Monroe County Court Records

Monroe County court records serve as an essential component of the county’s legal and administrative framework. These records, preserved by various county offices, provide authoritative documentation of civil, criminal, probate, and other judicial matters. They are indispensable for resolving litigation, confirming legal rights and obligations, and maintaining a robust historical record of cases that have passed through Monroe County’s court system.

Located in northeastern Mississippi, Monroe County’s jurisdiction spans a range of legal proceedings. Its court records encompass everything from civil lawsuits (e.g., contract disputes, personal injury claims, and property controversies) to criminal matters (arrest records, indictments, plea agreements, sentencing details) and probate cases (estate administration, guardianships, conservatorships, and adoptions). The accurate and careful maintenance of these records ensures that the county’s legal processes remain transparent, fair, and accessible.

Are Court Records Public in Monroe County?

In general, Monroe County court records are considered public, in accordance with Mississippi’s public access laws and the Mississippi Rules of Access to Court Records. Under Mississippi Code Annotated (Miss. Code Ann.) § 25-61-1 et seq. (the Mississippi Public Records Act) and the Mississippi Judiciary’s administrative rules, most civil and criminal court documents—such as pleadings, court orders, judgments, motions, and docket information—are open to public inspection.

However, certain types of records receive heightened confidentiality protections. For example:

1. Juvenile Court Records: Pursuant to Miss. Code Ann. § 43-21-261, records involving minors in Youth Court proceedings are sealed to safeguard the child’s privacy and interests.
2. Adoption Files: Adoption records are commonly sealed except by court order, as prescribed by Miss. Code Ann. §§ 93-17-1 et seq.
3. Sensitive Personal Information: Documents containing Social Security numbers, financial account information, or confidential medical data may be redacted or restricted to protect privacy. Domestic violence or child custody matters, which fall under Miss. Code Ann. §§ 93-5-1 et seq. and related statutes, may be partially sealed at the discretion of the presiding judge to ensure the safety and well-being of involved parties.

Monroe County Court Records Search

Individuals seeking Monroe County court records have several options:

1. In-Person Requests:
   Interested parties may visit the Monroe County Courthouse and consult with the Circuit Clerk or Chancery Clerk’s offices. Both offices maintain original records and can assist with locating specific documents. Requesters should be prepared with details like case numbers, party names, or approximate filing dates. Identification and a nominal fee for copying or certification may be required.
2. Mail Requests:
   If an individual cannot appear in person, they may submit a written request by mail. The request should include all pertinent case details, the requester’s contact information, and the applicable search and copying fees. A self-addressed stamped envelope is often necessary for the return of requested documents.

Monroe County Courts

The primary courts in Monroe County are located in the county seat of Aberdeen:

• Monroe County Chancery Court
  201 W. Commerce St. #1
  Aberdeen, MS 39730
  Phone: (662) 369-8143
• Monroe County Circuit Court
  201 W. Commerce St. #3
  Aberdeen, MS 39730
  Phone: (662) 369-8695
• Monroe County Justice Court
  1619 Highland Dr.
  Aberdeen, MS 39730
  Phone: (662) 369-2936
• Monroe County Youth Court (Juvenile matters often handled by Chancery Court)
  Contact the Chancery Clerk’s Office at (662) 369-8143 for details.

Monroe County Criminal and Civil Records

Criminal records in Monroe County can include arrest reports, indictment filings, trial proceedings, and sentencing information. Many of these documents are accessible to the public. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and local police departments maintain arrest records and other law enforcement-related documents. To access these:

• Monroe County Sheriff’s Office
  700 N. Meridian St.
  Aberdeen, MS 39730
  Phone: (662) 369-2468
• Aberdeen Police Department
  125 W. Commerce St.
  Aberdeen, MS 39730
  Phone: (662) 369-6454

Written requests for criminal records should include identifying details (e.g., full name, date of birth), along with any known case or arrest numbers. Fees may apply, and certain sensitive information may be withheld under Miss. Code Ann. Title 99 (Criminal Procedure) or related privacy regulations.
Civil court records—such as complaints, summonses, motions, orders, and final judgments—are managed by the Monroe County Circuit Clerk’s office. To obtain these records:

1. In-Person: Visit the Circuit Clerk’s office at the Monroe County Courthouse and present identification. The staff can assist in locating the desired files, and copying fees may apply.
2. By Mail: Send a written request including relevant case details, the appropriate fee, and a self-addressed stamped envelope. Response times vary based on request volume and document availability.

Monroe County Marriage Records

Marriage records for marriages solemnized in Monroe County are maintained by the Monroe County Circuit Clerk’s office, per Miss. Code Ann. §§ 93-1-1 et seq. These records include the marriage license and certificate, which confirm the legal union of the couple.

• Obtaining Marriage Records In-Person:
  Visit the Monroe County Circuit Clerk’s Office. Provide the full names of the spouses, the approximate date of the marriage, and any required fees.
• By Mail:
  Submit a written request with the spouses’ full names, the marriage date, your contact information, and the search/copying fees. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for return delivery.

Monroe County Divorce Records

Divorce records—including divorce decrees and related filings—are generally kept by the Monroe County Chancery Clerk’s office. Per Miss. Code Ann. §§ 93-5-1 et seq., these records are often accessible to the public, although certain sensitive information may be sealed. To obtain divorce records:

1. In-Person: Visit the Chancery Clerk’s office with proper identification and the divorcing parties’ full names, as well as the approximate divorce date.
2. By Mail: Send a letter detailing the names of both parties, the date of divorce, your return address, and the appropriate fees. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for convenient return

Monroe County Birth and Death Records

Vital records such as birth and death certificates are primarily managed by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH). However, Monroe County residents may also contact the local Health Department for assistance. Under Miss. Code Ann. § 41-57-2, access to birth and death records is generally restricted to immediate family members, their legal representatives, or those who can demonstrate a legitimate interest.

• Monroe County Health Department
  50028 Old Hwy 25
  Amory, MS 38821
  Phone: (662) 256-5341

Requesters must provide proper identification and proof of eligibility. Fees apply for certified copies, and processing times may vary.

Monroe County Probate Court Records

The Monroe County Chancery Court exercises jurisdiction over probate matters, including estate administrations, guardianships, conservatorships, adoptions, and mental health commitments. Under Miss. Code Ann. Title 91 for estate matters and Title 93 for adoptions, many of these records can be accessed by the public, except in cases restricted by law or sealed by court order.

To access probate records, contact the Chancery Clerk’s office. In-person and mail requests are both acceptable, with appropriate fees and identification required.

Monroe County Property Records

Property records—such as deeds, mortgages, tax liens, easements, and plats—are filed with the Monroe County Chancery Clerk’s office, pursuant to Miss. Code Ann. Title 89. These records are essential for verifying property ownership, assessing tax liabilities, and conducting title searches. To obtain them:

• In-Person: Visit the Chancery Clerk’s office and request the desired property records.
• By Mail or Phone: Contact the Chancery Clerk’s office. Some records may be accessible through online databases, but availability can vary. Fees may apply for searches, copies, or certifications.

Monroe County Court Records Online

While not all Monroe County court records are digitized, some documents may be available through the Mississippi Judiciary’s online systems or reputable third-party websites like Mississippicourtrecords.us. The Mississippi Electronic Courts (MEC) system may provide limited electronic access to case filings and docket information. However, note the following:

• Accuracy and Completeness: Online databases may not contain all records, especially older cases or sealed files.
• Fees and Registration: Access to certain online records may require a subscription, user account, or search fees.
• Verification: When accuracy is paramount—such as for legal proceedings, academic research, or genealogical studies—it is advisable to verify the information with the appropriate county office.