Court records in Hennepin County, Minnesota can be searched through several channels. HennepinCourt.us can help you find publicly available information about court cases filed in the county. You can also search records through the state's official online portal, visit the court clerk's office in person, request documents by mail, or use public-access terminals at courthouse locations. The sections below explain which courts handle specific case types, how to look up hearings, and how to obtain copies of court documents.
Hennepin Court System & Jurisdictions
The Hennepin County District Court — part of Minnesota's Fourth Judicial District — is the largest trial court in the state. Minnesota operates a unified court system, so the district court handles virtually all case types at the trial level. There is no separate magistrate court or county court.
Case Types by Division
- Criminal Division — Felonies, gross misdemeanors, and misdemeanors prosecuted in Hennepin County. The court also offers a warrant helpline for people who need information about outstanding warrants or want to schedule a hearing.
- Civil Division — Lawsuits involving contracts, personal injury, property disputes, and other civil matters. Conciliation Court (Minnesota's small claims court) handles civil disputes up to $15,000.
- Family Court — Divorce, custody, child support, paternity, and domestic abuse matters. The Hennepin County Family Court page provides help topics, parent education requirements, and filing information.
- Probate and Mental Health — Estates, guardianships, conservatorships, trusts, and civil commitments.
- Juvenile Division — Delinquency, child protection (CHIPS), and truancy cases. Juvenile records are generally not public; access typically requires a court order or an affidavit for access to juvenile court records.
- Traffic and Petty Misdemeanor — Traffic violations, parking offenses, and petty misdemeanors such as minor ordinance violations.
If you are unsure which division handles your case, start by searching the case number on Minnesota Court Records Online (MCRO) — the case type listed in the results will tell you which division is involved.
Hennepin Court Calendar & Upcoming Hearings
Court calendars for Hennepin County are managed through the district court's website. To find today's, tomorrow's, or this week's hearings:
- Visit the Hennepin County District Court homepage.
- Look for the court calendars section, which lists hearing schedules by division (criminal, civil, family, etc.).
- Calendars are typically organized by courtroom, judge, or date. Some divisions post daily calendars at the courthouse as well.
If you have a specific case number, you can also check upcoming hearing dates through MCRO, which displays scheduled future hearings for most public case types. For criminal cases, the court's warrant helpline can also confirm hearing dates.
Tip: Hearing times and courtroom assignments can change on short notice. Arrive early and check the posted calendars inside the courthouse lobby to confirm your courtroom.
How to Get a Copy of a Hennepin Court Document
The 4th District Records Center is the centralized office that provides public access to Hennepin County court records. You can request copies online, in person, or by mail.
Online
- Search and view many public court records through Minnesota Court Records Online (MCRO). Some documents can be downloaded directly; others require a formal request.
- MCRO results are not certified. If you need a certified copy, you must contact the Records Center.
In Person
- Visit the Records Center at the Hennepin County Government Center. Public-access terminals are available for searching case files. Staff can assist with locating documents and providing copies.
By Mail
Send a written request that includes the case number (if known), the full names of the parties, and the type of document you need. Include payment for applicable fees.
Certified vs. Uncertified Copies
- Uncertified copies are suitable for personal reference. They can usually be printed from MCRO or obtained at the counter.
- Certified copies bear the court's official seal and signature, confirming the document is a true copy of the court record. These are often required for legal proceedings, immigration applications, or out-of-state filings.
Family Court Documents
Copies of divorce decrees, custody orders, and child support orders are available from the Records Center. The Family Court Records page explains what is available and how to request it. The Minnesota State Law Library also provides guidance on obtaining certified divorce decrees.
Restricted Records
Certain records are not publicly accessible, including:
- Juvenile court records (require court order or approved affidavit)
- Sealed or expunged records
- Some mental health and civil commitment files
- Records restricted by court order or statute
Hennepin Court Records Fees & Payment
The Hennepin County District Court charges fees for copies, certifications, and searches. Fees are set by Minnesota statute and court administrative order. The court's website lists the current fee schedule. Below are commonly requested fee amounts based on published Minnesota court fee schedules:
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Uncertified copy (per page) | $0.25 |
| Certified copy (per document) | $14.00 |
| Certificate of no record / search fee | $14.00 |
| Copies retrieved from MCRO (self-service) | Free to view; printing fees may apply |
Payment methods: The Records Center generally accepts cash, check, and money order for in-person and mail requests. Check the court's fee page for current information on whether credit or debit cards are accepted at the counter or online.
Note: Fees are subject to change. Always verify current amounts on the Records Center page or by calling the court before submitting payment by mail.