Forsyth County NC Court Records are official documents that show what happens in civil, criminal, family, and probate cases. These records are kept safe at the courthouse in Winston-Salem and online through state systems. Anyone can look at most of these records for free. Some need a small fee or ID to get a certified copy. The court helps people find records fast, whether they need them for work, family history, or legal reasons. This page gives clear facts about how to get court records, where to go, what costs apply, and what’s available online or in person.
Where to Find Forsyth County NC Court Records
All Forsyth County NC Court Records are managed by the Clerk of Superior Court’s Office. This office is inside the main courthouse at 200 North Main Street, Winston-Salem, NC 27120. The building holds both Superior and District Courts under one roof. People can visit in person from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. The office handles requests for case files, dockets, motions, judgments, and more. Many records are also online. The public can search civil, criminal, family, and traffic cases using the state’s free case search tool. No login is needed for basic searches. For certified copies, you must come in person or mail a request with ID and payment.
Types of Records Available
Forsyth County NC Court Records include many kinds of legal documents. Civil cases cover lawsuits over money, property, contracts, and injuries. Criminal cases include felonies, misdemeanors, DWI, and theft. Family court handles divorce, child custody, adoption, and domestic violence. Probate court manages wills, estates, guardianships, and name changes. Traffic cases show tickets, fines, and license issues. Each type has its own filing process and access rules. Most records are public unless sealed by a judge. Expunged criminal records are not viewable by the public. Sealed records need a court order to open.
How to Search for Court Records Online
The easiest way to find Forsyth County NC Court Records is through the North Carolina Courts’ official website. Go to the “Case Search” page and type a name, case number, or attorney. Results show hearing dates, charges, filings, and outcomes. You can download PDFs of public documents. The system updates every night, so new filings appear quickly. There’s no cost to search or view records. For faster help, use filters like case type, year, or court level. If you can’t find a record online, call the Clerk’s Office at (336) 779-6300. Staff can guide you or pull physical files if needed.
In-Person Requests and Fees
Some people prefer to get Forsyth County NC Court Records in person. Bring a photo ID like a driver’s license or passport. Fill out a request form at the Clerk’s Office counter. Tell them exactly what you need—like a full case file, judgment, or motion. Most copy fees are $2 to $5 per page. Certified copies cost a little more and carry an official seal. These are needed for jobs, immigration, or court appeals. Cash, check, or money order are accepted. No credit cards. If you’re asking for many records, ask about bulk discounts. Genealogy groups often get reduced rates for old files.
Historical and Genealogy Records
Old Forsyth County NC Court Records go back to 1849. The State Archives digitized civil actions, apprenticeship papers, bastardy bonds, and probate files. These help people trace family roots or study local history. You can search them online through the Family History Library or North Carolina Digital Collections. Microfilm of early criminal dockets is also available. Some records show land disputes, orphan care, and community life from the 1800s. Researchers use these to prove ancestry, inheritance, or property rights. The public law library inside the courthouse has books and guides to help with searches.
Vital Records and Property Deeds
Birth, death, marriage, and divorce records are not kept by the court. Instead, contact the Forsyth County Register of Deeds at 201 North Chestnut Street. They manage vital records and property deeds. You can search deeds, liens, mortgages, and plats online 24/7. The system runs on Business Information Services (BIS). If you have trouble, call BIS support at (866) 604-3680. Certified copies of vital records cost $3 to $5 and require ID. Property searches are free and show who owns land, when it was sold, and any loans on it. This helps buyers, lawyers, and title companies.
Criminal Records and Background Checks
Forsyth County NC Court Records include criminal histories, but access is limited. Arrest reports, charges, and convictions are public unless expunged. To request a record, send a written note to the Clerk of Court with your name, the person’s name, case number if known, and a notarized reason. Fee is $10 per document. Employers doing background checks must follow state law and get consent. Some jobs require a state-issued background check certificate. The database pulls from the Unified Criminal Justice Information System (UCJIS). It shows arrest location, agency, bail, and sentence. Never use SSN or DL number without permission.
Jury Duty and Court Services
If you get a jury duty notice, check the Forsyth County court website for instructions. You’ll find dates, parking info, and what to bring. Call (336) 779-6300 if you have questions. The courthouse has twelve digital courtrooms, a sheriff’s office, and a waiting area. Security checks everyone at the door. There’s a separate entrance for people with disabilities. Free translation is offered in Spanish, Korean, and Somali. Mediation services help settle disputes without trial. Self-service kiosks let you file small claims after hours. All services follow North Carolina law and local rules.
Accessibility and Language Help
The Forsyth County courthouse is built for everyone. Ramps, elevators, and wide doors help wheelchair users. Large-print forms and hearing loops assist seniors. Staff speak English, Spanish, Korean, and Somali. If you need another language, call ahead and they’ll arrange an interpreter. Forms are online in multiple languages. The public law library has books on rights, procedures, and self-representation. Volunteers sometimes help fill out paperwork. No one should be turned away because of language or ability.
Online Tools and Portals
Several websites help you find Forsyth County NC Court Records fast. The official NC Courts site has case search, calendars, and dockets. The Register of Deeds portal shows property records. Some third-party sites offer extra filters or bulk downloads, but always check the official source first. Avoid sites that charge high fees for free info. The Clerk’s Office does not endorse outside services. Use only trusted links like nccourts.gov or co.forsyth.nc.us. Bookmark these to save time.
Common Reasons People Need Court Records
People ask for Forsyth County NC Court Records for many reasons. Lawyers need them for cases. Employers check backgrounds. Families look for divorce or custody papers. Homebuyers verify clear titles. Researchers study history. Immigrants prove legal status. Students write reports. Landlords screen tenants. Each use has different rules. Always state your purpose when requesting records. Some need proof like a job offer or court order. Never lie about why you want a record. Misuse can lead to fines or legal trouble.
What’s Not Public
Not all Forsyth County NC Court Records are open. Juvenile cases are sealed. Adoption files are private. Some mental health or abuse records are hidden. Grand jury materials are secret. Sealed or expunged criminal records vanish from public view. Only judges, lawyers, or the person named can see them. If you think a record should be private but it’s online, contact the Clerk’s Office. They can fix errors or block access. Privacy matters, and the court works to protect it.
Tips for First-Time Users
If you’ve never looked for court records, start simple. Use the free online search. Type a full name and pick the right county. Look at the results and click on the case number. Read the summary and docket entries. If you need a copy, note the case number and go to the Clerk’s Office. Bring ID and cash for fees. Ask staff for help—they’re trained to assist. Don’t guess which form to use. Take your time. Most people get what they need in one visit.
Contact Information
For Forsyth County NC Court Records, call the Clerk of Superior Court at (336) 779-6300. Fax is (336) 779-6301. Email is not used for record requests. Mail to P.O. Box 20099, Winston-Salem, NC 27120. Visit in person at 200 North Main Street, Winston-Salem, NC 27120. Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday. For property or vital records, call the Register of Deeds at (336) 727-2643 or visit 201 North Chestnut Street. Both offices close on federal holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have the same questions about Forsyth County NC Court Records. Below are clear answers based on current rules and practices. These cover access, costs, privacy, and how to get help. If you don’t see your question, call the Clerk’s Office during business hours.
Can I get court records without coming to Winston-Salem?
Yes, for most civil, criminal, and traffic cases. Use the free online case search on the NC Courts website. You can view dockets, filings, and outcomes from home. Download PDFs of public documents. However, certified copies must be picked up in person or mailed after you submit a request with ID and fee. Some older or sealed records are only in physical files at the courthouse. If you live far away, ask a friend or lawyer in Winston-Salem to help. The Clerk’s Office does not send records by email for security reasons.
How much does it cost to get a certified copy?
Certified copies of Forsyth County NC Court Records cost between $2 and $5 per page, plus a small certification fee. Most single-page documents like judgments or dismissals total around $5. Multi-page files cost more. Vital records from the Register of Deeds are $3 for death certificates and $5 for marriage licenses. Bring exact change or a check. No credit cards are accepted. If you need many records, ask about bulk pricing. Nonprofits and genealogists sometimes get discounts. Always confirm fees before submitting your request.
Are juvenile court records public?
No. Juvenile court records in Forsyth County are sealed by law. Only judges, lawyers, parents, or the young person themselves can view them. The public cannot search or request these files. This protects children’s privacy and gives them a fresh start. If a juvenile case is transferred to adult court, those records may become public. But the original juvenile file stays closed. Never assume a minor’s record is open. Check with the Clerk’s Office if you’re unsure.
Can I search court records by address?
Not directly. Forsyth County NC Court Records are searched by name, case number, or attorney—not address. However, property-related cases like evictions or liens may list an address in the filing. You can find these by searching the owner’s name in the case database. For deed history, use the Register of Deeds online portal, which allows address searches. If you’re looking for past tenants or neighbors, combine court and property records carefully. Always respect privacy laws when using location data.
What if I find wrong information in a court record?
If you see a mistake in Forsyth County NC Court Records—like a wrong name, date, or charge—contact the Clerk’s Office right away. Provide your ID, the case number, and proof of the error (such as a birth certificate or police report). Staff will review it and correct the file if needed. Errors can affect jobs, housing, or loans, so act fast. The court takes accuracy seriously. Do not try to fix it yourself or pay third parties to “remove” records. Only official corrections are valid.
Do I need a lawyer to get court records?
No. Anyone can request Forsyth County NC Court Records without a lawyer. The Clerk’s Office helps the public for free. Staff can explain how to search, what forms to use, and where to go. They cannot give legal advice, but they can guide you through the process. Lawyers often request records for clients, but individuals do it too. If your case is active, talk to your attorney first. For old or closed cases, you can handle it yourself. Bring patience and your ID.
Are expunged records still visible online?
No. When a criminal record is expunged in Forsyth County, it is removed from public databases. The NC Courts system deletes it, and the Clerk’s Office seals the physical file. You should not see it in online searches. If you do, report it immediately. Employers, landlords, and background check companies cannot access expunged records. Only law enforcement or courts can see them under strict conditions. Always check your own record after an expungement to confirm it’s gone.