Mississippi Public Records /Mississippi Court Records Online

Mississippi Court Records Online

Are Court Records in Mississippi Open to the Public?

Yes, court records in Mississippi are generally open to the public under the Mississippi Public Records Act (MPRA). The Mississippi Judiciary promotes transparency by ensuring public access to court records, aligning with the state's constitutional provisions. However, certain judicial records are exempt from public access, including those sealed by court orders and documents filed under seal.

Requesters must provide specific information to access these records, such as the case number, the names of the parties involved, and the type of case. Requests can be denied if they disrupt court operations or if the records are exempt by law, including those that might compromise security measures.

What Information Appears in a Mississippi Court Records Search?

Case number
Case status
Case type
Party names
Charges
Dispositions
Filing date
Judge's name
Attorney's name

How To Find Court Records in Mississippi

To find court records in Mississippi, identify the court that handled the case and submit a request to the clerk of that court. This can be done in person, by mail, or electronically, depending on the court's provisions. Intervention Courts, Municipal Courts, Justice Courts, Youth Courts, County Courts, Chancery Courts, Circuit Courts, the Court of Appeals, and the Supreme Court each have specific jurisdictions and record-keeping practices.

In-person requests typically involve visiting the courthouse during business hours and filling out a request form. The cost of retrieving records varies, but copying fees are generally $0.50 per page for regular copies. Online searches can be conducted through the Mississippi Electronic Court (MEC) system, where users pay $0.20 per page viewed.

Public Access to Mississippi Court Records

Mississippi court records are accessible to the public through various means. Interested parties can visit the courthouse, use the Mississippi Electronic Court (MEC) system, or utilize public access terminals available at court facilities. The Mississippi State Law Library also offers access to certain records.

Searching Mississippi Court Records by Name

To search court records by name, you can use the Mississippi Electronic Courts (MEC) system. Public users must register as PAMEC users and pay associated fees, typically $0.20 per page. Alternatively, you can visit the court where the case was filed and conduct a search by case party name, attorney name, or judge name. Viewing records may be free, but obtaining copies usually incurs a fee.

How To Access Court Records Online for Free in Mississippi

The Mississippi Judiciary provides a General Docket tool for free online searches by name or docket number. The Mississippi Electronic Courts (MEC) system offers low-cost access at $0.20 per page. Additionally, the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern and Southern Districts of Mississippi provides electronic access via PACER at $0.10 per page. Eligible individuals may qualify for fee waivers.

Third-party websites also offer access to court records, though they are not government-sponsored. These sites may provide easier access but may have varying record availability compared to official sources.

Exemptions for Mississippi Court Case Lookup

Certain records are exempt from public disclosure, including:

Adoption records
Juvenile proceedings
Grand jury records
Child abuse and neglect records
Medical records

These records are only accessible to case parties, their legal guardians, attorneys, or individuals with a court order authorizing access.

Finding a Court Docket in Mississippi

A Mississippi court docket includes all filings and proceedings of a case. To find a court docket, visit the Mississippi Judiciary website and use the "General Docket" search tool. Enter the case party name or docket number to retrieve relevant dockets. The search results will display docket numbers, case information, and trial court details.

What Information Is Found in Mississippi Judgment Records?

Litigants' names
Case background description
Issued judgment
Judge's name
Date of judgment

Are Bankruptcy Records in Mississippi Publicly Accessible?

Yes, bankruptcy records in Mississippi are publicly accessible. Requesters must provide details such as the case number, debtor's name, or Social Security Number. These records can be accessed online, in person, or by phone, with associated costs for copying and research.

How To Search Bankruptcy Records in Mississippi

Bankruptcy records can be accessed online through the PACER Service Center, where searches cost $0.10 per page and $3 per document. In-person requests can be made at Court Clerk offices, where public access terminals are available for free viewing. Phone requests can be made via the Voice Case Information System (VCIS).

Different Types of Courts in Mississippi

Intervention Courts: Handle drug abuse and juvenile offenses.
Municipal Courts: Handle city traffic violations and misdemeanors.
Justice Courts: Handle small claims and preliminary felony hearings.
Youth Courts: Handle cases involving minors.
County Courts: Assist with high population counties, handle property recovery, and juvenile matters.
Chancery Courts: Handle divorce, wills, and custody cases.
Circuit Courts: Handle civil matters over $200,000 and criminal cases.
Court of Appeals: Handles cases assigned by the Supreme Court.
Supreme Court: Reviews decisions of the Court of Appeals and lower courts.

Understanding the Differences Between Civil and Small Claims Courts in Mississippi

Small claims courts handle disputes with values not exceeding $3,500, such as landlord-tenant issues and minor accidents. These cases are tried in Justice Courts, where legal representation may not be necessary due to the small amounts involved.

Civil suits involve non-criminal disputes seeking compensation for damages. Cases like contract disputes and property recovery are tried in Circuit or County Courts, depending on the disputed amount. Cases over $200,000 go to Circuit Courts, while those below $200,000 are heard in County Courts. Plaintiffs must file in the jurisdiction where the offense occurred or where the defendant resides.

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