logo
LexingtonRecords.us
Search Public Records
Lexington Public Records /Lexington County Court Records

Lexington County Court Records

What Is Lexington County Court Records

Court records in Lexington County encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's court system. These records constitute a comprehensive repository of judicial activities as maintained by the Clerk of Court under South Carolina law. Court records typically include:

  • Case files containing pleadings, motions, and responses
  • Court dockets listing scheduled hearings and case status
  • Judicial orders and final judgments
  • Transcripts of court proceedings
  • Evidence and exhibits admitted during trials
  • Sentencing and probation records in criminal matters
  • Settlement agreements in civil cases

Court records are distinct from other public records such as property deeds, vital statistics (birth/death certificates), and tax records, which are maintained by separate county departments. Pursuant to South Carolina Code § 30-4-20, court records fall under the definition of public records as "all books, papers, maps, photographs, cards, tapes, recordings, or other documentary materials regardless of physical form or characteristics prepared, owned, used, in the possession of, or retained by a public body."

In Lexington County, court records are maintained by several courts within the judicial hierarchy:

  • Circuit Court (General Sessions and Common Pleas)
  • Family Court
  • Probate Court
  • Magistrate Courts
  • Municipal Courts

These courts collectively handle civil litigation, criminal prosecutions, domestic relations matters, probate proceedings, small claims, and traffic violations throughout Lexington County.

Are Court Records Public In Lexington County

Court records in Lexington County are generally accessible to the public in accordance with the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and the state's constitutional commitment to open courts. Under South Carolina Code § 30-4-30, "any person has a right to inspect or copy any public record of a public body" with certain exceptions.

The following court records are typically available for public inspection:

  • Civil case files (with limited redactions for sensitive information)
  • Criminal case files (post-charging)
  • Court dockets and calendars
  • Final judgments and orders
  • Marriage licenses and divorce decrees
  • Probate records including wills and estate inventories

However, certain records may be restricted from public access, including:

  • Records sealed by judicial order
  • Juvenile court records (with limited exceptions)
  • Adoption proceedings
  • Mental health commitment records
  • Records containing sensitive personal identifiers (Social Security numbers, financial account information)
  • Grand jury proceedings
  • Certain family court matters involving minors

It is important to note that federal court records for cases heard in the United States District Court for the District of South Carolina are governed by federal access policies rather than state law. The South Carolina Supreme Court has established additional rules governing public access to court records through the South Carolina Judicial Department.

How To Find Court Records in Lexington County in 2026

Members of the public seeking court records in Lexington County may utilize several methods to locate and access these documents:

In-Person Requests:

  1. Visit the appropriate courthouse where the case was filed
  2. Complete a records request form at the Clerk's office
  3. Provide case number, party names, or other identifying information
  4. Pay applicable search and copy fees
  5. Wait for staff to retrieve the requested documents

Lexington County Clerk of Court
205 East Main Street
Lexington, SC 29072
(803) 785-8212
Lexington County Clerk of Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Written Requests:

  1. Submit a written request to the appropriate court clerk
  2. Include specific case information and documents needed
  3. Enclose payment for search and copy fees
  4. Provide return address for mailed copies
  5. Allow 5-10 business days for processing

Online Access:

  1. Visit the South Carolina Judicial Department Public Index
  2. Select Lexington County from the jurisdiction menu
  3. Search by name, case number, or filing date
  4. Review available case information and document listings
  5. Request copies of specific documents if needed

For specialized records, contact the specific court division:

Lexington County Family Court
205 East Main Street
Lexington, SC 29072
(803) 785-8400
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Lexington County Probate Court
212 South Lake Drive, Suite 401
Lexington, SC 29072
(803) 785-8212
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

How To Look Up Court Records in Lexington County Online?

Lexington County offers several digital platforms for accessing court records electronically. The primary online resources include:

South Carolina Judicial Department Public Index:

  1. Navigate to the South Carolina Judicial Department Public Index
  2. Select "Lexington" from the county dropdown menu
  3. Choose search criteria (name, case number, filing date)
  4. Enter search parameters and submit query
  5. Review case summary information
  6. Note that complete case files may not be available online

This system provides access to Circuit Court (Common Pleas and General Sessions) and Family Court records.

Lexington County Clerk of Court Website:

  1. Visit the Lexington County Clerk of Court website
  2. Navigate to the "Records Search" section
  3. Follow links to appropriate record types
  4. Complete search fields with available information
  5. Review results for case status and basic information

South Carolina Court Administration E-Filing System:

  1. Access the South Carolina E-Filing Portal (for attorneys and registered users)
  2. Log in with authorized credentials
  3. Search for cases by number, party name, or filing date
  4. View documents that have been electronically filed
  5. Download available documents as needed

Lexington County Public Index:

  1. Visit the Public Record Links page
  2. Select "Lexington County Public Index"
  3. Enter search criteria for specific cases
  4. Review available case information
  5. Note document availability and access restrictions

Online access typically provides case summaries, party information, hearing dates, and disposition information. However, complete case files with all pleadings and exhibits may require in-person requests at the courthouse.

How To Search Lexington County Court Records for Free?

Pursuant to South Carolina Code § 30-4-30(B), "The public body may establish and collect fees not to exceed the actual cost of searching for or making copies of records." While copy fees apply, certain search options are available at no cost:

Free In-Person Inspection:

  1. Visit the Lexington County Courthouse during regular business hours
  2. Request to view specific case files at the Clerk's office
  3. Present identification and complete any required forms
  4. Review records in designated public viewing areas
  5. Note that while inspection is free, copying fees will apply

Free Online Resources:

  1. The South Carolina Judicial Department Public Index provides free basic case information
  2. Search by name, case number, or filing date without charge
  3. View case summaries, party information, and case status
  4. Access court calendars and hearing schedules
  5. Note that document downloads may incur fees

Public Access Terminals:

  1. Use computer terminals available at the courthouse
  2. Access the same database available online
  3. Search and view basic case information at no charge
  4. Print documents for standard copy fees
  5. Receive assistance from court staff if needed

Lexington County Law Library:

  1. Visit the Law Library located in the Lexington County Judicial Center
  2. Access legal research materials and case information
  3. Use public terminals for case searches
  4. Obtain assistance from library staff
  5. Pay only for any copies requested

While basic searches are free, fees apply for copies, certified documents, and extensive research assistance. Current copy fees are $0.25 per page for standard copies and $5.00 for certified copies of court documents.

What's Included in a Lexington County Court Record?

Lexington County court records contain various documents depending on the case type and court of jurisdiction. A comprehensive court record typically includes:

Civil Case Records:

  • Complaint or petition initiating the action
  • Summons and proof of service
  • Defendant's answer or response
  • Motions filed by either party
  • Discovery documents (if filed with the court)
  • Affidavits and sworn statements
  • Exhibits admitted into evidence
  • Court orders and rulings
  • Final judgment or dismissal
  • Post-judgment motions and orders
  • Appeal documents (if applicable)

Criminal Case Records:

  • Indictment or information
  • Arrest warrant and booking information
  • Bond documentation
  • Defendant's plea
  • Motions to suppress or dismiss
  • Discovery requests (limited)
  • Witness lists
  • Jury selection records
  • Verdict forms
  • Sentencing documents
  • Probation reports (may be restricted)
  • Appeal notices and briefs

Family Court Records:

  • Divorce petitions
  • Child custody and support orders
  • Parenting plans
  • Financial declarations
  • Guardian ad litem reports
  • Adoption petitions and decrees
  • Name change petitions
  • Juvenile proceedings (often confidential)
  • Protective orders

Probate Court Records:

  • Wills and codicils
  • Petitions for probate
  • Letters of administration
  • Inventories of estate assets
  • Claims against estates
  • Accountings
  • Distribution plans
  • Guardianship/conservatorship documents

Each record also contains a case docket sheet listing all filings, hearings, and actions taken in chronological order, serving as an index to the complete file.

How Long Does Lexington County Keep Court Records?

Lexington County adheres to the South Carolina Department of Archives and History's records retention schedules for court documents. Retention periods vary based on document type and case significance:

Circuit Court - Common Pleas (Civil):

  • Case files for routine civil matters: 10 years after final disposition
  • Cases establishing precedent or significant property rights: Permanent
  • Judgments and final orders: 10 years after satisfaction
  • Index books and case registers: Permanent
  • Real property cases: Permanent

Circuit Court - General Sessions (Criminal):

  • Felony case files: 15 years after final disposition
  • Capital felony cases: Permanent
  • Misdemeanor cases: 5 years after final disposition
  • Expunged records: Destroyed as ordered by the court
  • Docket books and indexes: Permanent

Family Court:

  • Divorce cases: Permanent
  • Child support cases: Until youngest child reaches age 21 plus 3 years
  • Juvenile records: Until subject reaches age 21 (with exceptions)
  • Adoption records: Permanent (sealed)
  • Domestic violence orders: 10 years

Probate Court:

  • Estate administration files: 10 years after estate closing
  • Wills: Permanent
  • Guardianship/conservatorship: 10 years after termination
  • Mental health commitments: 10 years after discharge

Magistrate Court:

  • Civil cases: 3 years after final disposition
  • Criminal cases: 10 years after final disposition
  • Traffic cases: 3 years after final disposition

These retention periods are established pursuant to South Carolina Code § 30-1-90, which authorizes the Department of Archives and History to establish records management programs for public records. The complete retention schedule is available through the South Carolina Department of Archives and History.

Types of Courts In Lexington County

Lexington County's judicial system consists of several courts with varying jurisdictions:

Lexington County Circuit Court
205 East Main Street
Lexington, SC 29072
(803) 785-8212
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Lexington County Circuit Court

The Circuit Court is divided into:

  • Common Pleas (civil matters)
  • General Sessions (criminal matters)

Lexington County Family Court
205 East Main Street
Lexington, SC 29072
(803) 785-8400
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Lexington County Family Court

Lexington County Probate Court
212 South Lake Drive, Suite 401
Lexington, SC 29072
(803) 785-8212
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Lexington County Probate Court

Lexington County Magistrate Courts:

Central Traffic Court
521 Gibson Road
Lexington, SC 29072
(803) 785-8400
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Irmo Magistrate Court
6051 St. Andrews Road
Columbia, SC 29212
(803) 781-1913
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Lexington Magistrate Court
521 Gibson Road
Lexington, SC 29072
(803) 785-8400
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Cayce-West Columbia Magistrate Court
1021 Carolina Avenue
West Columbia, SC 29169
(803) 796-7100
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Municipal Courts:

Lexington Municipal Court
111 Maiden Lane
Lexington, SC 29072
(803) 359-4164
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

West Columbia Municipal Court
200 N. 12th Street
West Columbia, SC 29169
(803) 791-1880
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

The court hierarchy in South Carolina proceeds from Magistrate and Municipal Courts to Circuit Courts, then to the South Carolina Court of Appeals, and finally to the South Carolina Supreme Court.

What Types of Cases Do Lexington County Courts Hear?

Each court within Lexington County's judicial system has specific jurisdictional authority:

Circuit Court - Common Pleas Division:

  • Civil cases where the amount in controversy exceeds $7,500
  • Real property disputes
  • Complex business litigation
  • Appeals from Magistrate and Municipal courts
  • Administrative agency appeals
  • Declaratory judgments
  • Injunctive relief
  • Mortgage foreclosures
  • Civil appeals from Probate Court

Circuit Court - General Sessions Division:

  • Felony criminal prosecutions
  • Misdemeanors not assigned to lower courts
  • Criminal domestic violence (second offense and higher)
  • Drug trafficking offenses
  • Violent crimes
  • Property crimes above magistrate court thresholds
  • Criminal appeals from lower courts

Family Court:

  • Divorce proceedings
  • Child custody and visitation
  • Child support establishment and enforcement
  • Alimony determinations
  • Equitable division of marital property
  • Adoption proceedings
  • Name changes
  • Juvenile delinquency cases
  • Child abuse and neglect proceedings
  • Termination of parental rights
  • Domestic violence protective orders

Probate Court:

  • Estate administration
  • Will probate
  • Appointment of personal representatives
  • Guardianships and conservatorships
  • Mental health commitments
  • Marriage licenses
  • Minor settlements under $25,000

Magistrate Courts:

  • Civil cases up to $7,500
  • Landlord-tenant disputes and evictions
  • Claim and delivery actions
  • Public intoxication
  • Simple assault and battery
  • Shoplifting (first and second offense)
  • Traffic violations
  • DUI (first offense)
  • Criminal cases with penalties not exceeding 30 days imprisonment or $500 fine
  • Preliminary hearings in felony cases

Municipal Courts:

  • Municipal ordinance violations
  • Traffic offenses within city limits
  • Criminal cases with penalties not exceeding 30 days imprisonment or $500 fine
  • Parking violations
  • Quality of life offenses

Case assignment is determined by the nature of the case, amount in controversy, and potential penalties, with more serious matters handled by higher courts.

How To Find a Court Docket In Lexington County

Court dockets in Lexington County provide schedules of upcoming hearings and case status information. Members of the public may access docket information through several methods:

Online Docket Access:

  1. Visit the South Carolina Judicial Department Public Index
  2. Select Lexington County from the jurisdiction menu
  3. Navigate to the "Court Calendars" or "Dockets" section
  4. Select the court type (Circuit, Family, Magistrate)
  5. Choose the date range or term of court
  6. Review scheduled cases and hearing times

In-Person Docket Review:

  1. Visit the Clerk of Court's office at the Lexington County Judicial Center
  2. Request to view the current docket for the specific court
  3. Provide case information if seeking a particular matter
  4. Review posted docket sheets in courthouse lobbies and outside courtrooms
  5. Note that daily dockets are typically posted on bulletin boards near each courtroom

Telephone Inquiry:

  1. Contact the appropriate court clerk's office
  2. Provide case number or party names
  3. Request hearing date and time information
  4. Verify courtroom assignment
  5. Confirm with court staff 24 hours before scheduled hearings as assignments may change

For criminal matters, the Eleventh Judicial Circuit Solicitor's Office maintains information about upcoming criminal court sessions and case status.

For traffic cases, the South Carolina Court Payment System provides information about scheduled court dates for traffic violations.

Court dockets are typically published one to two weeks in advance of scheduled court sessions, though emergency hearings and special settings may be added with shorter notice.

Which Courts in Lexington County Are Not Courts of Record?

In South Carolina's judicial system, "courts of record" maintain comprehensive verbatim transcripts of proceedings and detailed documentation of all matters heard. Pursuant to South Carolina Code § 14-5-10, Circuit Courts are established as courts of record. Conversely, certain lower courts operate as "courts not of record," where proceedings are not transcribed verbatim and appeals from these courts result in de novo trials (completely new proceedings) at the higher court level.

In Lexington County, the following are courts not of record:

Magistrate Courts:

  • All Lexington County Magistrate Courts
  • Limited jurisdiction over minor civil and criminal matters
  • Proceedings typically documented through summary notes rather than verbatim transcripts
  • Appeals heard de novo in Circuit Court

Municipal Courts:

  • Lexington Municipal Court
  • West Columbia Municipal Court
  • Cayce Municipal Court
  • Irmo Municipal Court
  • Batesburg-Leesville Municipal Court
  • Other municipal courts within Lexington County boundaries
  • Jurisdiction limited to municipal ordinance violations and minor offenses
  • No court reporters present for routine proceedings
  • Appeals result in completely new trials in Circuit Court

The distinction between courts of record and courts not of record is significant for several reasons:

  1. Appeals process (de novo vs. review of record)
  2. Availability of transcripts for review
  3. Precedential value of decisions
  4. Formality of proceedings
  5. Rules of evidence application

Circuit Court, Family Court, and Probate Court are courts of record in Lexington County, maintaining verbatim transcripts of proceedings through court reporters or digital recording systems. These transcripts become the official record for appeal purposes.

Lookup Court Records in Lexington County

Lexington County Clerk of Court

Public Record Links for Lexington County

South Carolina Judicial Department Public Index

South Carolina Public Records Laws

Traffic Tickets and Court Payments in South Carolina

Other Categories in South Carolina
Criminal Records Court Records Inmate Records Arrest records Warrant Search Property Records Divorce Records