Felony Records: Fast DeKalb County Search & Verified Results

Felony Records offer a clear snapshot of any serious criminal case handled by DeKalb County courts, giving citizens, attorneys, and employers instant insight into charges, case numbers, and final dispositions. When you type “DeKalb County felony records search” into the official portal, the system pulls the full docket—including indictment documents, hearing records, and sentencing information—so you can confirm whether a defendant faced felony convictions, probation, or community supervision. This transparency eliminates guesswork, speeds up background checks, and helps you verify that a public record matches the official filing. By accessing DeKalb County felony case lookup, users can filter results by name, filing date, or specific court division, ensuring the exact “felony case number” or “felony charges” you need appears instantly, while also exposing any recent updates or pending motions that might affect the case status.

Felony Records serve as the authoritative source for anyone needing verified details on DeKalb County felony case history, from conviction dates to restitution orders. A simple “DeKalb County felony records online” query returns comprehensive felony court records, including charging documents, plea agreements, and sentencing conditions, all backed by the Superior Court Clerk’s official database. Whether you’re tracking a specific “felony case search” or reviewing “felony case disposition” for employment screening, the portal’s robust filters let you locate records by defendant name, case number, or even by the type of offense—violent, drug, or white‑collar. This level of detail ensures accurate, up‑to‑date information, helping you avoid common pitfalls like missing filings or incorrect defendant names while delivering the precise data needed for legal, personal, or professional decisions.

How to Search Felony Records

You can search Felony Records through the official DeKalb County Superior Court Clerk’s Criminal Case Search portal, including traffic court records, which gives direct access to indictments, case numbers, hearing dates, and final dispositions. The system pulls live docket data straight from the Superior Court Clerk’s database, so every search reflects the most current filings and updates. To get accurate results, you should prepare either a full defendant name, a known felony case number, or a specific filing date before starting your lookup. Using the correct identifier prevents duplicate entries, identity mismatches, and the frustration of receiving a “felony record not found” error when a record actually exists.

Official Search Portal: https://www.dksuperiorclerk.com/criminal/

Steps to Search

• Open your browser and go to the official DeKalb County Superior Court Clerk’s Criminal Case Search portal using the URL listed above.
• Choose your search filter, then enter the defendant’s last name and first name, or type in the exact felony case number if you already have one.
• Select the case type as “Criminal” or “Felony” to narrow results, then click the search button to load all matching felony case history entries.
• Review the list of returned felony cases, check the felony case status, felony case disposition, and upcoming hearing dates shown for each entry.
• Click the specific case record to view full felony court documents, including indictments, pleas, motions, sentencing information, and probation conditions.
• Use the print or download option to save a copy of the public felony court record, or note the case number for requesting a certified copy at the Clerk’s office.

What Are Felony Records?

Felony Records are the official court-maintained documents that capture every serious criminal charge prosecuted at the felony level in DeKalb County. These records start with the indictment or accusation filed by the District Attorney’s office and end with the final felony case disposition, whether that means a conviction, acquittal, dismissal, or deferred disposition. Each record contains the felony case number, defendant identification details, statute citations, court orders, and sentencing information, all of which serve as legal proof of what occurred inside the courtroom. Because felony charges carry penalties of more than one year in prison under Georgia law, the records carry long-term legal consequences for defendants, victims, attorneys, and the public.

Felony Records as Class: Official Court Documentation Concept

A felony record functions as a class of official documentation generated and preserved by the Superior Court Clerk’s office under Georgia record-retention law. The document set includes felony indictment records, felony charging documents, felony motions, felony plea records, felony judgment records, felony sentencing records, and felony probation records. Each component carries its own evidentiary weight, meaning attorneys can present them independently in hearings or sentencing appeals. The Clerk stamps, indexes, and archives every page so that any future user can retrieve an authenticated copy decades later.

Difference Between Felony Records and Other Criminal Documentation

Felony records differ from arrest records, misdemeanor records, and criminal history reports because they reflect post-indictment court action rather than pre-charge police encounters. An arrest record simply notes a law enforcement encounter, but a felony record shows whether a grand jury returned a true bill, whether the defendant pleaded guilty, and whether the court imposed prison time, probation, fines, or restitution. Misdemeanor records, by contrast, involve lower-severity offenses handled in State Court and never reach the felony docket. This distinction matters for employers, landlords, and licensing boards because felony convictions trigger disclosure obligations that misdemeanor dispositions do not.

Georgia Penal Code Classification (O.C.G.A. § 16-1-3 et seq.)

Georgia’s penal code classifies crimes under Title 16 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (O.C.G.A.), with O.C.G.A. § 16-1-3 and related statutes defining felonies as offenses punishable by death, imprisonment for more than 12 months, or a fine above $1,000. Each felony offense carries its own statute citation, which appears on the felony charging document, indictment record, and final judgment. The clerk indexes every case by statute number so that researchers can pull every felony conviction linked to a specific code section.

Historical Context and Evolution of Felony Record

Felony record-keeping in Georgia has shifted from handwritten docket books to fully searchable digital archives over the past century. Earlier decades relied on bound volume ledgers stored at county courthouses, which required in-person review and physical microfilm access. Today’s public relies on web-based portals that deliver felony court records to any internet user within seconds.

From Paper Docket Books to Digital Case Management Systems

Before digital systems, clerks entered felony case data into large paper docket books that recorded arraignments, pleas, verdicts, and sentencing outcomes by hand. Courts later transitioned to microfilm, then to early electronic databases in the 1990s, before the current era of real-time online case management. The current system indexes felony indictment records, felony motions, felony hearing records, and felony court orders so that any user can search by defendant name or case number. This evolution shortened retrieval time from days to seconds.

DeKalb County Superior Court Clerk’s Record-Keeping Authority

The DeKalb County Superior Court Clerk holds statutory authority under Georgia law to maintain, index, and certify felony court records filed in the Superior Court division. The Clerk’s office enforces record-retention schedules, certifies copies, and provides public access through its official search portal. Every felony case filed in DeKalb County Superior Court flows through this office, making the Clerk the primary custodian of the county’s felony docket.

Types of Felony Offenses Documented in DeKalb County Records

DeKalb County felony records cover a wide spectrum of felony offenses grouped by legal category. Knowing the category helps you read indictment language, interpret statute citations, and understand sentencing exposure.

Person Felonies vs. Property Felonies

Person felonies involve harm or threat against a human victim, including aggravated assault, kidnapping, homicide, and sexual battery. Property felonies involve harm to property rights or assets, including burglary, arson, theft by taking over $1,500, and criminal damage to property in the first degree. Felony records document the type of crime charged, the statute violated, and the sentencing court, so you can quickly separate person felonies from property felonies at a glance.

Drug Felonies and Controlled Substance Violations

Drug felony charges in DeKalb County typically involve trafficking, manufacturing, distribution, or possession with intent to distribute controlled substances under the Georgia Controlled Substances Act (O.C.G.A. § 16-13-1 et seq.). Felony records capture the substance, the quantity, and any prior convictions that elevate the offense to a higher felony grade. These cases often carry mandatory minimum sentences based on weight thresholds.

Violent Felonies, Weapons Charges, and Serious Felony Categories

Violent felony charges include homicide, armed robbery, aggravated assault, and certain weapons offenses involving firearms. Weapons charges under O.C.G.A. § 16-11-1 et seq. cover possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, carrying a concealed weapon without a license, and use of a firearm during the commission of a felony. The felony record file lists weapon type enhancements, prior felony convictions, and any applicable recidivist statutes.

White-Collar Felonies and Fraud-Based Offenses

White-collar felony charges include identity fraud, forgery, theft by deception, securities fraud, and embezzlement of public funds. Felony records document the dollar amount involved, the number of victims, and any federal referral information. These offenses often appear in DeKalb records involving business transactions, rental applications, and insurance claims.

Who Maintains Felony Records in DeKalb County, Georgia?

Three primary custodians maintain felony records at the county, state, and federal level. Knowing who holds which records helps you choose the right agency for your search.

DeKalb County Superior Court Clerk of Court

The DeKalb County Superior Court Clerk of Court is the official custodian of felony court filings, felony case numbers, and certified felony record copies. The Clerk indexes every indictment, plea, motion, order, and judgment entered by the Superior Court. You can access these felony records online through the official criminal case search portal or in person at the Clerk’s public terminal.

Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) and GCIC Repository

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) maintains the Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC), a statewide repository of criminal history records submitted by county courts, sheriffs, and police departments. The GCIC database contains arrest reports, dispositions, and felony conviction data from every Georgia county. Authorized users access GCIC felony records through secure terminals, while the public can request a personal criminal history report for a small fee.

Federal Court Systems vs. State Felony Records

Federal felony cases are filed in U.S. District Court, not in the DeKalb County Superior Court, so the state felony records search portal will not show federal indictments. Federal charges include drug trafficking across state lines, federal firearm violations, wire fraud, and racketeering. To access federal felony records, you would use the federal PACER system, which is separate from the DeKalb County portal.

How DeKalb County Felony Records Work

The DeKalb County Superior Court Clerk’s office operates as the central intake point for felony cases in the Superior Court division. The office accepts filings, assigns felony case numbers, and maintains the official record file for every case. Its jurisdiction covers all felony-grade offenses originating in DeKalb County.

Felony Case Authority: State Court of DeKalb County vs. Superior Court

The State Court of DeKalb County handles misdemeanors, traffic offenses, and certain preliminary felony matters, while the Superior Court handles all felony trials, felony sentencings, and felony appeals. Felony cases typically move to Superior Court after indictment by a grand jury. Knowing which court has jurisdiction helps you search the correct docket.

Role of the Clerk in Maintaining Felony Court Records

The Clerk stamps and files every document submitted in a felony case, including felony motions, felony hearing records, felony plea agreements, and felony sentencing orders. The Clerk also issues summons, subpoenas, and certified copies. This custodial role makes the Clerk’s office the authoritative source for any felony court record verification.

Felony Case Lifecycle: From Indictment to Final Disposition

A felony case moves through predictable stages, each producing its own set of records. Tracking the lifecycle helps you locate the exact document you need.

Felony Indictment Records and Charging Documents

Felony indictment records document the formal accusation returned by a DeKalb County grand jury. The indictment lists the felony charges, the statute citations, and the named defendant. The felony charging documents also include the criminal accusation, count waiver, or special presentment when the State uses alternatives to grand jury indictment.

Arraignment Records, Plea Records, and Pretrial Motions

Arraignment records show the date the defendant appeared, was advised of rights, and entered an initial plea. Plea records document guilty or no contest pleas, including negotiated plea agreements. Pretrial felony motions include defense motions to suppress, State motions in limine, and discovery filings that shape the trial scope.

Trial Records, Hearing Records, and Court Orders

Trial records track witness lists, exhibits, jury selection, verdict forms, and bench conferences. Hearing records cover pretrial conferences, bond hearings, motion hearings, and status conferences. Felony court orders include rulings on motions, scheduling orders, and protective orders that the Clerk enters into the official record.

Felony Judgment Records, Sentencing Records, and Conviction Records

Felony judgment records capture the final verdict and any findings of guilt entered against the defendant. Sentencing records document the prison term, fine amount, probation conditions, and restitution order. Felony conviction records combine these documents into the permanent official record used for background checks and sentencing enhancement calculations.

Felony Acquittal Records, Dismissal Records, and Deferred Disposition

Felony acquittal records show jury or bench verdicts of not guilty, which the Clerk files to close the case. Dismissal records reflect nolle prosequi entries, granted motions to dismiss, or dropped charges by the State. Deferred disposition records document cases resolved through Georgia’s First Offender Act or other diversion programs.

Felony Probation Records, Community Supervision, and Incarceration Records

Felony probation records document the terms of supervised release, including reporting requirements, treatment programs, and travel restrictions. Community supervision records track alternative sentencing programs outside of prison. Incarceration records include commitment orders, transfer orders, and Department of Corrections documentation attached to the case file.

Components of a Complete DeKalb County Felony Record File

A complete felony case file contains structured pages that outline the entire legal journey. Reviewing each component ensures you capture every relevant fact.

Case Header Information: Felony Case Number, Defendant ID, Judge Assignment

The case header lists the felony case number, the defendant identifier (name, date of birth, race, sex), the assigned trial judge, and the filing date. The header also shows the indictment number, the arraignment date, and the assigned prosecutor. This top-of-record section anchors every search you run in the portal.

Court Filings, Charging Documents, and Felony Motions

Court filings include the indictment, accusation, count waiver, and any amendments to the charges. Felony motions include suppression motions, motions to dismiss, and motions for discovery. The Clerk’s office timestamps each filing and adds it to the docket sheet.

Hearing Records, Minute Entries, and Felony Court Documents

Hearing records contain minute entries from each scheduled appearance before the judge. Minute entries summarize the appearance, the action taken, and the next court date. Felony court documents include subpoenas, exhibits, jury charges, and verdict forms.

Sentencing Information: Fines, Restitution Orders, and Sentencing Conditions

Sentencing information includes the exact prison term, any suspended portion, fines payable to the clerk, restitution orders payable to victims, and special sentencing conditions such as banishment, GPS monitoring, or substance abuse treatment. These documents complete the felony record and determine the long-term obligations of the defendant.

How to Access the DeKalb County Felony Records Search Portal

The official DeKalb County felony records search portal opens with a simple URL, then requires a search filter and identifying details. The portal serves attorneys, employers, and the public without subscription fees.

Search Filters: Name, Case Number, Filing Date, and Court Division

The portal supports four primary filters, listed below, that narrow your results:

• Defendant Name filter for last name and first name searches.
• Felony Case Number filter for direct docket lookup.
• Filing Date filter for cases filed between two selected dates.
• Court Division filter for separating felony cases from other criminal case types.

How to Search DeKalb County Felony Records Online, In-Person, and by Request

The online felony records search at the official portal requires only an internet connection and a few identifying details. Each step below shows what to click and what to type.

Access the Criminal Case Search Portal

You open your browser and enter the official URL provided by the Clerk’s office. The home page loads with a simple search form and a notice about public record usage rules. Confirm you understand the disclosure notice before proceeding.

Enter Defendant Name or Felony Case Number

You type the defendant’s last name, optionally followed by the first name, or paste the full felony case number into the appropriate field. Selecting the felony case type limits the search to Superior Court cases only.

Review Felony Case History, Case Status, and Disposition

You review the list of returned cases, click each entry to expand the felony case lookup history, and check the felony case status indicator. The disposition field displays the final outcome, such as “Guilty Plea,” “Nolle Prosequi,” or “Dismissed.”

Download or Print Public Felony Court Records

You use the print or save function on your browser to capture the record for your files. The downloaded PDF or printed page serves as a reference copy, though a certified copy requires an in-person or written request.

Searching Felony Records by Name, Case Number, Filing Date, and Court

Each search method serves a different research scenario. Pick the method that matches the data you already hold.

Felony Records by Defendant Name Search Method

You use this method when you know the defendant’s name but lack the case number. The portal matches partial names, so a last name alone may produce relevant results. Review the date of birth or middle name to confirm you have the right defendant.

Felony Records by Case Number Lookup Method

You use this method when you already have the assigned felony case number. The portal returns the exact case file with no duplicates, which speeds up your search dramatically.

Felony Records by Filing Date Filter Method

You use this method when researching a date range, such as all felonies filed within a fiscal quarter. Pick a start date and an end date, then run the query. The portal lists every felony case matching the window.

Felony Records by Court Division Filter Method

You use this method when you need only felony cases from the Superior Court division rather than from State Court. The Court Division filter separates the dockets quickly.

In-Person Felony Record Requests

An in-person visit lets you pull certified copies and resolve issues that online searches cannot fix. Visit the Clerk’s office at the address below during the listed office hours.

Felony Record Identification Requirements for In-Person Requests

You must present a valid government-issued photo ID when requesting in-person felony records. The Clerk may also require the felony case number, the defendant’s full name, and the date of birth to locate the correct file. Additional documents, such as a notarized release from the defendant, may be required for sealed or restricted records.

Certified Copy of Felony Record Request Process

You fill out the Clerk’s request form, mark the box requesting certification, and pay the certified copy fee. The clerk stamps each page with the official seal and signs the certification statement.

Felony Record Fees, Processing Time, and Copy Costs

Felony record fees follow the standard fee schedule adopted by the DeKalb County Superior Court Clerk. The Clerk posts the current fees at the service window and on the official website.

Standard Felony Record Copy Fees in DeKalb County

Standard felony record copies cost less per page than certified copies because they lack the official seal. The Clerk calculates the fee based on the total number of pages produced.

Certified Felony Record Copy Fees

Certified felony record copies carry an additional certification fee on top of the per-page charge. The certified fee covers the seal, signature, and authentication of the document.

Average Felony Record Processing Time

The average felony record processing time depends on the request method. In-person requests at the counter finish the same day in most cases. Mailed or faxed requests usually process within three to five business days after the Clerk receives the payment and signed release.

Troubleshooting Felony Records Search Problems

Search problems usually stem from indexing delays or data entry errors. Use the fixes below to resolve each scenario.

Missing Felony Records and Delayed Felony Record Updates

A felony record may seem missing because the Clerk has not finished indexing a recently filed case. Wait 24 to 72 hours for the Clerk to complete the index, then re-run the search. Delayed felony record updates most often affect cases filed right before a holiday or weekend.

Recently Filed Felony Cases Not Yet Indexed

Cases filed within the past few business days may not appear in the portal until the Clerk finishes intake. Confirm the filing date with the Clerk’s office if the case remains absent after several days.

Incorrect Defendant Name or Incorrect Felony Case Number Errors

An incorrect defendant name or transposed felony case number causes most “no results” returns. Recheck the spelling, confirm the year suffix on the case number, and search again with corrected data.

Felony Record Not Found: Common Causes and Resolutions

A “felony record not found” message often results from searching the wrong court division, using a different spelling, or looking for a sealed case. Switch the court division filter, broaden the name search, or contact the Clerk’s office to confirm whether the record exists in a restricted file.

DeKalb County Felony Records vs. Criminal Records, Arrest Records, and Background Checks

Felony records and misdemeanor records differ in severity, sentencing range, and long-term retention. Knowing the difference helps you pick the right search method.

Severity Classification and Sentencing Range Differences

Felony charges carry a sentencing range of one year to life in prison, plus fines often exceeding $5,000. Misdemeanor charges cap punishment at 12 months in county jail and lower fines.

Record Retention Periods: Felony vs. Misdemeanor in Georgia

Georgia record-retention rules require clerks to keep felony records for a much longer period than misdemeanor records. Felony conviction records often remain on file indefinitely, while misdemeanor records follow shorter retention windows.

Felony Records vs. Arrest Records: What’s Included

Arrest records and felony records capture different points in the criminal justice process. Comparing them reveals how each dataset serves a different need.

Arrest Records Without Conviction vs. Felony Conviction Records

Arrest records without conviction document an arrest that never resulted in a felony charge or resulted in acquittal. Felony conviction records document the final guilty verdict or guilty plea that closed the case. Arrest records may appear even when the felony case ends in dismissal.

GCIC vs. Court Clerk Felony Record Sources

The GCIC database aggregates arrest reports and dispositions submitted by multiple agencies. The Court Clerk’s office only maintains felony court filings. Each source carries distinct accuracy strengths, so cross-checking between GCIC and the Clerk’s portal is recommended.

Felony Records vs. Criminal History Reports and Background Checks

Third-party background checks differ from official felony court records because they compile data from multiple sources. Reviewing both improves your overall accuracy.

Court-Sourced Felony Records vs. Third-Party Background Check Databases

Court-sourced felony records come straight from the Clerk’s office and reflect the final court record. Third-party background check databases pull from GCIC, commercial aggregators, and public records, then apply their own data hygiene practices. Court-sourced records remain the gold standard for accuracy.

Scope, Accuracy, and Reporting Standards Comparison

Court-sourced records cover only the named court docket but reach high accuracy standards. Third-party databases cover a wider geographic scope but may include outdated or duplicated entries. Use court-sourced records for legal proceedings and third-party databases for screening leads.

Felony Court Records vs. Public Felony Records: Access Tiers

Not every felony record becomes a public record. Georgia law splits access into public tiers and restricted tiers.

Public Felony Records Accessible Under the Georgia Open Records Act

The Georgia Open Records Act (O.C.G.A. § 50-18-70 et seq.) makes most felony indictments, pleas, sentences, and dismissals available to the public. You can access them through the portal or by request.

Restricted Felony Records, Sealed Felony Records, and Juvenile Felony Records

Restricted felony records include juvenile felony records, sealed records, and expunged records. These records require a court order or statutory eligibility before they can be released.

Felony Records vs. Related Record Types

The table below maps source, custodian, public access, and inclusion scope across related record types.

Source, Custodian, Public Access, and Inclusion Scope

Each record type flows from a specific source and lands with a specific custodian, which determines who can release the document. The inclusion scope tells you whether the record covers charges, sentences, arrests, or a blended history.

DeKalb County Felony Case Search: Status, Disposition, Charges, and Convictions

You find a felony case number through the online portal or by calling the Clerk’s office. Both paths require a few identifying details.

Locating Felony Case Numbers via the Online Portal

You type the defendant’s name into the portal, then click the matching result to reveal the felony case number at the top of the case detail page. Save the number for future searches and certified copy requests.

Locating Felony Case Numbers via Clerk’s Office In-Person Inquiry

You visit the Clerk’s office at the counter, present a photo ID, and ask the records clerk to look up the felony case number by defendant name. The clerk prints a confirmation slip with the case number.

Checking Felony Case Status, Disposition, and Hearing Dates

A felony case status tells you whether the matter is still open, what the latest action was, and when the next court date arrives. The disposition closes the case once the court enters a final outcome.

Pending vs. Active vs. Closed Felony Case Status Indicators

Pending status indicates the case awaits grand jury action or initial appearance. Active status shows the case is moving through pretrial motions, plea negotiations, or trial stages. Closed status signals the case reached a final disposition, such as a conviction, dismissal, or acquittal.

Felony Case Disposition Codes and Their Meanings

Dispositions often appear as coded entries. “Guilty Plea” confirms a negotiated or open plea. “Nolle Prosequi” means the State dropped the charge. “Not Guilty” reflects an acquittal verdict. “Dismissed” indicates a successful defense motion or other grounds for termination.

Reviewing Felony Charges, Indictments, and Charging Documents

The felony charging document names every offense the State alleges and lists the statute violated. Reading the indictment carefully reveals the prosecution’s theory and the maximum penalty.

Reading Felony Indictment Records and Felony Charging Documents

You review the indictment count by count, noting the O.C.G.A. citation, the date of the alleged offense, and the alleged conduct. Each count carries its own sentencing exposure and verdict requirement.

Understanding Felony Offense Records and Statute Citations

You check the statute citation against the indictment count to confirm the offense class. Felony offense records note the grade (felony, serious violent felony, etc.), which shapes sentencing exposure.

Reviewing Felony Convictions, Sentencing, and Probation Records

After a felony conviction, the sentencing record lists every penalty the court imposed. Reviewing probation records shows the post-release obligations.

Felony Sentencing Information and Felony Sentencing Conditions

Sentencing information lists the prison term, the suspended portion, and any split sentence. Felony sentencing conditions may include probation, counseling, drug testing, or community service hours.

Felony Probation Records, Community Supervision, and Incarceration Records

Probation records describe reporting frequency, supervision level, and compliance obligations. Community supervision records track alternative sanctions such as diversion or intensive supervision. Incarceration records confirm commitment to the Georgia Department of Corrections or a county facility.

Felony Fines, Court Costs, and Restitution Orders

The sentencing entry breaks down fines payable to the Clerk, surcharges under Georgia law, and restitution owed to victims. Each item carries its own payment schedule and enforcement mechanism.

Public Felony Records vs. Restricted Records: What You Can Access

Georgia law defines which felony records are public and which remain restricted. The split reflects a balance between transparency and privacy.

Public Felony Court Filings and Felony Court Documents

Public felony court filings include indictments, pleas, verdicts, sentences, and most orders. Anyone can read these through the official portal or by requesting a copy.

Records Exempt Under O.C.G.A. § 50-18-72 and Sealed Felony Records

Records exempt under O.C.G.A. § 50-18-72 include juvenile felony records, sealed records, and expunged records. You cannot access these without a court order or qualifying statutory exemption.

Expert Insights, Legal Authority, and Verification of DeKalb County Felony Records

Verifying a felony record protects you from relying on outdated or inaccurate data. The Clerk’s office provides structured procedures for verifying and correcting entries.

Verifying a Felony Record Against Official Court Sources

You compare the online portal entry against the certified copy obtained from the Clerk’s office. Any difference between the portal entry and the certified copy should trigger an inquiry.

How to Correct an Inaccurate Felony Record in DeKalb County

You file a written request for correction with the Clerk’s office, attach supporting documents, and ask for a review. The Clerk may require a court order before amending the record.

Legal Authority Governing DeKalb County Felony Records

Several state and federal laws govern how felony records are stored, shared, and released. Understanding these authorities protects your privacy.

Georgia Open Records Act (O.C.G.A. § 50-18-70 et seq.)

The Georgia Open Records Act sets the baseline rule that felony court records are public, including sex offenders, with limited statutory exemptions. The Act also defines the request process, response timelines, and fee structures.

Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC) and CJIS Compliance Standards

The GCIC operates under CJIS compliance standards that protect sensitive data during transmission and storage. Authorized agencies use approved terminals and audit trails to track every search.

Federal FBI Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Compliance

Federal CJIS compliance governs how Georgia agencies share criminal history data with the FBI. Compliance standards protect personal identifiers and limit secondary dissemination.

Sealed, Expunged, and Restricted Felony Records in Georgia

Sealed and expunged felony records disappear from public view under specific conditions. Reviewing the criteria helps you understand when a record becomes restricted.

Record Restriction Procedures Under O.C.G.A. § 35-3-37

O.C.G.A. § 35-3-37 sets the procedure for restricting certain felony records from public criminal history reports. Eligible offenders can petition the court for restriction after completing their sentence.

Felony Record Expungement Eligibility in Georgia

Felony expungement eligibility in Georgia is narrower than restriction. Most felony convictions are not eligible, but certain non-conviction outcomes and specific statute-defined categories qualify.

Juvenile Felony Records and Sealing Provisions

Juvenile felony records become eligible for sealing under specific provisions once the juvenile satisfies court requirements. The records then move to a restricted file unavailable to the public.

Felony Record Use in Employment, Housing, and Licensing Decisions

Felony record disclosures affect employment, housing, and licensing decisions. Know the rules before you share or withhold information.

Ban-the-Box and Fair Chance Hiring Considerations in Georgia

Ban-the-Box policies delay criminal history questions until later in the hiring process. Georgia does not have a statewide ban-the-box law, but many local employers adopt fair chance hiring practices voluntarily.

Landlord Tenant Screening and Felony Conviction Disclosures

Landlords may consider felony convictions during tenant screening, subject to fair housing rules. Felony conviction disclosures must comply with local ordinances and the federal Fair Housing Act.

Errors in Felony Reports and How to Correct Them

Common errors in felony reports include identity mismatches and duplicate entries. Spotting them early prevents downstream screening mistakes.

Identity Mismatch and Incorrect Defendant Name Corrections

Identity mismatches happen when two defendants share similar names or dates of birth. You can correct an incorrect defendant name by submitting a notarized request along with proof of identity to the Clerk’s office.

Duplicate Felony Case Number Entries and Merged Record Errors

Duplicate felony case number entries occur when the Clerk assigns multiple identifiers to the same defendant. You can request a record merge by filing a written motion describing the duplicate entries.

Contact Information

You can reach the DeKalb County Superior Court Clerk’s office using the physical address, phone number, office hours, and official search portal listed below. These details come directly from the official source referenced in this content.

Physical Address: 556 North McDonough Street, Ground Floor, Decatur, GA 30030

Phone Number: (404) 371-2836

Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are quick answers to common questions about locating and obtaining felony records in DeKalb County.

How can I search DeKalb County felony records online?

Visit the DeKalb County Superior Court Clerk’s criminal case search portal at the official website. The portal connects directly to the clerk’s docket system, showing indictments, case numbers, hearing dates, and final dispositions. Enter a full defendant name or known case number to retrieve current filings. Results update in real time, reflecting the latest court activity. The site is free to use and works on most browsers. If the search returns no matches, double‑check spelling or try alternative name formats.

What info is needed for a DeKalb felony case lookup?

You will need either the defendant’s full legal name or the exact felony case number. Having the filing year helps narrow results. Some searches also accept the court’s docket number or the offense’s charge description. Prepare the name as it appears on legal documents, without nicknames or middle initials unless they are part of the official record. Accurate input reduces the chance of missing the record or receiving unrelated cases.

Where can I find a DeKalb felony case number?

The case number appears on any court filing related to the felony, such as the indictment, hearing notice, or sentencing order. If you have a copy of a police report or a bail bond receipt, the number is often printed there. You can also call the Superior Court Clerk’s office at the listed phone number and request the number by providing the defendant’s name and date of birth. Staff will verify identity before releasing the information.

How are sealed felony records handled in DeKalb County?

Sealed records are not visible through the public online portal. Access requires a court order or a written request from an authorized party, such as the defendant or a legal representative. The clerk’s office will review the request and may charge a nominal fee for processing. If the request is approved, the sealed file is released in a secure format. Unsealed records follow the same search steps as regular records.

Can I get a certified copy of a DeKalb felony record?

Yes. After locating the desired record on the online portal, you can request a certified copy by contacting the clerk’s office in person or by phone. Bring a valid photo ID and the case number. The office will fill out a request form, collect the required fee, and issue the certified copy, which includes the clerk’s seal and signature. Processing typically takes a few business days, but you can ask about same‑day service if needed.