Clerk of Court & Register of Deeds

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The Clerk of Court primarily manages court-related records, processes, and administrative support, while the Register of Deeds focuses on recording and maintaining property documents and ensuring the integrity of real estate transactions. Both roles are essential for the proper functioning of the legal system.  

Clerk of Court

The Clerk of Court is an Elected Official responsible for managing the administrative aspects of the court system. Their primary duties typically include:

• Maintain records of all cases filed in the court, including civil, criminal, and family law cases.
• Assign case numbers, track case progress, and ensure that all documents are properly filed and accessible.
• Keep and preserve all court records, including judgments, motions, and other official documents.
• Provides assistance to judges, attorneys, and the public in accessing court files and records.
• Handle the scheduling of court hearings, trials, and meetings.
• Administer oaths to witnesses, jurors, and other individuals involved in legal proceedings.
• Manages court fees, fines, and other payments related to legal proceedings.
• Distribute and account for funds collected, such as bail money or court-imposed fines.
• Issue court summons, subpoenas, writs, and other legal documents as ordered by the judge.
• Serve as the custodian of records for the court, ensuring their integrity and confidentiality.

Register of Deeds

The Register of Deeds is responsible for recording and maintaining property-related documents. Their primary duties typically include:

• Officially recording deeds, mortgages, liens, and other property-related documents.
• Ensure that these documents are correctly indexed and accessible to the public for legal and financial purposes.
• Keep a permanent record of all documents related to real estate transactions within the jurisdiction.
• Organize and manage property titles, including updates and changes (e.g., transfers, foreclosures).
• Provide certified copies of recorded documents, such as deeds, titles, and mortgages, to individuals or institutions that request them.
• Assist in verifying the status of property titles by providing information regarding ownership and encumbrances (liens or mortgages) on properties.
• Ensure the legality of transactions involving real property, confirming that documents like deeds and titles meet the necessary legal requirements before they are recorded.
• Facilitate public access to recorded property documents, ensuring transparency and public knowledge of property ownership and related legal matters.
• Safeguard recorded documents from unauthorized access, loss, or destruction, ensuring they remain valid and legally recognized.