Clay County Clerk of Court

The Clay County Clerk of Court plays a vital role in managing court and administrative functions in Florida. Residents depend on this office for accurate record-keeping and essential services related to civil, criminal, probate, and traffic cases. The clerk’s office also handles financial tasks like collecting fees and fines, ensuring all transactions are processed correctly. Beyond courts, it maintains official public records such as deeds, mortgages, and vital documents.

Clay County Clerk of Court also provides important services that support both residents and the legal system. These include coordinating jury duties, issuing marriage licenses, and notarizing documents. Staff are available to assist with questions and guide the public through procedures efficiently. By keeping records organized and accessible, the office helps maintain transparency and trust in Clay County’s judicial operations.

Current Clerk

Tara S. Green currently serves as the Clay County Clerk of Court, the elected official responsible for court administration, records, and public finances in Clay County, Florida. She has served in this role since 2012 and leads significant service and technology efforts in the office.

About the Clay County Clerk of Court

Tara S. Green is the Clay County Clerk of Court and Comptroller, the elected clerk who manages court administration, official records, jury services, and financial reporting functions for the county. Her role reflects leadership in Florida court administration and clerk leadership locally and statewide.

Tenure and Background

TGreen was first elected in 2012 and has won multiple terms since then, affirming voter confidence in her performance at the Clay County Court. Before her election, she worked in the private sector in business roles in Jacksonville, Houston, and Little Rock, Arkansas, which gave her practical experience in operations and management.

Key Initiatives and Leadership

Green’s tenure as Clay County Clerk of Court has emphasized improving service, transparency, and court access:

• She supports online court services such as e‑filing, remote access, and public record searches to improve convenience and efficiency for citizens.
• Her office expanded professional development and training for staff to strengthen administrative capacity and clerk leadership.
• Under her direction, the office developed enhanced guardianship compliance standards and oversight practices that other Florida jurisdictions may adopt.
• She served as Chair of the Florida Clerks of Court Operations Corporation Executive Council, representing clerks statewide and helping guide budget and operational priorities across Florida.

Community and Public Service

Green has also supported community outreach, including history programs and the Clay County Teen Court initiative, reflecting her commitment to civic education and local engagement

Clay County Clerk of Court Offices

The Clay County Clerk of Court maintains several county clerk offices and court office branches across Clay County, Florida, to serve residents’ legal, civil, criminal, probate, and records needs. The main headquarters and branch locations provide in‑person services like filing court paperwork, obtaining official records, and accessing court‑related support.

Main Clerk of Court – Green Cove Springs (Headquarters)

Office Name: Clay County Clerk of Court and Comptroller (Main Office)
Address: 825 North Orange Avenue, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043
Phone: (904) 284‑6302 (General)
Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Services Provided:

• Civil Court Services: Filing civil actions, small claims, and related documents
• Criminal Court Services: Court filings, bail processing, and criminal case management
• Family & Probate Services: Guardianship, probate filings, mental health petitions
• Official Records: Recording deeds, mortgages, plats, and official public documents
• Traffic & Infractions: Citation payments and records
  This central location processes the majority of county court functions, including case records, payments, and public inquiries. Mail for the Clerk’s Office should be sent to the main post office box at P.O. Box 698, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 rather than to branch offices.

Orange Park Branch Office

Office Name: Clay County Clerk of Court – Orange Park Branch
Address: 1590 Park Avenue, Orange Park, FL 32073
Phone: (904) 541‑2784
Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Services Provided:

• Customer service support for civil and traffic records
• Document filing and retrieval
• Clerk office location for local residents outside Green Cove Springs
  The Orange Park branch extends courthouse services closer to residents in the southwestern part of Clay County and handles a variety of official records and filings.

Teen Court Program Office & 1890 Historic Courthouse

Office Name: Teen Court Program Office
Address: 915 Walnut Street, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043
Phone: (904) 278‑3602
Hours of Operation: Monday – Thursday, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Purpose:

• Court‑aligned diversion program
• Youth‑focused judicial education
  This location houses the Teen Court Program, offering alternatives for young offenders and providing educational court experiences.

Clay County Archives & Old County Jail

Office Name: Clay County Archives & Old County Jail
Address: 21 Gratio Place, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043
Phone: (904) 371‑0027
Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm (appointments encouraged)
Services Provided:

• Access to historic county records, photos, and artifacts
• Archive retrieval for genealogical or research purposes
  This location supports long‑term records access and historical document requests managed by the Clerk’s Office’s Recording Department.

Contact Directory & Office Hours at a Glance

Duties and Responsibilities of the Clerk

The Florida clerk of court plays a vital role in the smooth operation of the judicial system. They are responsible for managing court records, supporting courtroom processes, and ensuring that administrative functions run efficiently.

Filing Administration

One of the core duties of a Florida clerk of court is handling filing administration. Clerks receive and process a variety of legal documents, including civil, criminal, probate, and family court filings. This task requires attention to detail to ensure that documents are properly recorded, assigned case numbers, and stored for future reference.

Key responsibilities in filing administration include:

• Document intake: Accepting and reviewing incoming legal documents for accuracy.
• Case initiation: Opening new cases and assigning appropriate identifiers.
• Data entry: Updating case management systems with relevant information.
• Record retention: Safely maintaining records according to legal and regulatory standards.

Court Operations Support

Clerks also provide essential support for daily court operations. They coordinate with judges, attorneys, and the public to facilitate hearings, trials, and other judicial proceedings.

Some of the main functions include:

• Scheduling hearings and trials: Coordinating dates and notifying all parties involved.
• Courtroom assistance: Ensuring documents and exhibits are available during proceedings.
• Jury coordination: Managing jury summonses, selection processes, and payments.
• Public interaction: Responding to inquiries and guiding visitors in the courthouse.

Record Custody and Management

Maintaining accurate court records is one of the most critical responsibilities of a Florida court clerk. Records include case files, court orders, judgments, and financial documents related to court proceedings. Clerks ensure these records are organized, secure, and easily retrievable.

Key aspects of record management include:

• Storage systems: Using both physical and digital systems to preserve records.
• Access control: Protecting sensitive or confidential information.
• Document retrieval: Providing records promptly for court staff, attorneys, and authorized parties.
• Archiving: Retaining records according to statutory requirements and disposing of outdated documents properly.

Fee Collection and Schedules

Another important responsibility is managing fees associated with court services. Clerks collect filing fees, fines, and other payments related to court cases. They maintain accurate financial records and ensure compliance with state regulations.

Typical duties include:

• Fee processing: Collecting payments from litigants and other parties.
• Accounting and reporting: Recording transactions and preparing reports for oversight purposes.
• Payment plans: Assisting with structured payment arrangements for fines and fees.
• Compliance monitoring: Ensuring fees are collected according to statutory guidelines.

Court Record Management

Clay County Clerk of Court manages court records through organized storage systems that ensure accurate tracking and legal compliance. Both physical and digital records are carefully maintained to support public services and judicial processes.

How Records Are Stored and Maintained

Court records in Clay County are categorized into physical files and digital records, each with specific handling methods:

• Physical Records:
  Paper-based files, including case documents, pleadings, and official court orders, are stored in secure, climate-controlled facilities. Access is controlled, and staff follow strict protocols for retrieval, handling, and return.
• Digital Records:
  Electronic documents are maintained in secure databases with automated backups. Digital storage allows faster retrieval, easy sharing with authorized personnel, and improved preservation over long periods.

Court Record Access

Public and professional access to court records is managed carefully. Some records are public, while others, such as juvenile or sealed cases, are restricted by law. Clay County Clerk of Court provides access through:

• In-person requests at the courthouse
• Authorized digital access via online search portals

Online search tools enhance convenience for individuals and attorneys by allowing queries based on case number, party name, or filing date. These tools streamline workflows while maintaining legal security.

Key Points on Access:

• Authorized users can request copies of case files.
• Security measures prevent unauthorized downloads or modifications.
• Public record services include certified copies and document verification.

Digital vs. Physical Record Management

The transition from physical to digital record management has created efficiency in court operations:

How to Search Clay County Clerk of Court

Users can search Clay County court records, including civil, criminal, family, probate, and official documents, using the official online portal. This tool allows searches by case number, party names, or date ranges.

Official Search Portal URL: https://clayclerk.com/online-services

Open the Official Online Portal

• Visit https://clayclerk.com/online-services.
• This page provides access to all searchable court records and public documents maintained by the Clay County Clerk of Court.

Choose the Type of Record to Search

• The portal lists categories such as:
  • Civil Cases – Small claims, lawsuits, contract disputes.
  • Criminal Cases – Felonies, misdemeanors, traffic violations.
  • Family Law Cases – Divorce, child custody, adoption, support cases.
  • Probate Cases – Wills, estates, guardianships.
  • Official Records – Liens, judgments, deeds, and public documents.
• Select the appropriate category based on your search need.

Select the Search Method
The portal allows multiple search methods:

• Case Number – Enter the exact case number for direct access.
• Party Name – Input the full name of the plaintiff, defendant, or business involved.
• Date Range – Use filing or hearing dates to narrow results.
• Document Type – Filter by case type if the category is broad.

Enter Search Criteria

• Fill in the search fields accurately.
• Use exact spellings for names; partial names may return multiple results.
• Date fields are optional but help narrow large search results.

View Search Results

• Click “Search” or “Submit” to display results.
• The results page shows:
  • Case numbers
  • Filing dates
  • Case status (active, closed)
  • Parties involved
• Click a case number to view available court documents and hearing information.

Accessing Documents

• Many records can be viewed online for free.
• Official or certified documents may require a paid request.
• Download or print documents as needed following portal instructions.

Understand Restrictions
Some records are restricted and not publicly accessible:

• Juvenile cases
• Sealed or expunged cases
• Certain sensitive family law matters
  Attempting unauthorized access may violate Florida law.

Refine Searches for Better Accuracy

• Combine filters like case type + date range + party name.
• Check spelling and use multiple search attempts if needed.
• If results are unclear, contact the Clay County Clerk of Court office for assistance.

Filing Procedures & Administration

Filing legal documents in Clay County is a structured process that can be completed either electronically or in person. Each method has specific requirements and steps to ensure documents are accepted and properly recorded by the clerk’s office.

Steps to Legal Document Filing

Filing procedures in Clay County start with preparing the correct forms and ensuring all information is complete. The clerk’s office reviews submitted documents for accuracy and compliance before officially recording the case in the court docket. Legal document submission follows a sequence designed to minimize errors and speed up case processing.

Key steps for filing documents include:

• Identify the correct form for your case type, such as civil, criminal, or family law.
• Complete all required fields accurately, including names, addresses, and case details.
• Attach supporting documents like affidavits, motions, or evidence if necessary.
• Determine filing method: electronic submission (e-filing) or physical delivery to the clerk’s office.
• Pay any applicable filing fees via accepted payment methods.
• Receive confirmation of submission, which may include a timestamp or case number.

Electronic Filing vs. In-Person Filing

Clay County provides an electronic filing system for many case types. E-filing allows users to submit documents online, track case progress, and receive instant confirmation. Benefits of e-filing include:

• Reduced processing time
• Immediate receipt confirmation
• Remote access without visiting the courthouse

In-person filing: requires visiting the clerk’s office during business hours. Staff will review your documents, collect fees, and provide a receipt. This method can be useful for complex cases or when submitting original documents.

Tips for successful filing:

• Double-check all fields for accuracy.
• Confirm filing deadlines to avoid delays.
• Keep copies of all documents for your records.
• Review clerk office announcements for updates on submission requirements.

Filing Administration & Record Management

Proper filing administration ensures that cases are correctly documented and easily retrievable. Clerks maintain detailed records, including case numbers, filing dates, and associated documents. Organized submission improves efficiency for both the court and the public.

Common administrative practices include:

• Assigning unique case numbers to each filing
• Storing documents digitally and physically for redundancy
• Verifying signatures and notarizations where required
• Updating case status promptly in public records

Fee Schedules & Payments

Court services involve various fees for filings, copies, and other administrative tasks. Payments are accepted through multiple methods, and deadlines are set to ensure timely processing.

Understanding fee schedules and payment procedures can help individuals plan their filings and avoid delays or penalties. Fees typically cover court filings, document copies, certification, and additional services like electronic access or notarization. Each service has its own rate, which can vary depending on the type of case or request.

Types of Court Fees

Courts maintain a structured fee schedule to standardize charges. Common fees include:

• Filing Fees: Required for submitting civil, criminal, probate, or family law cases.
• Copy Fees: Charges for printed copies of documents, often per page.
• Certification Fees: Applied when requesting official, certified copies of records.
• Service Fees: For items like process serving, electronic record retrieval, or expedited requests.
• Miscellaneous Fees: Some courts may charge for returned checks, record searches, or special handling.

Payment Methods and Procedures

Courts typically accept several payment methods to accommodate public needs:

• Credit/Debit Cards: Widely accepted for in-person and online payments.
• Cash or Checks: Accepted at the courthouse, often with exact amounts requested.
• Electronic Payments: Some counties provide portals for e-filing and online fee submission.
• Money Orders: Occasionally accepted for mailed submissions.

How to Contact the Clerk

Contacting the Clay County Clerk of Court is straightforward. Individuals can reach specific departments via phone, email, or online forms for inquiries related to court records, payments, or public assistance.

Clay County Clerk offices handle a variety of services, including court records, legal filings, and public support. Each department has dedicated contact channels to assist the public efficiently. The main office and branch offices provide direct phone numbers and email addresses, ensuring questions are addressed promptly.

Main Office Contact Information

The Clay County Clerk of Court – Main Office is located in Green Cove Springs and serves as the central hub for most court-related matters. Residents can contact staff for general inquiries, case information, or document requests.

Address:
Clay County Clerk of Court
825 N. Orange Avenue
Green Cove Springs, FL 32043

Phone Numbers:

• General Information: (904) 284-6300
• Court Records: (904) 284-6330
• Probate/Family Law: (904) 284-6380

Email & Online Forms:

• General Inquiries: info@clayclerk.com
• Online Contact Form: https://www.clayclerk.com/contact

Branch Office and Department Contacts

Clay County maintains several branch locations to serve residents in different areas. Each branch manages specific court functions and provides local assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Clay County Clerk of Court provides public access to a wide range of court and official records. Most records can be searched for free, either online, in person, or by mail.

How to Search Records at Clay County Clerk of Court?

Users can search records online through the official Clerk of Court portal, which allows browsing of civil, criminal, probate, and traffic cases. In-person searches are also available at the Clerk’s office, where staff assist in locating and printing documents. Mail requests require a completed form and may include a small fee for copying or processing. Having details such as case numbers, party names, or filing dates makes the search faster and more accurate.

Are Clay County Clerk of Court searches free?

Most public records in Clay County are free to access online. Viewing basic case information, court calendars, and filings does not require payment. Fees may apply for certified copies, extensive document requests, or mail services. The fee schedule is available on the Clerk’s website, ensuring transparency for all users requesting official documents.

How long does it take to process a record request?

Online searches provide immediate results for records available in the public database. In-person requests are often completed the same day, depending on staff availability. Mail requests typically take five to ten business days, including preparation and delivery time. Complex requests involving multiple or older documents may require additional processing time.

Who Can Access Clay County Clerk of Court Records?

Public records are generally accessible to anyone, including residents, out-of-county individuals, attorneys, and researchers. Certain records, such as juvenile cases, sealed cases, and sensitive family law matters, have restricted access. The Clerk’s office can provide explanations about restricted records but cannot grant access without proper legal authorization.

Which Records Can Be Searched at Clay County Clerk?

The Clerk maintains records for civil, criminal, probate, and traffic cases. Users can access official filings, case status, court dockets, and historical records. Certain records, such as sealed or expunged files, remain restricted to protect privacy, while all other records are publicly available for research, legal, or personal purposes.

Is assistance available for public record searches?

The Clay County Clerk of Court provides guidance and customer service to help users locate and retrieve records. Staff can answer questions about case types, records availability, and filing procedures. This ensures that users can complete their searches efficiently without unnecessary delays.