St Clair County Court serves as the central point for justice services within the county and helps residents handle many types of legal matters. It operates through the Circuit Court, District Court, and Probate Court, each covering different case types such as criminal, civil, traffic, and estate issues. This structure gives the community a clear way to follow cases and understand where each matter is filed. Many people rely on these courts for hearings, case updates, and reliable public information.
St Clair County Court functions within the Michigan court system, which sets the rules for jurisdiction, record-keeping, and courtroom procedures. Each court offers services that support the county judiciary, from processing filings to managing daily hearings. Public records from these courts help residents check case progress, confirm outcomes, and stay informed. These records strengthen openness and help people trust the way the courts handle local justice.
How to Search St Clair County Court Records
Users can look up St Clair County case details through the county’s public online search or request full case files through the Clerk’s Office. The online tool works well for quick checks, while clerk requests provide full documents.
St. Clair County offers a straightforward way to look up case details through its MiCOURT Public Web Inquiry system. It shows summaries such as parties, case type, filing date, status, and upcoming hearings. For full records, the Clerk’s Office provides document copies, including certified files.
Using the Official MiCOURT Search Tool
To use the MiCOURT search system, start by opening the official public case search page from the St. Clair County Courts website. Enter the party name or case number, select the appropriate court type, and submit your search. The system will display all matching cases, and you can click any result to view detailed case status, filings, and hearing information.
Visit the public search portal
Go to the MiCOURT system here:
https://securewebinquiry.stclaircountycourts.org
Choose a search method
The system offers several useful search types:
- Name Search — best if the case number is unknown.
https://securewebinquiry.stclaircountycourts.org - Case Number Search — fastest for exact results.
https://securewebinquiry.stclaircountycourts.org - Calendar / Docket Search — helps check upcoming hearings.
https://securewebinquiry.stclaircountycourts.org
Enter the required details
To get accurate results, users should include:
- Last name or full name
- Case number (if available)
- Year or date range (helps with common names)
- Court type (civil, criminal, family, probate)
Review search results
The MiCOURT page shows:
- Parties on the case
- Case type (criminal, civil, traffic, family, probate)
- Filing date
- Status (open or closed)
- Hearing dates
- Docket entries
Court Record Search
Public Case Search (Direct Link):
https://securewebinquiry.stclaircountycourts.org
Official Court Records Page:
https://stclaircountycourt.org/court-records/
Request Full Documents:
https://stclaircountyclerk.org/Request/Court_Document_Request_Form
How to Request Full Records or Certified Copies
If a user needs official copies, judge orders, motions, or older files not shown online, the Clerk’s Office handles those requests.
Open the records request page
Use the official form here:
https://stclaircountyclerk.org/Request/Court_Document_Request_Form
Provide the required info
The form asks for:
- Case number
- Party names
- Approximate filing date
- Contact details
- Type of documents needed
Pay the fee
Requests include a base fee, plus processing fees depending on the number of pages or certification.
Receive records
After processing, the Clerk delivers:
- PDF copies
- Mailed certified copies (if requested)
What Are St Clair County Court Records?
St Clair County Court Records are official documents created during court cases in the county. They show what happened in a case, who was involved, and the actions taken by the court.
St Clair County keeps a wide range of public court information, and each record type serves a different purpose. These documents help people see case histories, confirm legal actions, or review important details tied to criminal, civil, family, probate, and traffic matters. The county follows Michigan rules for what can be viewed by the public and what stays restricted.
Types of Records Found in St Clair County Courts
St Clair County Court Records cover many legal documents used in Michigan courts. These often include:
- Criminal case files — charges, arraignments, hearings, sentencing notes
- Civil case files — lawsuits, small claims cases, landlord-tenant disputes
- Family court records — divorce papers, custody decisions, support orders
- Probate records — wills, estates, guardianship, conservatorship filings
- Traffic records — citations, ticket outcomes, court-ordered requirements
Each category holds court dockets, motions, orders, and filings that show the progress of a case from start to finish.
People check these records for many reasons. Some want proof for employment or housing. Others need case numbers, past court dates, or updates for personal legal matters. Researchers, reporters, or legal offices often search Michigan court records to review trends or verify facts.
What Is Public and What Stays Restricted in Michigan?
Michigan law makes many case files open to the public, though some materials stay private. Courts follow state rules that protect sensitive information.
Common public records:
- Court dockets
- Charges and case summaries
- Final judgments
- Hearing results
- Bond details
- Sentencing information
Common restricted records:
- Adoption filings
- Personal data such as Social Security numbers
- Juvenile matters
- Certain mental health or protective cases
- Sealed records ordered by a judge
Why People Search St Clair County Court Records
Many people turn to these records to confirm legal actions or retrieve information connected to their cases. Reasons often include:
- Checking the status of a pending case
- Preparing for a hearing
- Finding past traffic ticket outcomes
- Reviewing divorce or custody details
- Verifying someone’s legal history
- Gathering facts for research or media work
St Clair County Circuit Court
The St Clair County Circuit Court handles major criminal, civil, and family cases for the county. It serves as the primary court for felony charges, high-value lawsuits, and sensitive family matters.
The court covers felony hearings, civil disputes over $25,000, appeals, and cases managed by the Family Division. Many users check this court for updates on criminal charges, divorce filings, custody schedules, and judge assignments.
Jurisdiction & Main Role
The Circuit Court holds authority over the county’s most serious matters. It reviews cases that need a full trial record, sworn testimony, and formal legal arguments.
Key areas under this court:
- Felony criminal charges
- Civil lawsuits exceeding $25,000
- Appeals from District Court or agencies
- Family Division cases such as divorce, custody, and juvenile matters
Case Types: Felony
The court handles serious felonies, including violent crimes, drug delivery, weapon offenses, and complex financial cases. These cases move through arraignment, pretrial hearings, trial, and sentencing.
Civil Cases Over $25,000
The court reviews higher-value civil disputes, including:
- Contract issues
- Property conflicts
- Business lawsuits
- Personal injury claims
- Wrongful death cases
Appeals
The Circuit Court hears appeals that challenge legal errors from lower courts. These appeals focus on whether the law was applied correctly.
Family Division: Divorce, Custody & Juvenile Cases
The Family Division manages sensitive household-related matters. Users often monitor these cases for schedule changes or new orders.
Handled here:
- Divorce
- Custody and parenting time
- Child and spousal support
- Juvenile delinquency
- Child protection
- Minor guardianship
Judge Information & Court Structure
The St Clair County Circuit Court includes judges assigned to criminal, civil, and family cases. Their roles include hearing motions, managing trials, reviewing evidence, and issuing decisions.
Typical divisions include:
- Criminal division judge
- Civil division judge
- Family division judge
- Judge handling appeals or administrative reviews
St Clair County District Court
The St Clair County District Court handles traffic tickets, misdemeanors, small claims, and landlord–tenant cases for the 72nd District. It offers simple steps, quick hearings, and clear payment options for anyone with a district-level case.
Jurisdiction and Case Types
The court manages everyday matters that affect local residents. It covers cases that stay at the district level and do not move to the circuit court. This includes:
- Traffic violations such as speeding, no insurance, license issues
- Misdemeanor cases like retail fraud (first offense), simple assault, trespassing
- Landlord/tenant disputes, including eviction filings
- Small claims within the legal limit
- Probable cause hearings before a felony case transfers
Payment Options
People can handle fines or fees in several ways. The court gives clear instructions after each hearing, and payment methods stay simple.
Common options include:
- Online portal for tickets and case payments
- In-person payment at the clerk counter
- Mail-in payment with ticket or case number
- Payment plans for certain traffic or misdemeanor matters
Common Daily Cases
The district court focuses on routine issues that appear across the county every day.
Traffic Court: Speeding, careless driving, distracted driving, and similar violations. Many end with a fine or short hearing.
Misdemeanor Court: Lower-level offenses that may involve probation, classes, or community service.
Landlord/Tenant Cases: Eviction actions, rent disputes, and possession issues that move on fast timelines.
Small Claims: Money disputes handled without attorneys, often resolved in one hearing.
St Clair County Probate Court
The St Clair County Probate Court manages estates, wills, guardianship, conservatorship, and certain mental health cases. It reviews filings, confirms legal heirs, and appoints people to handle care or financial duties when needed.
What the Probate Court Covers
The court reviews estate cases after someone passes away. It checks the will, appoints a personal representative, and oversees asset distribution. Its role helps keep the process clear for families who need quick and accurate decisions.
Key areas include:
- Wills and estate filings
- Asset lists and creditor notices
- Final property transfers
Guardianship and Conservatorship
The court appoints a guardian for personal care or a conservator for money and property. These cases often involve minors, adults with memory issues, or someone unable to manage daily needs. Each appointment follows medical reviews and court interviews to confirm the right fit.
Common situations:
- Minors without parental support
- Adults needing help with bills or safety
- Protection against financial misuse
Mental Health Review Hearings
The probate court also hears mental health petitions. These cases request treatment for someone who may be unsafe or unable to make decisions. Judges review doctor reports, family statements, and agency notes before ordering care.
How to Obtain Court Records from the County Clerk’s Office
Anyone needing St Clair County Clerk Court Records can request them through the County Clerk’s Office by submitting a record request form and paying the required fee. The office provides both certified and uncertified copies, depending on what the user needs for legal or personal use.
What the Clerk’s Office Handles
The County Clerk’s Office keeps and maintains a wide range of public documents. These include case files, judgment entries, marriage records, and some birth or death records depending on state rules. The staff handles daily document filing, keeps official indexes updated, and processes record requests for residents, attorneys, and agencies.
Many users reach out for:
- Case summaries
- Court orders
- Certified copies for legal filings
- Older archived files
- Marriage, birth, or death records (where permitted by state law)
How to Request Court Files
Requesting St Clair County Clerk Court Records is a simple routine process. Most users start by confirming the case number, party name, or filing year. These details help the clerk find the file faster.
Steps to request records:
- Fill out a Record Request Form with case details.
- Choose the type of copy: certified or standard.
- Submit the form at the clerk counter, by mail, or through the online request tool.
- Pay the required fee.
- Wait for the clerk staff to prepare the copies.
Certified vs. Uncertified Copies
Both options serve different needs. An uncertified copy works well for personal reference, research, or simple case review. A certified copy has an official stamp or seal from the County Clerk’s Office. This type is required for legal filings, government agencies, name changes, and many financial matters.
Quick comparison:
| Type of Copy | Best Use | Cost Range | Seal/Stamp |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certified Copy | Legal filings, official verification | Higher fee | Yes |
| Uncertified Copy | Personal review, case reference | Lower fee | No |
Turnaround Times, Fees & Processing Details
The processing time varies based on the record type and how old the file is. Recent court documents might be ready the same day, while older archived files might take a few days. Standard request fees usually apply per page, and certified copies cost a bit more due to the official seal.
Common timing ranges:
- Same-day pickup for many recent filings
- 1–3 business days for certified copies
- 3–7 days for archived case files
Case Types You Can Search in St Clair County
Users can look up many kinds of cases through St Clair County Case Lookup, ranging from criminal matters to family and probate filings. The system helps people check case progress, review filings, and follow official updates with fast, reliable search tools.
Wide Range of Case Searches in St Clair County
St Clair County offers several searchable case categories. Each one helps the public stay informed, follow court actions, and review important details. The sections below explain the main case types users can check through the county’s lookup tools.
Criminal Case Lookup
Criminal case search gives the public a clear view of charges, future court dates, and case status for misdemeanors and felony matters. Many users rely on this tool to see recent filings, sentencing notes, and bond information.
Common criminal search results include:
- Defendant name
- Arrest or charge details
- Hearing schedules
- Courtroom assignments
- Case status updates
Civil Case Search
The civil section focuses on disputes involving money, property, and contracts. People often search these cases to check hearing dates or review case filings.
Civil case types often include:
- Contract disputes
- Landlord–tenant filings
- Small claims
- Debt collection
- Personal injury matters
Traffic Ticket Lookup
Traffic searches cover common issues such as speeding, license violations, and driving without insurance. Users can follow deadlines, payment notes, and court appearances tied to traffic tickets.
Typical results show:
- Ticket number
- Violation type
- Payment status
- Upcoming dates
- Judge or magistrate assignment
Divorce & Family Court Case Search
Family-related searches give the public a way to follow filings in divorce, custody, parenting time, and support cases. The lookup tool usually shows important updates that affect each side’s next step.
Key information may include:
- Filing date
- Case type (divorce, custody, support)
- Hearing notices
- Motions filed
- Mediation dates
Probate Case Search
Probate filings cover estate matters, wills, guardianships, and conservatorships. Many families use this tool to monitor paperwork, notices, and case movement.
Probate lookup usually displays:
- Estate type
- Filing records
- Hearing calendars
- Personal representative details
- Claim deadlines
How to Find Your Court Date in St Clair County
A St Clair County Court date search is quick once the right tools are used. Anyone can check a hearing schedule or docket in minutes through the county’s public search systems.
The steps stay simple, and each one helps users confirm the exact date, time, and courtroom for their case. This process works well for traffic, civil, criminal, and family cases.
How the St Clair County Court Date Search Works
The St Clair County system allows people to look up a court date through the county’s official case lookup portal. The search tool connects directly to the docket, so results reflect current information. This helps users check a hearing schedule without needing to call the courthouse for updates.
Most searches only need a name, case number, or ticket number. The tool then shows the next hearing date, assigned judge, and courtroom location. This keeps the process clear for anyone trying to stay on track with required appearances.
Simple Steps to Find a Hearing Date
The process usually follows a short path:
Gather basic case details
- Full name used on the case
- Case number or ticket number
- Birthdate (sometimes needed for filtering)
Open the official St Clair County case lookup page
Users can search the local docket and view upcoming dates connected to the case.
Review the results page
The system lists:
- Next hearing date
- Time of appearance
- Judge assigned
- Courtroom number
- Case status
Save or print the information
Keeping a copy helps avoid missing the appearance.
Online Payments, Filing, and Digital Court Services
St Clair County Court Online Services help people pay fines and submit filings from any device. These tools make routine tasks quicker and keep visitors from waiting at the courthouse.
St Clair County Court offers several digital options that support fast payments, simple uploads, and easy case updates. These online features give residents a smoother way to handle court matters, especially for traffic, civil, and criminal case needs.
What St Clair County Court Online Services Include
St Clair County Court provides a clear set of digital options that support everyday tasks. These tools help users stay organized, reduce stress, and move through steps with confidence. The most commonly used services include:
Online Fine Payment
Residents can pay traffic tickets, misdemeanor fines, and court fees through a secure online system. The payment portal accepts major cards and gives instant confirmation, which helps users keep better track of their case obligations.
E-Filing for Court Documents
The e-filing system lets users submit motions, responses, petitions, and forms without printing anything. It supports uploads, date stamping, and digital receipts so users can monitor each submission with ease.
Digital Case Lookup & Status Updates
People can review hearing dates, case numbers, and court notices in just a few clicks. These updates help reduce missed deadlines and keep users informed.
Online Scheduling Requests
Some divisions provide digital request forms for scheduling or rescheduling dates. This helps reduce in-person traffic and keeps the process steady and predictable.
St Clair County Courthouse – Structure & History
The St Clair County Courthouse stands as the central hub for county legal services, combining historic architecture with the practical features needed for modern court operations. It’s the primary site where residents attend hearings, file documents, and access public records or clerk services.
Main Courthouse Location
The main courthouse is located in the core of downtown Port Huron, making it convenient for visitors, public transit users, and those accessing nearby government buildings.
Official Address:
St. Clair County Courthouse
201 McMorran Blvd, Port Huron, MI 48060
Main Phone: (810) 985-2031
Courts & Offices Inside the Main Courthouse:
- 31st Circuit Court
- 72nd District Court – Port Huron Division
- St. Clair County Probate Court
- Clerk of Court offices
- Records and payment counters
- Public information desk
Courthouse Structure & Architectural Style
The courthouse displays a traditional civic design with a stone façade, column-style front entry, and symmetrical form common to early 20th-century architecture. Inside, visitors find a spacious lobby, tall ceilings, and clearly marked hallways that guide foot traffic smoothly.
Notable structural features include:
- Strong stone exterior with column-style entrance
- Wide hallways and high ceilings
- Courtrooms designed for public seating and visibility
- Updated security stations and ADA-compliant pathways
Renovation Timeline & Modern Improvements
Over several decades, the courthouse has undergone strategic upgrades to support modern court operations. Earlier renovations improved electrical systems, clerk counters, and file storage. Recent updates include:
- New HVAC systems for improved airflow
- Digital docket screens in the lobby
- Brighter, energy-efficient lighting
- Updated flooring and refreshed public areas
Services Offered at the Courthouse
The main courthouse consolidates essential public services in one location. Common tasks handled here include:
- Civil and criminal hearings
- Traffic ticket processing and arraignments
- Family court matters (custody, support, parenting time)
- Probate filings, estate documentation, and guardianships
- Marriage license applications and record lookups
- Public information and scheduling assistance
St Clair County Court Directory
The St Clair County Court Directory brings together everything visitors need—court addresses, judge offices, public phone numbers, and directions to each major courthouse. It’s designed to help users quickly identify the right location, whether visiting the Circuit Court, District Courts, or Probate Court, while also offering practical notes on parking, accessibility, and lobby services.
Circuit Court Location
The St Clair County Circuit Court handles higher-level civil, criminal, family, and juvenile matters and is centrally positioned for easy public access.
Address: 201 McMorran Blvd, Port Huron, MI
Main Phone: (810) 985-2031
Departments: Civil, Criminal, Family Court, Juvenile Services
Parking: Public lots on both sides of the complex
Accessibility: Ramps, elevators, and clearly marked entry signs
District Court Locations
72nd District Court – Port Huron
Address: 201 McMorran Blvd, Port Huron, MI
Phone: (810) 985-2072
Services: Traffic tickets, small claims, probation, landlord–tenant cases
72nd District Court – Marine City
Address: 208 S Parker St, Marine City, MI
Phone: (810) 765-4057
Services: Misdemeanors, civil filings, local traffic hearings
Probate Court Location
The St Clair County Probate Court manages estate cases, guardianships, conservatorships, and mental health filings.
Address: 201 McMorran Blvd, Port Huron, MI
Phone: (810) 985-2066
Accessibility: Wide doors, elevators, and updated restrooms
Parking, Hours & Visitor Information
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Parking: Street parking, public lots, and ADA-marked spaces
What to Bring: Photo ID, case number, paperwork, and payment method
Frequently Asked Questions
This section gives quick, clear answers to common questions about St Clair County Court records. Each response focuses on real steps, plain language, and practical help.
How do people search for court records in St Clair County?
Most searches happen through the county’s public case lookup system. Users enter a name or case number, then review matching files.
The court’s digital portal shows civil, criminal, traffic, and probate case details. Searchers type the party name, year, or case ID to pull results. Many visitors start with a simple name search, then filter by case type. Quick matches appear in seconds, which helps users move through case details with less confusion.
Are St Clair County court records public?
Most records stay open to the public unless sealed by a judge. People can view basic case info, party names, hearing dates, and outcomes.
Some files stay restricted for privacy reasons, such as adoption, juvenile matters, and certain criminal data. Public records often include register of actions, hearing notes, and filing history. Clerks often remind visitors that sensitive case types follow state privacy rules. Clear limits help protect protected parties while still giving broad record visibility.
How do people find their case number?
Most users find it through the online search tool by entering their name. The system lists matching cases and displays the case ID.
Those who cannot recall the year often try a broader name query. Once the correct file appears, the case number shows at the top of the screen. People may also call the clerk’s office with their full name and date of birth, and staff can look it up during office hours.
How can someone contact St Clair County courts?
People usually reach the court by phone, in person, or through the official contact page. Each division has its own number.
Visitors often call the clerk’s office first, since staff direct callers to the right department. The courthouse lists separate contact lines for civil, criminal, traffic, and probate questions. Walk-ins visit during posted hours to request copies, file documents, or speak to staff about case status.
How can someone request copies of St Clair County court documents?
Copies come through the clerk’s counter or a written request. Some document types may appear in the online viewer, but certified copies must be picked up or ordered.
Staff may ask for a case number, party name, and the filing date range. Fees vary by copy type, and certified records often cost more. Many visitors request judgments, sentencing papers, motions, or orders to support personal or legal needs.
How fast are St Clair County court records updated?
Updates appear soon after staff enter new filings or hearing results. Many cases show changes the same day.
Timeframes shift with case volume. Busy periods may lead to short delays, yet most files refresh quickly. Users checking active cases often review updates each evening to stay current on scheduling or new entries.