Scott County Court Records Lookup

The following is for information purposes only

Named after General Winfield Scott, Scott County, Minnesota, was organized in 1853 and has a land area of 356 square miles. About 151,300 people live within its boundaries. Its government seat and largest city is Shakopee. Scott County uses a unified court system, which allows for easier delivery of justice to its residents and a more transparent legal system.

The Scott County District Court is the sole court in Scott County, and it handles all cases through its specialized Divisions. Both felonies and misdemeanors are heard by the Criminal Division. All civil cases, whether or not there are financial claims, are heard by the Civil Division. Domestic relations, including adoptions, spousal support, divorce, and annulment, are handled by the Family Law Division. All probate matters, such as the admission of wills, the management of estates and trusts, and the designation of guardianships, are handled by the Probate Division. All juvenile-related issues, such as juvenile traffic violations, dependency, emancipation, and delinquency, are handled by the Juvenile Division. The Conciliation Division handles small claims disputes where the claims are under $7,500.

The Scott County District Court hears an average of 1,500 felonies, 600 civil cases, 400 juvenile matters, 11,000 misdemeanors, 2,400 small claims, 750 domestic relations, and 280 probate matters annually. As of 2023, it has a 121% clearance (disposal) rate for felony cases and a 101% rate for civil cases, both of which are higher than the state's average clearance rate. The Scott County District Court administrator maintains court records and makes nonconfidential records available to the public in compliance with state and county regulations. Public court records from Scott County can be accessed via the Minnesota Court Records Online platform. The Scott County District Court also provides public access terminals at its premises for accessing public case records. In addition, anyone can visit the court to view or request copies of nonconfidential court records. However, certain court records, such as juvenile records, medical records, adoption records, information about jurors, and certain information about victims of sexual violence, are closed to the public for privacy or security reasons. These records are made confidential by court orders or by default under Minnesota laws. They can only be accessed by approved persons or court orders.

In summary, Scott County's unified court system guarantees a seamless and effective legal process. The Divisions of the Scott County District Court handle cases efficiently and impartially. The county's handling of court records ensures accessibility and transparency, which boosts public trust in the judicial system. Scott County is a model of effective judicial management in Minnesota and is dedicated to upholding its legal commitments.