The DeKalb County Clerk of Court manages court records, civil and criminal filings, traffic cases, and public document requests. This office serves as the official point of contact for anyone needing certified copies, case information, or filing assistance in DeKalb County. It also handles real estate filings, name changes, and family-law matters, ensuring the public has accurate and timely access to official records.
Visitors can find main phone numbers, email contacts, office addresses, and hours for the State Court Clerk, Magistrate Court Clerk, and Superior Court Clerk. The DeKalb County Court Clerk’s Office also provides guidance on fees, document certifications, and case searches. Scroll down for details on available services, filing procedures, and instructions for requesting records efficiently.
Which Courts Does “Clerk of Court DeKalb” Cover?
The term “Clerk of Court DeKalb” can refer to multiple courts depending on the type of case. It includes state courts, magistrate courts, and the superior court, each with its own clerk handling specific divisions like civil, criminal, and traffic matters.
State & Magistrate Courts
The State Court Clerk’s Office handles civil and criminal cases within DeKalb County’s state court system. This includes matters such as civil lawsuits, traffic violations, and misdemeanor criminal cases. The main courthouse is located at:
Key Points at a Glance
| Court Type | Clerk Office | Typical Cases | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| State Court | State Court Clerk | Civil lawsuits, traffic violations, misdemeanors | 556 N. McDonough St. |
| Magistrate Court | Magistrate Court Clerk | Small claims, minor civil disputes, ordinance violations | 556 N. McDonough St. / 3630 Camp Circle |
| Superior Court | Superior Court Clerk | Felonies, family law, probate, major civil cases | 556 N. McDonough St. |
By covering these courts, the Clerk of Court DeKalb ensures residents can file, track, and manage a wide range of legal matters efficiently.
How to Search Court Records & Case Information in DeKalb County
Searching for court records in DeKalb County is simple when you know the correct process. Users can find case information online or in person, using the official Clerk of Court resources.
How to Search Court Records
To start a court records search, users should know the type of case they are looking for.
DeKalb County allows searches for:
- Civil cases – lawsuits between individuals or businesses
- Criminal cases – offenses filed by the state
- Traffic cases – tickets, violations, and hearings
- Magistrate cases – initial hearings and minor matters
Records can be searched by:
- Case number – fastest method for exact matches
- Party name – enter full names carefully to avoid missing records
- Date filed – narrow results to a specific time range
Tips for accurate searching:
- Always check spelling for names and case details
- Use available filters to limit results by case type or court division
- Review the court docket to track filings, hearings, and orders
Where to View Records
Users can access records through multiple channels:
- Online via the Official Case Search Portal – Free to view, fees may apply for downloads or certified copies
- In-Person at the Clerk of Court Office – Available for all records, including those not online
Visiting in person requires:
- Valid photo ID
- Case number or party names
- Completed record request form
Cost of Accessing Records
Below is a reference for typical fees when obtaining DeKalb County court records:
| Access Method | Service | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Online Portal | Viewing records | Free |
| Online Portal | Downloading documents | $1–$2 per page |
| Clerk’s Office | Uncertified copies | $0.50–$1 per page |
| Clerk’s Office | Certified copies | $5–$10 per document |
| Certified Copies | Expedited processing | Additional $5–$10 |
Certified copies are official and carry the clerk’s seal, often required for legal, business, or government purposes. Uncertified copies are for personal reference or review.
What Services the Clerk’s Office Provides: Case Filings, Records, e‑Filing, etc.
The DeKalb County Clerk of Court offers a range of services that support the legal system and provide the public with access to court information. These services include case filings, maintaining court records, e‑Filing, and handling payments for traffic citations and fines.
Case Filing and Court Divisions
The Clerk’s Office handles the filing of civil, criminal, traffic, magistrate, and ordinance cases. Civil cases cover disputes, contracts, and small claims, while criminal cases include misdemeanor and felony charges. Traffic court manages citations and violations, and the Magistrate or State Court may oversee garnishments, dispossessory/eviction filings, and ordinance violations, ensuring every case is officially recorded.
Court Records and Public Access
The office maintains court records and dockets for civil, criminal, traffic, dispossessory, and garnishment cases. Residents and legal professionals can perform case searches, view court calendars, and request certified copies. The Clerk’s Office also offers online services to track case status, review dockets, and submit records requests, making public records access fast and reliable.
e‑Filing and Electronic Submissions
Many civil and criminal cases can be submitted electronically using e‑Filing portals, such as e‑File GA. This system allows attorneys and self-represented parties to file documents securely, receive confirmation, and track submissions without visiting the courthouse. e‑Filing simplifies document management and speeds up the legal process.
Payments for Traffic and Fines
The Clerk’s Office processes payments for traffic citations, probation fees, and misdemeanor fines. Payments can be made in person, by mail, or through approved online portals. The Traffic Court division ensures that all payments are recorded accurately, helping citizens avoid late fees or other penalties.
Garnishments, Evictions, and Small Claims
The office also handles garnishments, dispossessory filings, small claims, and ordinance violations. These services ensure that legal actions outside traditional civil and criminal cases are properly documented and managed, maintaining order in court operations and providing citizens with clear processes for filing or responding to cases.
How to Request Court Documents & Records
Requesting court documents in DeKalb County is straightforward for most members of the public. Anyone can request records that are part of public filings, except those that are sealed or restricted by law. Requests can be made online, by mail, or in person at the Clerk’s Office, depending on the type of case and availability of digital services.
Who Can Request Court Records
Public records are generally accessible to anyone, including attorneys, researchers, and private individuals. Certain case types, like juvenile cases, family law matters under protective orders, or sealed records, may not be available. Requesters should confirm eligibility before submitting a request to avoid delays.
Key points to remember:
- Public access: Most civil, criminal, traffic, and probate records.
- Restricted access: Sealed, expunged, or confidential cases.
- Identification: A valid ID may be required for some requests.
Online vs In-Person Requests
DeKalb County provides options for both digital and in-person record requests.
- Online Requests:
- Use the official case search portal if available.
- Fill out the record request form on the Clerk of Court website.
- Some records can be downloaded instantly or certified electronically.
- In-Person Requests:
- Visit the Clerk’s Office at the courthouse.
- Please bring the case number, the names of the parties involved, and your identification.
- Submit a request using the paper form for the State Court or Magistrate Court.
Fees and Payment Methods
Courts typically charge for document copies to cover administrative costs. For DeKalb County:
| Type of Copy | Fee |
|---|---|
| Standard Copy (per page) | $1.00 |
| Certified Copy | $5.00 |
Payment methods may include cash, money order, or other court-approved forms of payment. Check with the Clerk’s Office if unsure about acceptable methods.
Filing a Case / Submitting Documents – What You Need to Know
Filing a case or submitting documents in DeKalb County starts at the Clerk of Court’s office. Cases may be filed in person or through the e-Filing system, depending on the division and case type.
Where to File
File at the courthouse location that matches the case type. Common divisions include:
- State Court: Civil, misdemeanor criminal, traffic, DUI
- Magistrate Court: Small claims, warrants, certain civil matters
- Civil Division: Lawsuits, garnishment, eviction filings, and related actions
Main Office Address:
DeKalb County Courthouse
556 North McDonough Street
2nd Floor, Administrative Tower
Decatur, GA 30030
Secondary Location (for certain criminal and traffic matters):
Camp Circle Courthouse Complex
3630 Camp Circle
Decatur, GA 30032
Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Phone: +1 (404) 371-2261
DeKalb County Clerk of Court – Office Location
The DeKalb County Clerk of Court operates from two main sites in Decatur, Georgia. The primary courthouse sits on North McDonough Street, while a second location on Camp Circle handles traffic and misdemeanor services, and residents can use the Case Search to access court records, check case statuses, and track hearings online.
Main Address & Contact Info
| Division | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Clerk’s Office – Civil & General Services | 556 N. McDonough Street, Decatur, GA 30030 (Administrative Tower, 2nd Floor) | (404) 371-2261 |
| Traffic, Criminal Misdemeanor & Magistrate Services | 3630 Camp Circle, Decatur, GA 30032 | (404) 294-2099 |
What Each Location Handles
Each courthouse serves different case types, helping visitors reach the right office without confusion.
556 N. McDonough Street – Central Courthouse
- Civil filings
- Record requests
- Case file updates
- General clerk support
3630 Camp Circle – Camp Circle Court Complex
- Traffic citations
- Criminal misdemeanor matters
- Magistrate filings
- Courtroom check-ins for scheduled hearings
Hours & Entry Details
- Open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Visitors should bring a government-issued ID for filings, updates, or record lookups.
- Security screening is required at both buildings.
(FAQ) About the Clerk of Court
This section answers common questions about the DeKalb County Clerk of Court. Each response gives clear, helpful details so visitors know exactly where to go and what to expect.
How do I contact the DeKalb County Clerk of Court?
The Clerk’s office can be reached by phone, email, or by visiting one of the main courthouse locations. The primary phone number for general questions is 404-371-2261, and callers can ask to be transferred to the correct division. Criminal Court and State Court Traffic inquiries are often handled through 404-294-2099. The main office is located at 556 N. McDonough St., Decatur, GA 30030. Email contacts vary by division, so visitors usually benefit from calling first to confirm the correct address for record search requests, certified copy questions, or filing support.
What are the office hours?
The Clerk’s public counters operate Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The offices remain closed on weekends and county-recognized holidays. Since hours may shift during holiday weeks or severe weather closures, visitors often call ahead to confirm if a specific division is open. This helps reduce wait times, especially for filings, public records requests, and case inquiries.
How can someone request a copy of a court record or docket?
Record requests can be handled in person, by mail, or through the county’s available record search tools. To begin a request, the Clerk often needs basic case details such as the case number, party names, and the approximate filing year. Many records follow a per-page cost, and certified copy requests include an added certification fee. Mail-in requests usually include a check or money order and a return envelope. Providing complete information helps the Clerk locate the record faster and reduces back-and-forth communication.
Can a user request records online?
Many case types can be viewed through online court search tools that show docket updates, hearing dates, and recent filings. Some divisions may also support digital certification for certain documents. Older records or files stored in archives might require an in-person or written request, since not all materials appear in online databases. Visitors often use the online portal first, then contact the Clerk if they need expanded record search help.
How much does it cost to get a certified copy?
Certified copy costs vary, but most copies follow a standard per-page rate with an added fee for certification. In many cases, copy charges fall in the $0.50 to $1.00 range per page, with certification costing several dollars more. Fees differ by record type, so users often call the Clerk’s office to confirm the exact amount for civil records, criminal dispositions, marriage records, or older docket files. Staff can provide the correct total before someone pays in person or by mail.