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McLean County Court Records

What Is McLean County Court Records

Court records in McLean County encompass all official documentation generated during judicial proceedings within the county's court system. These records are maintained by the McLean County Circuit Clerk, who serves as the official custodian of all judicial records pursuant to Illinois state law. Court records typically include:

  • Case files containing pleadings, motions, and other filed documents
  • Docket sheets chronicling case events and proceedings
  • Court orders and judgments
  • Hearing and trial transcripts
  • Evidence and exhibits admitted during proceedings
  • Sentencing information in criminal matters
  • Financial records related to court fees and payments

Court records are distinct from other public records maintained by McLean County, such as property records (held by the County Recorder), vital records (maintained by the County Clerk), and tax records (managed by the County Treasurer). The primary distinction lies in their creation through judicial processes rather than administrative functions.

In McLean County, court records are generated and maintained by the 11th Judicial Circuit Court, which handles a wide range of case types including:

  • Civil litigation (both large and small claims)
  • Criminal proceedings (felonies and misdemeanors)
  • Family law matters (divorce, custody, support)
  • Probate cases (wills, estates, guardianships)
  • Traffic violations
  • Juvenile matters (typically confidential)
  • Orders of protection

According to 705 ILCS 105/16(6), the Circuit Clerk is designated as the official keeper of court records and is responsible for their maintenance, preservation, and accessibility in accordance with state law and Supreme Court rules.

Are Court Records Public In McLean County

Court records in McLean County are generally accessible to the public in accordance with the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (5 ILCS 140) and the principles of open courts established in the Illinois Constitution. The presumption of openness applies to most court records, though certain exceptions exist to protect privacy, safety, and other compelling interests.

Records typically available for public inspection include:

  • Civil case files (complaints, answers, motions, orders)
  • Criminal case information (post-charging)
  • Court dockets and calendars
  • Judgments and final orders
  • Marriage dissolution (divorce) records
  • Probate proceedings
  • Small claims cases
  • Traffic violations

However, the Illinois Supreme Court has established specific rules governing access to court records that may restrict certain information. Under Illinois Supreme Court Rule 138, personal identity information such as Social Security numbers, financial account numbers, and certain personal identifiers must be redacted from public court filings.

Additionally, certain case types and documents are exempt from public disclosure, including:

  • Juvenile court proceedings (with limited exceptions)
  • Adoption records
  • Mental health proceedings
  • Certain domestic violence and orders of protection information
  • Grand jury proceedings
  • Records sealed by court order
  • Pre-sentence investigation reports

The public's right to access court records in McLean County is balanced against privacy concerns and the administration of justice, with the courts having discretion to seal or redact records when necessary to protect these interests.

How To Find Court Records in McLean County in 2026

Members of the public seeking court records in McLean County may utilize several methods to locate and access these documents. The McLean County Circuit Clerk's Office serves as the primary custodian of court records and provides multiple avenues for record retrieval:

In-Person Requests:

  1. Visit the McLean County Circuit Clerk's Office during regular business hours
  2. Complete a record request form specifying the desired case information
  3. Present valid photo identification
  4. Pay applicable copy fees ($0.50 per page for regular copies, $1.00 per page for certified copies)
  5. Wait for staff to retrieve the requested records

Online Access:

  1. Navigate to the McLean County Court Records Search portal
  2. Select the appropriate search option (criminal/traffic or civil)
  3. Enter search criteria (name, case number, or date of birth)
  4. Review search results and select the desired case
  5. View available case information and documents

Mail Requests:

  1. Download and complete the record request form from the Circuit Clerk's website
  2. Include specific case information (names, case numbers, dates)
  3. Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope
  4. Include payment for copy fees (check or money order)
  5. Mail the request to the Circuit Clerk's Office

Electronic Subscription Services:

  1. Register for an account with the Circuit Clerk's electronic access system
  2. Pay the subscription fee for enhanced access
  3. Receive login credentials for the secure portal
  4. Access expanded record search capabilities and document viewing

McLean County Circuit Clerk's Office
104 W. Front Street, Room 404
Bloomington, IL 61701
309-888-5301
McLean County Circuit Clerk

Pursuant to Illinois Supreme Court Order M.R. 18368, certain court records may also be available through the statewide eFileIL system for registered users.

How To Look Up Court Records in McLean County Online?

McLean County provides comprehensive online access to court records through several digital platforms. These systems allow users to search and retrieve case information without visiting the courthouse. The primary online resources include:

McLean County Public Access System:

  1. Visit the McLean County Court Records Search portal
  2. Select either the Criminal/Traffic Search or Civil Search option
  3. Enter search parameters:
    • For name searches: Enter last name (required) and first name (optional)
    • For case number searches: Enter the full case number in the format YYYY-XX-#####
    • For criminal searches: Date of birth may be included for more precise results
  4. Review the list of matching cases
  5. Select a specific case to view detailed information including:
    • Case parties
    • Charges/claims
    • Court dates
    • Case status
    • Financial information
    • Disposition information

Illinois Judici System:

  1. Navigate to Illinois Judici
  2. Select McLean County from the participating counties list
  3. Choose search criteria (name, case number, etc.)
  4. Enter search parameters
  5. Review results and select cases for detailed information

Re:SearchIL (for attorneys and registered users):

  1. Access the Re:SearchIL portal
  2. Log in with authorized credentials
  3. Select McLean County as the jurisdiction
  4. Enter search criteria
  5. View enhanced case information and documents

The online systems provide access to records dating back to 1991, with comprehensive coverage of cases filed after that date. Users should note that while basic case information is generally available online, complete case files with all documents may require in-person requests or subscription services.

How To Search McLean County Court Records for Free?

McLean County provides several no-cost options for accessing court records, in accordance with Illinois public records laws. Pursuant to 705 ILCS 105/16(6), the public has the right to examine court records without charge, though fees may apply for copies or certified documents.

Free Online Search Options:

  • The McLean County Court Records Search portal provides basic case information at no cost
  • Both the Criminal/Traffic Search and Civil Search systems are freely accessible
  • Search capabilities include name-based searches, case number searches, and date of birth parameters
  • Basic case information viewable includes:
    • Party names
    • Case type
    • Filing date
    • Charges/claims
    • Court dates
    • Case status
    • Judge assignment

Free In-Person Access:

  • Visit the public access terminals at the McLean County Law & Justice Center
  • No appointment necessary during regular business hours
  • Self-service terminals provide access to electronic court records
  • Staff assistance available for locating physical records
  • No charge for viewing records (fees apply only for copies)

McLean County Law & Justice Center
104 W. Front Street
Bloomington, IL 61701
309-888-5301
McLean County Circuit Clerk

Public Library Access:

  • Select public libraries in McLean County offer free internet access
  • Library computers can be used to access the county's online court record systems
  • Library staff may provide assistance with navigating the search systems

While basic record searches are free, users should note that obtaining copies, certified documents, or accessing certain enhanced features may incur fees as established by the Circuit Clerk's fee schedule.

What's Included in a McLean County Court Record?

McLean County court records contain comprehensive documentation of judicial proceedings, with contents varying by case type. A typical court record file includes several categories of documents and information:

Case Initiation Documents:

  • Complaints, petitions, or indictments
  • Summonses or warrants
  • Service of process documentation
  • Initial appearances or arraignment records

Pleadings and Motions:

  • Answers and responses to complaints
  • Counterclaims and cross-claims
  • Pre-trial motions (dismissal, summary judgment, etc.)
  • Discovery-related motions
  • Post-trial motions

Court Orders and Judgments:

  • Temporary and preliminary orders
  • Evidentiary rulings
  • Final judgments and decrees
  • Post-judgment orders
  • Sentencing orders in criminal cases

Hearing and Trial Records:

  • Court calendars and scheduling notices
  • Minute entries of proceedings
  • Transcripts (when prepared)
  • Exhibits admitted into evidence
  • Jury selection records and instructions

Financial Information:

  • Filing fee payments
  • Bond information
  • Restitution orders
  • Court costs assessments
  • Payment histories

Case-Specific Documents:

  • In criminal cases: charging instruments, plea agreements, pre-sentence reports
  • In civil cases: settlement agreements, damage calculations
  • In family cases: parenting plans, financial affidavits, support calculations
  • In probate cases: wills, inventories, accountings

Case Management Information:

  • Docket sheets listing all case events
  • Party and attorney information
  • Judge assignments
  • Case status indicators
  • Related case references

The McLean County Circuit Clerk maintains these records in accordance with Illinois Supreme Court rules and the Illinois Circuit Court Clerk Operations Manual. While most components are public, certain sensitive information may be redacted or restricted pursuant to Illinois Supreme Court Rule 138 and other applicable privacy provisions.

How Long Does McLean County Keep Court Records?

McLean County maintains court records according to retention schedules established by the Illinois Supreme Court and the State Records Commission. These schedules vary by case type and document classification, with some records preserved permanently while others may be disposed of after specified periods.

Permanent Retention Records:

  • Felony case files involving murder, treason, and other serious offenses
  • Civil cases involving real property rights
  • Adoption proceedings
  • Probate cases with wills
  • Mental health commitment proceedings
  • Juvenile delinquency cases with Class X felony equivalents
  • Docket books and indexes (all case types)
  • Judgment books and execution dockets
  • Naturalization records

Extended Retention Records:

  • Most felony cases: 75 years after disposition
  • Dissolution of marriage (divorce): 60 years
  • Paternity cases: 80 years
  • Probate cases without wills: 20 years after closing
  • Guardianship cases: 20 years after termination
  • Juvenile cases (non-permanent): 21 years after minor's birth

Standard Retention Records:

  • Misdemeanor cases: 10 years after disposition
  • Traffic violations: 7 years after disposition
  • Civil cases (general): 20 years after disposition
  • Small claims: 10 years after disposition
  • Ordinance violations: 5 years after disposition

These retention periods are governed by the Illinois Supreme Court Records Management Policy and Illinois Local Records Act (50 ILCS 205). After the retention period expires, records may be transferred to microfilm or digital format for permanent preservation or may be destroyed with proper authorization from the Local Records Commission.

The Circuit Clerk's Office maintains a comprehensive records management system to track retention periods and ensure compliance with state mandates. Records scheduled for destruction must receive approval through a formal application process overseen by the State Archives.

Types of Courts In McLean County

McLean County's judicial system operates within Illinois' unified court structure, with several courts serving different jurisdictional functions. The county is part of the 11th Judicial Circuit of Illinois, which also includes Ford, Livingston, Logan, and Woodford counties.

McLean County Circuit Court
104 W. Front Street
Bloomington, IL 61701
309-888-5301
McLean County Circuit Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

The Circuit Court serves as the court of general jurisdiction, handling all case types including felonies, major civil litigation, family law matters, probate, and juvenile cases. Circuit Judges are elected to six-year terms and preside over the most serious cases.

McLean County Associate Circuit Court
104 W. Front Street
Bloomington, IL 61701
309-888-5301
McLean County Circuit Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Associate Judges are appointed by the Circuit Judges and typically handle misdemeanors, traffic cases, small claims, ordinance violations, and preliminary hearings in felony cases.

McLean County Juvenile Court
104 W. Front Street
Bloomington, IL 61701
309-888-5301
McLean County Circuit Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

A specialized division of the Circuit Court that handles juvenile delinquency cases, abuse and neglect proceedings, and other matters involving minors.

McLean County Problem-Solving Courts
104 W. Front Street
Bloomington, IL 61701
309-888-5301
McLean County Circuit Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Specialized court programs including Drug Court, Veterans Court, and Mental Health Court that provide alternative approaches to traditional prosecution for eligible participants.

The Illinois court system hierarchy continues above the county level with:

Fourth District Appellate Court
201 West Monroe Street
Springfield, IL 62704
217-782-2586
Illinois Appellate Court

The appellate court reviews decisions from McLean County Circuit Court when appealed.

Illinois Supreme Court
200 East Capitol Avenue
Springfield, IL 62701
217-782-2035
Illinois Supreme Court

The highest court in Illinois, which reviews select cases from the appellate courts and has administrative authority over all Illinois courts.

What Types of Cases Do McLean County Courts Hear?

McLean County courts adjudicate a diverse range of legal matters in accordance with their jurisdictional authority under Illinois law. The case types handled by the county's court system include:

Criminal Cases:

  • Felonies (murder, robbery, drug trafficking, etc.)
  • Misdemeanors (simple assault, petty theft, disorderly conduct)
  • Traffic violations (DUI, speeding, reckless driving)
  • Ordinance violations (municipal code infractions)
  • Conservation violations (hunting/fishing regulations)

Civil Litigation:

  • Major civil claims (damages exceeding $50,000)
  • Law division cases (personal injury, contract disputes, property damage)
  • Small claims (disputes up to $10,000)
  • Evictions and landlord-tenant matters
  • Consumer issues (debt collection, consumer fraud)
  • Administrative reviews of government agency decisions

Family Law Matters:

  • Dissolution of marriage (divorce)
  • Child custody and parenting time determinations
  • Child support and maintenance (alimony) proceedings
  • Paternity establishment
  • Orders of protection and domestic violence cases
  • Name changes
  • Adoptions

Probate Proceedings:

  • Decedent estate administration
  • Will contests
  • Guardianships for minors and disabled adults
  • Conservatorships for property management
  • Trust administration disputes

Juvenile Matters:

  • Delinquency proceedings (criminal acts by minors)
  • Abuse and neglect cases (child welfare)
  • Dependency proceedings
  • Status offenses (truancy, curfew violations)

Specialty Court Programs:

  • Drug court for substance abuse-related offenses
  • Veterans court for eligible military veterans
  • Mental health court for defendants with mental illness
  • Recovery court for specialized treatment needs

Case assignment within the McLean County court system follows guidelines established by the Illinois Supreme Court and local administrative orders. Circuit Judges typically preside over felonies, complex civil litigation, and major family law cases, while Associate Judges often handle misdemeanors, traffic matters, small claims, and preliminary proceedings.

The 11th Judicial Circuit maintains specialized call calendars to efficiently process different case types, with certain judges assigned to specific divisions based on expertise and caseload management considerations.

How To Find a Court Docket In McLean County

Court dockets in McLean County provide chronological listings of scheduled court proceedings and filed documents for each case. Members of the public can access docket information through several methods:

Online Docket Access:

  1. Visit the McLean County Court Records Search portal
  2. Select either the criminal/traffic or civil search option
  3. Enter search criteria (name, case number, or date of birth)
  4. Locate the desired case in the results
  5. View the docket sheet showing all case events, filings, and scheduled hearings

Daily Court Call Listings:

  1. Access the McLean County Circuit Clerk's website
  2. Navigate to the "Daily Court Calls" section
  3. Select the desired date and courtroom
  4. View listings of all cases scheduled for that day
  5. Note that these listings are typically published one business day in advance

In-Person Docket Review:

  1. Visit the McLean County Circuit Clerk's Office during business hours
  2. Request to view the docket for a specific case or court call
  3. Provide identifying information (case number, party name, or date)
  4. Use public access terminals to view electronic dockets
  5. Request assistance from clerk staff for older or paper dockets

Telephone Information:

  1. Call the Circuit Clerk's Office at 309-888-5301
  2. Provide the case number or party name
  3. Request basic docket information
  4. Note that detailed information may require in-person or online access

Attorney Access System:

  1. Attorneys registered with the Illinois Courts Electronic Filing System can access enhanced docket information
  2. Log in to the secure portal with authorized credentials
  3. Search for cases by number, party, or date range
  4. View comprehensive docket information and scheduled events

Court dockets typically include information such as:

  • Case caption and number
  • Party and attorney names
  • Judge assignment
  • Chronological listing of all filings
  • Court orders and rulings
  • Scheduled hearing dates and times
  • Courtroom assignments
  • Case status indicators

The docket serves as the official record of case progression and is continuously updated as new filings occur and court events take place.

Which Courts in McLean County Are Not Courts of Record?

In McLean County, as throughout Illinois, the distinction between "courts of record" and "courts not of record" has been largely eliminated since the judicial restructuring implemented by the Illinois Constitution of 1970. Under the current unified court system, all courts in McLean County are technically courts of record, meaning official transcripts and documentation of proceedings are maintained.

Prior to the 1970 constitutional revision, Illinois maintained a complex system that included Justice of the Peace courts, Police Magistrate courts, and Municipal courts that functioned as "courts not of record." These lower courts typically handled minor matters without maintaining comprehensive transcripts or formal records of proceedings.

Under Article VI of the Illinois Constitution, the current judicial system consists solely of Circuit Courts (including their Associate Judge divisions), Appellate Courts, and the Supreme Court. All of these courts maintain official records of their proceedings in accordance with Supreme Court rules.

However, certain administrative tribunals and quasi-judicial bodies in McLean County do function similarly to traditional "courts not of record" in that they conduct hearings and render decisions without the same formal record-keeping requirements as the Circuit Court. These include:

  • Municipal administrative hearing systems for ordinance violations
  • Local electoral boards for election disputes
  • Property tax assessment review boards
  • Student disciplinary hearings at educational institutions
  • Certain professional licensing boards

These administrative bodies typically:

  • Follow less formal procedures than courts
  • May not require verbatim transcripts of proceedings
  • Often permit appeals or reviews in the Circuit Court
  • Are not presided over by elected or appointed judges

It is important to note that while these administrative tribunals share some characteristics with historical "courts not of record," they are not officially designated as courts within the Illinois judicial system. All formal judicial proceedings in McLean County take place in the Circuit Court or its divisions, all of which maintain official records of their proceedings.

Lookup Court Records in McLean County

Search McLean County court records by name, case number, or date of birth.

Access criminal and traffic case information through the McLean County Public Access System.

Find civil court records including lawsuits, divorces, and small claims cases.

Contact the McLean County Circuit Clerk for assistance with court records and document requests.

Learn about the Illinois court system structure and administration.

Understand circuit court jurisdiction and operations in Illinois.

Access standardized court forms approved for use in Illinois courts.

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