Can I find old court records from 1976/7 easily, and for free?

Asked by laureth (27199

) September 26th, 2009

Hi. I was the object of a custody battle when I was 4–5 years old, back in the 1970’s. I remember it, but only in a child’s-view way. Both sides of the battle tell different stories about how things went down, and I’d like nothing more than to locate the actual court records and read, word for word, the things that were said, the evidence, etc. I’ve had this quest in the back of my mind for years.

Unfortunately, I don’t even know where to begin. I’ve looked at the website for the courts in the county where the case occurred, but it seems centered on current cases – not old dusty ones. It happened long before electronic recordkeeping, I’m sure. And furthermore, I’m not rich – so cost is a factor. Is there a free site or search that would turn up such a relic, or do you know anything about where else to start looking?

Common sense dictates that I don’t put too much personal detail about this case out here in front of Internet and everybody, but I am possibly willing to discuss specifics over private messages if anyone feels they can help in detail (and, you know, I recognize you). However, any help is welcome (and is more help than I have now). Thanks for reading.

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6 Answers

Are you saying you want details of the proceedings? Unless it went to appeals, there may not be any records for you to access. Cases at the Trial Court level are not often recorded, at least not for purposes of future public viewing.

peedub (8708

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I’m not sure if it did or not. Bummer. I always wondered who was telling the straighter story.

laureth (27199

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I would talk to someone in that city that you may know to do the research. Otherwise, I don’t see access to this info. Maybe, a local attorney you know could get access for you.

Garebo (3190

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The records will exist, and you should be able to access them under the various “Freedom of Information” options available, but it will cost and you will need to show cause as they invade privacy. Curiosity is not cause.

DarkScribe (15505

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In the olden days, (before the Internet) you had to go down to the court house personally and ask them to pull the file. You won’t be able to take it out, and it may take a few days for them to locate such old files, but you could probably sit in the lobby and go over the paperwork yourself.
I had a pastor that was arrested in a public park once and plead guilty. I went to the court house, signed a paper and they showed me the whole folder with the police report and everything. I know this is different. That was a criminal thing and was only a month old, but I would think that since you are the subject of the case you shouldn’t have to much trouble getting access.
I am afraid it’s going to take a little old fashioned shoe leather detective work though.

Judi (40025

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