Identify the court that handled the case
Gather the case number, party names, and approximate filing date
Check the court’s official website for online record access
Search the court’s public records portal
Visit the courthouse clerk’s office in person
Request the records by mail if allowed
Submit any required forms or written requests
Pay any required copying or search fees
Provide identification if required by the court
Review restrictions on sealed, confidential, or restricted records
Request certified copies if needed
Use state or county court systems for local cases
Use federal court systems for federal cases
Contact the court clerk for assistance if the record is not available online
