The Hennepin County Court Records system provides residents, attorneys, and researchers with reliable access to public case information through Minnesota’s official District Court database. Whether you’re checking the progress of a case, verifying a court judgment, or reviewing criminal and civil filings, this online system makes the process simple and transparent.
The goal of the Hennepin County Court’s record search tool is to make justice information accessible to everyone. Users can explore records from criminal, traffic, family, probate, and civil courts—all through a secure digital platform. This helps save time by reducing the need for in-person visits while ensuring that public records remain open and easy to review.
What Hennepin County Court Records Include
Court records contain valuable details about legal proceedings filed within Hennepin County. These may include:
- Case numbers, filing dates, and case status updates
- Information about involved parties and attorneys
- Details of court hearings, motions, and judgments
- Financial records, fines, and court-ordered payments
These records provide transparency for residents and maintain the accountability of the justice system.
How to Search Hennepin County Court Records Online
The Hennepin County District Court’s case search can be accessed through the Minnesota Judicial Branch’s online portal. Users can search by:
- Case number – for direct access to a specific file
- Party name – to find all cases involving a person or business
- Citation number – for traffic or misdemeanor cases
After entering the information, the system displays available case details, hearing schedules, and document summaries. Some documents can be viewed online, while others may require visiting the courthouse for physical copies.
Public Access vs. Restricted Records
Most Hennepin County court records are public, following Minnesota’s commitment to open government. However, certain records remain confidential. Examples include:
- Juvenile court files
- Mental health cases
- Sealed or expunged records
- Adoption and domestic violence protection orders
To access restricted records, an individual must have legal authorization or a court order granting permission.
Where to Access Court Records in Person
If online access doesn’t meet your needs, physical copies of court records can be obtained at the Hennepin County Government Center. Staff can help locate case files, verify document authenticity, or guide users on official record requests. Copy fees may apply depending on the type and number of documents requested.
Location:
Hennepin County Government Center
300 South Sixth Street, Minneapolis, MN 55487
Why Online Case Access Matters
Online court access improves convenience for residents and legal professionals alike. It helps users:
- Track ongoing cases without visiting the courthouse
- Prepare for hearings using accurate and updated case data
- Access public information 24/7 from any device
- Stay informed about local legal matters
By providing open, user-friendly access to case data, the Hennepin County Court Records system supports fairness, transparency, and trust in Minnesota’s judicial process.
About the Hennepin County Court System
The Hennepin County Court System operates as part of Minnesota’s Fourth Judicial District, the largest and busiest judicial district in the state. It serves the entire area of Hennepin County, which includes the city of Minneapolis and several surrounding communities. The court’s mission is to provide fair, efficient, and accessible justice for every resident through an organized system of specialized divisions.
Structure of the Minnesota 4th Judicial District
The Fourth Judicial District is one of ten judicial districts in Minnesota. It is unique because of its size, population, and case volume. Each district court in Minnesota handles trial-level cases, but Hennepin County’s system manages the highest number of filings annually. Judges in this district are elected to six-year terms and oversee all types of cases—from traffic violations to felony trials.
The district is supported by several administrative departments that handle scheduling, records management, probation services, and self-help centers. These departments work together to keep operations transparent and accessible for residents, attorneys, and the public.
Role of the Hennepin County District Court
The Hennepin County District Court serves as the primary trial court within the Fourth Judicial District. It handles both criminal and civil matters and ensures that each case follows Minnesota’s laws and judicial procedures. This court manages hearings, issues rulings, and maintains all official court records.
The court also plays a central role in maintaining public access to legal information through digital record systems, self-service kiosks, and assistance centers for individuals representing themselves. These services make the justice process easier to understand and more approachable for the public.
Court Divisions and Their Operations
The Hennepin County District Court is divided into several key divisions, each focusing on specific types of cases to improve efficiency and expertise.
- Civil Division: Handles disputes between individuals or organizations, including personal injury claims, contract issues, small claims, and property matters.
- Family Division: Focuses on marriage dissolution (divorce), child custody, child support, domestic abuse, and adoption proceedings.
- Criminal Division: Manages felony, gross misdemeanor, and misdemeanor cases, ensuring fair trials and enforcing criminal laws within the county.
- Probate and Mental Health Division: Oversees wills, estates, guardianships, conservatorships, and mental health commitments, protecting vulnerable individuals and property rights.
- Traffic and Petty Offense Division: Deals with traffic citations, parking violations, and lower-level offenses.
Each division operates under strict procedural rules while maintaining a focus on fairness and timely resolution.
Jurisdiction and Service Area
The Hennepin County District Court holds jurisdiction over all cities and townships within Hennepin County, including Minneapolis, Bloomington, Brooklyn Park, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, and others. It has the authority to hear cases involving events or individuals within these areas.
How to Search Hennepin County Court Records Online
The Hennepin County Court Records search system makes it simple for residents, legal professionals, and researchers to find case information online without visiting the courthouse. This digital service is part of the Minnesota Judicial Branch’s case access portal, offering quick and secure access to civil, criminal, family, probate, and traffic records.
Step-by-Step Process to Search Court Records Online
1. Visit the Minnesota Court Records Portal
Go to the official Minnesota Court Case Search page (internal link placeholder for Case Search Tool). This portal provides statewide access, including all Hennepin County District Court cases.
2. Choose the Search Option
You can locate case information using different search filters:
- By Case Number: Enter the full or partial case number to go directly to a specific record.
- By Party Name: Type the first and last name of an individual or the business name involved in the case.
- By Date Filed: Select a date range if you know when the case was submitted but not the exact number.
Each method helps narrow your results for faster and more accurate record retrieval.
3. Review Search Results
After submitting your query, a list of related cases will appear. You can view basic details such as:
- Case type (civil, criminal, family, probate, or traffic)
- Case status (open, closed, or pending)
- Dates of hearings or filings
- Names of involved parties and attorneys
Clicking on a case number opens a summary view with available information about proceedings and filings.
4. Access Record Details or Request Copies
Some documents and case details are available online, while others may require an in-person visit for privacy or verification reasons. If needed, you can request certified copies at the Hennepin County Government Center or through the Court Records Request Form (internal link placeholder for Lookup Tool).
Available Record Types in Online Search
The online system includes several types of court records:
- Civil Cases: Contract disputes, small claims, and personal injury matters.
- Family Cases: Divorce, custody, and child support actions.
- Criminal Cases: Felony, misdemeanor, and gross misdemeanor filings.
- Traffic and Petty Offense Cases: Citations, fines, and minor violations.
- Probate and Mental Health Cases: Wills, estates, guardianships, and mental health commitments (public portions only).
Tips for Accurate Case Lookup
- Use the full legal name for more precise results.
- Try different spellings if you are unsure of exact details.
- Note that sealed, expunged, or confidential cases will not appear in public search results.
Online case access saves time and helps users stay informed about ongoing or past court actions. Whether you’re tracking a family matter, reviewing a judgment, or confirming traffic fine details, the Hennepin County Case Search tool is a reliable way to find up-to-date information quickly.
Hennepin County Criminal Court Records
The Hennepin County Criminal Court Records system provides public access to information about criminal cases handled within the county’s District Court. These records document every stage of a case—from arrest to sentencing—helping residents, journalists, and legal professionals stay informed about the justice process.
Criminal court records typically include:
- Defendant and attorney details
- Charges, statutes violated, and case numbers
- Arrest and booking information
- Hearing schedules and court outcomes
- Judge assignments and sentencing information
These records offer a detailed look at how criminal cases move through the court system, maintaining transparency and accountability for all parties involved.
Mugshots and Arrest Information
While the Hennepin County District Court does not publish mugshots, these can be accessed through the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office (internal link placeholder for Criminal Records page). The Sheriff’s Office provides arrest records, booking details, and custody status for individuals currently or previously detained in the county jail.
Accessing Older Criminal Case Data
For older or archived criminal records, requests can be made directly through the District Court Records Center. Some records may no longer appear in online searches due to their age, expungement, or privacy restrictions. Historical cases are typically stored in digital or microfilm formats and can be reviewed by submitting an official request form.
Types of Criminal Records and How to Access Them
| Record Type | Contains | Access Method |
|---|---|---|
| Felony Case | Charges, sentencing details, case filings | District Court portal |
| Misdemeanor Case | Hearing schedules, attorney information | Online case search |
| Traffic Infraction | Citation numbers, payment or appeal status | eFiling portal |
| Arrest Record | Booking data, custody location | Sheriff’s Office website |
| Warrant Information | Active or cleared warrants | Criminal Records division |
For the most accurate and recent data, always refer to the official Hennepin County Criminal Records page.
Hennepin County Family and Civil Court Records
The Hennepin County Family and Civil Court Records section contains information on disputes and family-related legal matters filed within the Fourth Judicial District. These records are accessible to the public, though some may have restricted content due to privacy laws.
Family Court Records
The Family Division manages cases involving:
- Divorce and Legal Separation – Petitions, decrees, and property settlements
- Child Custody and Parenting Time – Orders and modifications involving minors
- Child and Spousal Support – Payment schedules, enforcement actions, and arrears
- Domestic Violence and Protective Orders – Case filings, hearing outcomes, and restraining orders
- Adoption Proceedings – Public portions only, as most adoption files remain confidential
Family court records can be searched online through the Family Court Records page or requested in person at the courthouse. Some sensitive details—such as minor information or confidential orders—may only be released to authorized parties.
Civil Court Records
The Civil Division handles a broad range of disputes between individuals, organizations, and government entities. Common types include:
- Property or contract disputes
- Landlord and tenant cases
- Personal injury claims
- Debt collection and small claims
- Business or construction disputes
Civil records are generally open to the public, except when sealed by court order. They can be viewed using the Minnesota Court Case Search portal or obtained from the clerk’s office.
Access Differences Between Family and Civil Records
Family court files may include sensitive personal data, leading to partial restrictions, while civil court records are largely public. For any restricted document, authorized access must be verified by the clerk before copies are released.
Types of Public Records You Can Access in Hennepin County
Residents and researchers can access a wide range of public records in Hennepin County through official court and government databases. These records promote transparency and provide useful legal, historical, and administrative information for both personal and professional use. While some files are freely available, others may require a formal request or identification for access.
Court Records
Hennepin County Court Records contain information about legal cases filed within the Fourth Judicial District. These include criminal, civil, family, probate, and traffic matters. Each case file documents proceedings, hearing dates, and judgments issued by the court.
Court records can be searched online through the Minnesota Judicial Branch’s Case Search Portal, which offers both name-based and case-number searches for easy access.
Criminal Records
Criminal records include details of arrests, charges, convictions, and sentencing information for offenses processed in Hennepin County. These records are maintained by the Hennepin County District Court and the Sheriff’s Office.
They can show whether an individual has been charged with a felony, misdemeanor, or traffic offense. While basic case summaries are public, certain information—such as expunged or juvenile records—remains confidential.
Marriage & Divorce Records
Marriage and divorce records document legal unions and dissolutions filed within the county.
- Marriage Records: Issued and maintained by the Hennepin County Recorder’s Office, these include marriage license applications and certificates.
- Divorce Records: Stored by the Family Court Division, these cover divorce decrees, custody rulings, and property settlements.
Marriage records are typically open to the public, while divorce files may have restricted sections if they involve minors or sensitive financial data.
Property Records
Property records provide information about land ownership, property transfers, tax assessments, and mortgages within Hennepin County. These files are handled by the Recorder’s and Assessor’s Offices and are useful for verifying ownership history or conducting title research.
Users can search by property address, parcel number, or owner name through the Hennepin County Property Information Search tool.
Civil & Traffic Case Records
Civil case records cover legal disputes between individuals, companies, or organizations—such as small claims, contract breaches, and injury cases.
Traffic case records include citations, ticket payments, and minor infractions processed by the court. These can be viewed online through the District Court’s public access system or paid directly through the county’s traffic payment portal.
Hennepin County Court Calendar and Docket Access
The Hennepin County Court Calendar and Docket system helps users view upcoming hearings, scheduled trial dates, and case activities managed by the Minnesota Judicial Branch. This feature allows residents, attorneys, and the media to stay informed about court proceedings in real time through the official Minnesota Court Information System (MNCIS).
How to View Court Calendars Online
You can check court schedules using the Hennepin County Court Calendar page (internal link placeholder). The online calendar displays all active hearings for criminal, civil, family, probate, and traffic divisions. Users can search by:
- Case number – to view the exact time and courtroom location for a specific case
- Party name – to see all scheduled appearances for a person or business
- Attorney name – to check cases handled by a specific lawyer
- Date range – to browse all hearings for a selected day or week
Each search result includes case type, assigned judge, courtroom number, and hearing purpose.
Understanding the Court Docket
The court docket provides a running list of case activities and documents filed with the court. It includes:
- Filing dates and case numbers
- Motions, rulings, and judgments
- Scheduled hearings or continuances
- Updates on case status (open, closed, or pending)
The docket is an essential tool for tracking case progress and confirming recent actions taken by the court.
Access Through the Minnesota Court Information System (MNCIS)
The MNCIS database is the official statewide case management system used by all Minnesota District Courts, including Hennepin County. Through MNCIS, users can:
- Check daily court calendars
- Review docket entries and filing updates
- Access hearing times and judge assignments
- View case summaries for both public and restricted access levels
The Minnesota Court Case Information (MNCIS) Portal provides 24/7 online access, making it easy to stay up to date on hearings and filings without visiting the courthouse.
In-Person Calendar Viewing
For those who prefer in-person access, daily court calendars are displayed at the Hennepin County Government Center. Courthouse clerks can help verify hearing details, room assignments, or last-minute schedule changes.
Hennepin County Court Records Center & Federal Records Access
Residents and legal professionals can obtain official court documents directly from the Hennepin County Court Records Center, which serves as the main hub for all Fourth Judicial District case files. This center maintains both current and archived records for criminal, civil, probate, family, and traffic cases filed within Hennepin County.
Hennepin County Court Records Center (4th District Court)
The Records Center provides certified and uncertified copies of official court documents. Whether you need case summaries, filings, or judgment copies, this office is the primary source for official public records.
Address:
Hennepin County District Court – Records Center
4th District Court Records Center
300 South 6th Street, #SK-0260
Minneapolis, MN 55487-0332
Copy Fees:
- Certified Copy: $14 per document
- Uncertified Copy: Free (available for in-person pickup or email delivery when applicable)
Requests can be made in person, by mail, or online through the Hennepin County Court Records Request portal. For older or archived cases, additional processing time may apply as records are retrieved from storage or microfilm archives.
Visitors to the Records Center can also get help locating specific cases, verifying court orders, or learning about document authentication for official use.
Access to Federal Court Records (U.S. District Court – District of Minnesota)
Federal cases, including bankruptcy, civil rights, immigration, and federal criminal matters, are handled separately from county-level courts. These records are managed by the United States District Court for the District of Minnesota, located in downtown Minneapolis.
Address:
Diana E. Murphy United States Courthouse
300 South Fourth Street
Minneapolis, MN 55415
Phone: 612-664-5000
Federal court documents can be viewed online through the PACER (Public Access to Court Electronic Records) system. This nationwide service provides searchable access to dockets, filings, and case summaries from all U.S. District Courts.
Local and Federal Access in One View
| Record Type | Handled By | Access Method | Fee / Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hennepin County Case Records | 4th District Court Records Center | In person, mail, or online request | Certified: $14 / Uncertified: Free |
| Archived Court Files | 4th District Court Archives | Records request form | Based on retrieval time |
| Federal Court Records | U.S. District Court (District of Minnesota) | PACER or in-person | Per-page PACER fee |
| Bankruptcy & Federal Civil Cases | U.S. District Court | PACER system | Digital access available 24/7 |
The combination of county and federal access ensures users can locate both local Hennepin County case records and federal court documents from a single, well-defined point of reference—providing the depth and accuracy that supports legal research, public transparency, and professional recordkeeping.
How to Request Certified Court Records in Hennepin County
Residents and legal professionals who need official documentation can obtain certified copies of court records directly from the Hennepin County District Court Records Center. Certified records serve as legally recognized proof of judgments, case outcomes, and filings, often used for employment verification, immigration, licensing, or legal proceedings.
Online Record Requests
The easiest way to obtain copies is through the Hennepin County Court Records Request Portal. This online service allows users to search for and request certified or uncertified documents without visiting the courthouse.
When submitting an online request:
- Provide the case number, party name, or filing date
- Select whether you need a certified or uncertified copy
- Include contact details for digital delivery or pickup notification
Payments can be made securely using a credit or debit card through the portal’s payment system. Once the request is processed, users receive an email confirmation with details on pickup or delivery.
In-Person Requests at the Records Center
For those who prefer or require in-person service, requests can be made at the Hennepin County District Court Records Center located at:
Address:
Hennepin County Government Center
300 South 6th Street, #SK-0260
Minneapolis, MN 55487-0332
Bring the following when visiting:
- A valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or state ID)
- Payment for any certified copies requested
- Case details (case number or party names) for faster lookup
Staff can assist in locating case files, printing copies, and processing certification requests.
Payment Options
The Records Center accepts multiple payment methods for convenience:
- Credit or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express)
- Cash for in-person requests only
- Money order or cashier’s check payable to Hennepin County District Court for mail-in requests
Certified copy fees are $14 per document, while uncertified copies are free when available for electronic delivery.
Processing Time and Delivery
Processing times depend on the type of request:
- Online or email requests: Typically processed within 3–5 business days
- In-person requests: Usually completed on the same day
- Mail requests: May take up to 10 business days depending on volume and postal delivery
For archived or older case records, additional retrieval time may be required.
Obtaining certified copies through the Hennepin County Court Records Center guarantees accuracy, authenticity, and legal validity—ensuring that every document you receive meets official state and court standards.
Fees & Payment Schedule for Court Records
The Hennepin County District Court provides both certified and uncertified copies of official records, with fees based on the document type and delivery method. Understanding the payment schedule helps users plan their requests efficiently—whether the goal is to obtain court judgments, criminal background information, or family court documents.
Below is a breakdown of the standard fees and payment details for court records in Hennepin County:
| Record Type | Certified Copy | Uncertified Copy | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Court Record | $14 | Free | Payable to Hennepin County District Court |
| Criminal Record | $14 | Free | Available online or in person |
| Marriage / Divorce Record | $9 | Free | Fees vary by request and department |
| Probate Record | $14 | Free | Additional retrieval time for archived files |
| Traffic Citation Record | $14 | Free | Payable through the District Court payment portal |
Payment Options
Payments can be made through several convenient methods:
- Online: Credit or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express)
- In Person: Cash, credit/debit, or money order
- By Mail: Check or money order payable to Hennepin County District Court
All certified copies are stamped and sealed to confirm authenticity for legal or official use. Uncertified copies are provided electronically or printed without the court’s certification seal.
Refund and Reissue Policy
Once payment is processed, fees are non-refundable, even if records are later found to be confidential or sealed. If a certified copy is damaged or lost in transit, the Records Center can issue a replacement upon verification of purchase.
Where to Pay or Request Assistance
Payments and document pickup are handled at the:
Hennepin County District Court – Records Center
300 South 6th Street, #SK-0260
Minneapolis, MN 55487-0332
The Court Records Payment Portal (internal link placeholder) offers a secure way to complete transactions online, ensuring quick confirmation and faster processing.
Accurate and transparent fee information ensures that residents, businesses, and legal professionals can access Hennepin County court records confidently and efficiently—without unexpected costs or delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below you’ll find detailed answers to common questions about accessing, viewing, and requesting Hennepin County court records. These responses are designed to help residents, attorneys, and researchers quickly find reliable information without confusion.
How can I look up a court case in Hennepin County, MN?
You can search active and closed cases online through the Minnesota Judicial Branch Case Search Portal. This system allows you to look up cases by name, case number, or filing date. It includes civil, criminal, probate, and family court data. Public terminals at the Hennepin County Government Center also offer in-person access for those who prefer on-site record searches.
Are criminal records public in Hennepin County?
Yes. Most criminal court records in Hennepin County are public and include details such as charges, court hearings, sentencing outcomes, and involved attorneys. Certain cases—like juvenile or sealed records—remain confidential by law. Arrest and booking data can be checked through the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, which provides online access to recent inmate and mugshot information.
How much does it cost to get a certified court record?
A certified copy of a court record costs $14 per document, while uncertified copies are available online at no cost. Payments can be made using credit card, cash, or money order depending on the method of request. Certified copies are stamped and signed by the clerk, making them valid for legal or official use. Fees may vary slightly for federal or historical record requests.
Can I view court records online without visiting the courthouse?
Yes, you can access most Hennepin County court records online through the official MNCIS portal or the Court Records Request page. These tools allow users to review civil, family, traffic, and criminal cases directly from home. While most records are available digitally, certain sensitive documents—like sealed or expunged cases—can only be viewed by authorized individuals or involved parties.
How do I find federal court cases related to Hennepin County?
Federal cases connected to Hennepin County are handled by the U.S. District Court – District of Minnesota, located at 300 South Fourth Street, Minneapolis, MN. You can look up these cases through the PACER system, which provides access to federal dockets, filings, and judgments. PACER is a nationwide database where users can register for an account to view case information from any U.S. District Court.
How long does it take to get a copy of a court record?
Processing time for Hennepin County court record requests depends on how you apply. Online and in-person orders are usually processed within 3 to 5 business days, while mailed or archived record requests can take up to 10 business days. You’ll receive a notification when your documents are ready for pickup or digital download, depending on the method you selected.
Can I request older or archived case files?
Yes. The Hennepin County Court Records Center keeps historical case files for legal and research purposes. Older or closed cases can be requested in person, by mail, or through the county’s official records portal. Retrieval time may be slightly longer for archived materials stored off-site, especially for cases filed before digital records were introduced.