Chatham County Court Records
What Is Chatham County Court Records
Court records in Chatham County encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's judicial system. These records constitute a comprehensive archive of court activities as maintained by various courts operating within Chatham County, Georgia. Pursuant to Georgia Open Records Act § 50-18-70, court records are defined as documentation created, received, or maintained by courts in connection with court business.
Court records typically include:
- Case files containing pleadings, motions, and other filed documents
- Docket sheets listing chronological case events
- Judicial orders and final judgments
- Hearing and trial transcripts
- Evidence and exhibits admitted during proceedings
- Sentencing and disposition records in criminal matters
- Marriage licenses and divorce decrees
- Probate documents including wills and estate inventories
Court records differ from other public records such as property records (deeds, mortgages, liens), vital records (birth and death certificates), and tax records, which are maintained by other county departments rather than the courts.
In Chatham County, court records are maintained by several courts within the judicial system:
- Superior Court (felony criminal cases, civil cases over $25,000, divorces)
- State Court (misdemeanors, civil cases under $25,000)
- Magistrate Court (small claims, warrant applications)
- Probate Court (wills, estates, marriage licenses)
- Juvenile Court (delinquency, dependency cases)
- Municipal Courts (city ordinance violations, traffic cases)
The Chatham County court system maintains records for civil, criminal, family, probate, and traffic matters in accordance with the Georgia Court Records Retention Schedule established by the Judicial Council of Georgia.
Are Court Records Public In Chatham County
Court records in Chatham County are generally accessible to the public in accordance with Georgia's Open Records Act, codified in O.C.G.A. § 50-18-70 et seq., and the constitutional principle of open courts established in Article I, Section I, Paragraph XI of the Georgia Constitution. These provisions 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 (complaints, answers, motions, orders)
- Criminal case files (post-charging documents, indictments, pleas)
- Judgments and final orders
- Docket sheets and case indices
- Court calendars and hearing schedules
- Property records including deeds and liens
- Probate records including wills and estate inventories
However, certain records may be restricted from public access, including:
- Records sealed by court order
- Juvenile court records (with limited exceptions)
- Adoption proceedings
- Mental health commitment records
- Certain family violence and stalking protective orders
- Records containing sensitive personal information as defined in O.C.G.A. § 50-18-72
It is important to note that federal court records for cases heard in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Georgia (which includes Chatham County) are governed by federal access rules rather than state law. These records are accessible through the federal PACER system.
The Georgia Supreme Court has established uniform rules for public access to court records through the Judicial Council of Georgia, which provides guidance to all courts in the state regarding record accessibility.
How To Find Court Records in Chatham County in 2026
Members of the public seeking court records in Chatham County may utilize several methods to locate and access these documents. The county currently offers both in-person and online options for record retrieval.
For in-person requests:
- Identify the specific court that maintains the desired records
- Visit the appropriate clerk's office during regular business hours
- Complete a records request form, providing case number, party names, or other identifying information
- Present valid photo identification
- Pay applicable search and copy fees (fees vary by court)
- Review records on-site or request certified copies
Chatham County Superior Court Clerk's Office
133 Montgomery Street, Room 304
Savannah, GA 31401
912-652-7175
Superior Court Clerk
Chatham County State Court Clerk's Office
133 Montgomery Street, Room 501
Savannah, GA 31401
912-652-7326
State Court
Chatham County Probate Court
133 Montgomery Street, Room 509
Savannah, GA 31401
912-652-7270
Probate Court
Chatham County Magistrate Court
133 Montgomery Street, Room 103
Savannah, GA 31401
912-652-7171
Magistrate Court
For written requests:
- Submit a detailed written request to the appropriate court clerk
- Include case number, party names, document types sought
- Provide return address and contact information
- Enclose required search and copy fees
- Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for return delivery
Pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 15-6-61, clerks of court are required to respond to records requests within a reasonable time period, typically within three business days.
How To Look Up Court Records in Chatham County Online?
Chatham County offers several digital platforms for accessing court records online. These electronic systems provide convenient alternatives to in-person visits for many record types.
The primary online resources include:
-
Chatham County Courts Online Records Portal
- Access via the Chatham County Court System website
- Search by case number, party name, filing date, or case type
- View case summaries, docket entries, and some document images
- Available for Superior, State, Magistrate, and Probate courts
- Registration required for full access; basic case information available without login
-
Superior Court Clerk's E-Filing and Records System
- Access through the Superior Court Clerk's website
- Search real estate records, liens, UCCs, and court cases
- View and download document images (subscription fees may apply)
- Create account to save searches and receive notifications
-
Georgia Judicial Gateway
- Access via Georgia Courts E-Access portal
- Statewide system connecting multiple court databases
- Search across jurisdictions for cases involving the same parties
- Registration and fees required for comprehensive searches
-
Probate Court Records Search
- Specialized search for wills, estates, marriage licenses
- Access through the Probate Court section of the county website
- Limited to probate-specific documents and proceedings
To conduct an online search:
- Select the appropriate portal based on record type
- Create user account if required (email address needed)
- Enter search criteria (minimum information requirements vary by system)
- Review search results and select specific cases for detailed information
- Pay any applicable document view or download fees
- Save or print documents as needed
Online access is governed by Georgia Supreme Court Rule 21 regarding public access to court records and the Judicial Council of Georgia's standards for electronic access.
How To Search Chatham County Court Records for Free?
Georgia law provides for public inspection of court records at no cost, though fees may apply for copies or certified documents. Pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 50-18-71, the public has the right to inspect public records during regular office hours at no charge.
Free access options in Chatham County include:
-
In-Person Inspection
- Visit the appropriate court clerk's office during business hours
- Request to view specific case files or docket books
- No charge for on-site inspection of physical records
- Public access terminals available for viewing electronic records
- Photo ID required; sign-in procedures may apply
-
Public Access Terminals
- Computer workstations located in courthouse facilities
- Available at Superior Court Clerk's Office, Law Library, and other court locations
- Free access to court database for basic case information
- May require staff assistance for initial login
-
Chatham County Court System Website
- Basic case information available without registration
- Case status, upcoming hearings, and party information
- Access via the Chatham County Courts website
- Limited to case summaries; document images may require fees
-
Law Library Resources
- Chatham County Law Library located in the courthouse
- Access to legal research databases that may include case information
- Staff assistance available for research guidance
- Open to the public during regular business hours
Chatham County Law Library
133 Montgomery Street, Room 702
Savannah, GA 31401
912-652-7490
Law Library
While basic searches are free, the following services typically incur fees:
- Printed copies (generally $0.25-$1.00 per page)
- Certified copies ($2.50-$10.00 per document)
- Extensive research assistance by clerk staff
- Document downloads from premium online services
- Expedited search requests
The Georgia Judicial Council establishes guidelines for reasonable fees that courts may charge for record reproduction and certification.
What's Included in a Chatham County Court Record?
Court records in Chatham County contain various documents depending on the case type and court of jurisdiction. The content of these records is governed by Georgia Uniform Superior Court Rules and specific rules for each court level.
A typical court case file may include:
Case Initiation Documents:
- Complaints, petitions, or indictments
- Summonses or warrants
- Service of process documentation
- Initial appearance records
Procedural Documents:
- Motions and responses
- Briefs and memoranda of law
- Discovery materials (if filed with the court)
- Subpoenas and witness lists
- Scheduling orders and continuances
Evidentiary Materials:
- Affidavits and declarations
- Exhibits admitted into evidence
- Deposition transcripts (if filed)
- Expert witness reports
Judicial Documents:
- Court orders and opinions
- Findings of fact and conclusions of law
- Judgments and decrees
- Sentencing documents in criminal cases
Case Management Records:
- Docket sheets listing chronological case events
- Court reporter transcripts of hearings
- Clerk's minutes of proceedings
- Jury selection records and verdict forms
Post-Judgment Documents:
- Satisfaction of judgment notices
- Appeals documentation
- Probation or parole records
- Collection and enforcement documents
Administrative Records:
- Attorney appearances and withdrawals
- Fee waiver applications and orders
- Interpreter requests
- Accommodation requests under ADA
The level of detail varies by court and case type. For example, Superior Court felony cases typically contain more extensive documentation than Magistrate Court small claims matters. Probate Court records include specialized documents such as wills, inventories, and guardianship reports.
Pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 15-6-61, court clerks are required to maintain these records in a manner that preserves their integrity and accessibility.
How Long Does Chatham County Keep Court Records?
Chatham County courts retain records according to schedules established by the Georgia Records Act and the Judicial Council of Georgia's Records Retention Schedule. Retention periods vary based on case type, disposition, and historical significance.
Standard retention periods include:
Superior Court:
- Felony cases: Permanent retention for serious crimes (murder, rape, etc.)
- Other felonies: 25 years after case closure
- Civil cases: 20 years after final disposition
- Domestic relations: Permanent for divorce decrees; 7 years for temporary orders
- Real property cases: Permanent retention
- Adoption records: Permanent retention (sealed)
State Court:
- Misdemeanor criminal: 10 years after case closure
- Traffic violations: 5 years after disposition
- Civil cases: 10 years after final judgment
- Small claims: 5 years after disposition
Probate Court:
- Wills and estate administration: Permanent retention
- Guardianships: 10 years after termination
- Marriage licenses: Permanent retention
- Weapons carry licenses: 2 years after expiration
Magistrate Court:
- Civil actions: 5 years after disposition
- Criminal warrants: 10 years after issuance
- Ordinance violations: 5 years after disposition
Juvenile Court:
- Delinquency cases: Until child reaches 25 years of age
- Dependency cases: 10 years after child reaches majority
- Termination of parental rights: Permanent retention
Historic court records (generally pre-1900) are permanently preserved regardless of case type due to their historical significance. Many older records have been microfilmed or digitized for preservation.
After the retention period expires, records may be destroyed according to procedures outlined in O.C.G.A. § 15-6-73, which requires approval from the Superior Court clerk and proper notice before destruction.
Types of Courts In Chatham County
Chatham County's judicial system consists of several courts with distinct jurisdictions and authority levels. Each court handles specific case types as established by Georgia law.
Superior Court of Chatham County
133 Montgomery Street, Room 304
Savannah, GA 31401
912-652-7175
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-5:00 PM
Superior Court
The Superior Court is Chatham County's court of general jurisdiction, handling felony criminal cases, civil matters exceeding $25,000, domestic relations cases, and property disputes. It has exclusive jurisdiction over divorces, title to land, equity cases, and felonies. Six elected judges serve on this court.
State Court of Chatham County
133 Montgomery Street, Room 501
Savannah, GA 31401
912-652-7326
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-5:00 PM
State Court
The State Court handles misdemeanor criminal cases, traffic violations, and civil actions where the amount in controversy does not exceed $25,000. Four elected judges preside over this court, which also conducts jury trials.
Magistrate Court of Chatham County
133 Montgomery Street, Room 103
Savannah, GA 31401
912-652-7171
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-5:00 PM
Magistrate Court
The Magistrate Court handles small claims (up to $15,000), dispossessory (eviction) proceedings, county ordinance violations, and preliminary hearings in criminal cases. It also issues arrest and search warrants. This court is presided over by a chief magistrate and associate magistrates.
Probate Court of Chatham County
133 Montgomery Street, Room 509
Savannah, GA 31401
912-652-7270
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-5:00 PM
Probate Court
The Probate Court handles wills, estate administration, guardianships, conservatorships, and marriage licenses. It also administers weapons carry permits and certain mental health proceedings. One elected judge presides over this court.
Juvenile Court of Chatham County
197 Carl Griffin Drive
Savannah, GA 31405
912-652-6655
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-5:00 PM
Juvenile Court
The Juvenile Court has exclusive jurisdiction over cases involving children under 17 years of age, including delinquency, dependency, and child custody matters. Three judges serve this court.
Recorder's Court of Chatham County
133 Montgomery Street, Room 701
Savannah, GA 31401
912-652-7460
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-5:00 PM
Recorder's Court
The Recorder's Court handles traffic violations, county ordinance violations, and certain misdemeanors. It conducts preliminary hearings but does not hold jury trials. Three judges preside over this court.
Municipal Court of Savannah
1400 E. President Street
Savannah, GA 31404
912-525-3408
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-5:00 PM
Municipal Court
The Municipal Court handles city ordinance violations, traffic cases, and certain misdemeanors occurring within city limits. It is presided over by appointed judges.
The court hierarchy in Georgia proceeds from limited jurisdiction courts (Municipal, Magistrate) to general jurisdiction courts (State, Superior), with appeals going to the Georgia Court of Appeals and ultimately the Georgia Supreme Court.
What Types of Cases Do Chatham County Courts Hear?
Chatham County's various courts adjudicate specific case types according to jurisdictional boundaries established by Georgia law. Each court specializes in particular legal matters as follows:
Superior Court Cases:
- Felony criminal prosecutions (murder, robbery, drug trafficking)
- Civil lawsuits exceeding $25,000 in damages
- Domestic relations (divorce, child custody, support, adoption)
- Real property disputes and title to land cases
- Equity matters (injunctions, specific performance)
- Appeals from lower courts (de novo and on the record)
- Habeas corpus petitions
- Complex business litigation
State Court Cases:
- Misdemeanor criminal offenses
- Traffic violations (DUI, reckless driving)
- Civil actions up to $25,000
- Landlord-tenant disputes
- Contract and tort claims
- Garnishments and attachments
- Appeals from Municipal and Magistrate courts
Magistrate Court Cases:
- Small claims civil actions (up to $15,000)
- Dispossessory (eviction) proceedings
- Distress warrant (commercial eviction) cases
- County ordinance violations
- Preliminary hearings and commitment hearings
- Issuance of arrest and search warrants
- Good behavior warrants and peace bonds
- Abandoned motor vehicle liens
Probate Court Cases:
- Wills and estate administration
- Appointment of executors and administrators
- Guardianships and conservatorships for adults and minors
- Marriage licenses and certificates
- Weapons carry permits
- Involuntary commitment proceedings
- Certain misdemeanor traffic cases in counties without State Courts
Juvenile Court Cases:
- Delinquency proceedings (criminal acts by minors)
- Children in need of services (CHINS)
- Dependency cases (abuse, neglect)
- Termination of parental rights
- Custody disputes involving Department of Family and Children Services
- Juvenile traffic offenses
- Emancipation of minors
Recorder's Court Cases:
- Traffic violations within unincorporated Chatham County
- County ordinance violations
- Certain misdemeanors
- Preliminary hearings for felony cases
- First appearance hearings and bond determinations
Municipal Court Cases:
- City ordinance violations
- Traffic offenses within city limits
- Public intoxication and disorderly conduct
- Shoplifting (misdemeanor)
- Noise violations and nuisance complaints
- Animal control violations
Case assignment follows jurisdictional rules established in the Georgia Code Title 15, which defines court structure and authority. In instances of overlapping jurisdiction, factors such as the amount in controversy, severity of the offense, and geographic location determine the appropriate venue.
How To Find a Court Docket In Chatham County
Court dockets in Chatham County provide schedules of upcoming hearings, trials, and other court proceedings. These calendars are public records that can be accessed through several methods.
To locate current court dockets:
-
Online Docket Search
- Visit the Chatham County Courts website
- Select the specific court of interest
- Navigate to the "Calendars" or "Dockets" section
- Search by date, judge, or case type
- Superior Court dockets are available through the Superior Court Clerk's website
-
Courthouse Bulletin Boards
- Physical copies of daily and weekly dockets are posted near courtrooms
- Located on each floor of the courthouse corresponding to specific courts
- Updated daily for current proceedings
- Include case numbers, party names, hearing types, and assigned courtrooms
-
Clerk's Office Inquiry
- Visit or call the clerk's office for the relevant court
- Provide case number or party name for specific case information
- Request information about general court calendars for upcoming weeks
- Staff can provide printed copies of dockets (fees may apply)
-
Case-Specific Docket Information
- Use the online case search function on the court website
- Enter case number to view all scheduled events
- Register for e-notification services where available
- Attorneys can access more detailed information through the e-filing system
-
Law Library Resources
- The Chatham County Law Library maintains copies of court calendars
- Public terminals available for electronic docket searches
- Staff can assist with locating appropriate docket information
Docket information typically includes:
- Hearing date and time
- Courtroom assignment and judge
- Case number and style (party names)
- Nature of proceeding (arraignment, motion hearing, trial)
- Attorney information when applicable
Pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 15-6-21(c), courts are required to maintain and publish their calendars. Dockets are generally published at least one week in advance, though emergency hearings and schedule changes may occur with limited notice.
Which Courts in Chatham County Are Not Courts of Record?
In Georgia's judicial system, a "court of record" is defined as a court that creates and maintains a verbatim transcript or recording of its proceedings and maintains formal records of all cases. Pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 15-6-62, courts of record must employ or have access to court reporters who create official transcripts of proceedings.
The following Chatham County courts are NOT courts of record:
Magistrate Court
- Proceedings are not routinely recorded verbatim
- Maintains case files but not official transcripts
- Appeals from Magistrate Court receive de novo hearings in Superior Court
- Governed by O.C.G.A. § 15-10-1 et seq.
Municipal Court of Savannah
- Does not create official transcripts of all proceedings
- Maintains basic case information and disposition records
- Appeals proceed to State Court for new trials
- Operates under city charter and O.C.G.A. § 36-32-1
Municipal Courts in Other Chatham County Cities
- Garden City Municipal Court
- Pooler Municipal Court
- Port Wentworth Municipal Court
- Tybee Island Municipal Court
- Thunderbolt Municipal Court
- Bloomingdale Municipal Court
These non-record courts typically handle:
- Traffic violations
- Local ordinance violations
- Minor misdemeanors
- First appearances and preliminary matters
When cases from these courts are appealed, they receive a completely new trial (de novo) in a court of record rather than a review of the existing record.
Courts of record in Chatham County include:
- Superior Court
- State Court
- Probate Court
- Juvenile Court
- Recorder's Court (for certain proceedings)
The distinction between courts of record and non-record courts is significant for appellate purposes and for the preservation of proceeding details. In courts not of record, the absence of an official transcript means that appeals must be heard anew, with witnesses testifying again and evidence being reintroduced in the higher court.