alabama public records court access and expectations

Overview

Alabama court records are generally public, with exceptions for sealed, juvenile, and other sensitive matters. Access differs by county and court level, so procedures and search tools are not uniform. State trial and appellate records are distinct from federal cases, which are handled on separate systems.

What you can find

Typical content includes docket entries, filings and orders, party and attorney names, hearing dates, dispositions, and sentence or judgment details where applicable. Probate and traffic records may be listed separately, and older files can be paper or microfilm only.

How to request and what to expect

Expect redactions of personal identifiers and occasional gaps in digitization. Certified copies cost more and may require in-person pickup or mail fulfillment.

1. Identify the court level and county.
2. Gather case number, names, and date range.
3. Check the clerk’s index or portal.
4. Submit the request and pay fees.
5. Allow processing time for retrieval.

To improve results, include exact spellings and variants, specify the timeframe, and ask the clerk about local rules, copy costs, and available delivery options.