in the schedule. Regularly reviewing the court calendar helps avoid missed hearings and ensures proper preparation.

Court Locations & Contact

DeKalb County Court maintains multiple courthouse locations to serve different types of cases. Each location provides contact information, office hours, and details about which court divisions operate there.

Notes on Divisions and Uses

• The Administrative Tower at 556 N. McDonough Street hosts State Court Division A, Magistrate Civil Court, and many clerk functions, including civil suits, dispossessory, and accounting.
• The Camp Circle Courthouse Complex serves State Court Division B, DUI Court, and Magistrate Court – Criminal / Ordinance matters.
• The Marshal’s Office handles enforcement of court orders such as garnishments and property levies.

Virtual Court / Remote Hearing Option

Certain cases may be heard through virtual court using a Zoom courtroom. Remote hearings allow participants who cannot attend in person to participate safely.

(FAQ) About DeKalb County Court

DeKalb County residents often have questions about court procedures, records, and payments. This FAQ provides clear answers to the most common concerns.

Which court should I file my case in?

The type of court depends on the case you want to file. Magistrate courts handle minor offenses and preliminary hearings, state courts manage misdemeanors and smaller civil disputes, and superior courts deal with serious criminal cases, major civil matters, and family law issues. Residents can contact the Clerk of Court to confirm jurisdiction and filing requirements, which helps ensure their case goes to the correct court from the start.

How do I find out if I have a warrant?

Anyone can check for active warrants through the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office or by contacting the Clerk of Court. Many warrant records are also accessible online through the case search portal. It is important to act quickly if a warrant exists, as ignoring it could lead to additional legal complications. Residents should have personal details like their full name and date of birth ready when making inquiries.

Can I pay a traffic ticket online?

Most traffic tickets in DeKalb County can be paid online using the official traffic court portal. Online payments help residents avoid waiting in lines and guarantee that fines are processed promptly. Users simply need to enter the ticket number and personal information, complete the payment, and keep the receipt for their records. This method is convenient and secure, making it a preferred option for many.

How do I get a copy of my court records?

Court records, including civil, criminal, and traffic files, can be requested from the Clerk of Court. Many records are available through the online case search tool, while others may require in-person or mailed requests. Some records may be restricted due to privacy laws, but the Clerk’s Office staff can provide guidance on what is accessible and the appropriate procedure to obtain a copy.

What are the hours of the Clerk’s Office?

The DeKalb County Clerk’s Office is generally open Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., excluding holidays. While most in-person services operate during these hours, residents can often access online tools, such as case search and document requests, at any time. Checking the official website or calling the clerk’s phone number ensures accurate and updated information.