New Orleans Clerk Of Courts Public Records give people fast, safe access to civil, criminal, and family court files. The system holds over 1.2 million records in a digital docket launched in 2019. Users can search by case number, party name, filing date, or attorney name. Certified copies cost $1 to $3 per page. Most standard documents are ready in 48 hours. Notarized copies take 72 hours. The Clerk’s Office follows strict state rules to keep all records private and correct.
How to Search for Court Records in New Orleans
Start by visiting the official online portal for the Civil District Court. You can look up case files, docket entries, and judgment summaries from 2020 onward. Each record shows key details like filing date, case type, and parties involved. If you need older files, staff can help locate them in the archive. For criminal cases, use the Criminal District Court website. Family court records are also available through the same system. Always have the case number or full names ready to speed up your search.
Online Access to Civil Court Records
The Civil Online Records portal lets you view PDFs of motions, orders, and judgments. You can download plain copies at no charge. Certified copies cost $2 per page and include an official seal. Pay online with a credit card or debit card. The system sends email updates when your order is complete. If you need help, call the Contact Center at (504) 407-0400 between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Central Time on weekdays.
In-Person Record Requests
Visit the Clerk’s Office at 1340 Poydras Street, 4th Floor, Amoco Building. Walk-in services run from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Bring a valid photo ID and the case number if you have it. Staff will help you find the right file and print copies on the spot. Certified documents come with a raised seal and clerk signature. Fees are paid by cash, check, or card at the counter.
Types of Records Available
The Clerk of Court keeps civil lawsuits, property liens, estate papers, and contract disputes. Criminal records include felony and misdemeanor filings since 1975. Family court files cover divorce, custody, and adoption cases. Each record type has its own search rules and fees. Some documents are restricted by law and require special permission to view.
Civil Case Records
Civil cases involve money disputes, property claims, and business contracts. You can find docket entries, motions, and final judgments online. The system shows which documents are available as PDFs. If a file is missing, staff can check the physical archive. Most civil records from 2020 onward are fully digital.
Criminal Case Records
Criminal records include arrest reports, charging documents, and sentencing details. These files are kept at 2700 Tulane Avenue. You can call (504) 658-9000 for help. Fax requests go to (504) 658-9183. Some records may be sealed or redacted to protect privacy.
Family Court Records
Family court handles divorce, child support, and guardianship. Records are stored at 421 Loyola Avenue, Room 402. Plain copies cost $1 per page. Certified copies cost $3 per page. You can submit requests in person, by fax, or online. Each request gets a tracking number.
Fees and Payment Options
Fees vary by document type and certification level. Plain copies start at $0.10 per page. Certified copies range from $1 to $3 per page. Background checks cost $15 each. Payment is accepted in cash, check, or credit card. Online orders require card payment. Mailed requests must include a check or money order.
| Document Type | Plain Copy | Certified Copy |
|---|---|---|
| Divorce Judgment | $1 per page | $3 per page |
| Civil Motion | Free (online) | $2 per page |
| Criminal Docket | $1.50 per page | $2 per page |
| Background Check | N/A | $15 flat fee |
How to Request Certified Copies
Go to the online portal and search for your case. Select the documents you need and choose “certified copy.” Pay the fee and provide your mailing address. Standard service takes 48 hours. Notarized copies take 72 hours. You will get an email when the documents are ready. Pickup is available at 1340 Poydras Street or 2700 Tulane Avenue.
Mail and Fax Requests
Send a written request with the case number, party names, and document list. Include a check for the correct fee. Mail to: Clerk of Court, 1340 Poydras Street, New Orleans, LA 70112. Fax to (504) 658-9183 for criminal records. Allow 5 to 7 business days for processing.
Vital Records and Property Documents
The Conveyance Office handles birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates. Real estate deeds and liens are also filed here. Search by document number, grantor, or grantee name. Certified copies include a raised seal and cost $2 per page. Visit 1340 Poydras Street, 4th Floor, during business hours.
Election and Voter Records
The Clerk’s Office supports local elections by maintaining voter registration lists. Absentee ballot applications are available online. Election results are certified and posted after each contest. Staff coordinate with the State Election Commission to ensure accuracy.
Public Records Requests Through the City Attorney
The City Attorney’s Office runs a digital portal for public records. You can request contracts, meeting minutes, and zoning laws. Each request gets a ticket number and status updates. Fees are $0.25 per page for standard copies and $1.00 per page for certified copies. Pickup is at City Hall, 1300 Magazine Street, Room 205.
Police and Incident Reports
The Public Records Section handles police reports and background checks. Submit a form at 200 Camp Street, 3rd Floor, or online. Processing fees range from $0.10 to $15. Email alerts notify you when documents are ready.
Contact Information and Office Hours
Civil District Court Clerk: 1340 Poydras Street, 4th Floor. Open 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. Phone: (504) 407-0400.
Criminal District Court Clerk: 2700 Tulane Avenue, Suites 104 and 210. Open 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Phone: (504) 658-9000.
Conveyance Office: 421 Loyola Avenue, Room 402. Open 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Phone: (504) 407-0000.
Official Websites
Civil Online Records: http://www.orleanscivilclerk.com/onlinerecords.html
Civil District Court: http://www.orleanscivilclerk.com/
Criminal Court: https://www.criminalcourt.org/clerk-of-court.html
City Attorney Records: https://www.nola.gov/city-attorney/public-records-requests/
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people ask how to get court records fast, what fees apply, and where to go for help. Below are answers to the most common questions about New Orleans Clerk Of Courts Public Records.
How do I find a specific court case in New Orleans?
Use the online portal at orleanscivilclerk.com. Enter the case number, party name, or filing date. If you don’t have the case number, call the Clerk’s Office at (504) 407-0400. Staff can search by name and date. For criminal cases, visit criminalcourt.org or call (504) 658-9000. Have your ID ready. Most records from 2020 onward are online. Older files may take longer to retrieve.
Can I get certified copies of divorce records?
Yes. Go to 421 Loyola Avenue, Room 402, or use the online request form. Certified copies cost $3 per page and include an official seal. Plain copies are $1 per page. You can pay by cash, check, or card. Processing takes 48 hours. Notarized copies take 72 hours. Bring a photo ID when picking up. Mail requests must include a check and self-addressed envelope.
Are criminal records public in Orleans Parish?
Most criminal records are public, but some are sealed by court order. You can view docket entries, charges, and sentencing details at 2700 Tulane Avenue. Call (504) 658-9000 for help. Fax requests to (504) 658-9183. Certain files, like juvenile records, are restricted. Always check with the Clerk before assuming a record is open.
How much does it cost to get a background check?
Background checks cost $15 each. Submit a request at 200 Camp Street, 3rd Floor, or online through the City Attorney’s portal. You’ll get a ticket number to track progress. Results are ready in 3 to 5 days. Pickup is at City Hall, 1300 Magazine Street, Room 205. Payment is by cash, check, or card.
Can I access property deeds online?
Yes. The Conveyance Office at 1340 Poydras Street has an online search tool. Look up deeds, liens, and mortgages by document number or name. Certified copies cost $2 per page. Plain copies are free online. For help, call (504) 407-0000. Office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday.
What if my record is missing or incomplete?
Contact the Clerk’s Office immediately. Staff will check the digital system and physical archive. If a file is lost, they can re-create it from backups. Call (504) 407-0400 for civil cases or (504) 658-9000 for criminal cases. Provide as much detail as possible, including names, dates, and case numbers. Most issues are resolved within 48 hours.
Do I need an appointment to visit the Clerk’s Office?
No appointment is needed for walk-in services. Offices are open Monday to Friday during business hours. Arrive early to avoid lines. Bring a photo ID and case number if you have it. For large requests, call ahead to schedule pickup. Staff are available to help with searches and payments.