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Jackson County Courts

Jackson County has a population of about 723,000 inhabitants and accounts for 11.6% of Missouri's population of 6.2 million. The county has two county seats, Kansas City and Independence, each serving as an administrative center for different parts of the county government. The Jackson County Circuit Court reports an average of 30,000 new case filingsand approximately 28,000 case dispositions each year. This caseload includes around 4,100 civil matters, 5,600 criminal filings, and 5,400 probate matters.

The Jackson County judicial system is designed to handle a wide range of legal matters. Each court operates with jurisdiction based on specific types of cases:

  • Jackson County Circuit Court handles cases related to most civil, criminal, probate, and juvenile matters.
  • Jackson County Municipal Court handles cases related to city ordinance violations, traffic infractions, and misdemeanors.

Jackson County courts are spread across multiple locations within the county. The decentralization of these court locations allows residents easier access to the court system and its services.

How To Access Jackson County Court Records

Most Jackson County court records are open to the public under Chapter 610 of the Missouri Revised Statutes unless exempt by law. Examples of restricted court records include adoption, juvenile, and mental health records. To search for court records in the county, a requester must provide a valid government-issued photo identification and a case number. Below are common methods of accessing Jackson County court records:

Online

Requesters may access Jackson County court records online through the Missouri Case Search portal using case numbers, party names, and filing dates as the search parameters. Court records may also be searched through CourtCaseFinder, a platform that provides convenient access to court records from counties across the United States. Additionally, an individual may find federal case records related to Jackson County through thePACER (Public Access to Court Electronic Records) system. To access PACER records, a user must register for an account and pay any applicable fees.

In-Person

In Jackson County, court records may be accessed in person by visiting the specific courthouse where the case was handled, as each court has a clerk who maintains its records. Court records may also be viewed on public access terminals available within the courthouse. A requester who needs copies or certified copies is required to pay a fee. Standard printed copies usually cost $0.30 per page, while certified copies cost an additional $4.00 per document.

Old and Archived Court Records

Where Jackson County court records cannot be accessed online or at the courthouses, particularly those predating 1975, requesters may turn to the Missouri State Archives or the State Library. These facilities retain historical files such as territorial court documents, probate records, minute books, and 19th-century dockets. To request such records, requesters may contact them through the addresses below:

Missouri State Archives and Missouri State Library

600 West Main Street

Jefferson City, MO 65101

Phone: (573) 751-3280 (State Archives)

Phone: (573) 522-4036 (State Library)

Email: archref@sos.mo.gov (State Archives)

Email: mostlib@sos.mo.gov(State Library)

How To File a Case in Jackson County

Before filing a case in Jackson County, a party must first determine which court has jurisdiction over the type of case they intend to file. To avoid filing errors, appellants are encouraged to contact the County Circuit Clerk's Office to verify court jurisdiction before proceeding. Once determined, a person may choose from the available filing methods in the county. A case may be filed:

  • Electronically, through the Missouri eFiling platform, which is commonly used by attorneys and authorized users.
  • In person, by submitting paper documents at the courthouse clerk's office.
  • By mail, if permitted, provided the documents are notarized and include the applicable fees

Before filing, a party must also prepare and submit the required legal documents. This may include a complaint (civil case), petition (family or probate), or other initiating documents, along with a Case Information Sheet and supporting materials such as affidavits or exhibits. Court-approved forms must be used and are available from the court clerk or Jackson County's official website.

Filing a case generally attracts certain fees, which vary depending on the type of case. Any Individual unable to afford court fees may apply for a waiver by completing the Motion and Affidavit in Support of Request to Proceed as a Poor Person. The completed form must be submitted to the court clerk, who will forward it to a judge for review and approval.

The following steps summarize how to file a case in Jackson County:

  • Determine the proper court with jurisdiction over the case type.
  • Prepare required documents.
  • Attach supporting materials, including affidavits, exhibits, and court-approved forms.
  • Pay the filing fee or apply for a fee waiver.
  • File the documents using the appropriate method, which may be online, in person, or by mail.

Legal Help and Self-Help Resources

Across the United States, county court systems play a vital role in ensuring access to justice. Legal assistance and self-help resources are foundational to this access, particularly for self-represented litigants involved in civil, family, probate, or small claims matters. These resources vary by jurisdiction but commonly include self-help centers, online portals, legal aid organizations, and court-affiliated assistance programs.

Generally, a state agency is not allowed to act as a personal attorney or give legal advice to an individual. In Jackson County, an individual who cannot afford legal representation for a court case may seek free legal assistance through local legal aid organizations, courthouse self-help services, and pro bono programs coordinated by the Jackson County Bar Association.

Here is a list of key organizations in Jackson County that offer free or low-cost legal assistance and self-help services to individuals involved in legal matters:

  • Free Legal Representation for Low-income Persons
    • Legal Aid of Western Missouri offers no-cost civil legal services to eligible low-income residents of Jackson County. Its support covers areas such as housing disputes, family issues, consumer rights, elder care, and services for veterans.
  • Private Lawyer Referral Services
  • Free Legal Services for Low-income Landlords
    • Missouri Tenant Help provides self-help resources to landlords/tenants, including document creation for eviction defense.

Additional legal aid programs and self-help resources are available to Jackson County residents. They include the following:

Types of Courts in Jackson County, Missouri

Jackson County residents may access court services through the Circuit Court, Municipal Court, and designated Federal Courts. The jurisdiction and contact details for each court are outlined below:

Jackson County Circuit Court

  • Jurisdiction/Cases Heard - The court has jurisdiction over felony criminal cases, juvenile matters, probate cases, and civil cases involving amounts over $25,000.

The Circuit Court locations in Jackson County are listed below:

Jackson County Circuit Court

Kansas City Courthouse

415 East 12th Street

Kansas City, MO 64106

Phone: (816) 881-3934

Jackson County Circuit Court

Eastern Jackson County

Courthouse

308 West Kansas

Independence, MO 64050

Phone: (816) 881-4400

Jackson County Circuit Court

Albert Riederer

Community Justice Complex

1315 Locust

Kansas City, MO 64106

Phone: (816) 881-4350

Jackson County Circuit Court

Family Justice Center

625 East 26th Street

Kansas City, MO 64108

Phone: (816) 474-3606

Jackson County Municipal Court

  • Jurisdiction/Cases Heard - Handles cases involving misdemeanors, city ordinance violations, and traffic infractions within city limits.

The directory of the Municipal Court Office in Jackson County is provided below:

Blue Springs Municipal Court

1100 SW Smith Street

Blue Springs, MO 64015

Phone: (816) 228-0175

Fax: (816) 228-0229

Buckner Municipal Court

315 South Hudson

Buckner, MO, 64016

Phone: (816) 650.3191

Grain Valley Municipal Court

711 Main Street

Grain Valley, MO 64029

Phone: (816) 847-6240

Fax: (816) 847-6209

Grandview Municipal Court

1200 Main Street

Grandview, MO 64030

Phone: (816) 316-4837

Greenwood Municipal Court

709 West Main Street

Greenwood, MO 64034

Phone: (816) 537-6969

Fax: (816) 537-7461

Independence Municipal Court

111 E Maple Ave

Independence, MO 64050

Phone: (816) 325-7235

Jackson County Municipal Court

308 W Kansas Ave.

Independence, MO 64050

Phone: (816) 881-1697

Kansas City Municipal Court

511 East 11th Street

Kansas City, MO 64106

Phone: (816) 513-2700

Fax: (816) 513-6782

Lake Lotawana Municipal Court

100 Lake Lotawana Drive

Lake Lotawana, MO 64086

Phone: (816) 578-2298

Fax: (816) 578-4035

Federal Courts in Jackson County

Listed below are the federal court that serves the county:

United States District Court - Western District of Missouri

  • Jurisdiction/Cases Heard - This federal court hears civil and criminal matters arising under federal laws, including constitutional claims, civil rights actions, interstate disputes, and federal criminal offenses. It serves Jackson County as part of its Western Division.
  • Address and Contact Information

Charles Evans Whittaker U.S Courthouse

400 East 9th Street

Kansas City, MO 64106

Phone: (816) 512-5000

United States Bankruptcy Court - Western District of Missouri

  • Jurisdiction/Cases Heard - Bankruptcy cases and related legal matters.
  • Address and Contact Information

Charles Evans Whittaker U.S. Courthouse

400 East 9th Street

Kansas City, MO 64106

Phone: (816) 512-1800

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Jackson County Courts

The following is a list of commonly asked questions about the Jackson County court system:

Are Court Records Public in Jackson County?

Yes, Jackson County court records are generally public. However, access is restricted for sealed records. These include minor court records, mental health proceedings, and certain adoption files. Access to such records is limited by federal or state law to protect privacy and sensitive information.

How Do I Search for a Criminal Case in Jackson County?

To search for a criminal case in Jackson County, a person may need to contact the 16th Judicial Circuit Court, which hears most criminal cases, including felonies and misdemeanors. An interested person may search and view criminal case records online through the county's Circuit Court website or visit in person to request copies from the clerk's office at the courthouse where the case was filed.

Where Can I Find Eviction Records in Jackson County?

Eviction records in Jackson County are generally handled by the 16th Judicial Circuit Court. These cases are part of landlord-tenant or small claims dockets. An interested individual may search eviction records by visiting the courthouse where the case was filed and making a request through the Clerk of Court's office. Additionally, limited docket information may be available online through the official website.

Can I File a Small Claims Case Online?

A self-represented person cannot file a small claims case online in Jackson County. An interested person may need to file in person or by mail using court-approved forms. Online filing through Missouri's eFiling system is available only to attorneys or authorized users.

Do Jackson County Courts Offer Public Computers for Case Searches?

Yes. Jackson County courts provide a public computer terminal in the courthouse clerk's office for a resident to access case files. This in-courthouse terminal remains the primary option for free case searches.

How Do I Appeal a Court Decision in Jackson County?

Challenging a court decision in Jackson County starts with filing a Notice of Appeal at the courthouse where the case was heard, typically within 10 days after the final judgment. Once filed, the case moves to the Missouri Court of Appeals, Western District. The appellate court does not hold a new trial but reviews the written record, legal briefs, and arguments from both parties. In some cases, oral arguments may be scheduled. The court may uphold, reverse, or send the case back to the lower court. A party may represent themself or retain counsel and may request a fee waiver if eligible.

How Do Jackson County Courts Handle Traffic Tickets?

Jackson County traffic cases are generally handled by the Municipal Court for ordinance violations and the 16th Judicial Circuit Court for state-level offenses. If a defendant pleads guilty and pays the fine, the court closes the case. If contested, the court schedules a hearing where a judge hears evidence before issuing a judgment. The court may impose a fine, court costs, or a driving program and may enter a default judgment if the defendant fails to appear. A citation may be paid or contested in person, online, or by mail. A court clerk provides assistance with case status and scheduling.

How Do I Obtain a Copy of a Divorce Record in Jackson County?

Divorce records in Jackson County are handled by the 16th Judicial Circuit Court. To get a copy, complete a records request form and submit it to the Civil Division Department by mail or in person. A copy costs $0.30 per page, while a certified copy requires an additional $4.00. Make sure to include payment with the request, as processing does not begin until the fee is received.

Jackson County, MO - Courthouses

Jackson County Circuit Court

Court Type: Circuit Court
Street Address: 415 E. 12th Street
Website URL: https://www.16thcircuit.org/
Phone: 816-881-3658
Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Judge: Hon. J. Dale Youngs
Clerk: Mary A. Marquez
Restrictions: As you enter any of the Jackson County court buildings, you will be required to pass through a security checkpoint. No exceptions will be allowed. People with disabilities will need to speak to the security staff for the necessary accommodations. No weapons of any kind will be allowed in the court buildings or anywhere on county property, and any prohibited items are subject to seizure. Examples are listed below. However, this is not a complete list. Any item that could be used as a weapon. Aerosol spray paint or hairspray Glass containers Guns, stun guns or tasers Handcuffs or handcuff keys Knife of any length Pepper spray or mace Scissors, nail files or knitting needles Unauthorized tools
Forms & Filing: Court Forms
Jury Service: Jury Duty
Languages: Multiple
Twitter: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jackson-county-courthouse
ADA: Nicholas Purifoy, Jackson County Courthouse 415 East 12th Street - Room 303, Kansas City
ADA Phone: 816-881-3652
ADA Fax / Email: Nicholas.Purifoy@courts.mo.gov
Special Access: The wheelchair accessible entrance for the downtown Kansas City courthouse is located on the west side of the building on Oak Street. The wheelchair accessible entrance for the Independence Courthouse is located at the front of the building on West Kansas. Both buildings are equipped with elevators.
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jackson_County_Courthouse_(Kansas_City,_Missouri)
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Jackson County, MO - Sheriff's Office

Jackson County Sheriff's Office

Location Type: Sheriff's Office
Street Address: 4001 NE Lakewood Court
Phone: 816-541-8017
Fax: 816-795-1969
Hours: 8AM-5PM (M-F)
Website URL: https://www.jacksoncountysheriff.org/Home
Sex Offenders: https://www.jacksoncountysheriff.org/Divisions/Investigations-Division/Sex-Offender-Unit
Civil Services & Proceedings: https://www.jacksoncountysheriff.org/Divisions/Staff-Services-Division
Public Records: https://www.jacksoncountysheriff.org/Divisions/Staff-Services-Division/Conceal-Carry-Permits/Records-Unit
Sheriff: Darryl Forte
Sheriff Phone: 816-541-8017
Sheriff Fax: 816-795-1969
Sheriff Email: sheriff@jacksongov.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jacksoncountymosheriff
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jcsheriffoffice
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jackson-county-sheriff%27s-department
About/Additional Info: The Records Unit is responsible for maintaining the reports issued by the Sheriff’s Office deputies and employees. These reports are an account of criminal investigations, incidents, arrests and/or activities relevant to our law enforcement function. The report may become part of an official record which is used as a basis for evaluation of what has been done or what needs to be done.
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jackson_County,_Missouri
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Other Counties in Missouri

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