Case Lookup gives a direct pathway to instant court records, status and details for anyone seeking case information online. By entering a case number, party name, attorney name or filing date, users can retrieve case record search results that include case details, case status, case history and the full case database entry. Whether the need is to find a civil lawsuit, criminal proceeding, family matter or probate filing, the system pulls case information from the appropriate court case lookup portal and displays the case record lookup results without unnecessary steps. This approach supports searches such as case lookup by number, case lookup by name, case lookup by attorney and court case lookup by filing date, ensuring that public court cases are accessible through a single interface. The platform also highlights how to look up a court case, how to check a court case status and how to find a court case outcome, delivering reliable data for legal professionals and the public alike.
Case Lookup also serves investigators who need to trace case activity across several jurisdictions, offering case lookup case records that span state, county and federal courts. By using case number lookup, party name search and attorney name filters, the system can compile a case history that shows filing dates, docket events and final dispositions. Users can perform a case record lookup online to see whether a case is active, pending, closed or disposed, and can even discover why a case might be sealed or unavailable. Common queries such as how to find a court case by name, how to find an attorney on a court case, how to find a case filing date or how to find a court case documents are answered through precise search fields. When a result returns no data, the system suggests checking case information updates, verifying the correct court division or trying a case lookup by case number to avoid missed records. This streamlined approach reduces confusion and supports accurate case status updates for any legal inquiry.
How to Search Case Lookup
Case Lookup gives you a fast way to find court records online. You can search by case number, party name, attorney name, filing date, or court division. The Palm Beach County Clerk of Courts maintains a public portal where you enter these details and see case status, case history, and party information. Results show data for civil, criminal, family, probate, juvenile, misdemeanor, felony, and traffic cases. You do not need an account to view basic case records.
Official Search Portal: https://www.mypalmbeachclerk.com/court-records/court-records-search
Steps to Search
- Open the official search portal listed above using your web browser.
- Select a search type such as case number, party name, attorney name, or filing date.
- Type your search term into the correct field and pick the right court division if asked.
- Press the search button to load the matching case records from the public database.
- Click on a case number to open the full case details, party list, and event history.
- Use the print or download option to save a copy of the case record for your files.
How to Look Up a Court Case
A court case lookup pulls public records from the clerk’s database and shows you matching results. You can run a search with one piece of data or several pieces at once. The system reads each field against indexed court records and returns the closest matches. You then click on a result to read the full case file. This method works for both recent filings and older archived cases.
Case Lookup by Case Number
Searching by case number gives you the fastest and most exact result. Each case has a unique case identifier that the court assigns at filing. You type the full case number into the search field, including any prefix letters or year codes. The system then shows that one case file with all linked documents and events. If you miss a digit, the search returns no results.
Case Lookup by Party Name
A party name search lets you find cases tied to a specific person or business. You type the last name first and then the first name, or you can type the full business name. The results list shows cases where that party served as plaintiff, defendant, petitioner, or respondent. You may see multiple cases if the party has more than one filing. Common names can return many matches, so check the case title and year to find the right one.
Case Lookup by Attorney Name
An attorney name search shows every case where a specific lawyer served as the attorney of record. You type the attorney’s full name or bar number into the search field. The results display cases across civil, criminal, family, and probate divisions. This lookup helps you track attorney activity, verify legal representation, or confirm a lawyer’s current caseload. You can click on any case to see the full attorney of record details.
Case Lookup by Filing Date
A filing date search lets you narrow results to a specific time window. You pick a start date and an end date using the calendar tool. The portal then shows every case filed during that range. This search type works well when you know roughly when a case started but not the case number. You can pair it with a party name or court division to reduce the result list.
Case Lookup by Court or Division
Each court division handles a specific case type, so selecting the right division narrows your search. Options include civil, criminal, family, probate, juvenile, and traffic courts. You pick a division from the dropdown menu before typing your search term. This filter removes cases from other divisions and speeds up your search. The system also shows the assigned judge and court location for each result.
Information Needed for a Case Lookup
Before you start a search, gather as many details as you can. Helpful data points include the case number, case title, filing date, party name, attorney name, case type, and court division. The more details you enter, the more exact your search results become. If you only know a person’s name, prepare to sort through possible matches. If you know a case number, you can skip the rest of the fields.
| Search Field | What You Enter | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Case Number | Full case identifier with year code | Quick lookup of one known case |
| Party Name | Last name, first name, or business name | Finding all cases tied to a person or company |
| Attorney Name | Full lawyer name or bar number | Tracking cases handled by a specific lawyer |
| Filing Date | Start and end date range | Locating cases filed during a set period |
| Court Division | Civil, criminal, family, probate, juvenile, traffic | Limiting results to a case category |
Case Lookup Results
Once your search finishes, the system returns a list of matching cases on screen. Each row in the result list shows a short summary of the case file. You click on any case number to open the full record. The full record holds the complete case history, party list, and event log. Results update often to reflect the latest court activity.
Case Number and Case Title
The case number is the main identifier for any court file. The case title shows the names of the parties involved and the case type. For example, a title might read “Smith v. Jones” or “State v. Brown.” The case number and title appear at the top of every page within the case file. You can use the case number to return to the same case later.
Party Names and Roles
The party section lists every person or business connected to the case. Each party entry shows the party name and party role, such as plaintiff, defendant, petitioner, or respondent. The system displays the role clearly so you can tell who filed the case and who responded. Parties appear in the order they were added to the docket. The section also shows related parties such as witnesses or third-party claimants.
Attorney Information
The attorney section shows the lawyer for each party. You see the attorney name, attorney of record, bar number, and contact details. The system also displays the representing attorney when one lawyer stands in for another. This section helps you verify who represents each side in a case. You can click the attorney name to see all other cases that lawyer handles.
Court and Assigned Judge
Each case record shows the court name, court division, and assigned judge. You see the branch location and the chamber number for the assigned judge. The system also shows the hearing schedule tied to that judge. If a judge changes during the case, the new name appears with the transfer date. This data helps you know which court to contact about a case.
Filing Date and Case Type
The filing date marks the day the court first received the case. The case type tells you the legal category, such as civil lawsuit, criminal proceeding, family matter, or probate filing. These two fields appear together on the summary page. The case type helps you confirm that you opened the right file. The filing date helps you sort cases when you search by date range.
Case Status
The case status field shows whether a case is active, pending, closed, disposed, or dismissed. This field updates as the court adds new events to the docket. You can check the status to see if a case is still moving through the system. The status label sits next to the case number on every page. Recent status changes appear in the case event log with the entry date.
Case Disposition
The case disposition shows the final outcome of a closed case. Common dispositions include judgment for plaintiff, judgment for defendant, dismissal, settlement, conviction, or acquittal. The disposition date appears next to the outcome. You can use this data to see how a case ended and whether the ruling is appealable. The system stores dispositions even after the case closes.
Case Information
Case information covers the full details stored in the court record. You see filing data, party data, event data, and document data. The system organizes these details into separate tabs on the case page. Each tab holds a different set of facts tied to the case. You can move between tabs without losing your place in the file.
Case Filing Details
Filing details show the exact paperwork submitted at the start of a case. The system displays the filing number, filing date, filing type, and filing party. You also see the filing fee amount and the clerk’s stamp. These details help you confirm the case has an official record on file. Filing details remain visible even after the case closes.
Charges and Allegations
For criminal cases, the charges and allegations section lists each charge filed by the state. You see the charge name, charge level, statute number, and a short description. For civil cases, the equivalent section shows the claims and allegations from the complaint. Each entry includes the date the charge was added. You can click on a charge to see related motions and hearings.
Claims and Issues
The claims and issues section appears on civil and family case files. Each claim has a short statement of the legal issue, the relief sought, and the amount in dispute. The system lists claims in the order they were filed. You can use this data to see what each side asked the court to decide. Claims remain part of the public record until the case closes.
Case Events and Proceedings
The events and proceedings section acts as a timeline for the case. Each entry shows the event date, event type, and short description. Common events include hearings, motions, filings, orders, and judgments. The system lists events from oldest to newest. You can filter the event list to show only hearings or only filings.
Orders and Judgments
The orders and judgments section lists every court ruling in the case. Each entry shows the document title, signed date, and judge name. You can open the document to read the full text. The system marks whether the order is final or subject to review. Final judgments appear with a special label so you can find them quickly.
Case Outcome
The case outcome field shows the final result of the case. For criminal cases, the outcome can be conviction, acquittal, or dismissal. For civil cases, the outcome can be judgment, settlement, or dismissal. The system also shows whether the case went to trial or settled before trial. This field updates once the court enters a final ruling.
Related Case Information
The related cases section shows other court files connected to the current case. You see parent cases, child cases, and consolidated cases. The system lists each related case with a short reason for the link. Related cases often share parties, attorneys, or legal issues. You can click on any related case to open its full record.
Case Status
Case status tells you where a case sits in the court process. The status changes as the court adds new events. You can check the status at any time using the case number. The system displays the status on the first page of the case record. Status labels follow standard court terminology.
Active Cases
An active case is one that the court is still processing. The parties can still file motions, and the court can still schedule hearings. The system marks active cases with an “Active” label. Active cases show recent events in the event log. You can track the case by checking the event log for updates.
Pending Cases
A pending case is one that is waiting for a court action. The case may be waiting for a hearing, a ruling, or a filing from one of the parties. The system marks pending cases with a “Pending” label. The event log shows the last action taken and the next scheduled date. Pending cases can move to active, closed, or disposed status.
Closed Cases
A closed case has reached the end of its court process. The court has entered a final order, and no more events will be added. The system marks closed cases with a “Closed” label. You can still read the case file, but no new filings will appear. Closed cases remain in the public record for public access.
Disposed Cases
A disposed case is one where the court has issued a final ruling. The ruling can be a judgment, a dismissal, or a settlement. The system marks disposed cases with a “Disposed” label. The disposition date and outcome appear next to the status. Disposed cases are part of the archived case history.
Dismissed Cases
A dismissed case is one the court closed without a final ruling on the merits. The dismissal can be voluntary, meaning the plaintiff dropped the case, or involuntary, meaning the court dismissed it. The system marks dismissed cases with a “Dismissed” label. The dismissal reason appears in the event log.
Appealed Cases
An appealed case has moved to a higher court for review. The system marks the case with an “Appealed” label and shows the appeal court. The original case file stays open until the appeal court returns the record. You can see appeal dates, briefs, and rulings in the event log. The system links the case to the appeal file when one exists.
Case Status Updates
Case status updates occur as the court adds new events. The system updates the status field each time a new event is logged. You can refresh the case page to see the latest status. The portal also shows a status update date next to the label. Recent updates appear at the top of the event log.
| Status Label | Meaning | Public Access |
|---|---|---|
| Active | Case is still in process | Full record open |
| Pending | Waiting for court action | Full record open |
| Closed | No more events will be added | Full record open |
| Disposed | Final ruling issued | Full record open |
| Dismissed | Case dropped without a ruling on the merits | Full record open |
| Appealed | Case moved to a higher court | Full record open |
Case Lookup by Case Type
Case type tells you the legal category of a court file. The clerk’s office groups cases by type so you can search by category. Each type has its own court division and set of procedures. Picking the right case type helps you find the right file faster. You can select a case type before you start your search.
Civil Cases
Civil cases cover disputes between two or more parties. Common civil case types include contract disputes, personal injury claims, property disputes, and debt collection. The system lists civil cases under the Civil division. You can search civil cases by case number, party name, or attorney name. Civil case files show claims, motions, orders, and judgments.
Criminal Cases
Criminal cases involve charges brought by the state against a defendant. The system lists criminal cases under the Criminal division. You see charges, plea entries, motions, hearings, and sentencing orders. Criminal case files may be sealed while the case is open, depending on the charge level. You can search criminal cases by case number or defendant name.
Family Cases
Family cases cover marriage, divorce, child custody, child support, adoption, and domestic relations matters. The system lists family cases under the Family division. Family case files show petitions, responses, orders, and hearing notes. Some family case details may be restricted to protect minors. You can search family cases by party name or case number.
Probate Cases
Probate cases cover wills, estates, guardianships, and trusts. The system lists probate cases under the Probate division. Probate case files show petitions, inventories, accountings, and orders. Probate records stay public after the estate closes. You can search probate cases by decedent name or estate number.
Juvenile Cases
Juvenile cases involve minors charged with a criminal offense or subject to dependency proceedings. The system lists juvenile cases under the Juvenile division. Many juvenile records are restricted to protect minors. Public access may be limited to certain case types. You can search juvenile cases by case number when the record is public.
Misdemeanor Cases
Misdemeanor cases cover lesser criminal offenses such as simple assault, petty theft, and minor traffic offenses. The system lists misdemeanor cases under the Criminal division. Misdemeanor case files show charges, plea entries, and sentencing orders. You can search misdemeanor cases by case number or defendant name. Some misdemeanor records may be sealed after sentence completion.
Felony Cases
Felony cases cover serious criminal offenses such as robbery, burglary, and drug trafficking. The system lists felony cases under the Criminal division. Felony case files show indictments, motions, trial records, and sentencing orders. You can search felony cases by case number or defendant name. Felony records remain public unless sealed by court order.
Traffic Cases
Traffic cases cover moving violations, DUIs, and driving license suspensions. The system lists traffic cases under the Traffic division. Traffic case files show citations, plea entries, and fine orders. You can search traffic cases by case number or defendant name. Traffic records remain public after the case closes.
Case Parties and Attorneys
Case parties and attorneys are the people and law firms tied to a court file. The system lists each party and each attorney with their role. You can see the plaintiff, defendant, petitioner, respondent, attorney of record, and representing attorney. The party list updates as the court adds new entries. You can click on a name to see all cases tied to that person.
Plaintiff and Defendant Information
The plaintiff is the party who filed the case. The defendant is the party who must respond to the case. The system shows the plaintiff and defendant names with their addresses and contact details. You also see the date each party entered the case. The system displays the role label next to each name so you can tell who filed and who responded.
Petitioner and Respondent Information
The petitioner is the party who filed the case in a special proceeding. The respondent is the party who must answer the petition. The system shows the petitioner and respondent names with their roles. Petitioner and respondent roles appear in family, probate, and civil cases. You can search for cases by petitioner name or respondent name.
Attorney of Record
The attorney of record is the lawyer who filed the case on behalf of a party. The system shows the attorney’s name, bar number, law firm, and contact details. The attorney of record stays on the case until the court removes them. You can click on the attorney name to see all cases that lawyer handles. The system also shows the date the attorney entered the case.
Representing Attorney
The representing attorney is the lawyer who appears in court on behalf of a party. The system shows the representing attorney’s name and contact details. A representing attorney may differ from the attorney of record when one lawyer stands in for another. The system marks substitute counsel with a special label. You can search cases by representing attorney name.
Party Roles and Case Relationships
The party roles section shows how each party relates to the case. Common roles include plaintiff, defendant, petitioner, respondent, witness, third-party claimant, and intervenor. The system lists each role with the party name. You can see how the parties connect through joint filings or cross-claims. The section also shows related parties such as co-defendants and guarantors.
- Plaintiff files the original claim against the defendant
- Defendant answers the claim and files any counterclaims
- Petitioner files a special request such as a family or probate matter
- Respondent answers the petition or motion
- Attorney of record stays on the case from filing to closure
Case Filing and Court Activity
Case filing and court activity cover every action taken in a case from start to finish. The system logs each filing, hearing, motion, and order with a date and description. You can use this data to track the case timeline. The activity log updates each time the court adds a new entry. You can sort the log by date or by event type.
Filing Date
The filing date marks the day the court first received the case. The system shows the filing date at the top of the case record. You can use the filing date to verify how long a case has been open. The filing date also appears in the case event log. You can search for cases filed during a specific date range.
Court Hearings
Court hearings are scheduled sessions where the judge hears arguments from both sides. The system shows the hearing date, time, location, and judge name. Each hearing entry includes a short description of the matter to be heard. The system updates the hearing list as the court adds or cancels hearings. You can click on a hearing to see the linked documents.
Motions and Filings
Motions and filings are written requests submitted by either party. The system shows the motion title, filing date, filing party, and judge assigned to rule. You can open the motion document to read the full text. The system also shows the court’s response to each motion. Filings remain part of the case record even after the case closes.
Orders and Court Actions
Orders and court actions are rulings the judge issues during a case. The system shows the order title, signed date, and judge name. You can open the order document to read the full text. The system also shows the action type such as order, ruling, or notice. Each order links to the motion or hearing that triggered it.
Judgments and Dispositions
Judgments and dispositions are the final outcomes of a case. The system shows the judgment title, entered date, and judge name. You can open the judgment document to read the full text. The system also shows the disposition type such as judgment for plaintiff, judgment for defendant, dismissal, or settlement. Judgments remain public after the case closes.
Case Activity Timeline
The case activity timeline shows every event in chronological order. You can sort the timeline by date or by event type. Each entry includes the event date, event title, and short description. The timeline acts as a complete history of the case. You can filter the timeline to show only hearings, only filings, or only orders.
Case Lookup Documents
Case documents are the written records stored in the court file. You can view, print, or download most documents from the public portal. Each document has a title, filing date, and document type. The system organizes documents under the case file for easy access. Some documents may be restricted based on court rules.
Available Case Documents
Available case documents cover the main filings in a case. Common documents include the complaint, answer, motions, orders, judgments, and notices. The system lists each document with a short description and the filing date. You can click on a document to open it in a new window. Documents remain available after the case closes.
Filings and Court Documents
Filings and court documents include every paper submitted to the court. The system shows the filing party, filing date, and document type. You can open the document to read the full text. Filings include complaints, answers, motions, briefs, and exhibits. Each filing remains in the case file as part of the public record.
Orders and Judgments
Orders and judgments are the written rulings issued by the judge. The system lists each order with the signed date and judge name. You can open the order to read the full text and any conditions. The system marks final judgments with a special label. Orders and judgments remain in the case file as part of the public record.
Document Access and Availability
Document access depends on the case type and court rules. Most documents are public, but some may be sealed or restricted. The system marks restricted documents with a clear label. You can request access to restricted documents through a formal court request. Document availability depends on the age of the case and the storage system.
Certified Copies and Official Records
Certified copies are official copies of court documents with a clerk’s stamp. You can request certified copies from the clerk’s office in person, by mail, or online. Certified copies carry a fee based on the document type. The system tells you how to request a certified copy for any open document. Certified copies are accepted by courts, agencies, and other official bodies.
Case Lookup Problems
Sometimes a case lookup does not return the result you expected. The issue could be a wrong case number, a similar party name, a recent filing, or a sealed record. The system helps you fix common problems by suggesting search tips. You can also contact the clerk’s office for help with a difficult lookup. Knowing the common problems can save you time.
Case Not Found
A “case not found” message means the system could not match your search to any record. This can happen when the case number has a typo or when the party name is spelled differently. You can try a broader search with fewer fields. You can also check the court division to confirm the case is in the right court. If the case is still missing, contact the clerk’s office.
Incorrect Case Number
An incorrect case number is one of the most common lookup errors. A single wrong digit, missing prefix letter, or wrong year code returns no results. You can check the case number on any document or notice from the court. You can also search by party name to find the correct case number. The system suggests similar case numbers when you search by number.
Similar Party Names
Similar party names can make a search return too many results. Common names often match multiple parties across different cases. You can narrow the results by adding a date range or court division. You can also search by case number if you have one. The system shows the full name and date of birth when available to help you pick the right match.
Recently Filed Cases
Recently filed cases may not appear in the search right away. The system needs time to index new filings and add them to the public database. You can check back after a short delay. If the case still does not appear, contact the clerk’s office to confirm the filing. The system shows a filing date for every case that has been indexed.
Incomplete Case Information
Incomplete case information can happen when a case is still in early stages. Some fields may be blank until the parties file all required documents. The system marks blank fields with a placeholder. You can check the case event log for the latest filings. The system updates the record as new information becomes available.
Sealed or Restricted Cases
Sealed or restricted cases are not open to the public. The court can seal a case to protect minors, trade secrets, or public safety. The system hides sealed records from public search results. You can request access to a sealed case through a formal court motion. Restricted cases show a clear message when you try to open them.
Delayed Case Updates
Delayed case updates can happen when the court is processing many filings at once. The system updates case records as soon as the clerk enters new data. You can refresh the case page to see the latest entry. The system shows the last update date at the top of the case record. If the delay lasts longer than expected, contact the clerk’s office.
- Double-check the case number for typos, missing prefixes, or wrong year codes
- Broaden the search by removing some fields when results are empty
- Narrow the search by adding a date range, court division, or case type
- Wait a short time and refresh the page for recently filed cases
- Contact the clerk’s office for help with sealed or restricted records
Case Lookup and Related Court Information
Case lookup is one of several tools the court offers for public records. Each tool serves a different purpose. Knowing the difference helps you pick the right tool for your task. The clerk’s office groups these tools under the public records section of the website. You can move between tools without losing your search data.
Case Lookup vs. Case Search
Case lookup and case search work in similar ways. Both let you enter search terms and view matching case records. Case lookup focuses on finding a specific case by number, name, or date. Case search lets you browse cases by category, court division, or judge. Pick case lookup when you know details about one case. Pick case search when you want to browse a set of cases.
Case Lookup vs. Court Calendar
Case lookup shows the full case file with documents, parties, and events. The court calendar shows only scheduled hearings, trials, and deadlines. Pick case lookup when you want case details. Pick the court calendar when you want to know when a hearing is scheduled. You can use both tools together to plan around court dates.
Case Lookup vs. Court Docket
Case lookup shows the full case record. The court docket shows the chronological list of events in a case. Pick case lookup when you want a complete view of the case file. Pick the court docket when you want a quick view of recent events. The docket links back to the full case record for each entry.
Case Lookup vs. Court Records
Case lookup is a tool for finding a specific case. Court records cover all documents stored by the clerk’s office, including marriage licenses, deeds, and liens. Pick case lookup for court cases. Pick court records for other public documents. The clerk’s office stores both in separate databases.
Case Information vs. Criminal Records
Case information covers all court cases, civil and criminal. Criminal records cover only criminal charges, convictions, and sentences. Pick case information when you want full case details. Pick criminal records when you want a criminal background check. Some criminal record details may be restricted by court rules.
Contact Information
You can reach the Palm Beach County Clerk’s office for help with case lookup questions, certified copies, sealed records, or general public records requests. The clerk’s office serves the public Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. You can call, email, or visit in person during office hours. There is no countywide 311 number for this office.
| Contact Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Phone | 561-355-2996 |
| publicreco rds@mypalmbeachclerk.com | |
| Address | 301 N. Olive Avenue, West Palm Beach, FL 33401 |
| Office Hours | Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM |
| Official Website | https://www.mypalmbeachclerk.com/ |
| Direct Records Portal | https://www.mypalmbeachclerk.com/court-records/court-records-search |
| 311 Service | No countywide 311 number; contact the department directly |
Frequently Asked Questions
The Palm Beach County Case Lookup gives the public quick access to court records. Users can enter a case number, a party name, an attorney name, or a filing date to see current status and basic details. The portal shows information for civil, criminal, family, probate, juvenile, misdemeanor, felony and traffic cases. No login is required for basic data, which helps lawyers, researchers and citizens stay informed about legal proceedings.
What steps let me find a case by party name or attorney name?
Choose the party name tab on the search page. Enter the last name of the individual or organization, then add the first name if you know it. For attorney searches, pick the attorney field and type the lawyer’s surname. Press the Search button. Results list all matches, showing case numbers and the court where each case is filed. Click a case number to open its brief view and verify the involved parties.
How do I check the status of an active or closed case online?
After locating the record, look for the status line near the top of the page. The line reads active, pending, closed, dismissed or appealed. For closed cases, a final disposition date appears. If the case is still open, the next scheduled hearing date may be shown. Note the status updates each week, so revisit the portal for the latest information before relying on it for decisions.
Where can I view filed documents for a case found in the portal?
From the case detail screen, select the Documents tab. The list contains orders, motions and judgments that the court has made public. Click a document title to open a PDF in a new window. Some files require a small fee or a visit to a public kiosk for full copies. Use the download button to save a copy for offline review.
Why might a case not appear in the public search results?
Public search excludes sealed files, protective orders, mental‑health matters and certain juvenile records. If a case involves a victim‑witness protection program, the system hides it to protect privacy. Records that are older than the digitization cut‑off may only exist in paper form at the clerk’s office. Finally, if the docket number was entered incorrectly, the search returns no match. Verify the spelling and try again.
How often is case information refreshed on the online system?
The portal refreshes its database every Friday. New filings from the previous Wednesday are added during the nightly update. Changes such as added parties, updated hearings or new judgments appear after this process. Because updates happen once per week, recent filings may not show immediately. Check the “Last updated” note at the bottom of the page to know the data’s freshness.