Delaware Court Records

Accessing Delaware Court Records

By nature, we humans want to know about the lives others live, and about their past incidents. Though most of these tendencies should be curbed as much as possible, but sometimes, it may indeed be necessary to find out. The past can tell us a lot of about how the person is likely to be today, and how he or she may react in the future. It could help us decide whether we can trust the man/woman or not. It can help you choose a nanny, a handyman to work in your bedroom, and an employee who will have access to the finances of your business.

The court records can tell us about this past. We can find out about litigations, about charges, and about what the court judgment was. We can know a lot more.

How to Access the Court Records in Delaware

There are many different methods for accessing court records in Delaware. Delaware court records are maintained by certain courts. Business dispute litigations go to the Court of Chancery, for example. Affairs related to the family are tried at Family Court, and it is the Court of Common Pleas that hears civil as well as criminal litigations.

So, if you wish to access court records, you need to know the court to approach, and then visit it. You can take a look at the records; a member of the staff or the courthouse can help you. You will need to pay for the duplicate copy of the record you need.

If in case you are planning to apply for a passport or must find a missing relative, friend or high school classmate, you can always start with the court record. This is a good place. If you are in need of marriage certificates, or records of birth or death in Delaware, it is essential to go to the Public Archives dept. at the office of Vital Statistics. Vital records are maintained for public viewing and utility here.

Where to apply and How to do so?

There are plenty of ways in which a copy of the record can be applied for. You may send a written request explaining your motive to access the information you want. You will need to send this letter to the Vital Statistics office in Dover. You can also visit in person to the courthouse to place your request.

However, there is an easier method of gathering the information you need. You could turn to the Internet. You can get the information you need once you have paid the nominal fee to research the record. However, in certain instances, you may still have to visit the courthouse to obtain a copy of the information.

To access court records in Delaware, you can approach the First State Judiciary. While the application is being filled out, be sure to supply a lot of information, as this will help you in your endeavor. However, remember that not all records are available for public access.

For more information regarding Delaware court records, you can contact the following office:

Supreme Court
Carvel State Office Building
820 North French Street, 11th Floor
Wilmington, DE 19801

(302) 577-8425