DeKalb County Public Records

DeKalb public records are official documents maintained by the county that provide information on legal, property, and personal matters. These public files are accessible to residents, researchers, and professionals for purposes such as legal work, genealogical research, background checks, and property investigations. They include court records, vital statistics, property deeds, and business filings, offering a reliable source of verified information for anyone who needs it.

Counties like DeKalb uphold transparency through open-records laws, allowing the public to access and review official documents. The DeKalb County Court provides a central point for obtaining case information, court dockets, and other official filings. This section covers the main types of records, how to perform a record search, potential fees, and tips for efficiently finding the information needed in both current and archived public files. Accessing these records helps ensure accurate research, informed decisions, and a clear view of historical or ongoing legal and property matters.

What are the Public Records in DeKalb County

Public records in DeKalb County are official documents created or received by government offices that are generally available to the public. These public files, including court records, case files, and court archives, provide transparency and support civic accountability.

In DeKalb County, public records cover a wide range of information. Examples include:

• Court records and case files: Civil, criminal, probate, and family court documents maintained by the Clerk of Court.
• Vital records: Birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates held by the Department of Vital Records.
• Property and land records: Deeds, mortgages, and liens stored at the Clerk’s Office.
• Government reports and meeting minutes: Official reports, resolutions, and council minutes.

Certain records may be restricted to protect privacy, safety, or ongoing investigations. These include juvenile cases, adoption files, and sensitive law enforcement reports. Custodians determine availability according to Georgia’s open-records laws, ensuring transparency while balancing confidentiality.

Custodians and Court Archives

Each type of record in DeKalb County is managed by a designated custodian. Key offices include:

• Clerk of Court / Clerk’s Office: Maintains case files, court dockets, and court archives.
• Vital Records Office: Handles birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates.
• County Recorder or Assessor: Holds property deeds, liens, and tax-related documents.
• Specialized departments: Some agencies manage permits, licenses, or government contracts.

Court archives are organized to support long-term preservation and efficient retrieval. Citizens can request copies or review case files following each office’s procedures, fees, and access rules.

How to Search or Request Public Records in DeKalb County

Searching for public records in DeKalb County starts with knowing exactly where and how to look. Residents can use both online systems and in-person requests, depending on the type and age of the records.

Step Record Search

1. Identify the record type: Determine whether you need court documents, property deeds, marriage or divorce certificates, or vital records.
2. Gather necessary information: Include names, case numbers, property addresses, or dates to make the search faster.
3. Choose the search method: Online portals are best for recent records, while older or archived records may require in-person or mail requests.
4. Perform the search: Enter the information into the search field or request form. Review the results and select the document needed.
5. Request copies: Decide whether you need a regular copy for personal use or a certified copy for legal purposes.

Websites to Access Records

DeKalb County provides official online portals to simplify record searches:

• dksuperiorclerk.com: The main Clerk’s Office portal for searching and requesting documents.
• e-Certification Portal: Ideal for obtaining certified copies of court records, property deeds, and vital records.
• e-File System: Allows electronic submission of legal documents for eligible users.
• Public Access Terminal (PAT): Lets users search records in real time from home or designated public terminals.

These platforms provide access to records primarily from 2012 onward. For older or archived records, the Clerk’s Office must be contacted directly.

Costs to Check and Obtain Records

Fees for records in DeKalb County depend on the type of document and whether you need a regular or certified copy. Payment can be made online or by mail using a money order, cashier’s check, or approved online methods.

In-Person or Mail Requests for Older or Non-Digitized Records

When records are not available online:

• Visit the Clerk’s Office: DeKalb County Court 5565 Memorial Drive Stone Mountain, GA 30083 Phone: (404) 371-2840 Complete an archive request form for older documents and pay applicable fees.
• Mail Request:
  Fill out the mail request form from dksuperiorclerk.com, include payment, and a self-addressed stamped envelope. Processing can take 7–14 business days.
• Appointments for Archived Records: Older files may require warehouse retrieval and scheduled appointments to view in person.

Types of Public Records Available in DeKalb County

DeKalb County maintains a wide variety of public records that serve legal, personal, and research purposes. These records range from court cases and property documents to vital statistics and historical archives, each offering important information for residents, professionals, and researchers.

Accessing these records can help verify legal matters, track property ownership, or confirm vital events such as births, marriages, and deaths. Below is an overview of the main types of records available and what they typically include.

Court Records & Case Files

Court records in DeKalb County include documents from criminal, civil, misdemeanor, and traffic cases. Also referred to as case files, criminal records, or civil records, these files provide detailed information about legal proceedings within the county. These records include filings, motions, judgments, and sentencing details. Criminal case files cover arrests, charges, and court outcomes, while civil records document disputes such as lawsuits, property claims, or contract issues. Traffic violations and misdemeanor cases are also part of these files.

Court records are frequently used by attorneys for case preparation, by employers or landlords for background checks, and by individuals wanting to confirm the outcome of a legal matter. Many of these records are accessible online through the DeKalb County Clerk’s office, though some sensitive files may have restricted access to protect privacy.

Court Dockets & Calendars

Court dockets provide a schedule of past and upcoming court events, including hearings, trials, and case deadlines. They are also known as case schedules, docket searches, or court calendars.

Included information:

• Dates and times for hearings and trials
• Case numbers and parties involved
• Courtroom assignments and judge information

Property & Real Estate Records

DeKalb County maintains detailed property and real estate records, which include ownership history, liens, and land documents. These are often referred to as property records, real estate records, land records, or public files.

Included information:

• Deeds, mortgages, and liens
• Plats and subdivision maps
• UCC filings related to property
• Transfer of ownership and title history

Vital Records: Birth, Death, Marriage, Divorce

Vital records in DeKalb County provide official proof of key life events. Also referred to as birth certificates, death certificates, marriage records, divorce records, or public files, these documents are essential for legal and personal purposes.

Birth certificates record the details of newborns, while death certificates provide information for estate and legal matters. Marriage licenses and divorce decrees document the formation or dissolution of marriages. These records are commonly used for genealogy research, legal verification, or government services. Access is typically limited to family members or legal representatives to protect privacy.

Archived Records & Historical Court Archives

Historical documents in DeKalb County are preserved as archived records or court archives, often including files created before digital recordkeeping. These archives contain older civil and criminal case files, historical property deeds, and other long-term records.

Researchers, genealogists, and attorneys use archived records to trace property ownership, investigate past legal cases, or study historical events in the county. Access usually requires an archive request through the courthouse, and some records may only be available for viewing on-site. These archives provide a window into the county’s legal and property history.

Other Government Records / Departmental Public Files

DeKalb County departments maintain additional public records, often called government documents, public files, or open records requests. These records vary by department and may include contracts, procurement reports, public health records, zoning documents, and meeting minutes.

These files are important for transparency and accountability. Businesses, researchers, and residents can use them to verify contracts, review departmental actions, or track public spending. Many records can be requested online or through formal open records requests, depending on the department.

Step: How to Perform a Record Search or Request

Performing a record search in DeKalb County is straightforward once the type of record and the correct office are identified. Users can quickly access court case files, property deeds, vital records, or archived records by following a structured process.

Define the Record Needed

The first step is identifying the exact record type. Common records include:

• Court Case Files – criminal, civil, or probate case documents
• Property Deeds and Real Estate Records – ownership, liens, or transfers
• Vital Records – birth, death, marriage, or divorce certificates
• Archived Records – older or historical documents not available online

Knowing the record type helps determine which office or system handles the request and what method is suitable.

Identify the Appropriate Custodian

Different records are maintained by specific offices. For example:

• Court Records – Clerk of Court or District Court
• Property Deeds – County Recorder or Property Records Office
• Vital Records – Health Department or Vital Records Division
• Archived Records – County Archives or Historical Records Department

Users should reference the office directory or prior sections of the page to ensure they contact the right custodian.

Determine the Method of Request

Records can be accessed online, by mail, or in person:

• Online Access – Many records are available via e-certification portals or e-file systems. This allows instant digital retrieval of certificates, deeds, or case summaries.
• Mail Requests – Users can submit a mail request or an archive request form for certified copies. Include all required information and payment.
• In-Person Access – Some documents, especially archived files, require visiting a public access terminal (PAT) at the office. Staff can guide retrieval and certify copies if needed.

Choosing the right method depends on convenience, urgency, and whether a certified copy is required.

Prepare Required Information and Fees

Before submitting a request, gather essential details:

• Identifiers – full name, case number, property address, date range, or certificate type
• Forms – official request forms or archive request forms
• Fees – may include a per-page fee, certified copy fee, or standard administrative fee
• Payment Methods – credit card, check, money order, or in-person cash

Providing complete information ensures faster processing and reduces the chance of delays.

Submit Request and Wait

Once the request is ready:

1. Submit through the chosen method (online, mail, in-person).
2. Offices generally acknowledge requests within three business days per open-records policies.
3. Response time may vary for archived or complex records, but basic court, property, and vital records are often delivered faster.

Users should track confirmation emails or receipts for reference.

Receiving Your Records

Records may be delivered in several ways:

• Digital Copy – Instant download or email if using e-certification portals
• Mail Delivery – Certified copies sent via postal service
• In-Person Pickup – Some offices allow personal retrieval, often needed for archived or notarized copies

If the record is archived or offline, staff will provide instructions to schedule retrieval or request certified copies. Always check the document’s certification status if it will be used for legal purposes.

Quick Reference Table

Custodians & Where Different Records Are Maintained

DeKalb County public records are held in different offices depending on the type of document, and knowing the correct custodian helps users submit requests efficiently and receive accurate information.

Superior Court / Clerk of Superior Court

The Superior Court manages civil cases, land records, and long-term archives, including deeds, mortgages, property transfers, and historical case files. The Clerk of Court oversees the organization and maintenance of these records, ensuring accurate access and retrieval. This office preserves older civil and property records that are often not available online, and it provides official documentation for legal, research, or personal purposes, allowing users to access both current and archived case files efficiently.

State Court / Magistrate Court / Recorder Court (Defunct)

The State Court and Magistrate Court handle minor criminal cases, traffic case records, misdemeanors, and small civil claims, including cases transferred from the now-defunct Recorder Court. These offices maintain case files for traffic violations, ordinance infractions, and past municipal matters, allowing users to obtain detailed information about proceedings, court rulings, or historical records from older Recorder Court files.

Probate Court / Vital Records Office

The Probate Court and Vital Records Office are responsible for personal status documents, such as birth certificates, marriage licenses, divorce decrees, and death certificates. Residents seeking certified copies for legal, genealogical, or personal purposes can request records here, with the offices maintaining secure, organized files and providing a clear process for obtaining vital records accurately and efficiently.

Other Departments / County Offices

Non-judicial departmental records are maintained by various county offices, covering items such as procurement contracts, public health reports, and sanitation inspections. These public files are generally accessible through an open records request, allowing residents to obtain necessary documentation directly from the responsible department while ensuring records remain properly organized and available for review.

Fees, Payment Methods, and Practical Costs

Obtaining public records in DeKalb County involves modest fees that vary by record type. Costs depend on whether the request is for real estate documents, court records, or vital records, and payment methods are flexible to meet standard procedures.

Real Estate and Land Records Costs

DeKalb County charges fees for copies of property and land records, often based on the document type and format:

• Certified copies of deeds or mortgages: Typically $1–$5 per page, plus a certification fee of around $5–$10.
• Plat maps or survey copies: Usually $5–$15 each, depending on size and complexity.
• Regular photocopies: Often $0.50–$1 per page for standard documents.

These records can be requested in person at the Clerk’s office or via postal mail requests, with additional charges for shipping if mailed. Including a pre-paid return envelope ensures faster processing.

Court Document Fees

Court documents in DeKalb County include civil, probate, and criminal records. Typical costs include:

• Certified copies of judgments, orders, or settlement agreements: $5–$10 per page.
• Civil case filings or motions: $1–$5 per page, depending on document length.
• Search fees: Some requests for case history may include a nominal fee of $2–$5.

Requesters using postal mail should provide a money order or cashier’s check made payable to the correct Clerk’s office. Including the full case name and number helps avoid delays.

Vital Records Costs

Vital records include birth certificates, death certificates, and marriage licenses:

• Birth and death certificates: $12–$25 per certified copy.
• Marriage licenses or certificates: $15–$30, depending on the issuance date and type.
• Copies requested by mail usually require a money order or personal check, with return postage provided by the requester.

Payment Methods and Best Practices

DeKalb County accepts several payment options for mailed or in-person requests:

• Money orders (most reliable for postal requests)
• Cashier’s checks
• Personal checks (must include proper payee details)

Tips for smooth processing:

1. Make payments payable to the exact name of the Clerk’s office.
2. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope if submitting a postal mail request.
3. Clearly specify the type of record, date, and any reference numbers.

Following these steps ensures records are processed without delays and keeps costs transparent. Proper preparation can prevent repeated trips or additional charges.

Court and Public Records Locations in DeKalb County

Here is where to go — and what to do — when looking for public records in DeKalb County, Georgia.

Clerk of Superior Court – civil, property, archived records

• Address: DeKalb County Courthouse, 556 North McDonough Street, Ground Floor, Decatur, GA 30030
• Phone: (404) 371‑2836
• Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

DeKalb County State Court / Magistrate Court – criminal, traffic, misdemeanor, civil case files

• Main Civil & Criminal (Misdemeanor) Court Address: DeKalb County Courthouse, 556 North McDonough Street, 2nd Floor, Administrative Tower, Decatur, GA 30030
• Phone (civil/criminal): (404) 371‑2261
• Traffic / Magistrate Court Address: 3630 Camp Circle, Decatur, GA 30032
• Phone (traffic/magistrate): (404) 294‑2099
• Office Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday (except holidays)

This office keeps civil and misdemeanor criminal case files, traffic cases, code‑enforcement records, garnishments, dispossessory (eviction) actions, and general courtroom case histories.

DeKalb County Probate Court / Vital Records – births, deaths, marriages, divorces

• Address: 556 North McDonough Street, 1100 Judicial Tower, Decatur, GA 30030
• Phone: (404) 371‑2601
• Records‑Request Phone / Email: (404) 371‑2701
• Hours: By appointment only, Monday–Friday. Typically 8:00 a.m.–11:30 a.m. and then 12:30 p.m.–4:00 p.m.

This court handles vital records requests: certified copies of birth, death, marriage certificates, as well as divorce decrees (for divorces filed within the court).

(FAQs) About Public Records

DeKalb public records include official files maintained by county offices that are available for public access. These records cover court cases, property information, vital records, and archived files, and they can usually be requested online, in person, or by mail.

What are DeKalb public records?

DeKalb public records are official documents maintained by the county that anyone can request under the law. They include court records such as civil, criminal, and traffic cases, property and land documents including deeds and liens, vital records like birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates, and older archived files. The term “public” means these documents are generally accessible to all, though some personal information may be restricted or redacted for privacy. Accessing these public files allows residents, researchers, and professionals to verify legal, personal, or property information efficiently.

How can I search for court records in DeKalb County?

Court records in DeKalb County can be searched using online portals provided by the Clerk of Superior Court, which offer access to both recent and archived case files. Individuals can request certified copies electronically or visit the Clerk’s office in person to review case files or court archives. Mail requests are also accepted for those unable to visit in person, and they typically require a detailed description of the case and payment of applicable fees. Using keywords like “case files,” “record search,” and “court archives” can help locate specific documents more quickly.

Where can I find property and land records in DeKalb County?

Property and land records are maintained by the DeKalb County Clerk of Superior Court. These records include deeds, mortgages, liens, and land surveys, providing an official history of property ownership and transactions. Residents can access many property records through online search tools, which allow queries by owner name or parcel number, or they can visit the Clerk’s office to view physical files. Certified copies are available for a fee, and these documents are often required for legal or real estate purposes.

How do I get vital records like birth, death, marriage, or divorce certificates?

Vital records in DeKalb County are held by different offices depending on the type of record. Birth and death certificates are issued by the Vital Records Office, while marriage and divorce certificates are maintained by the Superior Court. Requests typically require valid identification, the person’s full name, and the date of the event. These records can be obtained online, in person, or by mail, and certified copies usually carry a small fee. Having the correct information ready helps speed up the process and ensures accurate retrieval.

Are there fees to obtain public records in DeKalb County?

Yes, obtaining public records in DeKalb County usually involves a fee, which varies depending on the type of record and whether a certified copy is requested. Standard copies of records may cost a few dollars per page, while certified copies required for legal or official purposes are higher. Payment methods commonly accepted include cash, checks, and credit or debit cards. It is helpful to check the specific office’s website for current fees before submitting a request to avoid delays.