Brevard County Clerk Of Court Official Records Search gives you direct access to civil, criminal, and family court files in Brevard County, Florida. Whether you need a copy of a divorce decree, a criminal case docket, or a property lien record, this system helps you find official documents quickly. You can search online, visit an office in person, send a request by mail or fax, or use secure email. The clerk’s office follows strict rules under Florida Statute Chapter 119 to protect privacy while making public records available. All records are stored in a climate-controlled vault and kept for up to 70 years. Staff members are trained and background-checked to handle sensitive information safely.
How to Request Official Records
You have several ways to request official records from the Brevard County Clerk of Court. Mail your completed form to P.O. Box 2767, Titusville, FL 32781-2767. Include a prepaid return envelope so your documents arrive faster. Fax requests go to (321) 264-5246. Use single-sided, letter-size pages only. For email, use the protected address on the clerk’s website. Messages are encrypted for privacy. In person, visit any of the three service centers: 315 N. Palm St. in Titusville, 1280 S. Magnolia Rd. in Melbourne, or 5600 S. Forrest St. in Cocoa. Offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Always bring a valid ID when visiting.
Online Access Through BECA Portal
The Brevard Electronic Court Application (BECA) lets you search civil and criminal case files 24 hours a day. Go to the BECA portal to look up case numbers, docket entries, filing dates, and hearing schedules. The system updates in real time, but the clerk warns that online data is for reference only. It does not replace official paper records kept in the courthouse. For certified copies or legal proof, contact the records department at (321) 637-2004 or schedule an in-person appointment. BECA is free to use and requires no registration.
Types of Records Available
The clerk maintains many kinds of official records. These include civil lawsuits, criminal charges, traffic citations, marriage licenses, divorce decrees, probate files, wills, estate documents, foreclosure notices, tax deeds, and land recordings. You can also search for bond agent licenses and high-profile court cases. Child support and alimony records are available with proper authorization. Some records may be sealed or restricted under Florida law, especially those involving minors or sexual offenses.
Privacy Rights Under Chapter 119
Florida law gives you the right to request removal of personal data from certain records. Chapter 119 protects the privacy of victims in sexual offense cases. If you are an affected party, you can ask the clerk to redact your name, address, or other identifying details from public files. Submit your request in writing with proof of identity. The clerk must respond within a reasonable time. This rule applies only to specific case types and does not erase the record—only personal information is hidden from public view.
Certified Copies and Legal Use
If you need a certified copy for court, immigration, or official business, request it directly from the clerk’s office. Certified copies have a raised seal and signature, making them legally valid. They cost more than regular prints. You can order them online, by mail, or in person. Uncertified copies from BECA are free but cannot be used as legal proof. Always check with the receiving agency to confirm which type they accept.
eRecording and Digital Services
Brevard County supports eRecording for deeds, mortgages, and liens. Lawyers, title companies, and lenders can submit documents electronically. The system checks for errors and processes filings faster than paper. All digital uploads are indexed and stored securely. The clerk’s staff verifies signatures and ensures compliance with state laws. This service reduces errors and speeds up property transactions.
Clerk of Court Responsibilities
The Clerk of Courts is the official keeper of all legal filings in Brevard County. This includes court cases, land records, marriage licenses, and tax deeds. The office runs a secure vault with climate control to preserve paper files for decades. Staff members handle requests, verify identities, and issue certified copies. They also manage the eRecording system and support the BECA portal. Every employee undergoes background checks and training in records management.
Branch Office Locations and Hours
You can visit any of the three main service centers. The Titusville office is at 315 N. Palm St. The Melbourne branch is at 1280 S. Magnolia Rd. The Cocoa location is at 5600 S. Forrest St. All are open Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed on federal holidays. No appointment is needed for basic requests, but calling ahead saves time. For complex cases, schedule a meeting with a records specialist.
Fees and Payment Options
Fees vary by request type. Searching online is free. Copies cost per page. Certified copies have higher fees. Payment methods include cash, check, money order, and credit card. Some services allow online payment through the clerk’s portal. Always ask for a receipt. Fee waivers are not available for public records, but low-income individuals may request reduced costs in special cases.
Common Reasons People Search Records
People search Brevard County records for many reasons. Homebuyers check for liens or ownership history. Lawyers verify case details for clients. Researchers study local crime trends. Families look up marriage or divorce records. Employers conduct background checks. Journalists investigate public interest cases. Always use records responsibly and follow privacy laws.
What Records Are Not Public
Not all records are open to the public. Juvenile cases, adoption files, and some mental health records are sealed. Grand jury transcripts and ongoing investigations may be restricted. Sexual offense records have extra protections under Chapter 119. Sealed court orders hide entire cases from search results. If you believe a record should be public but isn’t, contact the clerk or consult an attorney.
How to Seal or Unseal a Record
To seal a record, file a motion with the court and get a judge’s order. The clerk will then restrict access. To unseal, you need another court order. The clerk cannot change record status without a judge’s approval. If you have questions about sealing, contact the clerk’s legal department or speak with a lawyer. The process varies by case type.
BECA Search Tips
Use specific details when searching BECA. Enter full names, case numbers, or dates. Avoid partial names—they return too many results. Use quotation marks for exact phrases. Filter by case type if possible. If you can’t find a record, it may be sealed, recently filed, or stored offline. Call (321) 637-2004 for help.
Marriage License Records
Marriage licenses are public records. You can search by name or license number. Certified copies prove marital status for name changes, insurance, or immigration. Both parties must consent to release in some cases. Apply online, by mail, or in person. Bring ID and pay the fee.
Divorce and Family Court Files
Divorce decrees, child custody orders, and alimony rulings are available. Some details may be redacted to protect children. You need the case number or full names to search. Certified copies are required for legal use. Uncertified prints from BECA are not valid.
Traffic and Criminal Records
Traffic citations, misdemeanor charges, and felony cases appear in BECA. DUI, speeding tickets, and arrest warrants are searchable. Criminal records include charges, dispositions, and sentencing. Expunged records do not appear. If you believe a record is wrong, contact the clerk or file a correction request.
Foreclosure and Tax Deed Sales
The clerk lists upcoming foreclosure and tax deed auctions online. You can view property details, minimum bids, and sale dates. Winning bidders must pay in full at the sale. Records of past sales are kept for years. Contact the clerk for auction rules and requirements.
Probate and Estate Records
Wills, trusts, and estate files are managed by the clerk. These include death certificates, executor appointments, and asset distributions. Some probate records are confidential. Search by decedent’s name or case number. Certified copies prove authority to act on an estate.
Bond Agent and Bail Records
You can search for licensed bond agents in Brevard County. The clerk lists names, licenses, and contact info. Bail payment records show amounts posted and release dates. These help track financial obligations in criminal cases.
High-Profile and Public Interest Cases
The clerk highlights notable cases on the website. These include major crimes, civil rights lawsuits, and government disputes. Media and researchers often request these files. Access is the same as other records—search online or visit in person.
Child Support and Alimony Management
The clerk tracks child support and alimony payments. Parents can view payment history, arrears, and court orders. Modification requests go through the court. The clerk does not set amounts—only judges do. For help, call the family court division.
Technical Support and Website Issues
If BECA or the clerk’s website isn’t working, report it to the IT team. Send a detailed message to the protected email on the site. Include your name, case number, and what went wrong. The clerk responds within one business day. Do not share sensitive info in error reports.
Employment and Job Opportunities
The clerk’s office posts job openings on its website. Positions include records clerks, IT staff, and legal assistants. All roles require background checks. Apply online through the portal. Current openings are listed in the footer of the clerk’s homepage.
Contact Information
Main phone: (321) 637-2004 Email: Use the secure form on brevardclerk.us Address: 2725 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, Viera, FL 32940 Office hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Website: http://www.brevardclerk.us/official-records For certified copies or legal questions, call or visit in person.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have similar questions about Brevard County records. Below are clear answers based on current rules and procedures. If you don’t see your question, call the clerk or check the website.
Can I search records for free?
Yes. The BECA portal is free to use. You can view case numbers, dockets, and filing dates without paying. However, printed or certified copies cost money. Online searches do not require an account or login.
How long does it take to get a certified copy?
Most requests are processed in 3 to 5 business days. Mail requests take longer due to postage. In-person pickup is fastest—same day if the record is ready. Rush service may be available for an extra fee.
Are juvenile records public?
No. Juvenile court files are sealed by law. Only authorized parties like parents, lawyers, or law enforcement can access them. The public cannot search or view these records through BECA or in person.
Can I remove my name from a public record?
Only in specific cases. Under Chapter 119, victims of sexual offenses can request redaction of personal details. Other records cannot be altered. To seal a case, you need a court order from a judge.
What if I find an error in a record?
Contact the clerk’s records department at (321) 637-2004. Provide the case number and describe the mistake. The clerk will review and correct it if confirmed. For legal disputes, you may need to file a motion in court.
Do I need an appointment to visit the office?
No appointment is needed for basic requests like copying a document. For complex cases or legal advice, call ahead to schedule time with a specialist. Walk-ins are welcome during business hours.
Can I use BECA on my phone?
Yes. The BECA portal works on smartphones and tablets. The site is mobile-friendly. Just open your browser and go to the BECA link. No app is required.
Related Public Record Resources
These sites offer similar services in other counties. They help with inmate lookups, rental history, or municipal court files. Always verify information against official sources like the Brevard County Clerk.
Final Notes on Accuracy and Responsibility
The Brevard County Clerk of Court works hard to keep records accurate and up to date. However, mistakes can happen. Always double-check critical details like names, dates, and case numbers. For legal matters, rely on certified copies—not online prints. If you’re unsure, ask the clerk or consult a lawyer. Public records are a valuable tool, but they must be used wisely and legally.