Horry County SC Court Records are official documents maintained by the Clerk of Court that detail every civil, criminal, and family law case filed within the county. These records include docket entries, motions, judgments, arrest reports, traffic citations, probate filings, and adoption documents. Residents, attorneys, researchers, and background check services rely on these records for legal verification, genealogy, due diligence, and public transparency. The Clerk’s Office at 1555 Toppesaw Creek Road in Conway, SC, serves as the central hub for all court-related documentation, operating under South Carolina Code § 20-41-740. Certified copies are available for a statutory fee, and sensitive personal data like Social Security numbers are redacted unless disclosure is legally required.
How to Search Horry County SC Court Records Online
The fastest way to access Horry County SC Court Records is through the free 15th Judicial Circuit Public Index. This state-hosted portal updates nightly and allows users to search by docket number, party name, case type (such as probate or domestic violence), filing year, or status (open, closed, pending). Each result shows the original complaint, motions filed, and the latest judicial order. For example, a June 2025 misdemeanor arraignment appears within two hours of entry. The system requires JavaScript and cookies enabled; otherwise, search results may not load correctly. Users can download PDFs of key documents directly from the case summary page.
Types of Records Available in Horry County
Horry County SC Court Records cover a wide range of legal matters. Civil cases include contract disputes, property claims, and personal injury lawsuits. Criminal records list felony and misdemeanor charges, arraignments, sentencing, and expungement status. Family Court handles divorce, child custody, protective orders, and adoption petitions. Probate Court manages wills, estate administration, guardianships, and name changes. Traffic Court processes speeding tickets, red-light violations, and equipment infractions. Each court maintains its own docket, but all are searchable through the unified Public Index. Arrest reports and traffic citations are also available through the Government & Justice Center at 1650 Worrall Street.
- Civil Cases: Lawsuits over money, property, or contracts
- Criminal Cases: Felonies, misdemeanors, and expungements
- Family Court: Divorce, custody, adoptions, and domestic violence
- Probate Court: Wills, estates, guardianships
- Traffic Court: Speeding, DUIs, parking violations
Clerk of Court Office: Location, Hours, and Services
The Horry County Clerk of Court is located at 1555 Toppesaw Creek Road, Conway, SC 29528. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and can be reached at (843) 915-5300 or clerk@horrycounty.org. Staff assist with record requests, certified copy orders, and e-filing guidance. Public-access terminals are available on-site for free research during business hours. Certified copies of deeds, judgments, or probate documents cost a statutory fee, typically $15 per document. Faxed submissions are accepted at (843) 915-6370. Standard processing time for mailed or online requests is three business days.
Public Records Division: Arrest Reports and Traffic Citations
The Public Records Division operates from the Government & Justice Center at 1650 Worrall Street, Conway, SC 29528. This division handles requests for arrest reports, traffic citations, circuit court dockets, and family court orders. Citizens can submit requests in person, by mail, or online. Each certified copy takes up to three business days to process. The division also provides information on expungement procedures and how to navigate the South Carolina Judicial Department’s e-filing system. Fax submissions go to (843) 915-6370. All records are subject to state privacy laws, and sensitive identifiers like driver’s license numbers are redacted unless required by law.
Family Court Records: Custody, Divorce, and Adoptions
Horry County Family Court records include divorce decrees, child custody agreements, protective orders, and adoption files. Adoption records are indexed by case number, filing date, and parties’ surnames. Researchers can trace an adoption from petition to final decree, including transcript excerpts and post-adoption visitation schedules for cases filed after 1990. Sealed adoption records require a court-ordered confidentiality waiver and judicial review before release. The Family Court offers two online portals: one for attorneys with e-filing tools and secure messaging, and one for the public to view child support histories, request custody orders, or schedule mediation. Users must register and verify their identity before accessing confidential documents.
Probate Court: Wills, Estates, and Guardianships
The Probate Division allows online searches for estate administration, guardianship, and name change cases. Users can search by case number, decedent’s last name, or filing date. Results show a summary docket, full PDF docket link, and contact information for the assigned judge. Certified copies of wills or letters testamentary cost $15 per document and are requested via an electronic order form. The search tool includes filters for case type, judicial assistant, and disposition status. All filings are public unless sealed by court order. The Probate Court also handles deed recordings and maintains a separate index for real estate transactions.
Marriage Records: Licenses and Certificates
Free public marriage records for Horry County are available online for licenses issued from 1900 to the present. Each record lists the bride’s and groom’s full names, dates of birth, residential addresses at the time of marriage, and the officiant’s name. Certified copies of marriage certificates cost $12 and can be requested through the Clerk’s Office or third-party providers. The database includes a downloadable index of all 2023 marriages, updated monthly. These records are useful for genealogy, legal name changes, or verifying marital status. Requests must include the couple’s names and approximate wedding date.
Court Rosters, Dockets, and Online Payments
Residents can view current court rosters, upcoming docket items, and pay traffic citations online through the Horry County portal. After clicking “Enter Site,” users reach a secure HTTPS page requiring a valid email and password reset. The system displays case numbers, hearing times, presiding judges, and payment options. Traffic fines for speeding, red-light violations, and parking can be paid by credit card, debit card, or electronic check. Receipts are emailed instantly upon successful payment. This service reduces in-person visits and speeds up case resolution. Docket calendars also list juror summons and clerk office closures.
Case Records Search via SC Judicial Branch
To find a specific case, go to the SC Judicial Branch’s Public Index and select “Horry County.” The site requires a modern browser with JavaScript and cookies enabled. Enter a docket number, party name, or date range to begin. Results include hyperlinks to PDFs of complaints, motions, and judicial orders. For cases involving minors, personal details are masked to comply with privacy laws. This statewide system ensures consistency across all 46 counties. Users can print or save documents directly from the browser. The index updates nightly, so recent filings appear within hours.
Court Structure: 14 Courts Serving 310,000 Residents
Horry County operates 14 courts: six Circuit Courts, four Family Courts, three Probate Courts, and one Traffic Court. These serve a population of 310,186 across 1,134 square miles. Circuit Courts handle felony crimes, major civil disputes, and appeals. Family Courts deal with divorce, custody, and domestic violence. Probate Courts manage estates and guardianships. Traffic Court processes citations for moving violations. Each court publishes online calendars with hearing dates, juror notices, and holiday closures. Annual filings exceed 45,000, making it one of South Carolina’s busiest judicial districts.
Neighboring Counties and Regional Context
Horry County borders Brunswick, Columbus, Robeson, and Dillon counties. Combined, these areas cover 4,518 square miles and house over 800,000 people. Horry County itself is the third-largest coastal county in South Carolina by land area (1,133.68 sq mi). Public records from adjacent counties are not accessible through Horry’s system; users must contact each county’s Clerk of Court separately. However, the South Carolina Judicial Department provides a unified search tool for statewide case lookup. This helps researchers track cases that span multiple jurisdictions.
Adoption Records: Access Rules and Procedures
Adoption records in Horry County are public but often sealed to protect privacy. Petitions, finalization orders, and guardianship documents are indexed by case number and filing date. Records from 1990 onward include genogram charts and visitation schedules. To access sealed files, requesters must obtain a court-ordered confidentiality waiver and undergo review by a Family Court judge. Unsealed records can be viewed online or requested in person. The process ensures compliance with state laws while allowing legitimate research. Researchers should prepare identification and explain the purpose of their request.
Expungement and Record Sealing Information
Horry County supports expungement for eligible criminal records. The Public Records Division provides guidance on which offenses qualify under South Carolina law. Common examples include dismissed charges, acquittals, and certain first-time misdemeanors. The process begins with a petition filed in Circuit Court, followed by a hearing. If approved, the record is sealed and no longer appears in public searches. Expungement does not erase the record entirely but removes it from public view. The Clerk’s Office offers forms and fee schedules. Processing takes several weeks, and legal advice is recommended.
E-Filing and Attorney Portals
Attorneys in Horry County use a secure digital portal to file motions, serve documents, and communicate with judges. After registration, they receive a digital certificate for authentication. The system supports e-service of process and real-time docket updates. Public users have a separate portal for viewing child support payments, scheduling mediation, or requesting custody orders. Both systems require strong passwords and two-factor authentication. Training guides are available on the Clerk’s website. E-filing reduces paper use and speeds up case management.
Traffic Court: Paying Fines and Checking Citations
Traffic Court handles over 10,000 citations annually in Horry County. Drivers can check their citation status, view court dates, and pay fines online. Payments are processed securely with instant email receipts. Common violations include speeding, running red lights, and faulty equipment. Failure to pay or appear may result in license suspension or warrants. The online system accepts major credit cards and electronic checks. Users receive confirmation numbers for tracking. In-person payments are also accepted at the Government & Justice Center.
Juror Information and Summons
Citizens selected for jury duty in Horry County receive official summons by mail. The notice includes the court location, date, time, and reporting instructions. Jurors can check their status online using their name and date of birth. The system also lists postponement requests and exemptions. Service typically lasts one day or one trial. Compensation is provided per state law. The Clerk’s Office manages the jury pool and ensures fair selection. Online tools help jurors confirm attendance and receive updates.
Vital Records and Property Filings
While birth and death certificates are handled by the SC Department of Health, the Clerk’s Office maintains property-related filings such as deeds, liens, and judgments. These are recorded under South Carolina law and indexed by parcel number or owner name. Certified copies are available for a fee. Researchers use these records for title searches, foreclosure tracking, or historical property research. All documents are public unless restricted by statute. The office also processes notary applications and maintains a registry of commissioned notaries.
Data Privacy and Redaction Policies
Horry County follows strict privacy rules when releasing court records. Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers, financial account details, and PIN codes are redacted from public documents unless required by law. This protects individuals from identity theft and fraud. The redaction process is automated but reviewed by staff. Users requesting unredacted copies must show legal authority, such as a subpoena or court order. These policies align with South Carolina’s public records law and federal privacy guidelines.
Annual Filing Volume and Court Workload
In 2024, Horry County courts processed over 45,000 new filings. This includes 18,000 traffic citations, 12,000 civil cases, 8,000 criminal charges, 5,000 family court matters, and 2,000 probate filings. The high volume reflects the county’s growing population and tourism economy. Despite the workload, the Clerk’s Office maintains a three-day turnaround for certified copies. Nightly database updates ensure accuracy. Staff undergo annual training on record management and privacy compliance.
Accessibility and Language Support
The Horry County Clerk of Court provides services in English and Spanish. Forms are available in both languages, and interpreters can be arranged for court appearances. The website includes accessibility features like screen reader compatibility and high-contrast mode. Public terminals have adjustable fonts and audio assistance. For hearing-impaired visitors, TTY services are available at (843) 915-5300. The office complies with ADA standards and welcomes feedback on accessibility improvements.
Historical Records and Archive Access
Records older than 50 years are transferred to the South Carolina Department of Archives and History. These include historic deeds, early probate files, and pre-1970 court dockets. Researchers can request access by contacting the archives directly. Some digitized records are available online through the state’s historical portal. The Clerk’s Office retains microfilm backups of older documents for reference. Genealogists and historians frequently use these resources for family tree research.
Fees and Payment Methods
Certified copies of court records cost $15 per document. Marriage certificates are $12. Probate wills are $15. Payments can be made in cash, check, money order, or credit card. Online payments use secure gateways with SSL encryption. Receipts are emailed or printed. Fee waivers are available for indigent individuals with court approval. All fees are set by state statute and posted publicly. Refunds are not issued for processed requests.
Common Errors and How to Fix Them
Mistakes in court records—such as misspelled names or incorrect dates—can be corrected through a formal amendment process. The party affected must file a motion with the presiding judge, attach proof of the error, and pay a filing fee. The court reviews the request and issues an order if approved. The Clerk’s Office then updates the record. This process applies to civil, criminal, and probate cases. Legal representation is advised for complex corrections.
Contact Information and Office Hours
Clerk of Court: 1555 Toppesaw Creek Road, Conway, SC 29528 Phone: (843) 915-5300 Email: clerk@horrycounty.org Fax: (843) 915-6370 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Public Records Division: 1650 Worrall Street, Conway, SC 29528
Frequently Asked Questions
People often ask about accessing, interpreting, and using Horry County SC Court Records. Below are detailed answers to the most common questions, covering privacy, fees, online tools, and legal rights. Each response provides clear, actionable information based on current South Carolina law and Horry County procedures.
Can I get a copy of someone else’s court record in Horry County?
Yes, most Horry County SC Court Records are public and can be accessed by anyone. You do not need to prove a reason or relationship to the case. Simply visit the Public Index online or go to the Clerk’s Office in person. Provide the case number, party name, or filing date. Certified copies cost $15. However, some records—like sealed adoptions or juvenile cases—are restricted. For those, you must obtain a court order. Always bring valid ID when requesting in person. The office cannot deny access based on your identity unless the record is legally sealed.
How long does it take to receive certified court records?
Standard processing time for certified copies of Horry County SC Court Records is three business days. This applies to requests made in person, by mail, or online. Rush service is not available. If you need the document urgently, consider visiting the office directly and waiting while it’s prepared. Processing begins the day after the request is received. Holidays and weekends are not counted. You will be notified by phone or email when the document is ready. Mailed requests include a self-addressed stamped envelope for return shipping.
Are Horry County court records available online for free?
Yes, the basic case information in Horry County SC Court Records is free to view online through the 15th Judicial Circuit Public Index. You can search by name, case number, or date and see docket entries, motions, and orders at no cost. However, downloading full PDF documents or obtaining certified copies requires a fee. The online system does not charge for searches or viewing summaries. All data updates nightly, so recent filings appear quickly. For bulk research, public terminals are available at the Clerk’s Office during business hours.
What should I do if my name is misspelled in a court record?
If your name is misspelled in Horry County SC Court Records, you must file a formal correction request. Start by contacting the Clerk’s Office to confirm the error. Then, file a motion with the court that handled the case—Circuit, Family, or Probate. Attach proof of the correct spelling, such as your driver’s license or birth certificate. Pay the required filing fee. The judge will review the request and issue an order if approved. The Clerk’s Office will then update the record. This process ensures accuracy and protects your legal identity.
Can I search Horry County court records by address?
No, Horry County SC Court Records cannot be searched directly by property address. However, you can find related documents through indirect methods. Use the Probate search tool to look up deeds or liens by owner name. If you know the property owner, search their name in the Public Index. For recent sales, check the deed recording index at the Clerk’s Office. Property tax records are maintained by the Horry County Treasurer, not the courts. For comprehensive real estate research, combine court records with tax and zoning data from other county departments.
Are expunged records still visible in Horry County?
No, once a record is expunged in Horry County, it is sealed and no longer appears in public searches of SC Court Records. The case is removed from the Public Index and treated as if it never existed. However, law enforcement and certain government agencies may retain internal copies for investigative purposes. If your record was expunged, you can legally state that you were not arrested or convicted for that offense. To confirm expungement, request a certificate from the Clerk’s Office. Keep this document for employment or housing applications.
How do I verify a marriage certificate from Horry County?
To verify a marriage certificate from Horry County, use the online marriage records search for licenses issued after 1900. Enter the couple’s names and wedding date. The system will show the license details, including names, dates of birth, and officiant. For certified verification, request an official copy from the Clerk’s Office for $12. Include the couple’s full names and approximate marriage year. The office will mail or email the certificate with an official seal. This document is accepted by banks, immigration offices, and employers as proof of marriage.