The Fort Bend County Clerk of Court manages official court records and public documents for Fort Bend County, Texas. Residents, attorneys, real-estate professionals, and researchers rely on this office for accurate, accessible records and essential administrative services. The office ensures all legal and public documents are securely maintained and easy to access when needed. Its staff provides support for filing, retrieving, and verifying important records efficiently.
This office oversees court administration, record filing, document retrieval, public records, e-filing, vital records, and property records. Whether filing a legal document, requesting a certified copy, or researching public records, the Clerk of Court provides reliable support for all official needs in the county. Fort Bend County offers a structured system that helps residents access court-related information with consistency and clarity. With both in-person and online services, it makes official records accessible for a wide range of users. The office also ensures compliance with Texas state regulations while maintaining the accuracy of all documents.
The Role & Jurisdiction of the County Clerk
The Fort Bend County Clerk of Court manages both court administration and public records, providing essential clerk services for the county. This office ensures that court processes run smoothly while maintaining secure document custody for official records.
Court Administration: Serving County Courts at Law
The County Clerk plays a central role in court administration, supporting six County Courts at Law and the Associate Court at Law. These courts handle a range of cases, including:
- Civil cases under $250,000
- Misdemeanor criminal cases
- Probate matters, such as wills and estates
- Juvenile cases concerning minors
This office manages filings, schedules hearings, issues official notices, and maintains accurate case records. By providing these services, the County Clerk ensures that both the public and legal professionals have access to timely and reliable information.
Clerk Services: Records Division
Beyond court duties, the County Clerk oversees the Records Division, maintaining custody of various public documents. Key services include:
- Property records: Deeds, liens, and plats for real and personal property
- Vital records: Birth, death, and marriage certificates
- Official documents: Marriage licenses, assumed name certificates, and oaths
These services make it easy for residents and businesses to access verified records while ensuring the security and integrity of all documents.
How to Search & Retrieve Records — Step
Anyone trying to look up Fort Bend County records can follow a simple method. The process starts with knowing how to search, then choosing the right website for the type of record you need.
How the Search Process Works
Before using any site, users should know the basic steps used in almost every record search. The overall approach is similar across property records, court documents, and case dockets.
Basic Search Steps
- Get the Name or Instrument Number Ready
Most records are searched by party name or instrument/record number. - Enter the Name in LASTNAME, FIRSTNAME Format
This format gives clean, accurate results. - Start with Fewer Filters
Extra filters often hide results.
Keeping fields blank helps show every record attached to the name. - Open the Document Preview
Nearly every Fort Bend portal shows an unofficial preview you can read online. - Download or Print if Needed
Unofficial copies are free to view.
Certified copies cost extra and must be ordered.
These simple steps apply across all Clerk search portals.
Where You Can Search
After knowing the method, users can choose the correct search system. Fort Bend County has separate portals for property records, court cases, and document filing.
Below are the main sites with direct links:
Official Public Records / Property Records Search
Search deeds, liens, powers of attorney, mortgage documents, plat records, and other property filings.
URL:
https://www.fortbendcountytx.gov/government/departments/county-clerk/official-public-records
Court Case Search (Civil, Criminal, Probate, Misdemeanor)
Search by case number, party name, attorney, docket events, and hearing dates.
URL:
https://www.fortbendcountytx.gov/government/departments/county-clerk/case-search
E‑Recording Portal (For Approved Filers Only)
Used by title companies and law firms for digital submission of property documents.
The general public cannot submit through e‑recording.
URL:
https://www.fortbendcountytx.gov/government/departments/county-clerk/e-recording
Clerk Office Information Page
Hours, location, and instructions for in‑person services.
URL:
https://www.fortbendcountytx.gov/government/departments/county-clerk
Online Record Search
The Fort Bend County Clerk’s online portals make it easy to access public records from anywhere. Users can quickly search property documents, court cases, and other filings using simple filters like party name, instrument number, or document type. The system provides instant previews and options to print or download unofficial copies for reference.
Property Records Portal — How to Search
Users can search by:
- Party Name (LASTNAME FIRSTNAME)
- Grantor or Grantee
- Instrument Number
- Filing Date
- Document Type (deed, lien, probate, release, etc.)
Requesting Certified or Plain Copies
Certified copies are often needed for legal work, real estate transfers, or court filings.
Required Information
- Instrument number
- Record type
- Your contact details
Mailing Address
Fort Bend County Clerk
301 Jackson Street, Suite 101
Richmond, TX 77469
In‑Person Requests & ID Rules
Anyone filing or collecting documents in person must show a valid Photo ID.
Staff may copy or note ID details, and the information stays confidential.
E‑Recording for Approved Filers
Only approved submitters, such as title companies, attorneys, and agencies, can send documents through the e‑recording channel. This system handles property‑related filings like deeds and liens.
Case Search / Docket Lookup
Court case pages show:
- Case number
- Party names
- Charges or claims
- Attorney names
- Court events
- Hearing dates
- Docket entries
Private or sealed records, such as juvenile files, do not appear.
Record Search Fees & Download Options
Below is a clean table showing fees for common downloads and where each type of record can be searched.
| Record Type | Where to Search | Unofficial Copy | Certified Copy | Extra Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Property Records (Deeds, Liens, etc.) | Official Public Records Portal | Free online viewing/printing | $1 per page + $5 certification fee | Search by name or instrument number |
| Court Case Documents | Case Search Portal | Free online viewing | Some case types are hidden by law | Not all old files are available online |
| Probate Records | Official Public Records Portal | Free viewing | Certification fees apply | Clerk’s Office (in person or mail) |
| Marriage License Copies | Only approved filers are allowed | Not available online | Standard certified copy fee | ID required |
| Plat Maps / Surveys | Official Public Records Portal | Free viewing | Certification fees apply | Files may be large |
| Filed Documents (e‑Recording) | E‑Recording Portal | N/A | N/A | Only approved filers allowed |
Records & Document Custody — What the Clerk Maintains
In addition to general court records, the Fort Bend County Clerk of Courts also manages filings related to Probate Court matters. This includes handling wills, estate administration, guardianships, and other personal legal affairs. These records provide valuable information for those involved in inheritance, estate planning, or legal verification processes.
Official Public Records
The Clerk holds extensive official public records (OPR), including deeds, mortgages, liens, plats, easements, powers of attorney, business (DBA) filings, and bills of sale. These documents are crucial for verifying property ownership, tracking financial claims, and ensuring transparency in legal matters.
- Deeds and Mortgages: Confirm property ownership and lien status.
- Liens: Record financial obligations against property or assets.
- Plats and Easements: Document land boundaries and rights of access.
- Powers of Attorney & Business Filings: Provide legal authorization and business registration data.
The Clerk’s online document library is particularly valuable, containing records dating back to 1821. This historical depth allows residents, legal professionals, and researchers to perform document retrieval for both recent and archival filings.
Vital Records
The Clerk also manages vital records, including birth certificates, death certificates, and marriage licenses. While many records are available for public request, some have restricted access to protect privacy.
To obtain vital records, individuals can:
- Submit a request in person or by mail.
- Provide identification and pay any applicable fees.
- Specify the type of record and date range needed.
These records are essential for legal matters, genealogy research, and identity verification. While the Clerk does not provide all historical records online, guidance is available for those seeking older certificates.
Supporting Transparency and Public Interest
Maintaining these records supports public interest by ensuring transparency, legal certainty, and accessibility. Individuals and businesses rely on the Clerk for accurate document retrieval to:
- Verify property ownership and liens before purchase or sale.
- Confirm legal filings in business or personal matters.
- Access historical public records for research or verification purposes.
By preserving both current and historical records, the Clerk’s office strengthens trust in public systems and ensures official documents remain accurate and reliable.
What Types of Cases & ReRecords Canoun Get Through the Clerk
The Fort Bend County Clerk of Courts provides access to a wide range of civil, probate, and property-related records. However, certain criminal cases and legacy records may be handled elsewhere and may be temporarily unavailable.
Civil, Probate, and Other Court Records
The County Courts at Law manage civil and legal matters that do not exceed $250,000. This includes civil court cases, probate proceedings, juvenile matters, misdemeanor cases, mental-health commitments, and guardianships. Individuals can request official court documents such as filings, judgments, and case dockets for these matters.
Key highlights:
- Civil cases: Contract disputes, personal injury, small claims, and debt-related cases.
- Probate: Estate administration, wills, and guardianship filings.
- Juvenile and misdemeanor cases: Records are available for eligible requests while respecting privacy laws.
- Mental-health commitments: Documentation of court orders for treatment or supervision.
The Clerk’s office ensures these documents are properly maintained and publicly searchable, where allowed by law.
Real Property and Business Filings
Beyond court cases, the Clerk handles official filings related to real estate and businesses. This includes:
- Real property records: Deeds, mortgages, liens, plats, and easements for residential and commercial properties.
- Business filings: DBA (Doing Business As) registrations and other business-related documents.
These records serve both legal and informational purposes, allowing the public to confirm ownership, verify liens, or review property boundaries.
Vital Records: Public vs. Restricted
The Clerk also maintains certain vital records, including:
- Birth certificates
- Death certificates
- Marriage records
Not all vital records are immediately public. Some require a formal request and proof of eligibility due to privacy regulations. Requests can usually be submitted in person or through official channels provided by the Clerk’s office.
What the County Clerk Does Not Cover
It is important to distinguish which records fall outside the County Clerk’s jurisdiction. Felony criminal cases and related court documents are generally handled by the Fort Bend County District Clerk in district courts. This distinction helps prevent confusion for those searching for criminal court records.
Current Limitations and Legacy Records
Some older court documents may not yet be fully accessible online due to ongoing digitization projects, such as the Kofile Historical Images Project. This project is modernizing the storage and retrieval of legacy records, so certain historical filings may be temporarily unavailable. Users should check with the Clerk’s office for updated availability.
Fees, Payment & Certification — What to Know
The Fort Bend County Clerk charges $1.00 per page for non‑certified copies. Certified copies cost $1.00 per page plus a $5.00 certification fee per document, and a $5.00 fee applies for record searches.
Fee Structure for Copies & Searches
| Service Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Non‑certified (plain) copies | $1.00 per page |
| Certified copies | $1.00 per page plus $5.00 per document for certification and seal |
| Record / Document search | $5.00 per search request |
Mail requests for copies should include the instrument number of the document to ensure accurate processing.
Payment Options
- Credit or debit card payments are accepted for certain filing and copy requests.
- In-person or mailed payments can be made with cash, cashier’s check, or money order.
- Some card transactions may include a small convenience fee.
When Certified Copies Are Needed
Certified copies are official court documents with a seal and statement of authenticity. They are commonly required for:
- Legal filings, such as court motions or submissions
- Property transfers or real estate transactions
- Probate, wills, or estate matters
- Government or bank documentation
- Any case requiring a verified, official record
Non‑certified copies are suitable for personal reference or review. However, they usually carry a watermark or “UNOFFICIAL” label and do not hold legal authority. Certified copies ensure the document is recognized for official filings, court submissions, record filing, and other formal processes.
Fort Bend County Clerk of Court: Records, Property & Legal
The Fort Bend County Clerk of Courts plays a vital role in county government by maintaining accurate public records and supporting legal transparency. Its work ensures that property rights are protected and court activities remain accountable to the community.
Public Service and Record Preservation
The Clerk of Court safeguards official filings, archival records, and essential documents that date back to the early 1800s. This preservation allows citizens, attorneys, and researchers to reference historical public records for legal, genealogical, or professional purposes. Through reliable document retrieval systems, the Clerk ensures that important records are available for court administration and civil transactions.
Stakeholders benefit in several ways:
- Homeowners and real estate professionals rely on the Clerk to verify property titles and prevent fraud.
- Attorneys and legal professionals access court filings to support cases and confirm legal documentation.
- Genealogists and researchers use archival records to trace family history or study local development.
- Citizens can check court history or confirm the status of legal proceedings.
One notable service, the Property Fraud Alert, allows property owners to receive notifications if suspicious activity is recorded against their real estate, helping prevent unauthorized transfers or fraudulent filings.
Supporting Legal Transparency and Community Confidence
By maintaining organized records and providing easy access to public filings, the Clerk enhances legal transparency. Every official action, from court cases to property deeds, is documented and retrievable, supporting fairness in court administration. Accessible records also help the community monitor local government operations and build trust in public institutions.
Modernization Through Technology
Fort Bend County has invested in digitization projects, importing legacy documents into an electronic Case Management System. These efforts improve document retrieval speed and ensure that even historic records remain accessible for future reference. Over time, modernization increases efficiency, reduces paperwork, and provides stakeholders with quicker access to critical information.
Location & Contact Information
The Fort Bend County Clerk of Court office in Richmond, TX,, conveniently located to serve residents efficiently. Visitors can reach the office by phone, email, or in person for court records, filings, and general inquiries.
The office is located at 301 Jackson Street, Suite 101, Richmond, TX 77469. For assistance, call 281‑341‑8685 or use the online contact form to submit questions directly to the Clerk’s staff.
Office Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Closed on major holidays (New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day)
Visitors are encouraged to plan their trip during regular business hours to avoid delays.
Directions & Parking:
- The office is easily accessible from Highway 59 and downtown Richmond.
- Free public parking is available nearby, including designated spots for office visitors.
- First-time visitors should allow a few extra minutes to locate parking and the main entrance.
Accessibility:
The Fort Bend County Clerk’s office is fully ADA-compliant. Features include:
- Wheelchair-accessible ramps and entrances
- Elevators for upper floors
- Accessible restrooms for all visitors
Visitors planning to visit the Fort Bend County Clerk’s office in Richmond, TX can also view a Google Map for precise directions and real-time traffic updates.
(FAQ) — About the Clerk of Court
The Fort Bend County Clerk of Courts provides access to a wide range of public records and court documents. Below are answers to the most common questions about record searches, certified copies, and document retrieval.
How do I find a property deed or mortgage record?
You can locate property deeds or mortgage records through the Fort Bend County Clerk’s office by name, property address, or legal description. These records are part of the official public records maintained at the Clerk’s office. Property deeds and mortgage records provide proof of ownership and legal claims on a property. The Clerk’s office allows searches in person, by mail, or online. Users can request a record search, view images of documents, and obtain certified copies for legal or personal use. Using the property address often speeds up the search, while name-based searches may require more details to narrow results.
Can I search by address or only by name?
Both options are available. You can search records using either the property owner’s name or the property address. Searching by address is useful when the property’s owner is unknown or has changed multiple times. Name-based searches are best when you know the exact individual associated with the record. The Fort Bend County Clerk’s online database allows flexible search filters, including partial name matches, document type, and filing dates. This flexibility makes document retrieval faster and more accurate.
Are birth and death records public? How can I get them?
Birth and death records are available under certain conditions, but some restrictions apply for privacy.
Certified copies of birth or death records can be requested for legal, medical, or genealogical purposes. In Texas, authorized individuals—such as the person named on the record, immediate family members, or legal representatives—can request these documents. Requests can be submitted in person, by mail, or via the Clerk’s website. A valid ID and applicable fees are usually required.
How do I get certified copies of court documents?
Certified copies can be obtained directly from the Clerk’s office. To request a certified copy, provide the case number, names of the parties, or the document title. Certified copies serve as official proof for legal proceedings, title work, or personal records. Requests can be made in person, online, or through the mail. Standard processing fees apply, and the office provides clear instructions for completing requests efficiently.
Can I e-file or e-record as a private person? Who is eligible?
Yes, but eligibility is limited. E-filing and e-recording are primarily available to attorneys, title companies, and other registered professionals. Some public filings may allow limited electronic submission, but most private individuals must submit documents in person or by mail. The Clerk’s website provides registration instructions and access to the approved e-filing portal.