New Castle County Court Records
What Is New Castle County Court Records
Court records in New Castle County encompass all official documentation generated during judicial proceedings within the county's court system. These records constitute a comprehensive repository of legal proceedings maintained pursuant to Delaware Code Title 10, which governs courts and judicial procedure in the state.
New Castle County court records typically include:
- Case files containing pleadings, motions, and responses
- Court dockets chronicling case events and scheduling
- Judicial orders and final judgments
- Hearing and trial transcripts
- Evidence and exhibits admitted during proceedings
- Sentencing and disposition records in criminal matters
- Settlement agreements in civil cases
- Probation and compliance documentation
Court records are distinct from other public records maintained by New Castle County government offices. While property records document real estate transactions and vital records capture life events such as births and deaths, court records specifically document judicial proceedings and their outcomes.
The Delaware Judiciary maintains records across multiple courts operating within New Castle County, including:
- Delaware Supreme Court
- Superior Court of Delaware
- Court of Common Pleas
- Family Court
- Justice of the Peace Court
- Court of Chancery
- Alderman's Courts (municipal)
These records span various case types including civil litigation, criminal prosecutions, family matters, probate proceedings, traffic violations, and small claims disputes. The Delaware Courts website serves as the central portal for information regarding the state's judicial system, including New Castle County courts.
Are Court Records Public In New Castle County
Court records in New Castle County are generally accessible to the public in accordance with Delaware's Freedom of Information Act (29 Del. C. § 10001-10007) and the common law presumption of open court proceedings. The Delaware Constitution and state statutes establish a presumption of openness for judicial proceedings and associated records.
Under current Delaware law, the following court records are typically available for public inspection:
- Civil case files (with certain exceptions)
- Criminal case files (post-charging)
- Court judgments and orders
- Docket sheets and case indices
- Hearing and trial schedules
- Property records related to judgments
However, public access is subject to important limitations. Pursuant to Delaware Supreme Court Administrative Directive No. 175, certain records may be restricted or redacted to protect privacy interests, confidential information, or sensitive matters. Records that may be restricted include:
- Family Court proceedings involving minors
- Juvenile criminal records
- Mental health proceedings
- Adoption records
- Records sealed by judicial order
- Documents containing personal identifiers (SSNs, financial account numbers)
- Grand jury proceedings
It is important to note that federal court records for cases heard in the United States District Court for the District of Delaware are governed by federal access rules rather than state provisions. These records are accessible through the federal PACER system rather than Delaware state court databases.
The Delaware Administrative Office of the Courts establishes policies governing public access to court records in accordance with state law and judicial administrative directives.
How To Find Court Records in New Castle County in 2026
Members of the public seeking court records in New Castle County may utilize several methods to locate and access judicial documents. The Delaware Judiciary provides multiple pathways for record retrieval:
Online Access:
- Visit the Delaware Court Connect portal
- Create a user account or log in as a guest
- Select the appropriate court from the dropdown menu
- Enter search criteria (name, case number, business name)
- Review search results and select the desired case
- Access available documents or docket information
In-Person Requests:
- Identify the specific court where the case was filed
- Visit the court clerk's office during business hours
- Complete a records request form
- Provide case identification information
- Pay applicable search or copying fees
- Wait for staff to retrieve records (same-day service for readily available documents)
Written Requests:
- Prepare a written request specifying the records sought
- Include case number, party names, and approximate filing dates
- Address the request to the appropriate court clerk
- Include contact information and preferred delivery method
- Enclose payment for applicable fees
- Mail or deliver the request to the court
For criminal records specifically, requestors may also contact:
State Bureau of Identification
Delaware State Police
1407 N. DuPont Highway
Dover, DE 19901
(302) 739-5880
Delaware State Police
Pursuant to Delaware Supreme Court Rule 10.2, certain records may require a court order for access. In such cases, individuals must file a formal motion with the court demonstrating legitimate interest in the sealed or confidential records.
How To Look Up Court Records in New Castle County Online?
New Castle County residents and interested parties may access court records through several official online portals maintained by the Delaware Judiciary. Each system provides access to different types of court records:
Delaware Court Connect
- Navigate to the Delaware Court Connect website
- Select either guest access or create a registered user account
- Choose the appropriate court from the dropdown menu
- Enter search parameters (name, case number, filing date range)
- Review the list of matching cases
- Select a specific case to view docket entries
- Access available documents (note that document access may require fees)
This system provides access to Superior Court, Court of Common Pleas, and Justice of the Peace Court records.
eCourtPlus
- Visit the eCourtPlus portal
- Create an account or log in with existing credentials
- Select the desired court and case type
- Enter search criteria
- Review results and select cases of interest
- Access available documents and case information
This system primarily serves attorneys and frequent court users but offers public access components.
Civil Case Search
- Access the Civil Case Search page
- Select the court of interest
- Enter party name or case number
- Specify date range if desired
- Review search results
- Select cases to view basic docket information
For specialized records, additional portals include:
- Register of Wills for probate matters
- Sheriff Sales for foreclosure proceedings
- Traffic Case Search for traffic violations
Users should note that while basic case information is generally available online, complete case files and certain document types may require in-person requests or additional fees.
How To Search New Castle County Court Records for Free?
Delaware law provides for public inspection of court records at minimal cost, with several free options available to New Castle County residents and other interested parties. Pursuant to 10 Del. C. § 1911, courts must maintain public access to records while recovering reasonable costs for reproduction.
Free Online Search Options:
-
Delaware Court Connect Guest Access
- The Delaware Court Connect portal offers free guest access
- Users may search case information without creating an account
- Basic case information and docket entries are viewable at no cost
- Note that document downloads may incur fees
-
Civil Case Search
- The Civil Case Search function on the Delaware Courts website is free
- Provides basic case information for civil matters
- Includes Superior Court, Court of Common Pleas, and Justice of the Peace Court cases
-
New Castle County Document Search
- The county's Document Search system offers free searching
- Primarily for property records but includes judgment liens and related court documents
- Basic information viewable without fees
Free In-Person Options:
-
Public Access Terminals
- Available at courthouse locations throughout New Castle County
- Provide free access to electronic court records
- No fees for viewing records on-site
-
Clerk's Office Inspection
- Visit the appropriate court clerk's office during business hours
- Request to inspect specific case files
- No charge for viewing public records in person
- Copying fees may apply if reproductions are requested
New Castle County Courthouse
500 N. King Street
Wilmington, DE 19801
(302) 255-0800
Delaware Courts
While basic record searches are free, users should be aware that obtaining certified copies, extensive document reproduction, or specialized searches may incur fees as established by court administrative directives.
What's Included in a New Castle County Court Record?
Court records in New Castle County contain comprehensive documentation of judicial proceedings, with contents varying by case type and court of jurisdiction. Typically, a complete court record includes:
Case Initiation Documents:
- Complaints or petitions in civil matters
- Indictments or information in criminal cases
- Summonses and service documentation
- Initial appearances and arraignment records
- Filing fee receipts and financial records
Procedural Documentation:
- Motions filed by parties
- Responses and replies to motions
- Court orders and judicial rulings
- Scheduling notices and continuances
- Certificates of service
- Discovery-related filings (when not under seal)
Evidentiary Materials:
- Affidavits and sworn statements
- Exhibits admitted into evidence
- Witness lists and expert designations
- Deposition transcripts (when filed with court)
- Documentary evidence
Disposition Documents:
- Trial transcripts
- Jury instructions and verdict forms
- Final judgments and decrees
- Settlement agreements (when filed)
- Dismissal orders
- Sentencing documents in criminal matters
Post-Judgment Records:
- Appeals documentation
- Satisfaction of judgment notices
- Enforcement proceedings
- Probation and compliance reports
- Modification requests
Administrative Records:
- Case management documentation
- Judicial assignments
- Court reporter notes
- Interpreter requests and appointments
- Special accommodation provisions
In accordance with Delaware Supreme Court Administrative Directive No. 175, certain sensitive information may be redacted from public court records, including social security numbers, financial account information, birth dates, and other personal identifiers.
Family Court records typically contain additional specialized documents such as custody evaluations, support calculations, and protection from abuse orders. Criminal case files include bail information, pre-sentence investigations, and victim impact statements, though access to some of these documents may be restricted.
How Long Does New Castle County Keep Court Records?
New Castle County courts maintain records according to retention schedules established by the Delaware Supreme Court pursuant to 10 Del. C. § 1706, which authorizes the Chief Justice to establish records management policies for the judiciary. Retention periods vary significantly based on case type, disposition, and historical significance.
Superior Court Records:
- Felony cases: Permanent retention for serious offenses (murder, rape, kidnapping)
- Other felonies: 20 years after final disposition
- Misdemeanors: 10 years after final disposition
- Civil judgments: 20 years from date of judgment
- Civil cases without judgments: 10 years after final disposition
- Administrative appeals: 10 years after final disposition
Court of Common Pleas:
- Criminal cases: 7-10 years after final disposition
- Civil judgments: 10 years from date of judgment
- Civil cases without judgments: 5 years after final disposition
- Administrative appeals: 5 years after final disposition
Family Court:
- Divorce decrees: Permanent retention
- Custody and visitation: Until youngest child reaches age 21
- Child support: 3 years after obligation terminates
- Protection from abuse: 5 years after expiration
- Juvenile delinquency: Until subject reaches age 21 (non-serious offenses)
- Adoption: Permanent retention
Justice of the Peace Court:
- Criminal cases: 3-5 years after final disposition
- Civil judgments: 10 years from date of judgment
- Civil cases without judgments: 3 years after final disposition
- Landlord-tenant: 3 years after final disposition
Court of Chancery:
- Estate matters: 10 years after estate closed
- Guardianships: 3 years after termination
- Corporate litigation: 20 years after final disposition
- Other equity matters: 10 years after final disposition
The Delaware Public Archives serves as the repository for court records of historical significance after their active retention period expires. Records designated as historically valuable receive permanent preservation.
Digital court records are subject to the same retention requirements as paper records, with the Delaware Judiciary maintaining electronic archives according to established schedules. The Administrative Office of the Courts oversees the implementation of retention policies across all courts in New Castle County.
Types of Courts In New Castle County
New Castle County's judicial system encompasses multiple courts with distinct jurisdictions and authority. The Delaware Constitution and state statutes establish this hierarchical court structure:
Delaware Supreme Court
The Carvel State Office Building
820 N. French Street, 11th Floor
Wilmington, DE 19801
(302) 651-3960
Delaware Supreme Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
The state's highest appellate court with final judicial authority
Superior Court of Delaware
New Castle County Courthouse
500 N. King Street
Wilmington, DE 19801
(302) 255-0800
Superior Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
General jurisdiction trial court handling major civil cases and felony criminal matters
Court of Chancery
New Castle County Courthouse
500 N. King Street, Suite 11400
Wilmington, DE 19801
(302) 255-0544
Court of Chancery
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Equity court handling corporate governance, trusts, and other non-monetary disputes
Court of Common Pleas
New Castle County Courthouse
500 N. King Street
Wilmington, DE 19801
(302) 255-0900
Court of Common Pleas
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Limited jurisdiction court handling misdemeanors and civil cases up to $50,000
Family Court
New Castle County Courthouse
500 N. King Street
Wilmington, DE 19801
(302) 255-0300
Family Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Specialized court for domestic relations, juvenile matters, and family disputes
Justice of the Peace Court
Multiple locations throughout New Castle County:
Justice of the Peace Court 11
2 Penns Way, Suite 100
New Castle, DE 19720
(302) 323-4450
Justice of the Peace Court
Hours: 24 hours daily
Limited jurisdiction court handling minor civil cases, landlord-tenant matters, and minor criminal offenses
Alderman's Courts
Municipal courts in incorporated cities and towns, including:
City of Newark Alderman's Court
220 South Main Street
Newark, DE 19711
(302) 366-7000
Newark Alderman's Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Municipal violations and minor offenses within city limits
The Delaware court system operates as a unified judiciary with appeals generally progressing from limited jurisdiction courts (Justice of the Peace, Alderman's) to general jurisdiction courts (Superior, Court of Common Pleas) and ultimately to the Delaware Supreme Court.
What Types of Cases Do New Castle County Courts Hear?
New Castle County's court system adjudicates a diverse range of legal matters, with each court assigned specific case types according to Delaware law. The following breakdown details the primary case categories handled by each court:
Superior Court:
- Felony criminal prosecutions
- Civil lawsuits exceeding $50,000 in damages
- Appeals from administrative agencies
- Appeals from Court of Common Pleas and Family Court (adult criminal)
- Jury trials in both civil and criminal matters
- Capital murder cases
- Complex commercial litigation (Complex Commercial Litigation Division)
- Asbestos litigation
- Medical malpractice claims
Court of Chancery:
- Corporate governance disputes
- Trust and estate litigation
- Real property disputes (other than possession)
- Guardianship proceedings
- Injunctive relief requests
- Specific performance actions
- Commercial and business disputes seeking equitable remedies
- Fiduciary duty claims
Court of Common Pleas:
- Misdemeanor criminal cases
- Preliminary hearings in felony cases
- Civil lawsuits up to $50,000
- Appeals from Justice of the Peace Court
- Traffic violations (excluding most standard moving violations)
- Drug court program cases
- Mental health court cases
- DUI cases
Family Court:
- Divorce and annulment proceedings
- Child custody and visitation disputes
- Child support establishment and enforcement
- Alimony and property division
- Domestic violence/protection from abuse
- Juvenile delinquency proceedings
- Child dependency and neglect
- Termination of parental rights
- Adoption
- Guardianship of minors
Justice of the Peace Court:
- Civil cases up to $25,000
- Landlord-tenant disputes
- Debt collection matters
- Traffic violations
- Minor criminal offenses
- Peace bonds
- Emergency protection from abuse (temporary)
- Bail hearings
- Search warrant applications
Alderman's Courts:
- Municipal code violations
- Parking infractions
- Minor traffic offenses within city/town limits
- Public nuisance violations
- Local ordinance enforcement
- Some misdemeanor offenses occurring within municipal boundaries
The Delaware Supreme Court does not conduct trials but hears appeals from all lower courts on matters of law. Under Delaware's judicial system, specialized problem-solving courts also operate within these frameworks, including Drug Court, Mental Health Court, Veterans Treatment Court, and Gun Court, providing alternative approaches to specific case types.
How To Find a Court Docket In New Castle County
Court dockets in New Castle County provide chronological listings of all actions taken in a case and are accessible through several methods. These official records track case progression from filing through disposition and are maintained pursuant to court rules.
Online Docket Access:
-
Delaware Court Connect
- Navigate to the Delaware Court Connect portal
- Select guest access or create a registered user account
- Choose the appropriate court from the dropdown menu
- Enter search criteria (case number, party name, date range)
- Select the case of interest from search results
- View the chronological docket sheet listing all case events
- This system covers Superior Court, Court of Common Pleas, and Justice of the Peace Court cases
-
Civil Case Search
- Visit the Civil Case Search page on the Delaware Courts website
- Select the court of interest
- Enter party name or case number
- Review search results and select the desired case
- Access basic docket information showing case events and status
-
Register in Chancery E-Filing System
- For Chancery Court matters, registered users can access dockets through the e-filing system
- Available at File & ServeXpress
- Requires account creation and possible subscription fees
In-Person Docket Access:
-
Visit the clerk's office for the appropriate court:
- Superior Court Prothonotary's Office (civil) or Court Clerk (criminal)
- Court of Common Pleas Clerk's Office
- Family Court Clerk's Office
- Justice of the Peace Court Clerk
-
Provide case identification information:
- Case number (preferred)
- Party names and approximate filing date
- Subject matter and case type
-
Request to view the docket sheet or register of actions
-
Court staff will provide access to view the docket on public terminals or in paper format
Telephone Requests:
Limited docket information may be available by calling the appropriate court clerk's office:
- Superior Court: (302) 255-0800
- Court of Common Pleas: (302) 255-0900
- Family Court: (302) 255-0300
- Justice of the Peace Court: (302) 255-0700
Requestors should be prepared to provide specific case information and may be directed to online resources or in-person visits for complete docket access.
For scheduled hearings and upcoming court events, the Delaware Courts Calendar provides searchable docket information organized by court, judge, and date.
Which Courts in New Castle County Are Not Courts of Record?
In the Delaware judicial system, "courts of record" are those required by law to create and maintain verbatim transcripts of proceedings and comprehensive documentation of all matters heard. Pursuant to 10 Del. C. § 1301, certain courts in New Castle County are designated as courts not of record, meaning they operate with simplified procedures and do not routinely create complete transcripts of proceedings.
Courts Not of Record in New Castle County:
-
Justice of the Peace Court
- Delaware's most accessible court handles minor civil and criminal matters
- Proceedings are not transcribed verbatim
- Audio recordings are maintained but not automatically transcribed
- Appeals from this court are heard de novo (completely new trial) in the Court of Common Pleas
- Case files contain basic documentation rather than complete transcripts
-
Alderman's Courts
- Municipal courts in incorporated cities and towns including Newark, New Castle, and Delaware City
- Handle local ordinance violations and minor offenses
- Do not maintain stenographic records of proceedings
- Appeals are heard de novo in higher courts
- Simplified procedures with less formal record-keeping requirements
The designation as a court not of record affects several procedural aspects:
- Appeals involve a completely new trial rather than review of the existing record
- Judges in these courts are not required to be attorneys (though many are)
- Proceedings typically follow simplified rules of evidence and procedure
- Court sessions may be held in municipal buildings rather than dedicated courthouses
- Records consist primarily of case outcomes rather than detailed proceedings
By contrast, New Castle County courts of record include:
- Delaware Supreme Court
- Superior Court
- Court of Chancery
- Court of Common Pleas
- Family Court
These courts maintain complete records including verbatim transcripts of proceedings, comprehensive evidence files, and detailed documentation of all judicial actions. Appeals from courts of record typically involve review of the existing record rather than new trials.
The distinction between courts of record and courts not of record is established by the Delaware Code and reflects the hierarchical structure of the state's judicial system.