A Closer Look: Orange County Clerk of Courts

The office of the Orange County Clerk of Courts, led by Tiffany Moore Russell, maintains more than 47 million digital court documents, as well as millions of paper records for the 9th Judicial Circuit Court. As the information hub of the Justice System, online access to records managed by the office can be accessed through the My e-clerk website.

Many services are offered online, however residents can visit the Clerk of Courts to pay traffic and criminal fines, initiate or contest a civil case, pursue probate issues and make child support payments. The Clerk also assists customers file domestic violence injunctions and seek help for loved ones with mental health or substance abuse issues. Additionally, the Clerk of Courts accepts passport applications, issue marriage licenses and even performs wedding ceremonies.

The Clerk of Courts also has five convenient locations across Orange County located in downtown Orlando, east Orange County, Winter Park, Ocoee, and Apopka. Here are a few popular services the office provides to the community.

• Self Help

  The Orange County Clerk of Courts introduced a Self Help Center to provide affordable legal advice in family law, small claims, and residential evictions cases to people who can’t afford an attorney. Self Help services are available at the downtown Orlando Courthouse and at the Apopka branch.

• Domestic Violence

  Residents in need of support or resources for those affected by domestic, repeat, sexual, dating and stalking violence can visit the Clerk of Courts’ Family Services Division to learn more about Family Law and filing or obtaining restraining orders.

• Mental Health

  The Clerk’s Mental Health Division maintains court records when proceedings are held to determine the capacity or incapacity of an adult. The office’s Deputy Clerks also aid families seeking help for a loved one with mental health or substance abuse issues.

• Adoptions and Child Support

  The Clerk’s Office is responsible for processing all adoptions in Orange County. We ensure that all paperwork is filed with the appropriate department and adhere to strict confidentiality laws. The office is also the keeper of the record to ensure child support is paid.

• Traffic Ticket

  Residents who have received traffic tickets can go online and review resources on the best ticket options for their situation, including paying or contesting a ticket, electing to attend traffic school and ticket payment plans.

• Civil

  County Civil Court handles claims up to and including $15,000. This Division handles county and circuit civil cases, small claims and evictions. Additionally, the Orange County Clerk’s Office has partnered with the Orange County Bar Association to provide information and resources to those facing residential mortgage foreclosures.

• Evidence

  Evidence technicians at the Clerk of Courts log and maintain all evidence for court cases, which includes money, weapons, and narcotics.

This news story was written in partnership with Orange County Government and the Orange County Clerk of Courts. For more information about the Clerk of Courts’ office visit MyOrangeClerk.com and connect with them on Facebook, Twitter at @OrangeClerk.

Photo Caption: Orange County residents prepare to receive their marriage license at the office at the Orange County Clerk of Courts.