Glades County Florida background check records are public files that show court cases, criminal history, and arrest data for people in this small south central Florida county. These records are held by the Glades County Clerk of Court in Moore Haven and by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement in Tallahassee.
Anyone can ask for these records under Florida’s public records law. The clerk’s office keeps local court files. FDLE keeps statewide criminal history. Using both sources together gives you the most complete view of a person’s record in Glades County.
Glades County Clerk of Court Records Office
The Glades County Clerk of Court is the main local office that holds court files for the county. The clerk keeps records on criminal cases, civil cases, traffic tickets, marriages, deeds, and liens. All of these files are public under Florida law. The clerk’s office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. You can visit the office, call, or use the online tools to look up records. The clerk also handles passport applications, marriage licenses, and tax deed sales for the county.
Clerk Location, Hours, and Contact Details
The Glades County Clerk sits at 500 Ave J, Room 102 in Moore Haven, Florida 33471. The phone number is (863) 946-6010. The office runs from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays. The current clerk is Tami Pearce Simmons. Her office oversees all court records and official filings in Glades County. The clerk’s website at gladesclerk.com also has online search tools. Call before you visit since the office has a small staff. The office is closed on weekends and on state holidays.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Clerk Name | Tami Pearce Simmons |
| Address | 500 Ave J, Room 102, Moore Haven, FL 33471 |
| Phone | (863) 946-6010 |
| Hours | Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Website | gladesclerk.com |
Types of Records Held by the Clerk
The clerk’s office stores many kinds of public records that show up in a background check. These include criminal court cases, civil lawsuits, small claims, traffic infractions, probate records, marriage licenses, and official land records. Each record carries a case number, the names of the people involved, the date the case was filed, and the outcome. Court records from Glades County go back many decades. Records are stored in paper files and in a digital system. The clerk’s office indexes every record by name so staff can pull files quickly when you make a request.
How to Search Court Records Online
You can search Glades County court records without leaving home. The clerk’s website at gladesclerk.com has a public records search tool. You can also use the MyFloridaCounty portal to search official records from all Florida counties at once. Both tools let you search by name, case number, or document type. Online searches are free. You can view case details, hearing dates, and party names online. To get a printed copy, you need to visit the clerk’s office or send a mail request. The online tool shows only summary data. Full case files need a copy request.
Florida Department of Law Enforcement Records
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement, called FDLE, runs the state’s criminal history database. This database holds arrest records, conviction records, and disposition records from every Florida county, including Glades. FDLE lets the public run name-based searches and fingerprint searches. The state database is the main source for a Florida criminal background check. FDLE also runs programs like VECHS for schools and volunteer groups. Anyone can request a copy of their own record or the record of another person through FDLE.
FDLE CCHInet Name-Based Search
The FDLE Computerized Criminal History system, called CCHInet, lets you run a name-based background check. You go to cchinet.fdle.state.fl.us and fill out the online form. You need the person’s full name, date of birth, and race. The fee is $24 for each search. Results show arrests, charges, and final court outcomes across all of Florida. Most results arrive within one business day. The name-based check is a Level 1 background check under Florida law. It pulls only from the FDLE database, not from the FBI.
FDLE Level 2 Fingerprint Background Checks
A Level 2 check uses fingerprints instead of a name. The prints are sent to FDLE and the FBI. The check pulls national records, not just Florida records. You must go to a LiveScan vendor site to get fingerprinted. Glades County is rural. The nearest LiveScan sites are in Hendry County, Highlands County, or Okeechobee County. The fee for a Level 2 check varies by vendor. FDLE keeps a list of approved vendors on its website. A Level 2 check is needed for jobs that involve children, the elderly, or people with disabilities.
VECHS Volunteer and Employee Checks
VECHS stands for Volunteer and Employee Criminal History Services. FDLE runs this program under Florida Statute Chapter 943. Approved schools, daycares, hospitals, and youth groups can use VECHS to screen volunteers and staff. The group pays a small fee and gets criminal history results fast. VECHS works the same in Glades County as it does in any other Florida county. The results go back to the requesting group, not to the person being screened. Many Glades County schools and volunteer groups use VECHS each year.
Background Check Levels in Florida
Florida law sets two levels of background checks. Level 1 uses a person’s name. Level 2 uses fingerprints. The level you need depends on the job, the license, or the volunteer role. Each level pulls from different databases. Level 1 pulls from FDLE only. Level 2 pulls from FDLE and the FBI. Glades County employers, landlords, and volunteer groups must pick the right level for each case.
Level 1 Background Check Details
A Level 1 check is name-based. It searches FDLE’s criminal history database for arrests and case outcomes. Anyone can order a Level 1 check. It is the cheapest and fastest option. Results come back in about one business day. A Level 1 check is used for many jobs that do not involve trust or care of vulnerable people. Landlords, retail employers, and small businesses often use Level 1. You order the check through CCHInet on the FDLE website.
Level 2 Background Check Details
A Level 2 check is fingerprint-based. It runs through FDLE and the FBI. This check pulls national criminal records, not just Florida records. Florida Statute Chapter 435 requires a Level 2 check for many roles that involve children, the elderly, people with disabilities, or other vulnerable groups. The check shows arrests, convictions, and pending charges across the United States. You must get fingerprinted at an approved LiveScan site. The requesting employer or agency usually pays the fee.
Florida Public Records Laws Explained
Florida has strong public records laws. The state constitution and Florida Statute Chapter 119 give the public the right to see most government records. This includes criminal history records, court files, arrest reports, and jail records. You do not need to be a Florida resident to ask for records. You do not need to give a reason. Government agencies must provide copies if the records exist and are not sealed.
Chapter 119 Public Records Act
Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes is the main public records law. It says that any person can ask for copies of public records from any state, county, or city agency. The agency must respond in a reasonable time. The agency can charge a fee that covers the cost of copying. Some records are exempt from release. Exempt records include Social Security numbers, medical files, and records tied to active investigations. The Glades County Clerk must follow Chapter 119 for all record requests.
Sealed and Expunged Records Rules
Some court records are sealed or expunged by a judge’s order. Once sealed, the records are no longer open to the public. FDLE removes sealed records from its public search results. Only certain agencies can see sealed records, like law enforcement and the courts. Expunged records are destroyed for public purposes. A person with a sealed or expunged record can legally say they do not have a criminal record in most cases. Florida law limits who can get a record sealed or expunged.
Cost of a Glades County Background Check
The cost of a background check in Glades County depends on the source and the type of check. FDLE charges a flat fee for state criminal history searches. The clerk charges per page for copies. Some records are free to search online. Plan to pay a small fee for most official copies. Below is a table of common fees.
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| FDLE name-based check (Level 1) | $24.00 |
| FDLE fingerprint check (Level 2) | Varies by vendor |
| Glades County Clerk plain copy | $0.15 per page |
| Glades County Clerk certified copy | $1.00 per page |
| Online case search | Free |
| MyFloridaCounty official records search | Free |
Free Background Check Options in Florida
You can search Glades County court records for free using the clerk’s online tools. The MyFloridaCounty portal is another free option for public records across Florida. The FDLE public website lists wanted persons and sex offenders at no cost. You can also check the Glades County Sheriff’s Office website for recent arrest logs. These free searches give you a starting point. They do not replace a full FDLE criminal history check, which costs $24. For employers and landlords, a paid check is often required.
How to Request Records From the Clerk
You can get Glades County court records three ways: in person, by mail, or online. Each method works for different needs. In-person visits are best for certified copies. Mail requests work for people who live far from Moore Haven. Online requests work for quick lookups and basic case data. Plan to bring ID for any in-person visit.
In-Person Records Requests in Moore Haven
Go to the Glades County Courthouse at 500 Ave J in Moore Haven. Bring a valid photo ID. Tell the clerk staff the full name of the person you are researching. Provide a date of birth if you have it. Staff will pull the case file and print copies for you. Pay the copy fee at the front desk. Plain copies cost $0.15 per page. Certified copies cost $1.00 per page. The office accepts cash, checks, and money orders. Most requests are filled the same day.
Mail-In Records Requests
You can send a written request to the Glades County Clerk by mail. Write a letter that includes the full name of the person you want to research. Add a date of birth if you know it. Describe the records you want. Include your return address. Send a check or money order for the copy fees. Mail your request to 500 Ave J, Room 102, Moore Haven, FL 33471. Mail requests take longer to process. Expect two to four weeks for a response.
Online Records Requests
Use the clerk’s online search tool on gladesclerk.com for basic case lookups. The tool lets you search by name, case number, or filing date. You can view party names, case type, and hearing dates. For full document copies, you need to contact the clerk’s office by phone or email. Online searches are free. Certified copies cannot be ordered online. You must use mail or visit in person for certified copies. Online results are useful for quick checks.
Special Background Check Use Cases
Background checks are used for many reasons in Glades County. Employers use them to screen job applicants. Landlords use them to screen tenants. Volunteer groups use them to screen helpers. Schools and daycares use them for staff. Each use case has its own rules. Florida’s FCRA laws apply when a check is used for employment or housing decisions.
Employment Background Check Rules
Florida employers must follow the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act, called FCRA, when they run background checks on job applicants. The employer must get written consent from the applicant before running the check. The employer must give the applicant a copy of the report if they plan to take adverse action. Some Florida laws limit how far back employers can look at criminal records. Glades County employers must also follow any local hiring rules. State law requires Level 2 checks for certain jobs.
Tenant Background Check Process
Landlords in Glades County often run background checks on rental applicants. A tenant check may include criminal history, eviction records, and credit data. Landlords must get written consent from the applicant. The check helps landlords spot risks before signing a lease. Florida law does not ban renting to people with criminal records. Each landlord sets their own policy. The check must follow FCRA rules if a third-party screening company is used.
Volunteer Background Check Process
Volunteer groups in Glades County screen their helpers for safety reasons. Schools, daycares, and youth sports groups need Level 2 checks for adult volunteers. The group pays for the check through the VECHS program or through FDLE. The check looks at Florida and national criminal records. Volunteers with certain convictions may be banned from working with children. Glades County schools use VECHS each year to screen parent volunteers. The screening helps protect students.
Other Public Record Sources in Glades
Beyond the clerk and FDLE, other agencies in Glades County hold public records. The sheriff’s office keeps arrest logs and inmate rosters. The state sex offender registry is open to the public. Warrant searches can be done through local and state tools. Juvenile records have separate rules. Each source adds another layer to a full background check.
Sheriff’s Office Records and Inmate List
The Glades County Sheriff’s Office keeps records of arrests, calls for service, and inmate bookings. The sheriff’s office sits at 1997 State Road 78 in Moore Haven. The phone number is (863) 946-1600. The sheriff posts a daily arrest log on its website. You can call to ask about current inmates or recent arrests. Inmate records are public under Florida law. The sheriff must follow Chapter 119 when releasing records. Most arrest logs are free to view.
Florida Sex Offender Registry Search
FDLE runs the Florida Sex Offender Registry at offender.fdle.state.fl.us. The registry lists all registered sex offenders in Florida. You can search by name, address, or zip code. The registry shows photos, addresses, and offense data. Glades County residents can search for offenders near their home. The registry is updated within a few days of any change. Registration is required by Florida law for people convicted of qualifying sex offenses.
Warrant Search Options in Florida
You can search for active warrants in Glades County through the sheriff’s office. Call the sheriff at (863) 946-1600 to ask about warrants. You can also check the FDLE wanted persons list on the FDLE website. Court records may show outstanding capias warrants. Warrants are public records, but the sheriff may limit some details for safety reasons. A background check should include a warrant search to confirm no active warrants exist.
Juvenile Records Access in Florida
Juvenile records in Florida are not fully public. Most juvenile court files are confidential under Florida Statute Chapter 985. Only certain parties can see juvenile records, like the child’s parents, lawyers, judges, and law enforcement. FDLE does not show juvenile arrests on a standard name-based search unless the case was transferred to adult court. Juvenile records may show up on a Level 2 fingerprint check if the case was tried as an adult.
Glades County Clerk Contact and Location
Visit the Glades County Clerk of Court at 500 Ave J, Room 102, Moore Haven, FL 33471. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Call (863) 946-6010 to ask about records. The official website is gladesclerk.com. Use the map below to find the office in Moore Haven. Parking is free at the courthouse.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section answers common questions about Glades County Florida background check records. The questions cover timing, scope, fingerprint rules, sealed records, and out-of-state data. The answers are based on Florida public records law and FDLE rules as of 2026. Call the clerk or FDLE for the most current rules before you file a request.
How Long Does a Florida Background Check Take?
A name-based FDLE check takes about one business day. Most results arrive by email within 24 hours. The clerk’s online case search is instant. A fingerprint-based Level 2 check takes three to five business days from the date of printing. Mail requests to the clerk can take two to four weeks. Same-day in-person requests at the Moore Haven clerk’s office are filled while you wait. Plan ahead if your employer needs the report by a certain date.
Can Employers Run a Background Check on Me?
Yes, employers in Florida can run background checks with your written consent. The employer must give you a clear written notice before the check. The employer must follow the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act. The check can include criminal history, credit data, and driving records. An employer cannot use arrest records alone to reject an applicant. The employer must follow FCRA rules before taking any adverse action based on the report.
What Shows Up on a Name-Based Check?
A name-based FDLE check shows arrests, charges, and final court outcomes in Florida. It includes felonies, misdemeanors, and pending cases. The report shows the arresting agency, the date of arrest, and the charge. Sealed and expunged records do not show up. Juvenile records do not show up unless tried as an adult. Out-of-state records do not show up on a name check. Use a fingerprint check for national records.
Are Expunged Records Visible to Employers?
No, expunged records are not visible to most employers. FDLE removes expunged records from its public search results. An FDLE name-based check will not show the expunged case. A Level 2 fingerprint check will not show it either, except for specific law enforcement roles. The person with the expunged record can legally say they do not have a criminal record in most job applications. Only courts and certain agencies can see the file.
Do I Need Fingerprints in Florida?
You need fingerprints for a Level 2 background check. Level 2 is required for many jobs that work with children, seniors, or people with disabilities. You also need fingerprints for some professional licenses. Print jobs that handle sensitive data or security may also need fingerprints. You do not need fingerprints for a basic name-based check. Check with your employer or licensing board to confirm what level you need.
How Long Do Criminal Records Stay on File?
Most Florida criminal records stay on file forever unless sealed or expunged. A judge can order a record sealed after a waiting period. Some charges can be expunged if the person was not convicted. Arrest records without a conviction may be eligible for expungement. Once expunged, the record is removed from public search. Records that lead to a conviction stay on file unless the governor or a court grants clemency.
Can Out-of-State Records Appear on My Check?
Out-of-state records do not show up on a Florida name-based check. They show up on a Level 2 fingerprint check through the FBI database. FDLE sends the prints to the FBI for a national search. The FBI returns any matching records from other states. The check can take longer than a state-only check. Federal records and records from other countries may show up on the FBI portion of the report.