Forsyth County NC Clerk of Court Records serves as the official hub for all judicial documents in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Located at 335 West Fifth Street, the Clerk’s office manages civil, criminal, family, and juvenile court files. Residents can access dockets, request certified copies, and file documents online or in person. The office follows strict state laws to protect privacy while ensuring public access to legal records. With digitized archives dating back to 1900, users can search by name, case number, or date. The main phone line is (336) 779-6300, and staff assist with e-filing, record requests, and procedural questions during business hours.
How to Access Forsyth County Court Records Online
The Forsyth County Clerk’s online portal offers free access to court records from any device. Users can search by party name, attorney ID, or docket number to view case summaries, hearing dates, and filings. The system updates daily and includes records from 1975 onward. For older documents, staff retrieve physical files upon request. The portal also provides downloadable forms, fee schedules, and administrative orders. Visitors should allow extra time for processing certified copies, which require ID and payment. The website works on mobile phones, tablets, and computers, making it easy to check case status anywhere.
Types of Records Available Through the Clerk of Court
The Clerk’s office maintains several key record types. Civil cases include lawsuits, contracts, and property disputes. Criminal records cover indictments, judgments, and sentencing details. Family court files contain divorce decrees, child custody rulings, and support orders. Juvenile records are sealed by law but accessible to authorized parties. Probate documents include wills, estate inventories, and guardianship filings. Vital records like birth, death, and marriage certificates are also stored here. Each record type has specific access rules and fees. Certified copies require a written request, photo ID, and payment. Most requests take 5–10 business days to process.
Fees and Payment Options for Record Requests
Fees vary by document type and service. A certified divorce judgment costs $10. Birth, death, or marriage certificates cost $5 each. Copies of court filings range from $0.25 to $1.00 per page. Payments can be made online via credit card, in person with cash or check, or by mail with a money order. Electronic payments speed up processing. The office does not accept personal checks for online orders. Refunds are not issued for completed requests. Fee waivers may apply for low-income individuals in certain legal matters. Always confirm current rates on the official website before submitting a request.
Visiting the Forsyth County Clerk of Court Office
The main office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. It is closed on federal holidays. Visitors should bring a government-issued photo ID for record requests. Parking is available near the Judicial Center, but spaces fill quickly during peak hours. The building has wheelchair access and multilingual staff upon request. In-person assistance helps with complex searches or technical issues. Staff can guide users through the online portal or help complete forms. For large research projects, schedule an appointment to avoid long waits. Security checks are required at the entrance.
E-Filing and Digital Services
Forsyth County supports 24/7 electronic filing through the North Carolina Courts system. Attorneys and self-represented litigants can submit motions, complaints, and appeals online. The system confirms receipt instantly and assigns a tracking number. Users must create an account and follow formatting rules. E-filing reduces paperwork and speeds up case processing. The Clerk’s office provides tutorials and FAQs for new users. Technical support is available during business hours. Some documents, like wills or adoption papers, still require physical submission. Always check the latest e-filing guidelines before submitting.
Jury Service and Public Notices
Residents can register for jury duty by calling (336) 779-0000 or visiting the Clerk’s website. Summonses are mailed to eligible citizens based on voter registration and DMV data. The online portal shows jury schedules, reporting instructions, and exemption forms. Failure to respond may result in fines or legal action. The office also posts public notices for foreclosures, name changes, and estate sales. These notices appear in local newspapers and on the website. Citizens can subscribe to email alerts for new postings. Jury service typically lasts one day or one trial.
Probate and Estate Records
The Probate Division handles wills, trusts, and estate administration. Files include death certificates, asset lists, and court approvals. Interested parties can request copies with proper ID and relationship proof. Some records are confidential, especially those involving minors. The office assists executors with filing requirements and deadlines. Probate judges review complex cases during scheduled hearings. Records older than 50 years are transferred to the state archives. Researchers should contact the Clerk’s office before visiting the archives.
Child Support and Domestic Cases
The Child Support Division enforces payment orders and modifies agreements. Parents can request records, update contact info, or report non-payment. Domestic violence filings include protective orders and emergency hearings. These records are sensitive and may require court permission to access. The office coordinates with law enforcement and social services. Staff provide referrals to legal aid and counseling programs. All interactions are confidential. Forms are available online or at the front desk.
Register of Deeds and Property Records
While the Clerk handles court files, the Register of Deeds manages land records. This includes deeds, mortgages, liens, and property maps. The online search tool is powered by Business Information Services (BIS). Users can look up parcel numbers, ownership history, and tax details. For technical issues, call BIS support at (866) 604-3680. The office is located at 201 North Chestnut Street and open weekdays from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Director Lynne Johnson oversees operations. Property records are public but may contain personal information redacted for privacy.
Historical Records and Research Assistance
Records from 1900 to present are digitized and searchable. Older documents may require staff retrieval from off-site storage. Genealogists, historians, and legal researchers can request bulk data or special access. The office does not provide research services but offers guidance on search strategies. Some records are restricted due to privacy laws. Researchers should bring identification and explain their purpose. Processing times vary based on volume and complexity. Fees apply for copying and certification.
Contact Information and Office Hours
The main phone number is (336) 779-6300. For jury service, call (336) 779-0000. Superior Court Judges can be reached at (336) 779-6316, and District Court Judges at (336) 779-6318. The address is 335 West Fifth Street, Winston-Salem, NC 27101. Office hours are Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM. The website forsythclerk.com provides forms, FAQs, and real-time updates. Staff respond to emails within two business days. For urgent matters, visit in person or call during operating hours.
Frequently Asked Questions About Forsyth County Court Records
Many users ask how to get a divorce decree, check a criminal case, or find property liens. Others want to know about fees, hours, or online access. The Clerk’s website answers common questions in plain language. Staff also offer phone support for complex issues. Frequent topics include certified copies, e-filing errors, and record restrictions. The office updates its FAQ section monthly based on user feedback. Visitors can submit new questions through the contact form.
Legal Aid and Community Resources
The Clerk’s office partners with local legal aid groups to assist low-income residents. Free clinics help with filing fees, form completion, and court preparation. Nonprofits like Legal Aid of North Carolina provide attorneys for qualifying cases. The office also shares information about mediation, counseling, and victim support services. These resources are listed on the website and posted in the lobby. Referrals are confidential and do not affect court outcomes.
Security and Privacy Protections
All records are protected under North Carolina General Statutes §§ 106-141. Personal details like Social Security numbers and minor names are redacted from public views. The online portal uses encryption to safeguard user data. Staff undergo training on confidentiality and data handling. Unauthorized access or disclosure is a criminal offense. Users should report suspicious activity immediately. The office complies with federal and state privacy laws, including HIPAA for health-related filings.
Emergency and After-Hours Assistance
For urgent matters like restraining orders or arrest warrants, contact the on-call judge through the Sheriff’s Office. The Clerk’s office does not handle emergencies outside business hours. However, the e-filing system remains active 24/7 for time-sensitive submissions. In case of natural disasters or system outages, updates appear on the website and social media. Staff prioritize restoring services as quickly as possible.
Feedback and Website Improvements
The Clerk’s office welcomes suggestions to improve accessibility and usability. Users can submit feedback via the “Contact Us” form on forsythclerk.com. Recent upgrades include mobile-friendly design, faster search tools, and clearer instructions. Staff review all comments and implement changes quarterly. The “What’s New” section highlights recent updates and upcoming deadlines. Community input helps shape future services.
Related Services and External Links
While the Clerk manages court records, other agencies handle related needs. The Sheriff’s Office oversees inmate searches and jail records. The Health Department issues birth and death certificates. The Register of Deeds maintains property files. These offices share some data but operate independently. Users should verify which agency holds the needed record before submitting requests. Cross-referencing ensures accurate and timely results.
Final Tips for Using Forsyth County Court Records
Start with the online portal for quick searches. Bring ID and payment for certified copies. Call ahead for complex requests or large orders. Check the website for holiday closures and system maintenance. Use the correct phone number for your need—jury service, records, or judges. Keep copies of all receipts and confirmation numbers. If unsure, ask staff for help—they are trained to assist the public.
Official Contact Details
Forsyth County Clerk of Court
335 West Fifth Street
Winston-Salem, NC 27101
Phone: (336) 779-6300
Jury Service: (336) 779-0000
Website: forsythclerk.com
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a certified copy of my divorce decree in Forsyth County?
To obtain a certified divorce decree, submit a written request with your full name, case number (if known), and the names of both parties. Include a government-issued photo ID and a $10 fee. Requests can be mailed, submitted in person, or processed online through the Clerk’s portal. Processing takes 5–10 business days. Certified copies are official documents used for remarriage, immigration, or legal verification. Always keep a copy for your records.
Can I search Forsyth County court records for free?
Yes, basic case searches are free on the Forsyth County Clerk’s online portal. You can look up cases by party name, attorney ID, or docket number. The system shows filing dates, hearing schedules, and case status. However, downloading full documents or obtaining certified copies requires payment. The portal is available 24/7 and works on all devices. For help, visit the office or call (336) 779-6300 during business hours.
Are juvenile records available to the public in Forsyth County?
No, juvenile records are confidential under North Carolina law. Only parents, guardians, attorneys, law enforcement, and court officials can access them. Requests must include proof of relationship or legal authority. The Clerk’s office will not release these records without a court order. This protects the privacy and rehabilitation prospects of minors involved in the justice system.
How long does it take to receive birth or death certificates from Forsyth County?
Birth and death certificates cost $5 each and are processed within ten business days after payment confirmation. Requests require the decedent’s full name, date of death, and a notarized form. Orders can be placed online, by mail, or in person. Rush services are not available. For genealogical research, older records may take longer due to storage retrieval.
What should I do if I can’t find a court record online?
If a record isn’t showing online, it may be too old, sealed, or not yet digitized. Contact the Clerk’s office at (336) 779-6300 for assistance. Staff can search physical archives or confirm if the record exists. Provide as much detail as possible—names, dates, case type. Some records from before 1975 require manual retrieval. Allow extra time for these requests.
Is e-filing mandatory in Forsyth County courts?
E-filing is required for most attorneys in Forsyth County. Self-represented litigants may also use the system but can submit paper filings in person. The North Carolina Courts e-filing portal is available 24/7. Users must create an account and follow formatting rules. The Clerk’s office provides guides and support. Paper filings may incur additional fees or delays.