CourtCaseFinder.com
  1. Home
  2. Indiana Court Records

Indiana Court Records Lookup

Start Here
Start Here

The following is for information purposes only

Table of Contents

How To Find Court Records In Indiana

Whether you want to perform a court records search in Indiana or need information on a specific state case, CourtCaseFinder makes the lookup process efficient and straightforward. Our Instant Court Case Lookup can provide access to court information from all counties and cities across the state.

For those unfamiliar, court records in Indiana are official documents maintained by the state's judicial system that detail the proceedings and outcomes of legal cases. Depending on the availability, these records can include filings, motions, rulings, judgments, and other case-related information.

The information within these documents can give insight into the legal proceedings and resolution of cases in the state. They can help you understand how courts handle specific matters, track the progress of ongoing cases, and review past court decisions.

How To Access Indiana Public Court Records

CourtCaseFinder offers a streamlined way to access court records in Indiana. It can reveal case details with a single search and presents information in a clear, user-friendly format, saving time and eliminating the need to navigate multiple websites.

While CourtCaseFinder offers a comprehensive solution, Indiana court records are also accessible directly through official government sources. If you prefer to obtain records this way, you can explore one of the following methods:

In-Person Requests at Court Offices

One of the most traditional ways to access court records in Indiana is to visit the court office where the records you want are maintained. Court clerks are available to assist in locating records and can provide copies, including certified documents, when necessary.

The Directory of Courts and Clerks in Indiana can help you locate the physical address and contact information of specific courts in the state.

Online Access Using Court Websites

You can retrieve court records online via the portals provided by Indiana courts. For example, the Case Search portal offered by the Indiana Judicial Branch provides access to statewide court information. In addition, many county courts maintain their own online resources for the cases handled within their jurisdictions, which allow users to search local dockets directly.

Typically, these portals allow searches by case number, party name, or attorney.

Mail Request

In Indiana, requesting through the mail is another option for accessing court records.

You can send a written request to the court clerk where the case was filed. The request usually needs details such as the case number, names of the parties, and the type of record being requested. Clerks also often require payment for copies of documents.

You can find the mailing address of specific Indiana courts on their websites.

Indiana Court Records: What is Public and What is Not?

Indiana court records are generally accessible to the public, consistent with the presumption of transparency established under the Indiana Access to Public Records Act. This law grants you the right to inspect or copy documented information filed and maintained by public agencies, including the state's courts.

Here is some of the common information you can access through Indiana public court records:

  • Case filings, motions, and pleadings
  • Orders, judgments, and rulings
  • Hearing dates and disposition information
  • Case summaries or chronologies
  • Non-confidential financial information (e.g., fines or fee balances)

While court records are considered public, the Indiana Rules on Access to Court Records outline specific limits designed to protect sensitive or confidential information. Specifically, per Rule 5 of the Indiana Rules on Access to Court Records, the following information is commonly excluded from public access:

  • Juvenile delinquency, child protection, and termination of parental rights cases
  • Mental health-related cases
  • Cases involving investigative processes, such as search warrants or subpoenas
  • Medical records, mental health treatment records, and substance abuse test results
  • Sensitive personal identifiers, such as Social Security numbers, financial account numbers, or victim addresses

Who Oversees the Courts in Indiana?

The Indiana Supreme Court is the highest judicial authority in the state, holding constitutional power to supervise all lower courts. It is led by Chief Justice Loretta H. Rush, who has served in this role since 2012.

The Supreme Court is supported by the Office of Judicial Administration (OJA), which is headed by Chief Administrative Officer Justin Forkner. The OJA functions as the Supreme Court's administrative arm by securing the smooth operations of state and county courts across Indiana.

Under the Indiana Code Section 33-24-6-3, the OJA has the following key responsibilities:

  • Evaluating and improving administrative practices in courts and clerk offices
  • Collecting and compiling statewide judicial data on caseloads, budgets, and outcomes
  • Publishing annual reports on judicial activity and performance
  • Overseeing fiscal operations, technology services, and legal compliance for courts
  • Supporting judicial nomination, qualification, and discipline processes
  • Managing programs such as legal aid funding and technology initiatives
  • Facilitating statewide communication and data exchange

What Types of Courts Exist in Indiana?

The Indiana court system operates on two primary levels: trial courts and appellate courts.

The appellate system consists of the Indiana Supreme Court, the Indiana Court of Appeals, and the Indiana Tax Court. These courts generally do not hear new cases but instead review matters already decided by trial courts. Appeals are typically brought by the party that did not prevail at trial and seek to challenge or overturn the lower court's decision.

On the trial side, Indiana maintains three primary types of courts: circuit courts, superior courts, and city or town courts. Despite the different labels, these trial courts share many similarities in function and purpose. However, the cases they handle can differ significantly depending on the county or municipality.

The following table breaks down the types of courts in the state, their jurisdiction, and the case types they usually handle:

Court Type Jurisdiction Common Case Types

Indiana Supreme Court

The highest court in the state; final appellate authority. Reviews decisions from lower courts, interprets state laws, and oversees the judiciary.

Appeals involving constitutional issues, death penalty cases, attorney and judicial discipline, rule-making for state courts, and select cases transferred from the Court of Appeals.

Indiana Court of Appeals

Intermediate appellate court. Reviews decisions from trial courts (except those that go directly to the Supreme Court).

Criminal and civil appeals (excluding death penalty), child custody and family law appeals, administrative agency reviews, and trial court procedures or judgments disputes.

Indiana Tax Court

Specialized appellate-level court focusing on cases related to state tax laws.

Tax-related disputes involving state and local tax agencies, including income, sales, and property tax appeals.

Circuit Courts

General trial courts of broad jurisdiction. Present in every county.

Civil cases, criminal cases, probate matters, juvenile issues, and family law.

Superior Courts

Trial courts with jurisdiction often overlap with circuit courts. Each county determines its scope.

Civil and criminal cases, small claims, traffic violations, family law, and local matters.

City and Town Courts

Local trial courts with limited jurisdiction. Not present in all municipalities.

Ordinance violations, misdemeanors, traffic infractions, and minor civil disputes.

What Federal Courts Are In Indiana?

Federal courts differ fundamentally from state courts. They only handle cases involving federal law, constitutional issues, disputes between states, or cases between citizens of different states that meet certain monetary thresholds.

In Indiana, two U.S. District Courts serve as the trial-level federal courts: the Northern District of Indiana and the Southern District of Indiana. Each district also has its own Bankruptcy Court to handle federal bankruptcy cases.

If a party wishes to challenge a ruling from one of these courts, the appeal is brought before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, which is based in Chicago, Illinois.

Below is a table detailing the federal courts in Indiana:

Federal Court Jurisdiction Location & Contact Information

U.S. District Court - Northern District of Indiana

Oversees federal cases in northern Indiana.

Fort Wayne (260) 423-3000, Hammond (219) 852-6500, South Bend (574) 246-8000

U.S. District Court - Southern District of Indiana

Handles federal cases in the southern Indiana area.

Indianapolis (317) 229-3700, Terre Haute (812) 231-1840, Evansville(812) 434-6410, New Albany (812) 542-4510

U.S. Bankruptcy Court - Northern District of Indiana

Oversees federal bankruptcy matters in northern Indiana.

South Bend (574) 968-2265, Fort Wayne (574) 968-2265, Hammond (574) 968-2265

U.S. Bankruptcy Court - Southern District of Indiana

Handles federal bankruptcy cases in the southern Indiana region.

Evansville (812) 434-6470, Indianapolis (317) 229-3800, New Albany (812) 542-4540, Terre Haute (812) 434-6470

U.S. Court of Appeals - Seventh Circuit

Handle appeals from federal district courts and bankruptcy courts in Indiana.

219 South Dearborn Street, Room 2722, Chicago, IL 60604

Phone: (312) 435-5850

How Many Cases Are Handled Annually in Indiana Courts?

Indiana courts manage a significant number of cases annually across all levels. According to the 2023-2024 annual report for each state court, the reported figures are as follows:

  • Indiana Supreme Court: 748 new filings and 735 dispositions
  • Indiana Court of Appeals: 3,259 new filings and 3,206 dispositions
  • Indiana Tax Court: 14 new filings and 30 dispositions
  • Indiana Trial Courts: Approximately 1.14 million new filings

Most cases in Indiana are filed in trial courts, which handle various matters from criminal cases to civil disputes. Below is a breakdown of the estimated annual volume of common case types within trial court filings:

Case Type Approx. Annual Volume

Criminal Cases (including misdemeanor, felony, etc.)

~269,000

Civil Violation Cases (including infractions and ordinance violations)

~354,000

Juvenile Cases (including delinquency, paternity, parental rights, etc.)

~55,000

Civil Cases (including domestic relations, evictions, estates, etc.)

~466,000

For a more detailed breakdown of cases within these categories, refer to theIndiana Trial Court Statistics by County. Meanwhile, you can check theReports and Statistics page on the Indiana Judicial Branch to access the latest annual reports of each court level in the state.

How Do I File a Case in Indiana Courts?

Filing a case in Indiana courts involves several steps, whether you're representing yourself or working with an attorney. The process can vary depending on the court and the type of case. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you understand the general procedures for initiating a case in Indiana.

Determine the Appropriate Court

The first step in filing a case in Indiana is determining which court has jurisdiction over your matter. For most cases, this will be a trial court, while appeals must be filed with the appropriate appellate court. You can utilize the Indiana Judicial Branch Court Directory for court locations and jurisdiction details.

Prepare the Required Forms

After identifying the appropriate court, the next step is to gather and prepare all required documents to initiate your case. Depending on the type of case, this typically includes a complaint, petition, or other filing forms. Be sure to complete all documents thoroughly to avoid delays or rejection by the court.

You can access official forms for most cases on the Indiana Judicial Branch Forms page.

Choose Your Filing Method

After preparing your documents, you must decide how to file your case. Indiana courts allow for both electronic filing (e-filing) and in-person filing:

  • E-Filing: Most cases can be filed online through the Indiana Courts E-Filing Portal. This portal allows you to submit documents, pay fees, and track your case electronically. You can review the E-Filing User Guide for detailed instructions. Be sure to use an approved e-filing service provider to avoid complications.
  • In-Person Filing: You may also file your case directly at the clerk's office of the appropriate court. Bring all completed documents and be prepared to pay any applicable filing fees.

Pay the Filing Fee

You must pay a filing fee to complete the case filing process in Indiana. The fee amount varies depending on the case type and the court you are filing in. For specific fee information, refer to the Indiana Trial Court Fee Manual or contact the court clerk where you plan to file.

Serve the Other Party

After filing your case, you must serve the defendants with a copy of the filed documents. The service process provides formal notice to the defendant of the legal action and allows them to respond.

In Indiana, service can be completed through personal delivery, certified mail, or publication, depending on the type of case and the court's specific rules.

How Is the Indiana Court System Unique?

While most states have similar trial and appellate structures, Indiana distinguishes itself with courts such as the Indiana Tax Court, which exclusively handles state tax matters, and local city or town courts focusing on ordinance violations and minor offenses.

Additionally, Indiana has problem-solving courts to address the underlying issues faced by justice-involved individuals, including substance abuse or mental health challenges. These courts aim to achieve positive outcomes for individuals, their families, victims, and the broader community.

You can refer to the Problem-Solving Court Directory to find the available problem-solving courts in each county.

Indiana Courthouses, Sheriff's Offices, Police Departments, Jails, & Prisons

Where to Find Additional Information About Indiana Courts?

FAQs

Where Should I File for a Divorce?

Indiana divorce cases must be filed in the circuit or superior court of the county where either spouse resides. Under the Indiana Divorce Law, at least one spouse must have lived in the state for six months and the county for three months when filing.

Which Court Handles Felony Criminal Charges?

Felony criminal charges in Indiana are handled by the circuit or superior courts, depending on the county's court structure. These courts have jurisdiction over serious criminal matters, including all felony levels.

What Court Should I File Charges in if I Am Being Evicted?

The circuit or superior court of the county where the rental property is located handles eviction cases in Indiana. It settles landlord-tenant disputes, including possession and unpaid rent.

How To Sue Someone for Less Than $10,000, Which Court to Use?

In Indiana, if you want to sue someone for $10,000 or less, you may file your case in a small claims court, which is part of the county's superior or circuit court. You can read the Indiana Small Claims Manual for filing and related information.

Can I Represent Myself in Courts Without an Attorney?

You can represent yourself without an attorney in an Indiana court, a process known as pro se representation. To prepare for your case and court appearances when you have no attorney, refer to the Representing Yourself in Court guide.

What Happens if I Miss a Court Date?

A judge may issue a default judgment or a bench warrant if you miss a court date in Indiana. If you posted a bail, you may also experience bail bond revocation or additional charges. Notify the court immediately if you cannot attend a court date to avoid these repercussions.

How Can I File an Appeal if I Disagree With a Court's Decision?

If you disagree with a court's decision in Indiana, you must file your appeal with the appropriate appellate court (either the Indiana Court of Appeals or the Indiana Supreme Court). The Indiana Rules of Appellate Procedure can guide you through the appeals process.

Are Court Proceedings Open to the Public?

Yes, court proceedings in Indiana are generally open to the public to promote transparency in the judicial process. However, certain cases, such as juvenile, mental health, or sensitive family matters, may be closed or partially restricted.

How Long Does It Typically Take for a Case To Be Resolved in the Trial Court?

Indiana trial courts resolve cases in varying timeframes depending on the case type, complexity, and court backlog. While minor cases may be resolved within a few months, more complex civil or criminal matters can take a year or longer to reach a final decision.

How Can I File a Complaint Against a Judge or Court Staff?

The Indiana Commission on Judicial Qualifications handles complaints against judges. If you have a complaint, you can file it by submitting a Complaint Against a Judge Form to the commission. For complaints regarding court staff, check with the respective court website.

Can I Access Court Hearings Remotely, and How?

Indiana trial courts allow remote hearings through video or audio conference, especially for civil or non-jury cases. Check the Trial Court Remote Video Hearings for a livestream of remote court hearings. You can also contact the county court clerk for instructions and access links.

Are There Specific Courts That Handle Environmental or Business Disputes?

In Indiana, business disputes are typically handled by circuit or superior courts, which may include specialized commercial divisions in some counties. Environmental matters can also fall under these trial courts, depending on the case.

Can I Access Court Records for Free?

Many Indiana court records are publicly accessible at no cost through court portals or in person at the clerk's office. However, fees may be required for certified copies.

How Can I Search Indiana Court Records by Name?

To search for Indiana court records by name, enter the Indiana Case Search portal or the individual county court search database. Enter the full name or partial name of the party involved to locate case information.

How Far Back Do Online Indiana Public Court Records Go?

The exact range of available online court records in Indiana depends on the jurisdiction and court type. More recent cases are likely to be available online, while older records are available at local court offices.

Are Civil and Criminal Case Records Accessed Through the Same Online System?

Both civil and criminal case records can be accessed through the same online system in Indiana. For example, the Case Search portal allows users to search for various case types in a single database.

Is There a Way To Be Notified of Updates to a Court Case I'm Following?

Indiana courts offer case notification services where you can sign up for email or text alerts on case updates, including hearings or filings. Visit your county court website if this service is available.

Are Probate and Family Court Records (e.g., Divorce, Custody) Fully Public?

Probate and family court records in Indiana are not fully public. While certain information is accessible, sensitive details such as adoption, custody, and child welfare matters are restricted as outlined in the Indiana Rules on Access to Court Records.

Can I Request Redacted Copies of Court Records That Contain Sensitive Information?

You can request redacted copies of Indiana court records containing sensitive information. Such requests are made through the clerk of the court where the record is kept, and redactions follow the Indiana Access to Court Records Rules.

Can I Request Bulk Access To Court Records or Data for Research Purposes?

You can request bulk access to court records or data for research purposes. However, you will need to make a formal request to the specific court, often requiring a written application explaining your research purpose and how the data will be used. Requests are subject to review under the Indiana Access to Court Records Rules.

Table of Contents