County Clerk

The Tarrant County Clerk plays a key role in helping residents access legal records and official services. From filing court documents to issuing marriage licenses, the office provides vital services that support the county’s legal and public record systems. The Clerk maintains and protects official records for civil, probate, and misdemeanor criminal cases, ensuring transparency and accessibility for the public.

In addition to court records, the Clerk’s office manages vital records like birth and death certificates, marriage licenses, real estate filings, and assumed business names. This ensures that anyone needing certified documentation for legal, financial, or personal reasons can rely on a central, trusted source.

Services Offered by the Tarrant County Clerk

The Tarrant County Court Clerk’s office offers a range of public services that support residents and businesses across the county. From managing official documents to recording vital events, the Clerk’s role is central to day-to-day legal and administrative processes. Here’s a clear breakdown of the primary services available and how to make the most of them.

Marriage Licenses & Records

Obtaining a marriage license is a straightforward process handled by the Tarrant County Clerk’s office. Whether you’re planning a wedding soon or need to access your marriage records, the Clerk provides clear guidance and support to help you complete your application quickly and correctly. Here’s what you need to know about applying, fees, and where to file.

How to Apply

Couples must apply in person at one of the Tarrant County Clerk’s locations. Both parties must be present. Appointments are not required, and applications are accepted during business hours, Monday through Friday.

Requirements

Applicants must be at least 18 years old with a valid photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport). There is no blood test requirement. If previously married, the date of divorce must be provided.

Fees & Where to File

The standard fee for a marriage license in Tarrant County is $82 (as of 2025). Cash, credit, or debit cards are accepted. You can file at any of the Clerk’s six locations throughout the county.

Probate & Civil Filing Services

The Tarrant County Court Clerk’s office manages a variety of probate and civil case filings that are essential for legal proceedings in the county. Whether you are handling estate matters or civil disputes, the Clerk’s office ensures your documents are properly recorded and accessible. This service supports transparency and helps keep court processes organized and efficient.

Overview of Court Filings

The Clerk’s office handles various probate and civil filings tied to the Tarrant County Court system. This includes guardianships, estates, mental health cases, and other legal matters.

Types of Documents Handled

Filings may include wills, letters testamentary, orders of administration, and civil case petitions. Staff can provide file-stamped copies upon request, though they cannot offer legal advice.

Real Property Records

The Tarrant County Clerk’s office maintains comprehensive records related to real property, including deeds, mortgages, and liens. These documents are essential for property ownership verification, title searches, and legal transactions. Residents and professionals can access these records both in person and online to support their real estate needs efficiently.

Deeds, Mortgages, and Liens

Property-related documents such as deeds, mortgage records, releases, and liens are maintained by the Clerk’s office. These records play a key role in property sales, refinancing, and title searches.

Online Search Access

Residents can search real property records through the Tarrant County website using the Official Public Records Search Tool. The service is free for viewing; printing or downloading certified copies includes a per-page fee.

Assumed Name / DBA Filings

Filing an Assumed Name, also known as a Doing Business As (DBA), allows you to legally operate your business under a name different from your personal or official business name. This process helps protect your brand and ensures transparency with customers and the government. The Tarrant County Clerk’s office makes it simple to register your DBA with clear steps and affordable fees.

Step-by-Step to File a Business Name

If you’re doing business under a name different from your legal name, you must file a “Doing Business As” (DBA) form with the Clerk. Here’s how:

1. Search existing names to avoid duplication.
2. Complete the Assumed Name Certificate (available online or in person).
3. Visit a Clerk location with a valid ID.
4. Pay the filing fee: $24 for one owner, with $0.50 for each additional owner.
5. Receive a certified copy for your records.

Filings are valid for 10 years from the date of recording.

Military Discharge (DD214) Filing

Veterans who have received an honorable discharge can file their DD214 form with the Tarrant County Clerk for safekeeping. This free service ensures that important military records are stored securely and can be easily accessed when needed for benefits or other official purposes.

Who Can File and How

Honorably discharged veterans may file their DD214 for safekeeping at no cost. The document must be filed in person with proof of identity. This service helps veterans access benefits or request copies later.

Privacy Notice

DD214 records are confidential by law. Only the veteran, immediate family, or an authorized representative may request copies. This protects sensitive personal and service information.

Birth & Death Certificates

While the Tarrant County Clerk plays a limited role in issuing these documents, they help manage filing and indexing records for administrative use. For certified copies or official requests, residents should contact the Tarrant County Vital Records Division, which handles all birth and death certificates.

Link to the Appropriate Department

While the Tarrant County Clerk handles many vital documents, birth and death certificates are issued through the Tarrant County Vital Records Division — part of the Public Health Department.

Clerk’s Role vs. Vital Statistics Office

The Clerk’s office does not issue birth or death certificates. Instead, they maintain limited access for indexing and filing purposes. For certified copies or corrections, the Vital Records Office is the right contact point.

How to Contact the Tarrant County Clerk

If you need assistance with court records, filing documents, or general inquiries related to the Tarrant County Court, the Tarrant County Clerk’s office is your main point of contact. Knowing how to reach the Clerk’s office can save you time and help you resolve your questions efficiently.

Tarrant County Clerk’s Main Office Address

The primary office is located in Fort Worth, serving as the central hub for court-related services in Tarrant County.

Address:
100 W. Weatherford Street
Fort Worth, TX 76196

Phone, Fax, and Email

For quick communication, you can use the following contact details:

• Phone: (817) 884-1193
• Fax: (817) 884-1344
• Email: clerk@tarrantcounty.com

The phone line is staffed during regular business hours, providing support for questions about filing, records, and payment of court fees.

Satellite Office Locations

To offer more convenience across Tarrant County, the Clerk’s office operates several satellite locations. These offices handle various services such as record requests and document filings. Here are the main satellite offices:

• Southwest Courthouse
  6551 Granbury Road, Fort Worth, TX 76133
  Phone: (817) 884-1193
• Northeast Courthouse
  645 Grapevine Highway, Hurst, TX 76054
  Phone: (817) 884-1193
• Central Justice Center
  401 W. Belknap Street, Fort Worth, TX 76196
  Phone: (817) 884-1193

Each satellite office operates on a similar schedule to the main office and provides in-person services for your convenience.

Office Hours

To help plan your visit or call, here are the current hours for the Tarrant County Clerk’s office:

This schedule applies to both the main office and satellite locations unless otherwise noted.

How to Search for Public Records in Tarrant County

If you need to access public records in Tarrant County, knowing how to find them efficiently can save you time and effort. Public records include court cases, property deeds, marriage licenses, and more. This step-by-step guide walks you through the process of searching Tarrant County public records online using official resources.

Access the Tarrant County Clerk’s Records Portal

The official starting point is the Tarrant County Clerk’s Records Portal. This website provides access to various records maintained by the county clerk’s office. You can visit the portal directly by searching for “Tarrant County Clerk Records” or by using this link: Tarrant County Clerk Records Portal.

The portal is designed to be user-friendly, with clear search options and helpful categories. Whether you are looking for civil cases, criminal records, or property documents, the portal offers dedicated search functions.

Gather the Information You Need for Your Search

Before you begin, have the following information ready to make your search more effective:

• Full name of the person involved (last name and first name)
• Case number or document number (if available)
• Date range for the record (e.g., specific years or months)
• Type of record you want to find (e.g., criminal case, civil case, marriage license)

The more details you provide, the easier it will be to narrow down your search results.

Conduct Your Search on the Portal

Once on the portal, select the category that matches your need. For example:

• To find court case information, use the Civil and Criminal Case Search.
• For property-related documents, select Official Public Records.
• To look up marriage licenses or other vital records, use the Vital Records Search.

Enter the necessary details in the search fields. The portal will display a list of records matching your criteria. You can then click on each result to view more details or download copies if available.

The Important Restrictions and Limitations

When searching public records, keep in mind some documents may not be fully accessible. Certain records can be:

• Sealed: These are legally closed records that cannot be viewed by the public.
• Redacted: Some personal information might be blacked out or hidden to protect privacy.
• Restricted: Access to these documents may require special permission or court approval.

If you encounter any records marked as sealed or restricted, you will not be able to view their full details. For access requests, you may need to contact the Tarrant County Clerk’s office directly.

How to File a Document with the Clerk’s Office in Tarrant County Court

Filing a document with the Tarrant County Court Clerk’s Office is a straightforward process, but knowing your options and the required steps can save time and avoid common mistakes. Whether you choose to file in person or electronically, understanding where to go, the timeframes involved, and what forms to submit is key to a smooth experience.

Filing In-Person vs. E-Filing

Tarrant County Court offers two main ways to file documents: in person at the Clerk’s Office or online through e-filing.

• In-Person Filing allows you to hand-deliver your documents, ask questions directly, and receive immediate confirmation with a stamped copy. This is helpful if you prefer personal assistance or need to file documents that cannot be submitted electronically.
• E-Filing provides convenience by letting you submit documents online from anywhere, at any time. It’s faster and reduces paper use. However, certain case types or documents might require in-person filing.

Choose the method that best fits your schedule and case requirements.

Where to Go for In-Person Filing

If you opt to file in person, visit the Tarrant County Clerk’s Office located at:

100 West Weatherford Street, Fort Worth, TX 76196

The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, excluding holidays. Arriving earlier in the day can help avoid long lines, especially around midday.

Timeframes and Required Forms

When filing a document, the Clerk’s Office processes submissions during regular business hours. Same-day stamping is usually available, but filings received late in the afternoon might be processed the next business day.

You will need to submit the correct form for your case type. Common forms include petitions, motions, affidavits, and notices. Each form should be fully completed, signed, and comply with court formatting rules.

Before filing, double-check:

• The form matches your case type.
• All required attachments are included.
• Copies are clear and legible.

If you are unsure which forms apply, the Clerk’s Office staff can provide guidance or direct you to online resources.

Clerk Stamp, Fees, and Copies

After submitting your documents, the Clerk will review and apply an official stamp with the filing date. This stamp is proof your document is part of the court record.

Fees vary depending on the document type and case. For example, filing fees for civil cases generally range from $100 to $300. Criminal case filings often have separate fee schedules. The exact fees are posted at the Clerk’s Office and on the official Tarrant County website.

You must pay fees by cash, check, or accepted electronic payment methods. Fee waivers may be available if you qualify for financial hardship.

Online Services & Portals for Tarrant County Court

Accessing Tarrant County Court services online saves time and effort. Whether you need to file documents, check court records, or search for public information, the county offers several helpful portals designed to meet your needs quickly and securely.

e-Filing Portal

The e-Filing portal lets you submit legal documents electronically, avoiding trips to the courthouse. This service is available 24/7, allowing attorneys and self-represented individuals to file civil, family, and probate case documents conveniently. Filing fees vary depending on the case type but typically range from $50 to $300. Using this system reduces wait times and helps keep your case moving forward efficiently.

Court Records Lookup

If you need to view or verify court records, the Tarrant County online lookup tool offers easy access. You can search by case number, party name, or date to find information on criminal, civil, or family cases. This service is free and updated regularly to ensure you receive the most current details. It addresses common questions such as hearing dates, case status, and outcomes.

Marriage License Lookup

Planning to get married? The marriage license lookup tool helps you find information about marriage license requirements, fees, and how to apply in Tarrant County. The current fee for a marriage license is $82, payable at the county clerk’s office. You can also check the status of a previously issued license online.

Real Property Search

For property owners and buyers, the real property search portal provides access to property records, ownership history, and tax information. This tool is useful for verifying property details before transactions. Basic searches are free, but certain document copies or certified records may have a small fee.

Official External Links

For convenience, the Tarrant County Court website provides direct links to related government sites such as the County Clerk’s office, Justice of the Peace courts, and the Tarrant County tax assessor. These links ensure you have quick access to trustworthy information without extra searching.

Who Is the Tarrant County Clerk?

The Tarrant County Clerk plays a vital role in managing and maintaining public records for Tarrant County. This official is responsible for handling important documents related to civil, criminal, and probate cases, as well as recording property deeds, marriage licenses, and other essential public records. The clerk’s office provides residents and businesses with access to court documents and various official records, ensuring transparency and efficient service.

Key Responsibilities of the Tarrant County Clerk

Serving as the county’s primary record keeper, the Tarrant County Clerk also manages jury services, issues marriage licenses, and processes passports. This office acts as a bridge between the court system and the public, helping people access the information they need quickly and accurately. The clerk’s office is located at the Tarrant County Courthouse, with customer service available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Fees and Services

Filing fees and charges vary depending on the type of document or service requested. For example, a standard marriage license costs around $81 as of 2025, while certified copies of court records or deeds generally have a small fee ranging from $5 to $15. The clerk’s office provides up-to-date fee schedules and offers guidance on payment methods to make the process smooth for users.

Why Contact the Tarrant County Clerk?

If you need to file legal documents, request copies of records, or have questions about court procedures, the Tarrant County Clerk’s office is the place to contact. Their team is trained to assist with a variety of requests and help residents complete necessary paperwork correctly. Using the clerk’s services can save time and reduce frustration by offering clear steps and reliable information for legal and administrative needs in Tarrant County.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If you need to work with Tarrant County Court, the County Clerk’s office handles many important records and services. Here are answers to common questions to help you use their services easily.

What does the County Clerk do in Texas?

The County Clerk in Texas serves as the official record keeper for the county. This office handles a variety of duties including recording court proceedings, maintaining property records, issuing marriage licenses, and processing vital records such as birth and death certificates. The Clerk also manages civil, criminal, and probate court records, and provides public access to these documents. Essentially, the County Clerk supports the court system by ensuring accurate record keeping and offering services to the public.

Can I get a marriage certificate online in Tarrant County?

Yes, you can request a marriage certificate online in Tarrant County. The County Clerk’s office provides an online portal where you can apply for certified copies of marriage certificates quickly and securely. The fee for a certified marriage certificate is typically around $15 per copy. After submitting your request, processing times may vary but usually take 5 to 10 business days. This service helps save a trip to the office and makes it easier to get official documents delivered to you by mail.

Where is the Tarrant County Clerk’s office?

The main Tarrant County Clerk’s office is located in Fort Worth at the Tarrant County Courthouse:

100 West Weatherford Street, Fort Worth, TX 76196

The office is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. It’s recommended to check the official website or call ahead before visiting, as hours may change during holidays or special circumstances. Additionally, some services may be available at satellite locations or online for convenience.

How do I search court records in Fort Worth?

You can search court records in Fort Worth through the Tarrant County Clerk’s online records search system. This platform allows you to look up civil, criminal, family, and probate court cases. To begin, you’ll need basic information such as the case number, party names, or date of filing. The online search tool is user-friendly and provides free access to view case summaries and document details. For full case files or certified copies, there may be additional fees and steps involved.

Can I file documents electronically?

Yes, electronic filing (e-filing) is available for many types of court documents in Tarrant County. The County Clerk supports e-filing to make submitting legal documents faster and more efficient. You can file civil, family, probate, and some criminal case documents online through authorized e-filing service providers. To use e-filing, you’ll need to create an account with the approved system and follow their submission guidelines. This service reduces paperwork and trips to the courthouse, helping lawyers and the public manage cases more smoothly.