Iredell County Court Records
What Is Iredell County Court Records
Court records in Iredell County encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's court system. These records constitute a comprehensive repository of judicial activities maintained pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes § 7A-109, which mandates the proper keeping of court records by clerks of superior court.
Iredell County court records typically include:
- Case files containing pleadings, motions, and other filed documents
- Court dockets listing scheduled hearings and case status information
- Judicial orders and final judgments
- Trial transcripts and exhibits
- Sentencing records in criminal matters
- Marriage licenses and divorce decrees
- Probate records including wills and estate administration
- Civil judgments and liens
These records are distinct from other public records maintained by county offices, such as property records held by the Register of Deeds or vital records maintained by the health department.
The courts maintaining records in Iredell County include:
- Superior Court (felony criminal cases, civil cases over $25,000)
- District Court (misdemeanors, civil cases under $25,000, family law)
- Small Claims Court (civil disputes under $10,000)
- Probate Court (wills, estates, guardianships)
The North Carolina Judicial Branch maintains the official repository of these records through the Iredell County Clerk of Superior Court, serving as the custodian of all court records generated within the county's jurisdiction.
Are Court Records Public In Iredell County
Court records in Iredell County are generally public documents accessible to citizens pursuant to North Carolina's Public Records Law (N.C.G.S. § 132-1) and the constitutional principle of open courts established in Article I, Section 18 of the North Carolina Constitution. These legal frameworks establish the presumption that court records are open for public inspection unless specifically exempted by statute or court order.
The following court records are typically available for public access:
- Civil case files and judgments
- Criminal case files (post-charging)
- Traffic citations and dispositions
- Small claims proceedings
- Probate records
- Court dockets and calendars
- Final judgments and orders
However, certain records may be restricted from public access, including:
- Juvenile proceedings (pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 7B-2901)
- Adoption records
- Mental health commitment proceedings
- Certain domestic violence records
- Records sealed by judicial order
- Grand jury proceedings and materials
- Pre-sentence investigation reports
The North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts establishes policies governing public access to court records, balancing transparency with privacy concerns. Federal court records for cases heard in the Western District of North Carolina (which includes Iredell County) are governed by separate federal rules and are accessible through the federal PACER system rather than county or state repositories.
Members of the public seeking access to court records should be aware that while most records are public, specific statutory exemptions or judicial sealing orders may limit access to certain sensitive materials.
How To Find Court Records in Iredell County in 2026
Individuals seeking court records in Iredell County may utilize several methods to locate and access these documents. The North Carolina Judicial Branch provides multiple pathways for obtaining court records, with both in-person and remote options currently available.
For in-person requests:
- Visit the Iredell County Courthouse during regular business hours
- Complete a record request form available at the Clerk's office
- Provide case identification information (names, case numbers, dates)
- Pay applicable copy fees ($0.25 per page for standard copies)
- Wait for staff to retrieve the requested documents
Iredell County Clerk of Superior Court
202 South Center Street
Statesville, NC 28677
704-832-6600
Clerk of Superior Court
For remote requests:
- Access the North Carolina Court Records Search portal
- Create a user account if required for certain record types
- Enter search criteria (name, case number, filing date)
- Review available records and select those needed
- Pay any applicable fees for certified copies or extensive searches
- Download electronic copies or request mailed physical copies
For certified copies of court documents, requestors must:
- Submit a written request specifying the exact documents needed
- Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for return delivery
- Provide payment for certification fees ($3.00 per document)
- Allow 5-7 business days for processing
Researchers conducting extensive historical searches may need to schedule an appointment with the Clerk's office for access to archived materials not available in electronic format. Under current North Carolina law, certain court records may require a court order for access, particularly those involving juvenile matters, sealed cases, or expunged records.
How To Look Up Court Records in Iredell County Online?
Iredell County residents and researchers can access various court records through several online portals maintained by the North Carolina Judicial Branch. These digital resources provide convenient access to public court information without requiring an in-person courthouse visit.
The primary online resources include:
-
North Carolina Court System Public Records Search
- Access via the North Carolina Judicial Branch website
- Search by name, case number, or citation number
- View basic case information, charges, and scheduled court dates
- Access criminal and traffic cases from 2012 forward
- No user account required for basic searches
-
Civil Case Processing System (VCAP)
- Search civil cases filed in District and Superior Courts
- Access information on judgments, liens, and case status
- Available for cases from 2009 forward
- Requires free registration for detailed information
-
Automated Criminal/Infractions System (ACIS)
- Search criminal and infraction cases
- View case status, charges, and disposition information
- Available for cases from 2012 forward
- Some information restricted to authorized users
To conduct an online search:
- Navigate to the appropriate portal based on case type
- Select "Iredell County" from the jurisdiction dropdown menu
- Enter search criteria (last name, first name, middle initial)
- Refine search by date range if needed
- Review search results and select specific cases for more detail
- Note that document images may not be available for all cases
Users should be aware that online access has certain limitations:
- Complete case file documents are not always available electronically
- Older cases may have limited information or require in-person research
- Certain sensitive case types are excluded from public online access
- Certified copies cannot be obtained through online portals
For technical assistance with online court record searches, users may contact the North Carolina Judicial Branch Help Desk at 919-890-2220 during regular business hours.
How To Search Iredell County Court Records for Free?
Iredell County residents have several options for accessing court records without incurring fees, as provided under North Carolina General Statutes § 7A-109(e), which guarantees the right to examine public court records without charge. While copy fees may apply for reproductions, the examination of records is available at no cost.
Free access options include:
- In-Person Inspection
- Visit the Iredell County Courthouse during public hours
- Request to view specific case files at the Clerk's office
- Examine documents on-site without charge
- Self-service public terminals available for electronic records
Iredell County Courthouse
202 South Center Street
Statesville, NC 28677
704-832-6600
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
-
Online Basic Case Information
- Access the North Carolina Court Records portal
- Use the public access search function for basic case information
- View case status, party names, and upcoming court dates
- No registration or fees required for basic searches
-
Public Library Access
- Visit Iredell County public libraries with internet access
- Use public computers to access court record databases
- Librarians may provide assistance with navigating online resources
Iredell County Public Library
201 North Tradd Street
Statesville, NC 28677
704-878-3090
- Court Calendars and Dockets
- Access free court date information through the NC Courts website
- View upcoming court schedules by case type or date
- Search by name to locate scheduled hearings
While basic record access is free, users should be aware of potential costs for:
- Printed copies ($0.25 per page)
- Certified copies ($3.00 per document)
- Extensive searches requiring staff assistance
- Specialized record requests requiring additional processing
Under current North Carolina law, the right to free inspection does not extend to records that are sealed, expunged, or otherwise restricted by statute or court order.
What's Included in a Iredell County Court Record?
Court records in Iredell County contain comprehensive documentation of legal proceedings, with contents varying by case type and court jurisdiction. Pursuant to North Carolina Rules of Recordkeeping, these records maintain the official history of court actions and decisions.
A typical Iredell County court record may include:
For Criminal Cases:
- Charging documents (indictments, information, complaints)
- Arrest warrants and probable cause affidavits
- Bond and pretrial release information
- Attorney appearances and representation status
- Motions filed by prosecution and defense
- Court orders and judicial rulings
- Plea agreements and transcripts
- Trial transcripts (when prepared)
- Verdict forms and judgment entries
- Sentencing information and probation terms
- Appeal notices and related documentation
For Civil Cases:
- Initial complaints and petitions
- Summonses and proof of service documents
- Defendant answers and counterclaims
- Motions and supporting memoranda
- Discovery documents (when filed with the court)
- Affidavits and sworn statements
- Exhibits admitted into evidence
- Court orders and judicial opinions
- Settlement agreements (when filed)
- Final judgments and decrees
- Post-judgment collection efforts
For Domestic Relations Cases:
- Divorce petitions and responses
- Child custody and support documents
- Financial affidavits and property divisions
- Parenting plans and visitation schedules
- Domestic violence protective orders
- Mediation agreements
- Final divorce decrees
For Probate Matters:
- Wills and codicils
- Petitions for probate or administration
- Inventories of estate assets
- Claims against estates
- Executor/administrator reports
- Distribution plans
- Final accountings
- Estate closing documents
Each court record also contains a case summary sheet or docket listing chronological entries of all filings, hearings, and court actions. This docket serves as the official index to the case file and provides a concise overview of the case progression.
The North Carolina Judicial Branch maintains standards for record content and organization, ensuring consistency across all counties including Iredell.
How Long Does Iredell County Keep Court Records?
Iredell County adheres to the North Carolina Judicial Branch Records Retention Schedule, which establishes mandatory timeframes for preserving various categories of court records. These retention periods are governed by the North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 7A-109(d), which authorizes the establishment of records management programs for court documents.
Current retention periods for major record categories include:
Permanent Retention:
- Felony case files resulting in conviction
- Civil judgments affecting real property
- Divorce decrees and domestic relations final orders
- Probate records including wills and estate settlements
- Adoption proceedings
- Land records and property disputes
- Constitutional challenges to statutes or ordinances
- Cases establishing significant legal precedents
Extended Retention (20+ years):
- Felony cases not resulting in conviction (20 years)
- Civil judgments not affecting real property (20 years)
- Domestic violence protective orders (25 years)
- Child support enforcement records (until child reaches age 28)
- Guardianship records (3 years after termination)
Moderate Retention (5-10 years):
- Misdemeanor convictions (10 years after case closure)
- Civil cases without judgments (7 years after disposition)
- Small claims proceedings (5 years after judgment)
- Traffic violations (5 years after disposition)
- Preliminary hearings where no indictment results (5 years)
Short-Term Retention (1-3 years):
- Dismissed misdemeanors (3 years)
- Infractions (3 years)
- Dismissed civil cases (3 years)
- Administrative records (varies by type, 1-3 years)
The retention schedule makes special provisions for records with historical significance, which may be transferred to the North Carolina State Archives for permanent preservation rather than destruction after their retention period expires.
Digital records are subject to the same retention requirements as paper records, though the storage medium differs. The Iredell County Clerk of Superior Court coordinates with the Administrative Office of the Courts to ensure proper implementation of retention policies for both physical and electronic records.
Researchers seeking historical court records should note that older records may have been transferred to state archives or microfilmed, requiring additional research steps beyond standard court record requests.
Types of Courts In Iredell County
Iredell County's judicial system operates within North Carolina's unified court structure, with several court types serving different jurisdictional functions. Each court handles specific case categories as defined by state statute.
Iredell County Superior Court
202 South Center Street
Statesville, NC 28677
704-832-6603
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Iredell County Superior Court
Superior Court serves as the county's highest trial court, handling felony criminal cases, civil matters exceeding $25,000, and appeals from District Court. Sessions are presided over by rotating superior court judges who travel within judicial districts. Jury trials are available in this court.
Iredell County District Court
202 South Center Street
Statesville, NC 28677
704-832-6610
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Iredell County District Court
District Court handles misdemeanor criminal cases, traffic violations, civil cases under $25,000, juvenile matters, domestic relations cases, and preliminary hearings for felony cases. District Court judges are elected to four-year terms and serve within their home district.
Iredell County Small Claims Court
202 South Center Street
Statesville, NC 28677
704-832-6610
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Small Claims Court operates as a division of District Court, handling civil disputes with claims up to $10,000. Cases are heard by magistrates rather than judges, and proceedings are designed to be accessible without attorney representation.
Iredell County Magistrate's Office
202 South Center Street
Statesville, NC 28677
704-832-6615
Hours: 24 hours daily
Magistrates conduct initial appearances, set bail, issue arrest and search warrants, accept guilty pleas for minor offenses, and handle small claims cases. They serve as the entry point for many matters in the court system.
Mooresville Court Facility
610 E. Center Avenue
Mooresville, NC 28115
704-663-1350
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
This satellite facility handles certain District Court matters for the southern portion of Iredell County, providing more convenient access for Mooresville area residents.
The hierarchical structure of courts serving Iredell County continues beyond the county level to include:
- North Carolina Court of Appeals (intermediate appellate court)
- North Carolina Supreme Court (highest state court)
Federal cases arising in Iredell County are handled by the United States District Court for the Western District of North Carolina, located in Charlotte.
What Types of Cases Do Iredell County Courts Hear?
Iredell County courts adjudicate a diverse range of legal matters according to jurisdictional authority established by North Carolina General Statutes. Each court level is designated to handle specific case types based on subject matter, monetary thresholds, and severity of charges.
Superior Court Cases:
- Felony criminal prosecutions (from serious misdemeanors to capital offenses)
- Civil matters with amounts in controversy exceeding $25,000
- Appeals from District Court decisions
- Property disputes involving title to real estate
- Constitutional challenges to state laws and local ordinances
- Administrative agency appeals
- Complex business litigation
- Medical malpractice claims
- Class action lawsuits
- Probate matters contested from District Court
District Court Cases:
- Misdemeanor criminal offenses
- Traffic violations including DWI/DUI
- Civil disputes with claims up to $25,000
- Domestic relations matters (divorce, custody, support)
- Juvenile delinquency and dependency proceedings
- Involuntary commitment hearings
- Preliminary hearings for felony cases
- Probate of wills and estate administration
- Guardianship proceedings
- Domestic violence protective orders
- Child support enforcement
Small Claims Court Cases:
- Landlord-tenant disputes including evictions
- Consumer debt collection matters
- Minor property damage claims
- Contract disputes under $10,000
- Recovery of personal property
- Mechanics' liens under the jurisdictional limit
Magistrate Proceedings:
- Initial appearances for criminal defendants
- Probable cause determinations
- Bail and pretrial release decisions
- Acceptance of guilty pleas for minor offenses
- Issuance of arrest and search warrants
- Emergency domestic violence protective orders
- Small claims trials (as assigned)
The North Carolina Judicial Branch provides comprehensive information about case assignment and scheduling for Iredell County courts. Specialized court programs operating within these jurisdictions include Drug Treatment Court, Family Court, and Child Support Court, which focus on particular case types with specialized procedures and resources.
Certain complex or specialized cases may be designated for special handling, such as Business Court matters or cases requiring three-judge panels, though these remain within the Superior Court's jurisdiction.
How To Find a Court Docket In Iredell County
Court dockets in Iredell County provide the official schedule of cases set for hearing or trial on specific dates. These calendars are public documents that help litigants, attorneys, witnesses, and interested citizens track upcoming court proceedings. Multiple methods exist for accessing current docket information.
For online docket access:
- Visit the North Carolina Court Dates search portal
- Select "Iredell" from the county dropdown menu
- Choose a date range (up to 30 days)
- Optionally filter by court type (District, Superior, etc.)
- Review the resulting calendar of scheduled cases
- Search by name to locate specific cases on the docket
For in-person docket access:
- Visit the Iredell County Courthouse during business hours
- Proceed to the appropriate clerk's office based on case type
- Request to view the current court calendar
- Printed dockets are typically posted near courtroom entrances
- Electronic kiosks in the courthouse lobby may provide docket information
Iredell County Clerk of Superior Court
202 South Center Street
Statesville, NC 28677
704-832-6600
Clerk of Superior Court
For attorney docket access:
- Attorneys registered with the North Carolina Courts Electronic Filing System (NCEFS) can access dockets through their secure portal
- Case management notifications alert attorneys to scheduling changes
- Calendar synchronization options are available for law firm systems
For telephone docket information:
- Contact the appropriate clerk's office division:
- Criminal Superior Court: 704-832-6603
- Criminal District Court: 704-832-6610
- Civil Superior Court: 704-832-6605
- Civil District Court: 704-832-6611
- Provide case number or party names
- Request current scheduling information
Docket information is typically updated daily, though last-minute changes may occur due to settlements, continuances, or judicial scheduling adjustments. The most current information is available through the online portal or by direct contact with the clerk's office on the day of the scheduled proceeding.
Special dockets exist for certain case types, including administrative calendars, motion hearings, and trial calendars. These specialized dockets may follow different scheduling and publication procedures than regular court calendars.
Which Courts in Iredell County Are Not Courts of Record?
In Iredell County's judicial system, certain courts do not maintain official verbatim transcripts of proceedings and are classified as "courts not of record" under North Carolina law. This distinction affects the appellate process and record-keeping requirements for these judicial forums.
Pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 7A-190, the following Iredell County courts are not courts of record:
- Small Claims Court (magistrate proceedings)
- Traffic Administrative Court sessions
- First appearance hearings
- Probable cause hearings
- Magistrate proceedings for minor offenses
These courts not of record share several key characteristics:
- No court reporter is present to create verbatim transcripts
- Proceedings are documented through summary notes and judgment forms
- Appeals from these courts proceed as de novo trials (completely new hearings)
- Evidence must be presented anew in any appeal
- Simplified procedures apply to facilitate access without attorney representation
When a case is appealed from a court not of record, the reviewing court (typically District Court for magistrate decisions) conducts an entirely new trial rather than reviewing a transcript for errors. This de novo review process serves as a safeguard for litigants in forums where complete records are not maintained.
By contrast, Iredell County's courts of record include:
- Superior Court (all proceedings)
- District Court (formal sessions with assigned judges)
- Juvenile Court proceedings
These courts maintain complete records through court reporters or electronic recording systems, allowing appellate courts to review the exact proceedings for potential errors without retrying the entire case.
The distinction between courts of record and those not of record is particularly important for litigants considering appeals, as the procedural requirements and standards of review differ significantly between these court types.