Washington County County criminal history records include arrests, court actions, charges, and final outcomes from cases processed through the Fourteenth Judicial Circuit in Florida. These records come from the Washington County Clerk of Court in Chipley and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) statewide database.
Anyone can search these records for employment screening, tenant checks, legal research, personal review, or government licensing. This page explains exactly what the records contain, how to search them, what fees apply, and how to request certified copies for 2026.
Washington County Criminal History Records System
The Washington County criminal records system operates under Florida Statute Chapter 943, which controls how law enforcement agencies share criminal history data with the public. Records for Washington County cases sit at the Clerk of Court office in Chipley, with statewide coverage available through FDLE’s central repository.
What Washington County Criminal Records Contain
Each criminal record file in Washington County includes several core pieces of data tied to a single case. The Clerk of Court stores the original arrest affidavit, the formal charging document filed by the State Attorney, all defense motions and state responses, complete court minutes from hearings, and the final judgment showing the case outcome.
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth and physical description at time of arrest
- Arrest date, arresting agency, and booking number
- Specific charges filed under Florida statutes
- Court case number and assigned judge
- Hearing dates and final disposition (guilty, not guilty, dismissed, deferred)
- Sentence details including probation, fines, or incarceration
Court Records in the Fourteenth Judicial Circuit
Washington County belongs to the Fourteenth Judicial Circuit, a six-county circuit that also includes Bay, Calhoun, Gulf, Holmes, and Jackson counties. The Clerk’s office at 1293 Jackson Avenue in Chipley serves as the official custodian for all court documents generated within this circuit. Felony cases, misdemeanor cases, and criminal traffic cases all funnel through this office, with physical files retained based on case type and Florida records retention schedules.
Florida Public Records Law and Criminal History
Florida’s broad public records law, codified in Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes, gives residents and non-residents the right to view criminal history records unless a specific exemption applies. Sealed or expunged records fall outside public view. Records involving juveniles, active investigations, or certain victim information may carry limited access under Florida Statute 943.053. The FDLE maintains the official criminal history database and sets the rules for how agencies share this data.
How to Search Washington County Criminal History
Three main search methods exist for Washington County criminal history: in-person visits to the Clerk’s office, online searches through the Clerk’s portal, and mail-in requests for certified or uncertified copies. Each method serves a different need based on urgency, record type, and certification requirements.
In-Person Records Search at the Clerk’s Office
Visiting the Washington County Clerk of Court in Chipley provides the most complete search option. Staff members can pull physical case files from archives, explain filing systems, locate older records on microfilm, and produce certified copies on the spot. Bring a valid photo ID, the subject’s full name, date of birth, and any known case numbers to speed up the search.
- Office hours run Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM Central Time
- Photo identification required for all record requests
- Self-service public terminals available for basic name searches
- Certified copies issued the same day in most cases
- Payment accepted by cash, check, money order, and most major cards
Online Records Search Through the Clerk Portal
The Washington County Clerk website offers a free public search tool covering criminal, civil, traffic, and probate cases. Search by full name, business name, or case number to view docket entries, hearing dates, charges, and disposition codes. Basic case data appears without charge. Printed copies or certified copies require an account login and payment of statutory fees.
- Go to washingtonclerk.org and click the Public Records Search link
- Select the case type (Criminal, Civil, Traffic, Probate)
- Enter the full legal name with date of birth if known
- Review the case list for matching records
- Click any case number to view docket entries and charges
- Request certified copies through the online payment system if needed
Mail-In Records Requests
Mail-in requests work for people who cannot visit in person or who need certified copies shipped to another state. Send a written request to the Clerk’s office with the subject’s full name, date of birth, and the specific records requested. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope and payment by check or money order. Processing time averages three to five business days, plus postal transit time in both directions.
FDLE Statewide Criminal History Search
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement operates the Computerized Criminal History (CCH) system, which aggregates arrest data, disposition records, and corrections data from all 67 Florida counties. FDLE searches cover the entire state, making them the right choice for employment screening, licensing applications, immigration petitions, and adoption procedures that require a complete Florida check.
Name-Based FDLE Criminal History Check
The FDLE offers two name-based check options through their online portal. The instant search delivers results in under five minutes for $24 plus a small processing fee. The certified search takes five to seven business days, costs more, and produces a stamped record suitable for official use. Both options search the statewide database using the subject’s name and date of birth as identifiers.
Certified FDLE Criminal History Records
Certified FDLE records carry an official seal and signature from the department, which most employers, licensing boards, and government agencies require. The certified search option is the only name-based FDLE check that produces this document. For fingerprint-based certified checks, applicants must visit an approved LiveScan location and submit electronic prints for FDLE processing.
| FDLE Search Type | Cost (2026) | Processing Time | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| Instant Name Search | $24 plus fees | Under 5 minutes | Quick personal review |
| Certified Name Search | $24 plus fees | 5-7 business days | Employment, licensing |
| LiveScan Fingerprint Check | $45-$60 total | 3-5 business days | Federal compliance, security clearance |
| Audit/Public Access Request | $24 per record | 7-10 business days | Research, legal purposes |
Florida Statewide Criminal History Database Coverage
FDLE’s database includes Florida arrests, court dispositions, corrections data, and sealed record flags. The database does not include federal arrests, out-of-state crimes, traffic infractions that did not result in arrest, or sealed juvenile records. Anyone who has lived in multiple states needs an FBI Identity History Summary Check (federal check) in addition to the Florida check for complete coverage.
Washington County Criminal History Fees and Costs
Fees for criminal history records come from Florida statutes and local fee schedules. Costs vary based on the type of record, certification status, and search method. Budget for certified copies at a higher rate than uncertified copies, and add LiveScan fees for fingerprint-based checks.
Clerk’s Office Copy and Certification Fees
The Washington County Clerk charges per-page copy fees plus a certification surcharge for official documents. Regular copies cost $1.00 per page, while certified copies add a $2.00 certification fee per document. Searches performed by Clerk staff when the requester cannot provide a case number cost an additional research fee based on time spent.
| Service | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Copy | $1.00 per page | Uncertified, for personal use |
| Certified Copy | $2.00 certification plus copy fee | Required for legal proceedings |
| Staff Research Fee | $5.00 per 30 minutes | Applies when case number unknown |
| Online Document Image | $2.50 per document | Printed through portal |
| F.O.I.A. Request | No fee for public inspection | Copy fees still apply |
FDLE Criminal History Check Fees
FDLE fees cover the cost of database access, record retrieval, and certification. Name-based checks cost $24 each. Fingerprint checks through LiveScan vendors cost $45 to $60 total, which combines the vendor’s service fee with FDLE’s processing fee. Volume discounts apply for employers who submit batches of 50 or more checks at one time.
Fingerprint-Based Background Check Costs
Fingerprint checks through LiveScan produce the most accurate FDLE records because prints match against biometric data, not name spellings. Vendors like IdentoGO and Fieldprint charge between $10 and $20 for the fingerprint capture, with FDLE adding $24 to $38 for processing depending on the check type. Total cost ranges from $34 to $58 per applicant.
Expungement and Sealing of Washington County Criminal Records
Florida law allows people to seal or expunge criminal records under specific conditions set out in Florida Statute 943.0585 (sealing) and 943.059 (expungement). Sealed records exist but stay hidden from public view. Expunged records get physically destroyed by FDLE and most agencies, though some government agencies can still see them for certain purposes.
Eligibility for Criminal Record Expungement
Florida restricts who can seal or expunge records. The State Attorney’s Office reviews each application to confirm eligibility. Most people qualify if they received a withhold of adjudication, completed their sentence, and have no other convictions. Certain offenses disqualify applicants automatically, regardless of the outcome.
- No prior sealing or expungement in Florida
- No convictions for the offense being sealed
- Completed all sentence terms including probation and fines
- Not currently serving a sentence or on probation for another offense
- No charges pending in any Florida court
- Not found guilty of certain disqualifying offenses (arson, child abuse, DUI manslaughter, sexual offenses, weapons of mass destruction, terrorism, trafficking, murder, manslaughter, kidnapping)
Florida Criminal Record Sealing Process
The sealing process starts with a Certificate of Eligibility from FDLE. Submit fingerprints, a completed application, and the $75 processing fee to FDLE. Once the certificate arrives, file a petition with the Washington County Clerk of Court in the circuit where the arrest or case occurred. A judge reviews the petition and signs an order sealing the record if everything checks out.
- Obtain fingerprints at an approved LiveScan location
- Complete FDLE Form 9-15 (Application for Certification of Eligibility)
- Submit application, fingerprints, and $75 fee to FDLE
- Wait 4-8 weeks for Certificate of Eligibility
- File petition with the Washington County Clerk of Court
- Pay the $42 filing fee for the petition
- Attend a brief court hearing if the judge schedules one
- Receive signed sealing order; Clerk sends copies to agencies
Certificate of Eligibility Requirements
FDLE reviews each application against the criminal history database before issuing a Certificate of Eligibility. The review confirms no prior sealing, no disqualifying offenses, and no pending charges. Disqualified applicants receive a denial letter explaining the specific reason and any waiting period before reapplying.
Washington County Clerk Contact and Office Details
Direct contact with the Clerk’s office speeds up requests and resolves questions about specific records. Phone, mail, and in-person channels remain available during regular business hours. The Clerk’s website also offers 24-hour access to basic search tools and online payment systems.
Clerk’s Office Location and Hours
The Washington County Clerk of Court sits at 1293 Jackson Avenue, Suite 101, in Chipley, Florida. The office follows Central Time. Regular hours run from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday, with the office closed on weekends and federal holidays.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Office Name | Washington County Clerk of Court |
| Street Address | 1293 Jackson Avenue, Suite 101 |
| City, State, ZIP | Chipley, FL 32428 |
| Phone Number | (850) 638-6289 |
| Website | washingtonclerk.org |
| Office Hours | Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM CT |
| Judicial Circuit | Fourteenth Judicial Circuit |
| Counties Served | Washington, Bay, Calhoun, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson |
| FDLE Contact | (850) 410-7000 |
| FDLE Website | fdle.state.fl.us |
Florida Criminal History Request Form and Submission
FDLE requires Form 9-15 for name-based check applications and the LiveScan system for fingerprint submissions. Both forms are available on the FDLE website. Mail-in applications go to FDLE Headquarters in Tallahassee. Walk-in services at FDLE regional offices accept fingerprint cards and LiveScan submissions during business hours.
Official Washington County Clerk Website
The Clerk’s official site (washingtonclerk.org) hosts the public records search portal, online payment system, court calendar, and document imaging viewer. Registered users can purchase certified copies, view electronic case files, and receive email alerts for new docket entries in watched cases. The site also posts employment opportunities and office announcements.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following questions address the most common concerns about Washington County criminal history searches, record access, and verification procedures. Each answer reflects current 2026 Florida law and Clerk’s office practices. Answers focus on practical steps a searcher can take today to get accurate records.
How long does a Washington County criminal record stay on file?
Washington County Clerk of Court files remain in the official record system based on Florida records retention schedules. Felony case files stay permanently in most cases. Misdemeanor files stay for at least 5 years after final disposition. Older physical files may transfer to state archives or get stored on microfilm. FDLE retains the entry in their database even after the Clerk’s office archives the file. The record remains accessible through FDLE unless sealed or expunged through the court process.
Can I check Washington County criminal records for free?
Yes, the Clerk’s website provides free access to basic docket entries, charges, and disposition data through the public records portal. No payment is needed to view the case list or read the docket. Costs only apply when requesting printed copies, certified copies, or staff research time. FDLE charges $24 plus fees for both instant and certified statewide searches, with no free FDLE option available in 2026.
What is the difference between sealed and expunged records?
Sealed records still exist in the system but cannot be viewed by the public or most employers. Expunged records get physically destroyed by FDLE and most agencies, leaving only a minimal entry noting the record existed. Both remove the offense from most background checks. Government agencies like law enforcement, certain licensing boards, and military recruiters can still access sealed records. Expunged records remain visible only to a narrow set of agencies for specific purposes outlined in Florida law.
Does a Florida criminal history check include federal crimes?
No, the FDLE statewide criminal history check covers only Florida arrests, court dispositions, and corrections data. Federal crimes, out-of-state offenses, and crimes committed on military installations do not appear in the FDLE database. People who have lived in multiple states or who face federal background check requirements need an FBI Identity History Summary Check or a fingerprint-based check through an FBI-approved channeler for complete coverage.
How accurate are name-based criminal history searches?
Name-based searches depend on spelling accuracy and may miss records due to name variations, aliases, or data entry errors. Common names produce false positives where another person with the same name shows up. Fingerprint-based checks produce higher accuracy because they match biometric data. FDLE recommends name and date of birth for the best name-based results. Anyone receiving unexpected results should request fingerprint confirmation before making employment or legal decisions based on the name search.
Can employers in Washington County reject applicants based on criminal history?
Florida law allows employers to consider criminal history during hiring, but the Florida Civil Rights Act and federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) rules restrict blanket bans. Employers must consider the nature of the offense, its relation to the job, and how much time has passed. Ban-the-box rules in some Florida cities delay the background check question until later in the hiring process. Applicants with criminal records can request individualized review rather than face automatic disqualification.
How do I get my own Washington County criminal history record?
Visit the Clerk’s office with photo ID for an in-person record pull, or use the online portal to view your own docket entries. For a statewide FDLE record, submit a name-based check at fdle.state.fl.us, or visit a LiveScan location for a fingerprint-based certified record. FDLE charges $24 for the name search. The fingerprint option costs $45-$60 total. Both methods produce a record you can keep for personal review or use for immigration, licensing, or adoption applications.