Court records in Dale County, Alabama can be searched through several channels. DaleCourt.us can help you find publicly available information about court cases filed in the county. You can also access records through official court resources such as the Dale County 33rd Judicial Circuit website and the Alabama Administrative Office of Courts portal. In-person requests can be made at the Circuit Clerk's office or the Probate Office in Ozark. Public terminals at the courthouse may also be available for on-site searches.
Dale Court System & Jurisdictions
Dale County is part of Alabama's 33rd Judicial Circuit. Several courts operate within the county, each handling specific case types:
- Circuit Court — Handles felony criminal cases, civil matters exceeding $10,000, domestic relations cases (divorce, custody, adoption), and appeals from District Court. The Circuit Clerk maintains all records for this court.
- District Court — Covers misdemeanor criminal cases, civil disputes of $20,000 or less, preliminary hearings in felony cases, and small claims. Traffic violations are also processed here.
- Small Claims — A division of District Court for civil disputes involving $6,000 or less. Simplified procedures apply, and attorneys are not required.
- Probate Court — Managed by the Dale County Probate Office, this court handles wills, estate administration, guardianships, conservatorships, name changes, marriage licenses, and commitment proceedings.
There is no separate Family Court or Magistrate Court in Dale County. Domestic relations matters are heard in Circuit Court, while District Court judges handle functions that magistrates perform in some other states.
Dale Court Calendar & Upcoming Hearings
Finding scheduled hearings in Dale County depends on the court involved:
- Circuit and District Court calendars — Visit the Dale County 33rd Judicial Circuit website for announcements, administrative orders, and scheduling information. Court docket schedules may be posted there or available by contacting the Circuit Clerk's office directly.
- Alacourt.gov — The Alabama Unified Judicial System Portal provides on-demand access to state trial court records one case at a time. If you have a case number or party name, you can look up docket entries and scheduled events.
- Probate Court calendar — Contact the Dale County Probate Office for hearing dates on estate, guardianship, or commitment matters.
- In person — The Circuit Clerk's office in the Dale County Courthouse can confirm hearing dates, courtroom assignments, and judge information.
Dale County Circuit Clerk's Office
If you need to check whether a hearing is still on the calendar for today or this week, calling the Clerk's office is often the fastest option.
How to Get a Copy of a Dale Court Document
The process for obtaining court documents in Dale County depends on the type of record and whether you need a certified or uncertified copy.
Circuit and District Court Records
The Circuit Clerk is the official record keeper for both Circuit and District Court cases. You can request copies through these channels:
- In person — Visit the Circuit Clerk's office at the Dale County Courthouse, 100 Court Square, Ozark, AL 36360. Bring the case number or full party names to help staff locate the file.
- By mail — Send a written request with the case number, document description, and a check or money order for applicable fees to:
- Online — The Alacourt.gov portal allows on-demand access to trial court records. Per-case fees apply for retrieving documents through this system.
Probate Records
The Dale County Probate Office online records search covers recorded documents such as deeds, mortgages, and other property-related filings. For probate case documents (wills, estate files, guardianship orders), contact the Probate Office directly.
Certified vs. Uncertified Copies
- Certified copies bear the court seal and clerk's signature. These are typically required for legal proceedings, background checks, and official filings.
- Uncertified copies are plain reproductions suitable for personal reference. They cost less but are not accepted where authentication is required.
Vital Records
Certified copies of birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates are available through the Dale County Health Department, not the courts. Divorce decrees themselves are filed with the Circuit Clerk.
Dale Court Records Fees & Payment
Fees for Dale County court records are set by Alabama statute and local administrative orders. The table below covers common charges. Confirm current amounts with the appropriate office before submitting payment, as fees may change.
| Service | Approximate Fee | Office |
|---|---|---|
| Alacourt.gov single-case record lookup | $25 per case (state-set fee) | Alabama AOC online portal |
| Certified copy of court document | $1.00 per page plus certification fee | Circuit Clerk |
| Certification fee | $5.00 per document | Circuit Clerk |
| Uncertified copy | $0.50–$1.00 per page | Circuit Clerk |
| Probate record search (online) | Free to search; copy fees may apply | Probate Office |
| Certified copy of probate document | $1.00 per page plus certification fee | Probate Office |
| Criminal background check (state) | Varies; contact ALEA | ALEA Criminal Records |
Payment Methods
- In person — Cash, check, or money order are generally accepted. Ask the clerk about debit or credit card availability.
- By mail — Check or money order made payable to the Dale County Circuit Clerk or Dale County Probate Judge, depending on the office.
- Online — The Alacourt.gov portal accepts electronic payment for record lookups. The Probate Office online search is free to browse, but copies may require in-person or mail payment.
For statewide criminal history requests, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency processes fingerprint-based background checks. The Alabama Department of Corrections inmate search is available online at no charge for currently incarcerated individuals.