Family Court Records: Travis County Search & Free Copies

Family Court Records in Travis County give immediate insight into divorce filings, child‑custody disputes, paternity actions, and adoption proceedings, letting anyone pinpoint a case by name, docket number, or filing date. When you type “Travis County family court records search” into the official portal, the system pulls the latest docket entries, court orders, and judgments, showing whether a case is pending, active, or finalized. This direct access helps parents confirm support obligations, attorneys verify case status, and citizens understand local family‑law trends without wading through unrelated civil or criminal files. By focusing on the exact case number or party name, you avoid the common frustration of unrelated results, and the online interface highlights essential details such as hearing dates, order issuance, and any sealed or confidential annotations that may affect public visibility.

Family Court Records also streamline the request for certified copies, offering clear steps for online, mail, or in‑person submissions. Searching “Travis County family court case lookup” reveals the clerk’s office hours, required identification, and typical copy fees, so you can plan ahead and receive accurate documents quickly. Whether you need a divorce decree, child‑support order, or protective‑order filing, the searchable database distinguishes family‑law filings from other court records, ensuring you retrieve the specific documents you need while respecting privacy rules for juvenile or sealed cases.

How to Search Family Court Records

Travis County family court records are available through the official district clerk portal where you can search active and historical cases by name, case number, or filing date. The search system displays docket entries, court orders, and judgment dates for divorce, custody, paternity, adoption, and protective order cases filed in the county. Each search result shows the case type, assigned court, and current status so you can confirm you have the right file before requesting copies, with official access available through probate court records resources. You do not need an account to view basic case details, which makes the portal accessible to parents, attorneys, and members of the public.

Official Search Portal: https://www.traviscountytx.gov/district-clerk/case-information-records

Steps to Search

• Open the official search portal at the Travis County district clerk case information page using a current web browser.
• Choose a search method such as party name, case number, filing date range, or court location from the available tabs.
• Type the full legal name of a party or the complete case number in the search field and select the correct search button.
• Review the list of matching cases displayed on the results page for case type, filing date, and assigned judge.
• Click the case number link to view the full docket sheet, hearing history, and any available orders or judgments.
• Print or save the case summary page if you need a reference for requesting certified copies from the clerk’s office.

Search by Party Name

Searching by party name requires the full legal name of a petitioner or respondent as it appears on the court filing. The portal accepts last name, first name, and middle name or initial fields to narrow results. Common names may return several matches, so checking the case type and filing year helps you identify the correct file. You can add a date range to focus on a specific period if you know roughly when the case started.

Search by Case Number

A case number search is the fastest way to pull up a specific file when you already have the docket number from a prior hearing, attorney correspondence, or court notice. Travis County case numbers follow a format that lists the year, court prefix, and sequence digits. Entering the exact number avoids unrelated matches and opens the docket right away. If you do not know the number, use the party name search first to locate it.

Search by Filing Date

Filing date search lets you look at all family cases opened during a particular month, year, or custom date range. This method works well for researchers tracking local family law trends or attorneys reviewing recent filings in a specific court. Set the start and end dates carefully to avoid missing cases filed on the boundary days. The portal then sorts results by filing date from earliest to latest or vice versa.

Search by Court

Each Travis County family case is handled by one of the district courts that hear family law matters, and you can filter searches by court to narrow the results. Court-specific searches help when you know which judge or court heard a case but not the exact docket number. The portal lists each court’s assigned cases with current status updates. This filter helps separate family filings from other civil or criminal cases assigned to the same courthouse.

Information Needed for a Search

Before you start a search, gather the full legal names of the parties involved, the approximate filing year, and the case type if known. Having a case number saves time and removes guesswork from the lookup process. You should also know whether the case is sealed, confidential, or restricted, which affects what details the portal will display. A valid government-issued photo ID may be required later if you request certified copies in person.

Family Court Case Details

Family court case details describe the core data shown on every docket sheet in the Travis County system. These details help you confirm a case, track its progress, and locate specific documents for review. The portal displays this data in a standard format for every family law filing. You can use these fields to compare results across similar cases.

• Names of the parties
• Case number
• Filing date
• Case type
• Assigned court
• Case status
• Judgment or order date

Names of the Parties

Every family court docket shows the full legal names of the petitioner, respondent, and any third parties such as attorneys or guardians ad litem. Names appear as recorded on the original petition and may differ from informal or preferred names used outside court. Reviewing the listed names helps confirm you have located the correct case before requesting documents. If a name was changed by court order, the updated legal name appears on later docket entries.

Case Number

The case number is a unique identifier assigned when the petition is filed and stays with the case through all hearings, motions, and final orders. Travis County uses a standardized format that lists the filing year, court prefix, and a sequence number. You can use this identifier for all future correspondence with the clerk’s office or for certified copy requests. The case number also appears on every order, judgment, and notice issued in the case.

Filing Date

The filing date marks the day the clerk’s office officially received and accepted the initial petition, application, or motion. This date sets key deadlines for responses, hearings, and service of process under Texas family law rules. The filing date also determines the court’s calendar schedule for the first appearance. You can find this date on the docket summary page and on the stamped first page of the petition.

Case Type

The case type identifies the legal category of the family matter, such as divorce, child custody, child support, paternity, adoption, or protective order. Each case type follows specific procedural rules and required forms under the Texas Family Code. Knowing the case type helps you understand which orders and judgments the court may issue. The case type label appears at the top of the docket sheet and on all subsequent filings.

Assigned Court

Family cases in Travis County are assigned to one of several district courts that handle family law matters on a rotating basis. The assigned court oversees all hearings, motions, and final orders unless the case is transferred to another court. The court name and judge appear on every docket entry and order. You can contact the assigned court directly through the clerk’s office for scheduling questions.

Case Status

Case status shows where the case stands in the legal process, such as pending, active, dismissed, or finalized. Status updates appear on the docket sheet after each hearing or filing event. Reviewing the status helps you determine whether a hearing is scheduled, a judgment has been entered, or the case remains open. Attorneys and parties often check status before filing new motions or requesting copies of orders.

Judgment or Order Date

The judgment or order date records when the court issued a final ruling or intermediate decision in the case. This date is critical for appeal deadlines, enforcement actions, and recordkeeping purposes. The judgment date appears on the final decree for divorces, custody orders, support orders, and paternity findings. You can verify this date through the docket sheet or by requesting a certified copy of the judgment.

Types of Family Court Cases

Travis County family courts handle a wide range of domestic relations matters under Texas law. Each case type has its own procedural rules, required forms, and typical outcomes. Knowing the case type helps you find the right records and understand the court’s authority. The table below summarizes the main family case types and the key records produced in each.

Divorce and Dissolution Cases

Divorce and dissolution cases cover the legal ending of a marriage, division of community property, and related orders for spousal maintenance. Travis County family courts handle both contested and uncontested divorces under Texas law. Records show the petition, response, financial disclosures, and the final decree of divorce. These files are public unless sealed by court order for privacy reasons.

Child Custody Cases

Child custody cases determine conservatorship, possession schedules, and access rights for parents and guardians. Records list each parent’s requested custody arrangement, the court’s findings, and any modification orders issued later. Travis County courts use the best interest of the child standard when ruling on custody disputes. Custody orders remain part of the public docket unless sealed for child protection.

Child Support Cases

Child support cases establish or modify financial obligations for a child’s care, with medical support and dental coverage as required add-ons. Records show the support amount, payment schedule, and collection actions taken by the attorney general or private parties. The court reviews income, healthcare costs, and childcare expenses when setting the initial order. Support orders can be modified later if circumstances change for either parent.

Paternity Cases

Paternity cases legally establish the father-child relationship for unmarried parents, which affects custody, support, and inheritance rights. Records show the petition, DNA test results when filed, and the court’s final order of paternity. Travis County courts use these orders to set child support and grant parental rights. Paternity findings are part of the public docket unless restricted by the court.

Adoption Cases

Adoption cases terminate the parental rights of a biological parent and establish a new legal parent-child relationship. Records show the adoption petition, home study reports, consent forms, and the final adoption decree. Many adoption files are sealed to protect the privacy of the adoptive family and child. Access to adoption records may require a court order or written consent from the adopted adult once they reach age 18.

Protective Order Cases

Protective order cases address family violence, stalking, or harassment between household members or dating partners. Records show the application, evidence presented, and the court’s findings for a temporary or permanent protective order. Violations of protective orders are criminal matters handled separately. These records may be sealed if the court finds public access could endanger the protected party.

Name Change Cases

Name change cases let an adult or minor legally change their name through a court order. Records show the petition, proof of publication when required, and the final order granting the name change. Travis County courts process name changes for adults, minors with parental consent, and as part of divorce decrees. The granted name change order is needed to update government IDs and vital documents.

Family Court Documents

Family court documents cover every paper filed with the clerk’s office during a family case. These documents tell the full story of the legal dispute from the initial filing through the final judgment. The clerk’s office stores the original papers and produces copies upon request. The list below shows the main document categories you will see in a typical family file.

• Petitions and applications
• Responses and answers
• Motions
• Court orders
• Hearing records
• Final judgments

Petitions and Applications

Petitions and applications are the initial filings that start a family court case and explain what the filer is asking the court to do. These documents list the parties involved, the legal basis for the request, and the specific orders sought. The clerk stamps each petition with a filing date and assigns a case number. Copies of petitions are public record once the case is opened unless sealed by court order.

Responses and Answers

Responses and answers are filed by the other party to respond to the allegations or requests in the petition. These documents may admit or deny specific claims, raise defenses, or file counterclaims against the original filer. The court considers the response when scheduling hearings and ruling on motions. Filed responses become part of the public docket and can be viewed through the case search portal.

Motions

Motions are written requests filed during the case asking the court to rule on specific issues, such as temporary orders, discovery disputes, or enforcement of prior rulings. Each motion has a certificate of service showing it was delivered to the other party. The court sets a hearing date for the motion and issues an order after considering the arguments. Motions and related orders appear in the docket history.

Court Orders

Court orders are the official rulings issued by a judge that direct the parties to take or refrain from certain actions. Orders may be temporary, pending the final hearing, or permanent as part of the final judgment. Signed orders bear the judge’s name, the date issued, and the court’s seal. Certified copies of orders are available from the clerk’s office for a fee.

Hearing Records

Hearing records include the notes, transcripts, and audio recordings of court hearings held in family cases. Transcripts must be requested through the court reporter and may require payment of a preparation fee. Audio recordings of hearings may be available on request for a specific date. These records help attorneys and parties review what was said during testimony for appeals or later motions.

Final Judgments

Final judgments are the court’s last ruling that resolves all issues in a family case, such as the divorce decree, final custody order, or adoption decree. These documents have detailed terms, property division, and ongoing obligations. The clerk files the final judgment with the case and issues certified copies upon request. Final judgments remain part of the permanent court record unless later modified or set aside.

Family Court Case Outcomes

Family court case outcomes describe the final result of a family case after all hearings and motions are complete. Each outcome affects how the records are stored, who can access them, and what rights the parties hold afterward. Reviewing the outcome helps you understand the current legal status of a family matter. The sections below explain the main outcome categories used in Travis County.

Pending Cases

Pending cases are family court matters that have been filed but not yet resolved through a final judgment or dismissal. These cases remain open for hearings, motions, and settlement conferences. The docket shows scheduled hearing dates and pending motions. You can check a pending case status to see the next court date and the issues still to be decided.

Active Cases

Active cases are open matters where hearings, motions, or discovery are still taking place before a final judgment. The court continues to issue temporary orders and manage deadlines until the case is finalized. Active cases appear on the docket with recent activity entries. Attorneys and parties monitor active cases to track the latest filings and court actions.

Finalized Cases

Finalized cases have reached a final judgment that resolves all outstanding issues in the family matter. The docket shows the judgment date and references the final decree or order. After finalization, the case may be reopened only for post-judgment motions, appeals, or collection actions, with official access available through traffic court online search resources. Certified copies of the final judgment are available through the clerk’s office.

Dismissed Cases

Dismissed cases are family matters closed by the court before a final judgment, often because the parties reached a settlement, the petitioner withdrew the case, or the court found lack of jurisdiction. The docket records the dismissal date and any terms set by the court. A dismissed case can sometimes be refiled if the statute of limitations has not run. Records of dismissed cases remain part of the public docket.

Final Judgments

Final judgments close the legal dispute and set out the court’s binding decisions on property, custody, support, or other family issues. These judgments are signed by the judge, filed with the clerk, and served on the parties. The judgment date starts the clock for appeal deadlines under Texas law. You can request certified copies of the judgment for use in other legal proceedings or government agencies.

Modified Orders

Modified orders are changes to a prior final judgment or order issued when circumstances have changed since the original ruling. Common modifications involve child support amounts, custody schedules, or visitation rights. The court requires a motion and supporting evidence before issuing a modification. Modified orders replace the previous terms and become the new controlling order in the case.

Travis County Family Court Records Access

Travis County family court records are managed by the district clerk’s office, which sets the rules for who can view each type of record. Public access covers most docket details, but certain records are restricted to protect privacy or safety. The clerk’s office applies these access rules to every request. Knowing the access levels helps you prepare the right request and avoid delays.

Public Case Details

Public case details show basic docket entries such as party names, case type, filing date, and scheduled hearings. You can view this data through the official search portal without creating an account or paying a fee. Public access helps journalists, researchers, and citizens monitor family court activity in the county. Some sensitive details are removed from public view to protect privacy.

Online Case Access

Online case access lets you search and view family court dockets, orders, and judgments through the district clerk website. The portal updates daily with new filings and court actions. You can save or print case summaries for your records. Online access is available 24 hours a day, which helps people check case status outside normal business hours.

Clerk’s Office Records

The Travis County clerk’s office maintains the official file copies of all family court documents, including the original petition, motions, orders, and judgments. Staff can help you locate a specific file or confirm a case number when online searches return no results. The clerk’s office also processes requests for certified copies. Office records are the authoritative source over online summaries when there is a discrepancy.

Restricted Information

Restricted details cover data removed from public view by statute or court order, such as Social Security numbers, bank account numbers, and the addresses of protected parties. The clerk’s office redacts this data before posting documents online or releasing copies. Access to restricted details requires a court order or specific legal authority. This protection helps prevent identity theft and unwanted contact.

Sealed Cases

Sealed cases are closed to public access by a specific court order, often to protect child welfare, victim safety, or sensitive family matters. The docket shows only that the case is sealed without revealing parties, claims, or outcomes. Access requires a motion to unseal and a showing of good cause. Sealed records may be opened only to specific individuals authorized by the court.

Confidential Records

Confidential records cover documents filed under seal or marked confidential by statute, such as adoption files, mental health evaluations, and certain financial disclosures. These records are stored separately and not shown in public searches. Access is limited to the parties, their attorneys, and other persons approved by the court. Confidential records may be unsealed only through a court order.

Juvenile Records

Juvenile records relate to cases involving minors, such as child welfare, juvenile delinquency, and certain custody matters. These records are generally confidential under Texas law and not available through public search. Access may be granted to parents, guardians, attorneys, and authorized agencies. Juvenile records are maintained by separate court systems in some situations, which affects where you must file requests.

Obtaining Family Court Records

You can obtain Travis County family court records through three main channels: online, by mail, or in person at the clerk’s office. Each method has different fees, processing times, and identification rules. The table below compares the main request options to help you choose the right method. Use the contact section at the end of this page for the clerk’s office details.

Online Record Requests

Online record requests let you order certified or regular copies of family court documents through the district clerk portal. You select the document type, enter the case number, and pay the copy fee by credit or debit card. The portal confirms receipt and gives a tracking number for your order. Online requests are processed in the order received and may take several business days to complete.

Mail Requests

Mail requests are accepted by the clerk’s office for copies of family court records when you cannot visit in person or order online. Your request must have the case number, document description, your contact details, and a check or money order for the copy fees. The clerk’s office mails the copies to the address provided or holds them for pickup. Mail requests take longer to process than online or in-person orders.

In-Person Requests

In-person requests can be made at the clerk’s office during regular business hours for immediate help with locating files and ordering copies. Bring a valid photo ID and the case number or party names to speed up the search. Office staff can pull the file, certify copies on the spot, and accept payment by cash, check, or card. In-person visits help resolve complex searches that online tools cannot handle.

Certified Copies

Certified copies are official reproductions of court documents bearing the clerk’s seal and signature, which verify the document is a true copy of the record on file. These copies are required for use in other courts, government agencies, and many legal transactions. The clerk charges a higher fee for certified copies than for regular photocopies. You can order certified copies online, by mail, or in person.

Identification Requirements

Identification requirements apply when you request certified copies or access restricted records in person at the clerk’s office. You must present a valid government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license, state ID card, or passport. The clerk compares your ID to the request to confirm you are an authorized party. Proper identification prevents unauthorized access to sensitive family court details.

Copy Fees

Copy fees cover the cost of reproducing and certifying court documents, with charges set by Texas statute and local rules. Standard copies cost a set amount per page, and certified copies cost an additional certification fee. The clerk’s office publishes a fee schedule on its website and at the public service windows. You should confirm the total cost before submitting your request to avoid processing delays.

Processing Times

Processing times vary based on the request method, document type, and clerk’s office workload at the time of your request. Online and in-person requests are often completed the same day for simple documents. Mail requests may take several business days plus postal delivery time. Sealed or restricted records require extra review and may take longer to release to authorized requesters.

Family Court Record Privacy

Family court record privacy rules control who can see sensitive details in a family case file. Texas law and local court rules limit access to protect children, victims, and private financial data. The clerk’s office applies these privacy rules to every public request. Understanding the privacy categories helps you know what to expect when you view a docket.

Protected Personal Information

Protected personal data covers Social Security numbers, financial account details, and the home addresses of protected parties. The clerk’s office redacts this data from public records before posting documents online or providing copies. Requests for unredacted records require a court order showing legal need. This protection helps prevent identity theft and unwanted contact by third parties.

Child-Related Information

Child-related data covers the names, schools, and medical details of minors involved in family court cases. Texas law limits public access to this data to protect the child’s privacy and safety. The clerk’s office seals or redacts these details in public docket entries. Authorized parties and their attorneys can view the full records through the court’s secure access systems.

Financial Information

Financial data covers income records, bank statements, tax returns, and asset schedules filed in support and property division cases. These documents are often filed under seal or marked confidential to protect privacy. Access requires a showing of legal need or party status in the case. Financial data is never available through the public online portal without redaction.

Sealed Court Documents

Sealed court documents are closed to public view by a specific court order, often for cases involving adoption, child welfare, or family violence. The docket shows only the existence of a sealed filing without disclosing its contents. Access requires a motion to unseal and a court order granting the request. Sealed documents remain confidential even after the case is closed.

Confidential Case Materials

Confidential case materials cover evaluations, home studies, and psychological reports filed in private under court rule. These documents help the court make decisions on custody, visitation, and other sensitive issues. Only parties, attorneys, and authorized professionals can view these materials. Confidential materials are stored securely and not released without a specific court order or written consent.

Family Court Record Accuracy and Availability

Family court record accuracy and availability depend on proper indexing, recent updates, and complete filings. Court records can be affected by delays, redactions, or transfers to other courts. Checking the accuracy of a record before relying on it is a good habit. The sections below cover the main checks you should perform when verifying a family court file.

Confirming the Correct Case

Confirming the correct case means checking that the party names, case type, and filing year match the family matter you are researching. Many cases can share similar party names, especially for common surnames in the Austin area. Cross-checking details such as the assigned judge and hearing dates helps avoid pulling the wrong records. Verifying accuracy before requesting certified copies saves time and fees.

Matching Party Names

Matching party names requires checking the legal name on the docket against the name you have for the individual. Maiden names, name changes, and typos can lead to missed matches or false positives. The portal searches the exact name you enter, so you may need to try alternate spellings or previous legal names. Each match should be reviewed for case type and filing date before you assume it is the correct file.

Verifying Case Numbers

Verifying case numbers ensures the file you are viewing matches the one referenced in your source documents. Case numbers list the year of filing and the court sequence, which can be misread or transcribed incorrectly. A single wrong digit leads to a different case or no result at all. Double-check the case number with the clerk’s office if you are unsure.

Recently Filed Cases

Recently filed cases may take a short time to appear in the online portal because the clerk’s office needs to scan and index the documents. New filings are usually available within a few business days of the filing date. If a recent case does not appear online, you can contact the clerk’s office for confirmation. Processing delays are common during high-volume filing periods.

Delayed Updates

Delayed updates occur when the online portal lags behind the official court file due to processing backlogs, system maintenance, or staff shortages. Court actions taken at a recent hearing may not appear online for several days. For time-sensitive matters, contact the clerk’s office directly to confirm the latest status. Delayed updates do not affect the validity of court orders, which are effective on the date signed.

Missing Documents

Missing documents in the online docket may be the result of redaction, sealing, or a failure to scan the original filing. Some exhibits and supporting documents are kept in the physical file at the clerk’s office rather than online. You can request to view the physical file during business hours or order copies through the standard request process. The clerk’s office can explain why a document is missing from the online view.

Records Held by Another Court

Records held by another court apply when the family matter was filed in a different county or transferred to a federal court. Travis County records only cover cases filed within the county, so you must contact the correct jurisdiction for other records. The case search portal helps you identify the original filing court when the case was transferred. Out-of-county records require separate requests to the holding court.

Search Problems

Common family court records search problems can stop a search or return the wrong file. Most issues come from typos, outdated references, or records that are sealed or restricted. Knowing these common problems helps you fix searches faster. The list below covers the issues users report most often when working with the Travis County portal.

• Case not found
• Incorrect party name
• Incorrect case number
• Wrong court or jurisdiction
• Document not available
• Restricted record

Case Not Found

A case not found result can occur when the name is misspelled, the filing year is outside the searchable range, or the case was sealed. Trying alternate name spellings and broader date ranges may help locate the file. If the case still does not appear, contact the clerk’s office with any reference numbers or attorney details you have. Staff can search internal indexes the public portal does not cover.

Incorrect Party Name

An incorrect party name search returns no results or unrelated matches, especially if you use a nickname or informal spelling. The portal searches the legal name on file, so you need the exact name from the court record. Reviewing prior court documents or attorney correspondence helps confirm the legal spelling. Trying the full name with and without middle initials often improves results.

Incorrect Case Number

An incorrect case number produces an error or a different case file, since each number is unique to a specific filing. Double-check the number against the source document, paying attention to the year prefix and sequence digits. Some older case numbers may follow a different format than current filings. Contact the clerk’s office to verify the correct number if your search fails.

Wrong Court or Jurisdiction

Wrong court or jurisdiction results happen when you search Travis County records for a case filed in another county or state. Family cases are filed in the county where the petitioner or child resides under Texas law. Verify the filing county before searching to avoid wasted effort. Out-of-county records must be requested from that county’s district clerk.

Document Not Available

A document not available message means the specific filing is not in the online system, often because it is sealed, restricted, or kept only in the physical file. Exhibits and large attachments are common examples of documents stored offline. You can request access through the clerk’s office, subject to any sealing order or party restriction. Some documents become public only after a court order opens the seal.

Restricted Record

A restricted record shows limited details because the court has limited public access to protect privacy or safety. Restricted records display the case number and basic status but withhold party names, claims, and documents. Authorized parties and attorneys can access the full record through secure systems. Other requesters must file a motion to unseal or obtain a court order for access.

Family Court Records and Related Records

Family court records overlap with several other record types kept by Texas and Travis County agencies. Knowing the differences helps you pick the right source for the data you need. Each system has its own access rules, fees, and request methods. The sections below compare family court records with the most common related record categories.

Family Court Records vs. Divorce Records

Family court records cover all family law matters, while divorce records are a specific subset focused on marriage dissolution. Divorce records show the petition, financial disclosures, and final decree of divorce. Family court records cover custody, support, paternity, adoption, and protective order cases that may occur with or without a divorce. Searching by case type helps you find the right records for your needs.

Family Court Records vs. Civil Court Records

Family court records deal with domestic relations matters, while civil court records cover other disputes such as contracts, property, and personal injury. Both record types share the same district clerk system in Travis County but are sorted by case type. Family cases follow specific Texas Family Code procedures and forms. Civil cases follow different procedural rules and have separate filing fees.

Family Court Records vs. Criminal Court Records

Family court records address civil family law issues, while criminal court records cover offenses prosecuted by the state. Protective order violations are handled in criminal court. The protective order itself originates in family court. Searches for criminal records must go through the county criminal docket or the state’s official criminal history system. The family court portal does not display criminal case details.

Family Court Records vs. Vital Records

Family court records show court orders on marriage, divorce, adoption, and name change, while vital records are the official certificates filed with the state. Divorce decrees come from the family court, but the marriage and birth certificates come from the Texas Department of State Health Services. Court orders are often required to correct or amend vital records. Knowing the difference helps you request the correct document from the right agency.

Family Court Records vs. Child Support Records

Family court records show child support orders issued by the court, while child support records maintained by the attorney general cover payment history and collection actions. The court sets the initial support amount and any modifications, but the attorney general handles collection and distribution of payments. Both record systems are useful for different needs. Parents and attorneys often check both sources for a complete picture.

Contact Information

The Travis County District Clerk’s office helps with family court record searches, certified copy requests, and case status questions during regular business hours. You can reach the office by phone, visit in person, or use the official website for online services. Be ready to provide case numbers or party names to help staff locate the correct records. For mail requests, follow the instructions on the official website to ensure timely processing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find clear answers about accessing Travis County family court records, fees, and request procedures.

How can I search Travis County family court records?

Visit the District Clerk’s online portal at the official Travis County website. Enter the party name, case number, or filing date in the search fields. Results list the case type, assigned judge, docket entries, and current status. Active and historical cases such as divorce, custody, adoption, and protective orders appear. You can click each case to view orders, judgments, and filing dates. The portal is available during regular office hours, and no registration is required for basic searches.

Where do I request a copy of a family court order?

Requests go to the District Clerk’s office at 1700 Guadalupe St., Room 3.200, Austin. Bring a valid photo ID and the case number. Submit a written request on the clerk’s form or use the online request feature if available. The clerk staff will retrieve the order and prepare a certified copy. Expect a short waiting period; the office processes requests on a first‑come, first‑served basis during business hours.

What fees apply for Travis County family court filings?

Filing fees vary by case type. A standard divorce filing may cost a set amount, while custody or adoption filings have separate rates. The clerk’s office posts current fee schedules on its website and at the public counter. Payments are accepted by cash, check, or credit card. If you request a certified copy of an order, an additional copying fee is charged per page. Verify the exact amount before submitting any paperwork.

How long does it take to receive a case copy?

Processing time depends on the request method. In‑person requests are often fulfilled the same day if the document is readily available. Mail requests typically require three to five business days after the clerk receives payment and identification. Online requests may be delivered electronically within 24 hours. The clerk’s staff will notify you if additional verification is needed, which could extend the timeline.

Can I view sealed family court records online?

Sealed records are not accessible through the public portal. To view a sealed file, you must file a petition with the court requesting an order to unseal the record. The petition must state a compelling reason and be approved by a judge. If granted, the clerk will provide access in person or via a secure link. Without a court order, sealed documents remain confidential and unavailable online.