Plymouth County Court Records
What Is Plymouth County Court Records
Plymouth County court records encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's court system. These records consist of case files, dockets, pleadings, motions, orders, judgments, transcripts, exhibits, and sentencing records maintained by the courts. Court records are distinct from other public records such as property deeds, vital statistics (birth, death, marriage certificates), and tax records, which are typically maintained by other government agencies.
The Massachusetts Public Records Law, Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 66, defines court records as official documentation created or received by any court in the course of its official business. In Plymouth County, several courts maintain these records:
- Superior Court (criminal and civil matters exceeding $25,000)
- District Court (criminal misdemeanors, civil matters under $25,000)
- Probate and Family Court (divorce, custody, estates, wills)
- Juvenile Court (cases involving minors)
- Housing Court (landlord-tenant disputes, code violations)
- Land Court (property disputes, title issues)
Court records in Plymouth County document proceedings across civil litigation, criminal prosecutions, family law matters, probate cases, traffic violations, and small claims disputes. According to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 221, § 14, court clerks are responsible for maintaining these records and making them accessible to the public as prescribed by law.
The Plymouth County court system operates under the jurisdiction of the Massachusetts Court System, which establishes uniform policies for record creation, maintenance, and access throughout the Commonwealth.
Are Court Records Public In Plymouth County
Court records in Plymouth County are generally public pursuant to the Massachusetts Public Records Law, G.L. c. 66, § 10, which establishes the presumption that government records, including court records, are open to public inspection. Additionally, the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and Article 48 of the Massachusetts Declaration of Rights support the public's right to access court proceedings and records.
The following court records are typically available for public access:
- Civil case files (complaints, answers, motions, judgments)
- Criminal case files after formal charges have been filed
- Court judgments and orders
- Docket sheets showing case progression
- Hearing and trial schedules
- Property attachments and liens
- Final divorce decrees
It is important to note that federal courts in Massachusetts (U.S. District Court, U.S. Bankruptcy Court) operate under different access rules than state courts, as they are governed by federal regulations rather than state law. Federal court records are accessible through the PACER (Public Access to Court Electronic Records) system.
The Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts has established specific rules regarding public access to court records through the Uniform Rules on Public Access to Court Records. These rules balance the public's right to information with privacy concerns and the effective administration of justice.
Certain records may be impounded, sealed, or redacted under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 276, § 100C, including juvenile records, certain domestic relations matters, and cases involving sexual assault victims. Additionally, records may be sealed by court order when privacy interests outweigh the public interest in disclosure.
How To Find Court Records in Plymouth County in 2026
Members of the public seeking court records in Plymouth County may utilize several methods to locate and access these documents. The Massachusetts court system currently provides multiple pathways for obtaining court records:
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Visit the courthouse in person:
- Identify the appropriate court where the case was filed
- Proceed to the clerk's office during business hours
- Provide case information (names, case number, filing date)
- Request to view the file or obtain copies (fees may apply)
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Submit a written request:
- Prepare a letter specifying the records sought
- Include identifying information about the case
- Mail, fax, or email the request to the appropriate court clerk
- Include contact information for follow-up
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Use the electronic request system:
- Access the Massachusetts Trial Court Electronic Case Access portal
- Register for an account if required
- Search for cases using available information
- Submit requests for documents not available online
For criminal records specifically, the Massachusetts Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) system provides access to criminal history information, subject to statutory limitations.
When requesting records, individuals should be prepared to pay applicable fees for copies, certification, or extensive searches as outlined in Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 262, § 29. Current fees include $1.00 per page for copies and $3.00 for certified copies, though these rates are subject to change.
Requests for court records must comply with the Massachusetts Uniform Rules on Public Access to Court Records, which establish procedures for requesting, accessing, and copying court records.
How To Look Up Court Records in Plymouth County Online?
Plymouth County residents and interested parties may access court records through several online portals maintained by the Massachusetts court system. Each portal provides access to different types of records:
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MassCourts Public Access Portal:
- Navigate to the Massachusetts Trial Court Electronic Case Access website
- Select the court department (Superior, District, Probate, etc.)
- Enter search criteria (case number, party name, filing date)
- Review available case information and documents
- Note that not all documents are available electronically
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eAccess for Criminal Cases:
- Visit the Massachusetts eAccess Portal
- Search by defendant name or case number
- View criminal case information, charges, and status
- Access available documents (complaints, docket sheets)
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Land Court Records:
- Access the Land Court Case Management System
- Search by property address, owner name, or case number
- View property disputes, title issues, and zoning cases
- Download available documents related to land matters
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Probate and Family Court Records:
- Visit the Probate and Family Court Virtual Registry
- Search for estate, divorce, and custody cases
- Access non-impounded documents and docket information
The Massachusetts Judiciary Website provides comprehensive information about online access options and limitations. Users should be aware that pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 66A, § 2, certain sensitive information may be redacted from online records to protect privacy interests.
How To Search Plymouth County Court Records for Free?
Massachusetts law guarantees the public's right to inspect court records without charge, as established in Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 66, § 10(a), which states that "every person has a right of access to public records without unreasonable delay." While fees may apply for copies or certified documents, viewing records is free of charge.
The following resources provide free access to Plymouth County court records:
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In-person inspection at courthouses:
- Visit the clerk's office during business hours
- Request to view specific case files
- Examine records on-site at no cost
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Free online resources:
- Massachusetts Trial Court Public Case Access - Basic case information
- Massachusetts Attorney General's Court Calendar - Hearing schedules
- Plymouth County Probate and Family Court Case Information - Probate case status
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Public access terminals:
- Available at courthouse locations throughout Plymouth County
- Provide more comprehensive access than public websites
- No fees for searching or viewing records
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Law libraries:
- Plymouth Law Library
- Free access to court databases and legal research tools
- Staff assistance with locating court records
According to Massachusetts Trial Court Rule XIV, courts must provide reasonable accommodation for public inspection of records during regular business hours. While electronic access to some documents may require payment, basic case information remains freely accessible through public portals.
What's Included in a Plymouth County Court Record?
Plymouth County court records contain comprehensive documentation of legal proceedings. The specific contents vary by case type but typically include:
For Civil Cases:
- Complaint or petition initiating the action
- Summons and proof of service
- Defendant's answer or response
- Motions filed by either party
- Discovery documents (interrogatories, depositions)
- Exhibits entered into evidence
- Court orders and rulings
- Final judgment or disposition
- Post-judgment motions and orders
- Appeal documentation (if applicable)
For Criminal Cases:
- Criminal complaint or indictment
- Arraignment records
- Bail determination documents
- Pretrial motions and rulings
- Evidence inventory lists
- Plea agreements
- Trial transcripts (if requested)
- Verdict forms
- Sentencing documents
- Probation reports
- Appeal filings
For Probate and Family Court:
- Petitions for divorce, custody, or guardianship
- Financial statements and asset disclosures
- Parenting plans
- Guardian ad litem reports
- Temporary and final orders
- Wills and testamentary documents
- Estate inventories
- Guardianship monitoring reports
According to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 221, § 14, court clerks must maintain complete records of all proceedings, including "all papers filed with them in any action or proceeding, and all processes issued and returns made thereon."
The Massachusetts Rules of Court further specify document requirements for different case types and proceedings, ensuring standardized record-keeping across all courts in Plymouth County.
How Long Does Plymouth County Keep Court Records?
Plymouth County courts retain records according to schedules established by the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court Records Retention Schedule, which is authorized under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 221, § 27A. Retention periods vary by record type:
Criminal Case Records:
- Felony cases: Permanently maintained
- Misdemeanor cases: 20 years after case closure
- Motor vehicle infractions: 6 years after disposition
- Dismissed cases: 3 years after dismissal
Civil Case Records:
- Cases with judgments: 20 years from date of judgment
- Dismissed civil cases: 10 years from dismissal
- Small claims: 6 years after disposition
- Restraining orders: 10 years after expiration
Probate and Family Court Records:
- Divorce decrees: Permanently maintained
- Estate administrations: Permanently maintained
- Guardianships: Permanently maintained
- Adoptions: Permanently maintained
Juvenile Court Records:
- Delinquency cases: Until subject reaches age 27
- Child welfare cases: 25 years after case closure
The Massachusetts Judicial Records Retention Schedule mandates that certain historically significant cases be preserved permanently regardless of case type. Additionally, cases establishing precedent or involving notable public figures may be designated for permanent retention.
Courts may convert paper records to electronic format after specified periods, typically 5-10 years, to conserve physical storage space while maintaining accessibility. The Massachusetts Electronic Records Management Guidelines establish standards for this conversion process.
Types of Courts In Plymouth County
Plymouth County's court system consists of several courts with distinct jurisdictions and locations:
Plymouth Superior Court
52 Obery Street
Plymouth, MA 02360
(508) 747-8400
Plymouth Superior Court
Plymouth District Court
52 Obery Street
Plymouth, MA 02360
(508) 747-8512
Plymouth District Court
Brockton District Court
215 Main Street
Brockton, MA 02301
(508) 586-3750
Brockton District Court
Hingham District Court
28 George Washington Boulevard
Hingham, MA 02043
(781) 749-8951
Hingham District Court
Wareham District Court
2200 Cranberry Highway
Wareham, MA 02571
(508) 291-3100
Wareham District Court
Plymouth Probate and Family Court
52 Obery Street
Plymouth, MA 02360
(508) 747-8300
Plymouth Probate and Family Court
Plymouth Juvenile Court
52 Obery Street
Plymouth, MA 02360
(508) 747-8650
Plymouth Juvenile Court
The court hierarchy in Massachusetts proceeds from District Courts to Superior Courts, then to the Massachusetts Appeals Court, and finally to the Supreme Judicial Court, which is the highest appellate authority in the Commonwealth. Each level has progressively broader jurisdiction and authority to review decisions from lower courts.
The Massachusetts Trial Court administers all courts in Plymouth County, establishing uniform policies and procedures while maintaining the distinct jurisdictional boundaries of each court department.
What Types of Cases Do Plymouth County Courts Hear?
Plymouth County courts adjudicate a wide range of legal matters, with each court having specific jurisdictional authority:
Superior Court:
- Felony criminal cases (crimes punishable by state prison sentences)
- Civil matters with claims exceeding $25,000
- Medical malpractice lawsuits
- Land damage and eminent domain cases
- Comprehensive equity jurisdiction
- Appeals from administrative agencies
- Jury trials in both civil and criminal matters
District Courts:
- Criminal misdemeanors and some felonies
- Civil cases with claims up to $25,000
- Small claims matters (up to $7,000)
- Mental health commitments
- Harassment prevention orders
- Traffic violations and motor vehicle offenses
- Municipal bylaw violations
Probate and Family Court:
- Divorce and separation proceedings
- Child custody and support determinations
- Paternity establishment
- Adoption proceedings
- Guardianships and conservatorships
- Estate administration
- Will contests
- Name change petitions
- Elder protection matters
Juvenile Court:
- Delinquency proceedings (under age 18)
- Youthful offender cases
- Care and protection petitions
- Child requiring assistance (CRA) cases
- Parental rights terminations
Housing Court:
- Landlord-tenant disputes
- Code enforcement actions
- Discrimination in housing
- Small claims related to housing
- Sanitary code violations
Land Court:
- Property title disputes
- Zoning appeals
- Mortgage foreclosures
- Tax lien foreclosures
- Land registration
The jurisdiction of these courts is established by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 218 for District Courts, Chapter 212 for Superior Courts, and Chapter 215 for Probate and Family Courts.
How To Find a Court Docket In Plymouth County
Court dockets in Plymouth County can be accessed through several methods, providing information about scheduled hearings, case status, and filed documents:
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Online Docket Access:
- Visit the Massachusetts Trial Court Electronic Case Access portal
- Select the appropriate court department
- Search by case number, party name, or attorney
- View docket entries showing case progression
- Access available documents linked to docket entries
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In-Person Docket Review:
- Visit the clerk's office at the courthouse where the case is filed
- Request to view the docket sheet for a specific case
- Provide identifying information (names, case number)
- Review the chronological listing of all filings and events
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Daily Court Calendars:
- Access the Massachusetts Court System Calendar
- Select Plymouth County and the specific courthouse
- View cases scheduled for hearing on specific dates
- Note courtroom assignments and presiding judges
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Telephone Inquiry:
- Contact the clerk's office of the appropriate court
- Provide case information to the clerk
- Request basic docket information (may be limited)
For criminal cases specifically, the Massachusetts Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) system provides docket information related to criminal history.
According to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 221, § 23, court clerks must maintain dockets that accurately reflect all proceedings in each case. These dockets are public records unless specifically impounded or sealed by court order.
Which Courts in Plymouth County Are Not Courts of Record?
In Massachusetts, a "court of record" is defined as a court whose proceedings are permanently recorded, with the authority to fine or imprison for contempt, and from which appeals may be taken. According to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 218, § 26, all District Courts, including those in Plymouth County, are courts of record.
However, certain proceedings within Plymouth County courts function as "not of record" proceedings, meaning they do not create formal, appealable records in the same manner as standard court proceedings:
Small Claims Sessions:
- Conducted in District Courts throughout Plymouth County
- Informal proceedings for claims up to $7,000
- No verbatim transcript typically created
- Appeals result in new trials (de novo) rather than record review
- Governed by Massachusetts Uniform Small Claims Rules
Show Cause Hearings:
- Preliminary hearings to determine if criminal complaints should issue
- Not transcribed unless specifically requested
- No formal record created if complaint does not issue
- Regulated under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 218, § 35A
Clerk-Magistrate Hearings:
- Informal proceedings for minor matters
- May resolve cases without creating court records
- No automatic recording of proceedings
- Limited appeal rights
Traffic Violation Hearings:
- Administrative proceedings for civil motor vehicle infractions
- Not typically recorded verbatim
- Appeals to District Court create the first formal record
- Governed by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90C
The distinction between courts of record and proceedings not of record affects appeal rights, record availability, and procedural formality. While all Plymouth County courts are technically courts of record under Massachusetts law, these specific proceedings operate with modified record-keeping requirements.