Court records in Dickson County, Tennessee can be searched through several channels. DicksonCourt.us can help you find publicly available information about court cases filed in the county. You can also access records through official court websites, by visiting the relevant clerk's office in person, by calling ahead, or by using public terminals at the courthouse. The type of case determines which court and which clerk maintains the file.
Dickson Court System & Jurisdictions
Dickson County operates three main trial-level courts, each handling different case types. Knowing which court has jurisdiction over a matter is the first step to finding the right docket.
Circuit Court
The Dickson County Circuit Court is the court of general jurisdiction. It handles:
- Felony criminal cases
- Civil lawsuits (typically above the General Sessions monetary limit)
- Domestic relations cases, including divorce, custody, and child support
- Appeals from General Sessions Court
The Circuit Court Clerk manages docket maintenance, records, and revenue collection for this court.
Chancery Court
The Dickson County Chancery Court is an equity court. It hears:
- Probate and estate administration matters
- Conservatorships and guardianships
- Will contests
- Property disputes and contract cases seeking equitable relief
- Adoptions
The Clerk & Master serves as the principal administrative aide to the Chancery Court and maintains all related case files and records.
General Sessions Court
The Dickson County General Sessions Court handles a high volume of cases, including:
- Misdemeanor criminal cases
- Preliminary hearings for felonies
- Civil disputes involving smaller dollar amounts
- Traffic violations
- Orders of protection
- Small claims
In Tennessee, General Sessions Courts often serve as the entry point for criminal matters and lower-value civil disputes. There is no separate small claims or traffic court in Dickson County — those cases are heard within General Sessions.
Dickson Court Calendar & Upcoming Hearings
Court calendars in Dickson County are managed by each individual court clerk's office. There is no single countywide online docket calendar portal.
To find upcoming hearings for today, tomorrow, or this week:
- Contact the appropriate clerk's office directly. The Circuit Court Clerk, the Chancery Court Clerk & Master, and the General Sessions Court Clerk each maintain their own schedules.
- Visit the courthouse. Docket sheets for the day's proceedings are typically posted at the courthouse or available at the clerk's window.
- Check the official county court pages. The Circuit Court, Chancery Court, and General Sessions Court pages on the Dickson County government website may list contact details and general scheduling information.
If you are a party to a case or an attorney of record, you should receive notice of scheduled hearings. Members of the public who want to confirm a specific hearing date should call the clerk's office that handles the relevant case type.
How to Get a Copy of a Dickson Court Document
Court documents in Dickson County are generally public under the Tennessee Public Records Act, with exceptions for sealed, expunged, or confidential records (such as juvenile proceedings and certain adoption files).
Certified vs. Uncertified Copies
- Uncertified copies are plain reproductions of a court document. They are usually sufficient for personal reference.
- Certified copies bear the clerk's seal and signature, confirming the document is a true copy of the court record. These are typically required for legal proceedings, government filings, and real estate transactions.
How to Request Copies
- In person: Visit the clerk's office for the court that handled the case. Bring the case number, party names, or as much identifying information as possible.
- By mail: Send a written request to the appropriate clerk's office. Include the case number (if known), full names of the parties, the type of document you need, whether you need a certified or uncertified copy, and a return envelope. Include payment by check or money order payable to the clerk's office.
- By phone: Call the clerk's office to confirm availability and fees before visiting or mailing a request.
Clerk Office Locations
Dickson County Circuit Court Clerk
Dickson County Chancery Court — Clerk & Master
Dickson County General Sessions Court Clerk
For property-related records such as deeds, liens, and plats, contact the Dickson County Register of Deeds. For criminal background checks statewide, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation offers online and mail-in options (fees apply). Felony offender information can be searched through the Tennessee Felony Offender Information Lookup at no cost.
Dickson Court Records Fees & Payment
Fees for court record copies and services in Tennessee are set by state statute (primarily T.C.A. § 8-21-401 and related sections). Actual amounts may vary slightly depending on the clerk's office and the type of document. Contact the relevant clerk to confirm current fees before submitting payment.
| Service | Typical Fee |
|---|---|
| Uncertified copy (per page) | $0.50 |
| Certified copy of a court document | $5.00 – $6.00 (first page); $0.50 each additional page |
| Certification / seal only | $2.00 – $5.00 |
| Search fee (per name / per case) | Varies by office; ask the clerk |
| TBI background check (online) | $29.00 |
Accepted payment methods vary by office. Most clerk's offices accept cash, checks, and money orders. Some offices may accept credit or debit cards, but you should confirm this in advance, as convenience fees may apply.
Keep in mind that fees for certified copies of probate documents, domestic orders, or multi-page judgments can add up quickly. If you need multiple documents, call ahead to get an estimate so you can include the correct payment with a mail request.