Union County court records are public files that show what happens in court cases filed in Union County, New Jersey. These records include civil lawsuits, criminal cases, family matters, probate filings, traffic tickets, and small claims.
Anyone can look at most of these records for free. The New Jersey court system keeps them through the Union County Courthouse and online portals run by the state judiciary.
Union County sits in the northeastern part of New Jersey. Its county seat is Elizabeth. The main courthouse is in downtown Elizabeth. Judges, clerks, and court staff work there every weekday. They handle new filings, keep old case files, and answer questions from the public.
Union County Courthouse and Court System
The Union County Courthouse is the main hub for court business in the county. The address is 2 Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07201. The courthouse is on the third floor for some court offices. The main phone number for the courthouse is 908-787-1650.
Union County uses the New Jersey Superior Court system. This system has two main divisions. The Law Division handles civil cases, criminal cases, and special civil matters. The Chancery Division handles family cases, probate, and general equity matters. Most court records in Union County go through these two divisions.
Each division has its own part. The Family Part deals with divorce, child custody, and domestic violence. The Civil Part deals with lawsuits between people or businesses. The Criminal Part deals with felony charges and indictable offenses. The Probate Part deals with wills, estates, and guardianships.
Union County also has Municipal Courts in many towns. These courts handle traffic tickets, local ordinance violations, and minor criminal matters. Each town runs its own Municipal Court. They are not part of the Superior Court but their records are still public.
Court Locations in Union County
The main courthouse handles most Superior Court business. Some Municipal Courts meet in town halls or separate court buildings. The county seat in Elizabeth has the largest court office. Other busy court towns include Plainfield, Linden, Cranford, and Westfield.
People who need to file a new case usually go to the courthouse in person. People who want to look at old case files can also go in person. The clerk’s office helps with both tasks.
How to Search Union County Court Records Online
The New Jersey Courts run a free public search tool. It is called the New Jersey Courts Public Access portal. The website is njcourts.gov. People can search for civil, criminal, and family cases from any computer or phone.
To start a search, visit the Public Access page on the NJ Courts site. Pick the type of case you want to look at. Then enter a name, case number, or other detail. The system shows basic case data. This data includes party names, filing dates, hearing dates, and final outcomes.
The portal covers most Superior Court cases in Union County. It also covers many Municipal Court cases. Users can search by party name or by docket number. The system updates each day. New filings usually show up by the next business day at 5 p.m.
What You Can Find in the Online System
The online system shows basic case facts. It lists the names of people involved in a case. It shows the case type, like civil, criminal, or family. It also shows the judge assigned, the next court date, and the case status.
Some case files have more detail online. Users can see motions, orders, and judgments in many cases. They can read court decisions when judges write them. They can also see the docket number for each filing.
Not all papers from a case are online. Old paper files may not be scanned. Sealed records are not shown. Confidential records are also not shown. Users who need those files must visit the courthouse in person.
Union County Civil Court Records
Union County civil court records cover lawsuits between people or businesses. These cases happen when one side claims another side caused harm or broke a contract. The Civil Part of Superior Court handles cases where the claim is more than $20,000. The Special Civil Part handles smaller cases.
Common civil case types include contract disputes, personal injury claims, property disputes, and business lawsuits. Each case gets a docket number. The docket tracks every paper filed in the case. People can search the docket online through the NJ Courts Public Access portal.
Civil case files often have many documents. These can include the initial complaint, the answer, motions, briefs, and orders. Some files also include exhibits and transcripts. Most of these papers are public once the case ends.
Small Claims Cases in Union County
Small claims cases in Union County go through the Special Civil Part. These cases involve claims up to $20,000. They move faster than regular civil cases. People often file small claims cases without a lawyer.
Small claims records are public. The names of the people, the amount in dispute, and the final judgment are all in the public file. Users can search small claims records through the same NJ Courts portal used for other civil cases.
Union County Criminal Court Records
Union County criminal court records cover cases where the state charges someone with a crime. The Criminal Part of Superior Court handles indictable crimes. These are the more serious charges. Misdemeanors and disorderly persons offenses go through Municipal Court.
Felony cases in Union County start with an arrest. The county prosecutor reviews the case. If the prosecutor files charges, the case moves to Superior Court. The defendant appears before a judge. The case may end with a plea, a trial, or a dismissal.
Criminal records show the charges, the plea, the verdict, and the sentence. They also show motions filed by both sides. Users can search criminal records through the NJ Courts Public Access portal. The system uses the PROMIS Gavel database.
Warrant and Indictment Records
Arrest warrants and indictments are part of the public record. They show the charges and the court that issued them. People can look up active warrants through law enforcement portals. Past indictments are in the court file.
Union County criminal records also include sentencing data. This data shows the prison time, fines, or probation ordered by the judge. The Union County Sheriff’s Office keeps records of people in custody.
Union County Family Court Records
Union County family court records cover cases about families. The Family Part of Superior Court handles these cases. Common case types include divorce, child custody, child support, adoption, and domestic violence.
Divorce records show the names of both spouses, the date of marriage, and the date of divorce. They also show the terms of any settlement. These records are public. Some details, like Social Security numbers, are removed before files are shared with the public.
Child custody cases are public too. The orders in these cases set out who the child lives with and when. Support orders show the amount of money paid each week. Both kinds of orders are part of the public court file.
Domestic Violence Records
Domestic violence cases in Union County get a special hearing. The court issues a final restraining order if the judge finds that violence took place. These orders are public. They show the names of the people involved and the terms of the order.
People can search for active restraining orders through the New Jersey Courts portal. They can also contact the Family Part clerk at the courthouse for help. The clerk cannot give legal advice but can help with file searches.
Union County Probate Records
Union County probate records cover wills, estates, and guardianships. The Surrogate’s Office handles these filings. The Surrogate also serves as the clerk for the Probate Part of Superior Court.
When someone dies, their will goes to the Surrogate’s Office. The office opens the estate. It gives the executor or administrator the right to handle the estate. Probate records show the will, the inventory of assets, and the final distribution.
Guardianship records cover cases where the court appoints a guardian for a minor or an adult who cannot manage their own affairs. These records are public, but some details may be redacted to protect privacy.
Searching Probate Files
People can search probate files at the Union County Surrogate’s Office. The office is at the Union County Courthouse. The staff can help with file searches. They can also provide certified copies of wills and other probate papers.
Older probate records from many decades ago may be in paper form only. Newer records are often scanned and added to the digital system. Call the Surrogate’s Office ahead of time to check if a record is available online.
Union County Municipal Court Records
Union County Municipal Court records cover traffic tickets, local ordinance violations, and minor criminal matters. Each town in Union County has its own Municipal Court. These courts handle cases like speeding tickets, parking violations, and simple assault charges that are less serious.
Municipal Court records show the charge, the plea, the fine, and any other outcome. They also show the next court date. Many Municipal Courts in Union County post their records online through the NJ Courts portal.
People can pay traffic tickets online through the NJ Courts site. They can also plead guilty or not guilty online for many cases. The system then shows the result once the judge makes a decision.
Common Municipal Court Cases
Speeding tickets, driving without a license, and driving under the influence are common Municipal Court cases in Union County. Other common cases include shoplifting, simple assault, and disorderly conduct. The fines and penalties vary based on the charge and the person’s record.
Each Municipal Court has its own hours and rules. The clerk at each court can help with questions about a specific case. They can also help with payment plans for fines.
Accessing Court Documents and Getting Copies
People can get copies of Union County court records in three ways. They can visit the courthouse in person, send a request by mail, or use the online portal. Each way has its own fees and rules.
In person visits are the fastest way to get a paper copy. The clerk at the courthouse can pull the file. The clerk can also make certified copies for legal use. Most courts accept cash, check, money order, and credit cards for payment.
Mail requests take longer. People send a letter with the case number and the documents they need. They include a check or money order for the fees. The clerk mails the copies back once the request is processed.
Copy Fees in Union County
The fees for copies in Union County follow state rules. Plain copies usually cost a small fee per page. Certified copies cost more because they have the court’s seal. Search fees may also apply for older records that need extra lookup work.
People should call the courthouse before sending a mail request. The clerk can confirm the fee and the records that are available. This step saves time and avoids wasted payments.
Sealed and Expunged Records in Union County
Some Union County court records are sealed by a judge. Sealed records are not open to the public. Common sealed records include juvenile cases, some family cases, and cases where the court finds a need for privacy.
Expunged records are removed from public view. People who qualify under New Jersey law can ask the court to expunge their criminal record. Once expunged, the record is treated as if it never happened for most purposes.
The process for expungement starts with a petition to the court. The prosecutor reviews the petition. The judge then decides whether to grant the expungement. The Union County Superior Court handles these petitions.
Who Can See Sealed Records
Only certain people can see sealed records. These include the people named in the case, their lawyers, and some government agencies. Judges can also open a sealed record for a specific reason.
People who want to see a sealed record must file a motion with the court. The judge then decides whether to allow access. The court keeps a list of who has been given access to a sealed file.
Filing Fees and Court Costs in Union County
Filing fees in Union County follow state rules. The fee depends on the type of case. Civil cases have higher fees than small claims cases. Family cases also have specific fees based on what the person is asking the court to do.
Criminal cases have lower filing fees because the state brings the case. The person charged may still have to pay other costs, like fees for a lawyer if they cannot afford one. They may also have to pay fines if convicted.
People who cannot afford the filing fee can ask for a fee waiver. They must show the court that they have low income. The court then decides whether to waive the fee.
Where to Pay Court Fees
People can pay court fees in person at the courthouse. They can also pay online through the NJ Courts portal. Some payments can be sent by mail. The court accepts cash, check, money order, and credit cards for most payments.
Late payments can lead to extra fees. They can also lead to a warrant in some cases. People who cannot pay on time should contact the court clerk right away to set up a payment plan.
Union County Court Records Statistics and Trends
Union County handles thousands of new court cases each year. The New Jersey Courts publish statewide data on filings and dispositions. This data shows how many cases start and end in each county each year.
Civil case filings in Union County include both new lawsuits and small claims cases. The Civil Part handles a high volume of contract and property disputes. The Special Civil Part handles a high volume of small debts and consumer claims.
Criminal filings include both indictable cases in Superior Court and less serious charges in Municipal Court. Felony cases involve more serious crimes. Misdemeanor and traffic cases make up a large share of Municipal Court dockets.
Family Court Caseloads
Family court filings in Union County cover divorce, custody, support, and domestic violence. Divorce filings are the most common. Custody and support filings are also high in volume. Domestic violence filings have grown in recent years across New Jersey.
The state tracks family court data on the NJ Courts website. Users can see how many family cases each county handles. This data helps the courts plan for staff and resources.
Union County Court Records and Background Checks
Court records are one part of a background check. Employers, landlords, and others use court records to learn about a person’s history. Union County court records show civil judgments, criminal convictions, and other public filings.
The New Jersey Courts Public Access portal gives people a free way to look up court records. Commercial background check sites also pull data from this system. They often add data from other sources too.
People who want a full background check should use the official state portal. The data there is the most accurate. Commercial sites may have old or wrong data.
Limits of Court Record Searches
Court record searches do not show sealed or expunged records. They also do not show cases from other states. People who need a full record should check with each state where the person has lived.
Some employers and landlords ask for a background check with a fingerprint. The New Jersey State Police run these checks. They cover both New Jersey and federal records.
Union County Courthouse Contact Information
The Union County Courthouse is the main place for court business in the county. The address is 2 Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07201. The main phone number is 908-787-1650. Court office hours run during normal business hours on weekdays.
The official website for Union County government is ucnj.org. The official website for the New Jersey Courts is njcourts.gov. The NJ Courts site has the public search portal and forms for common filings.
People who need help with e-filing or the online portal can contact the NJ Courts help line. They can also visit the courthouse clerk for in-person help. The clerk cannot give legal advice but can help with file searches and copies.
Hours and Visiting the Courthouse
The Union County Courthouse is open on weekdays during normal business hours. The clerk’s office takes filings and helps with record searches during these hours. Some court offices may have shorter hours for certain services.
People who plan to visit should bring a photo ID. They should also bring any case numbers or names they need to look up. This helps the clerk find the right file quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Union County Court Records
People often have questions about how to look up court records, what they can see, and how to get copies. The questions below cover the most common issues. The answers are based on New Jersey court rules and the way the Union County court system works.
How do I look up a court case in Union County for free?
You can look up a Union County court case for free through the New Jersey Courts Public Access portal. The portal is on the njcourts.gov website. You can search by party name or by case number. The portal shows basic case facts, party names, filing dates, hearing dates, and outcomes. You do not need an account to search. The system updates each day. Records that are sealed or expunged will not show up in the search. If you cannot find what you need online, you can visit the courthouse clerk in person for help with a file search.
Can I see all Union County court records online?
No, not all Union County court records are online. The NJ Courts Public Access portal covers most Superior Court cases, many Municipal Court cases, and some other filings. Old paper files from many years ago may not be scanned. Sealed records are never online. Confidential records that involve juveniles, mental health, or sensitive personal data are also not online. For files that are not online, you need to visit the courthouse in person or send a written request by mail. The clerk can pull the paper file and make copies for you. There is a small fee for paper copies and certified copies.
How do I get a certified copy of a court order in Union County?
You can get a certified copy of a court order at the Union County Courthouse clerk’s office. Visit the clerk in person, give them the case number, and ask for a certified copy. The clerk will pull the file, make a copy with the court seal, and stamp it as certified. There is a fee for this service. You can also send a written request by mail. Include the case number, the documents you need, and a check or money order for the fee. The clerk will mail the certified copy back to you. Certified copies are often required for legal matters like immigration, name changes, and some business filings.
What is the difference between sealed and expunged records in Union County?
Sealed records are still kept by the court but the public cannot see them. Only the people named in the case, their lawyers, and some government agencies can see a sealed record. Expunged records are removed from the public record. The court treats the case as if it never happened. You can ask the court to expunge certain criminal records under New Jersey law. You must file a petition and the prosecutor reviews it. The judge decides whether to grant the expungement. Not all cases qualify for expungement. Serious crimes like murder and some sex offenses cannot be expunged.
Can I look up someone’s criminal record in Union County?
Yes, you can look up public criminal records in Union County through the NJ Courts Public Access portal. Search by the person’s full name. The portal will show any pending or closed criminal cases in Superior Court. Municipal Court criminal records also show up for many towns. Sealed and expunged records will not appear. For a full background check, you can also contact the New Jersey State Police. They run fingerprint-based background checks that cover more records. Employers, landlords, and licensing agencies often use these official background checks.
How long does it take to get court records by mail in Union County?
Mail requests for court records in Union County usually take one to two weeks to process. The clerk pulls the file, makes the copies, and mails them back. The exact time depends on how busy the clerk’s office is and whether the file is easy to find. Older paper files may take longer. You can speed up the process by calling the clerk ahead of time to confirm the fee and the file location. If you need the records right away, visit the courthouse in person. Walk-in requests are often handled the same day.
Where do I file a new case in Union County?
You file a new case at the Union County Courthouse in Elizabeth. The address is 2 Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07201. Civil cases go to the Civil Part clerk. Family cases go to the Family Part clerk. Criminal cases are filed by the prosecutor. Probate cases go to the Surrogate’s Office. Many new cases can also be filed online through the NJ Courts e-filing system. The e-filing system lets you submit papers from a computer. You can also pay the filing fee online. If you have questions about how to file, call the clerk’s office at 908-787-1650.