Felony Records in St. Clair County – Fast, Accurate Search

Felony Records in St. Clair County are accessed by thousands of residents, attorneys, and employers who need reliable data for background checks, legal research, or personal peace of mind. A fast, accurate St Clair County felony records search pulls case details straight from the circuit clerk’s database, delivering information such as defendant name, case number, filing date, and court jurisdiction. Users can perform a St Clair County felony record lookup online or request a certified copy for official use, ensuring the same data appears in St Clair County felony case records and St Clair County felony court records. Whether you are verifying a recent conviction, checking the status of a pending charge, or confirming sentencing details, the system presents offense descriptions, disposition outcomes, and any associated court filings. This seamless access eliminates guesswork, reduces the risk of errors, and supports informed decisions across hiring, housing, and legal proceedings.

Felony Records searches in St. Clair County also reveal nuanced information like felony indictment records, plea agreements, and probation conditions, all crucial for a complete picture of a criminal history. By entering a case number or defendant name, the St Clair County felony case search returns the full docket, including hearing records, motions, and sentencing judgments. The platform distinguishes public felony records from restricted or sealed files, helping users avoid common pitfalls such as missing documents or incorrect case numbers. For those needing official verification, the St Clair County felony record request process offers certified copies, clear fee structures, and defined processing times, ensuring that every request meets legal standards and privacy requirements.

How to Search Felony Records

A St Clair County felony records search gives you fast access to court case data. You can view case details, charges, and outcomes through the Circuit Clerk’s online system. The records come straight from the official court database in Belleville, Illinois. Most felony records stay open to the public under state law. You can search by defendant name, case number, filing date, or court location. Some records such as the phone lookup stay restricted by court order. These cover sealed cases, juvenile matters, and expunged files. The clerk’s portal works on desktop and mobile browsers. There is no fee to view basic case data online. You only pay for printed or certified copies.

Official Search Portal: https://www.co.st-clair.il.us/departments/circuit-clerk

Steps to Search

1. Visit the St. Clair County Circuit Clerk website using the portal link above.
2. Find the case search, records lookup, or eCourt link on the main page.
3. Pick the search type: name, case number, filing date, or court.
4. Enter the details you know about the case or defendant.
5. Review the search results to find the right case file.
6. Click the case number to open the full docket and filings.

Search by Defendant Name

Searching by defendant name is the most common way to find a felony case. You should type the full legal name as it appears on the court file. Last name first works best in most search tools. If you know the middle name or suffix, add that too. Common names can return many results. You can sort by filing year to narrow the list. You can also filter by court type, like criminal or circuit court. The results show the case number, filing date, and current status for each match. Click on the case to view the full docket. This search works well when you do not know the case number.

Search by Case Number

A case number search returns the exact file you want. Each felony case has its own case number, often starting with a year and CF prefix. The CF stands for Criminal Felony in Illinois courts. Type the full case number, including dashes or letters, into the search box. This method saves time when you already have the number from a lawyer or another court. It also cuts down on errors from similar names. Case number searches pull up the docket, parties, charges, and hearing dates. You can print or save the page for your records. This search fails only when you type the number wrong.

Search by Filing Date

Filing date searches help when you know when the case started. Type the month, day, and year the felony case was filed. You can also set a date range to see all cases filed in a set time. This works well for batch checks, like employer screenings. The system shows each case filed on that date. You can click each case to see the full details. Filing date searches help you track new cases as they enter the system. Some very recent cases may not show up right away. The clerk updates the system as new filings come in each day.

Search by Court

You can narrow your search by court location in St. Clair County. Most felony cases go through the main Circuit Court at #10 Public Square. Some cases may be heard at satellite court locations. Picking the right court cuts down on mixed results. The court field shows in the search results next to the case number. You can sort the results by court to group similar cases. This helps lawyers who handle cases in specific courts. It also helps researchers tracking cases in one location. Court searches pair well with date searches for tighter results.

Details Needed for a Search

You need some key details to run a successful felony record search. Start with the full legal name of the defendant. Add the birth date if you know it. The case number helps when you have it. The filing date also narrows the search. Knowing the court location helps too. Without these details, the system may return too many results. The clerk’s office cannot search for you without a name or case number. You can view public cases without an ID for basic lookups. Certified copies require photo ID and payment.

Details Found in Felony Records

A felony record holds many key data points. Each record shows who the defendant is, what charge they face, and how the case ended. You can see the case number, filing date, court, and current status. The system also shows the offense, the statute number, and the class of felony. Records show plea deals, verdicts, and sentences. Sentences can include prison time, probation, fines, or restitution. You can view each filing in the docket, from start to finish. Most of this data stays public under Illinois law. The clerk updates records as new filings come in. Some data points stay private by law.

Defendant Details

The defendant section shows the full legal name on the case file. It also shows any aliases or maiden names used in court. The record lists the date of birth when available. Some records show the defendant’s address, but this data is often sealed. The system does not show Social Security numbers or driver’s license data. You only see data the court entered into the docket. If the name was updated during the case, the record shows the current legal name. This helps you tell two people apart with similar names.

Case Number

Each felony case has a unique case number. The format starts with the year, then the case type, then the number. CF means Criminal Felony in Illinois courts. For example, 2023-CF-000123 means the 123rd felony case filed in 2023. Case numbers stay the same from filing to final disposition. You use the case number to track the case across hearings. Lawyers, judges, and clerks all refer to the case by number. The case number never changes, even if the charge does. Keep this number handy when you call the clerk’s office.

Filing Date

The filing date shows when the case was first entered into the court system. This is the date the felony charge was filed by the state. The filing date does not match the arrest date. The clerk enters the date based on the charging paperwork. Filing dates run from the day the state charges the defendant. You can use this date to group cases in the same time period. The date also helps track how long a case has been open. Older cases show older filing dates.

Court Details

The court section lists which court handled the case. Most felony cases in St. Clair County go to the Circuit Court. The main courthouse sits at #10 Public Square in Belleville. The record shows the courtroom and the judge assigned to the case. Some records list transfer attorney data if the case moved courts. You can see past judges if the case had a reassignment. The court data helps you know which office to contact for records. The court also shows the division, like criminal or post-conviction.

Offense Details

The offense section lists each charge filed in the case. Each charge shows the statute number, the charge name, and the class. Classes range from Class 4 (least serious) to Class X (most serious) in Illinois. Some charges carry a specific sentence range. The record shows the date of the alleged offense. It also lists any lesser charges that the state added or dropped. If the charge was amended, the record shows the new charge. You can compare the original charge to the final plea or verdict.

Case Status

Case status tells you where the case stands right now. Status can be pending, active, continued, or disposed. Pending means the case is open with no final outcome yet. Active means there are current hearings or motions. Continued means the next hearing was pushed to a later date. Disposed means the case reached a final outcome. Some cases show a reopened status if new motions come in. The status updates as new filings enter the docket. You can check the status any time through the portal.

Case Disposition

The case disposition shows the final outcome of the felony case. Common dispositions cover conviction, acquittal, dismissal, or plea. The record shows the date of the final outcome. It also lists the specific plea entered, if any. The disposition ties to the sentence and any post-conviction terms. You can see if the case ended in a guilty plea or trial verdict. Dismissals show the reason, like dropped charges or lack of evidence. The disposition is the key data point for most background checks.

Felony Case Records

Felony case records hold every paper filed in the case. The docket shows the full timeline of filings, motions, and orders. You can view each document as it was entered into the system. The records cover charging papers, motions, hearing notes, and final judgments. Each filing has a date stamp and party name. You can see who filed each paper. The clerk’s portal shows public filings right away. Some filings stay sealed by court order. Juvenile records have extra rules under state law. You can pull certified copies of any public filing for a fee.

Indictments and Charging Documents

Indictments and charging papers start the felony case. The state files these papers with the clerk to open the case. The indictment lists the charges and the facts the state plans to prove. The grand jury returns the indictment for most felonies in Illinois. You can view the indictment once it becomes public. The record shows the indictment date, the jurors, and the true bill. For charges filed by information, the record shows the state’s attorney paperwork. These papers set the stage for the rest of the case.

Court Filings

Court filings cover every paper entered during the case. This covers motions, responses, briefs, and exhibits. Each filing has a docket entry with the date and filing party. You can click on the filing to see the full document. Most filings become public right after they are entered. Some filings stay sealed, like grand jury materials. The clerk’s portal groups filings by date for easy viewing. You can sort filings by type, like motions or orders. This helps you track how the case moved through court.

Motions and Responses

Motions are formal requests made to the judge. The defense or state can file motions at any time during the case. Common motions cover motions to suppress, motions to dismiss, and motions in limine. Each motion shows the date filed and the ruling. The response from the other side also appears in the docket. The judge enters an order on the motion after review. You can see granted, denied, or moot rulings on each motion. Motions shape the case before trial. They also set the record for appeal.

Hearing Records

Hearing records track each court appearance in the case. The record shows the date, time, and courtroom for each hearing. It also lists the type of hearing, like arraignment, pretrial, or sentencing. The judge and attorneys present at the hearing appear in the notes. The outcome of the hearing shows in the docket entry. Some hearings produce transcripts, which the clerk can prepare for a fee. You can see if the hearing was continued or moved. Hearing records give you a clear picture of the case timeline.

Court Orders

Court orders are the judge’s official rulings on the case. Orders can cover motions, continuances, discovery, and protective rules. Each order has a date and the judge’s signature. You can view most orders through the public portal. Some orders stay sealed, like those tied to ongoing grand jury work, which also cross-references relevant criminal records. The order number ties back to the docket entry. You can see who filed the motion that led to each order. Orders control how the case moves forward. They also serve as the basis for any appeal.

Judgment and Sentencing Records

Judgment and sentencing records close out the felony case. The judgment shows the final verdict or plea. The sentencing section lists the prison term, probation, fines, and other terms. The record shows the date of sentencing and the judge who presided. You can see credit for time served before sentencing, which also cross-references relevant dui records. The record also lists any restitution owed to victims. Sentencing records stay public after the case ends. You can pull a certified copy for use in other courts or agencies.

Felony Case Outcomes

Felony cases end in several kinds of outcomes. The outcome, or disposition, shapes the rest of the defendant’s life. A conviction leads to a sentence and a public record. An acquittal clears the defendant of the charge. A dismissal ends the case without a conviction. Plea deals close most felony cases in St. Clair County. Deferred dispositions let the defendant avoid a conviction in some cases. Probation keeps the defendant out of prison under court rules. Each outcome shows in the docket and on the public record.

Convictions

A conviction means the defendant pled guilty or was found guilty at trial. The record shows the date of conviction and the charge. The conviction triggers sentencing by the judge. A conviction stays on the public record forever, unless expunged. The record shows if the conviction came from a plea or trial. Some convictions come with mandatory minimums under Illinois law. You can see the sentence tied to each conviction. Convictions affect background checks, jobs, housing, and voting rights.

Acquittals

An acquittal means the defendant was found not guilty at trial. The judge or jury returns the not guilty verdict. The record shows the date of the acquittal. The case ends with no conviction and no sentence. An acquittal does not erase the arrest or charge from the record. The public docket still shows the original charge. The final disposition shows the not guilty finding. This outcome protects the defendant from the same charge again in most cases.

Dismissals

A dismissal ends the case without a conviction. The state can drop the charge for many reasons. Common reasons cover lack of evidence, witness issues, or speedy trial problems. The defense can also win a dismissal through a motion. The record shows the date and reason for the dismissal. A dismissed case still appears in the public docket. The dismissal shows as the final disposition. Some dismissed charges can be refiled by the state.

Plea-Based Outcomes

Most felony cases end with a plea deal. The defendant agrees to plead guilty to a charge or set of charges. In return, the state drops or reduces other charges. The record shows the plea agreement and the date entered. The judge must accept the plea before it becomes final. Plea deals cut down on trial costs and risks. They also speed up the case for everyone. The plea shows as the final disposition in the docket.

Deferred Dispositions

A deferred disposition lets the defendant avoid a conviction. The defendant agrees to follow court rules for a set time. If they complete the terms, the court dismisses the case. If they fail, the court can enter a conviction. The record shows the start date and the terms of the deal. Successful completion shows as a dismissal. Failed terms show as a conviction. Deferred dispositions are common for certain felony classes in Illinois.

Probation Outcomes

Probation is a sentence served in the community under court rules. The defendant must follow terms set by the judge. Common terms cover reporting, drug tests, and no new charges. The record shows the start and end dates of probation. It also shows any violations and the court’s response. Successful probation ends the case. Failed probation can lead to prison or new terms. Probation outcomes appear in the public record.

Felony Sentence Records

Felony sentencing in St. Clair County follows Illinois state law. The judge sets the sentence after a conviction or plea. The sentence can cover prison, probation, fines, and other terms. The record shows each part of the sentence in the docket. You can see the length of prison time and credit for time served. The record also shows fines, restitution, and court costs. Sentencing terms depend on the charge class and the defendant’s record. Some sentences carry mandatory minimums. The clerk’s office enters each part of the sentence into the public docket.

Incarceration Sentences

Incarceration is prison or jail time set by the judge. The record shows the length and type of facility. Class X felonies carry 6 to 30 years in Illinois prison. Class 1 felonies carry 4 to 15 years. Class 2 felonies carry 3 to 7 years. Class 3 felonies carry 2 to 5 years. Class 4 felonies carry 1 to 3 years. The record also shows credit for time served before sentencing. Incarceration data stays public after sentencing.

Community Supervision

Community supervision covers probation and conditional discharge. The record shows the start date, end date, and terms. Probation officers track the defendant during supervision. The defendant must report as ordered by the court. Violations lead to court hearings and possible prison. Successful completion ends the sentence. The record shows successful or unsuccessful outcomes.

Fines and Court Costs

Fines and court costs are part of most felony sentences. Fines go to the state or county fund. Costs cover court operations, clerk fees, and sheriff costs. The record shows the dollar amount of each fine and cost. It also shows payment due dates. Failure to pay can lead to new charges or jail time. The clerk’s office tracks payments and updates the docket.

Restitution Orders

Restitution is money paid to crime victims. The judge sets the amount based on losses. The record shows the victim name and payment amount. Restitution is paid on top of fines. The clerk’s office tracks payments and updates the record. Failure to pay can lead to civil judgments or new charges. Restitution stays on the record until paid in full.

Other Sentencing Conditions

Other sentencing conditions can cover treatment, counseling, or no contact orders. The judge sets these terms based on the case facts. Common terms cover drug treatment, anger classes, or victim awareness programs. The record shows each special term and the completion status. Failure to follow terms can violate probation. The court can add new terms at any sentencing hearing.

St Clair County Felony Records Access

Access to felony records in St. Clair County is open to the public. The Illinois Public Records Act and court rules allow public viewing of most case data. You can view records online, by phone, or in person at the clerk’s office. Some records stay restricted by law. Sealed cases, juvenile cases, and expunged files stay private. You need photo ID for certified copies. The clerk’s office handles all public record requests. Most basic lookups are free. Certified copies carry a fee per page.

Public Case Details

Public case data shows the basic facts of each felony case. This covers the defendant name, case number, charges, and status. Public data also covers court dates, pleas, verdicts, and sentences. You can view this data on the clerk’s website. You do not need an ID for basic lookups. The data updates as new filings come in. Public data helps employers, landlords, and lawyers make decisions. You can print or save public data for your records.

Online Court Records

Online court records give you access from any device. The clerk’s website works on desktop and mobile. You can search by name, case number, date, or court. The results show the docket, filings, and orders. Most records load in seconds. The system stays live during business hours. After hours, you can still view most data. The online portal cuts down on trips to the courthouse. You can search many cases in one sitting.

• Search by defendant name, case number, date, or court
• View dockets, filings, orders, and judgments
• Print or save public records for free
• Use the portal on phone, tablet, or computer
• Check case status any time during the day

Clerk’s Office Records

The clerk’s office holds the original paper and electronic records. The staff can pull files, search by name, and make copies. You can visit the office at #10 Public Square in Belleville. Office hours run from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday. The staff can help with searches, copies, and certified requests. Walk-in service works for most requests. Phone requests work for simple lookups. Mail requests work for written record needs.

Restricted Details

Restricted data stays private under Illinois law. This covers juvenile records, sealed cases, and expunged files. Some personal data, like Social Security numbers, stays hidden from public view. The clerk removes this data before showing the file. You can ask for a sealed record, but the court must approve. Restricted data does not show in online searches. The clerk’s office keeps these files separate from public dockets.

Sealed Records

Sealed records stay hidden from public searches. A judge can seal a case for many reasons. Common reasons cover witness safety, ongoing investigations, or juvenile matters. Once sealed, the case does not show in public searches. Only the parties and their lawyers can view the file. The clerk can still pull the file by case number for court use. Sealed files do not show on the public docket.

Juvenile Record Restrictions

Juvenile felony records have extra protections under Illinois law. Most juvenile records stay sealed from public view. Only the court, the juvenile, and their parents or lawyers can view the file. Some juvenile cases can transfer to adult court. Once transferred, the case shows in the regular docket. Juvenile records may be eligible for expungement later. The clerk’s office follows strict rules for juvenile records.

Obtaining Felony Records

You can get felony records in several ways. The fastest way is to use the online portal. You can also call the clerk’s office for a simple lookup. You can visit the office in person for certified copies. Mail requests work for written records sent by post. Each method has its own steps and fees. Most basic lookups are free. Certified copies carry a fee per page. You need photo ID for certified copies. The clerk’s office sets the rules for each request type.

Online Requests

Online requests work for viewing public records. You can search the portal and view the docket for free. You can print or save the screen for your records. The portal does not send certified copies online. For certified copies, you need to use the clerk’s office. Online requests work any time during the day. You do not need an ID for online views. The portal shows the most current data from the docket.

Clerk Office Requests

You can request records from the clerk’s office by phone, mail, or in person. Phone requests work for simple name lookups. Mail requests need a written letter with the case details and a self-addressed stamped envelope. In-person requests work at the courthouse during business hours. The clerk’s office charges a fee per page for copies. Certified copies carry a higher fee. You need photo ID for certified copies. Most requests clear within a few business days.

In-Person Requests

In-person requests work for those who need records fast. You visit the clerk’s office at #10 Public Square in Belleville. Office hours run from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday. Bring a photo ID and the case details. The clerk can pull the file, copy the pages, and certify them on the spot. You can pay by cash, check, or money order. Card payments may also work for certified copies. Wait times run short during the morning hours.

Certified Copies

Certified copies carry the clerk’s stamp and signature. These copies serve as official records for other courts or agencies. You need certified copies for immigration, pardons, or appeals. The clerk charges a fee per page for certification. Bring photo ID for certified requests. The clerk can certify most public records. Sealed records cannot get certified copies for the public. Certified copies clear on the same day in most cases.

Identification Requirements

You need photo ID for certified felony record copies. Acceptable IDs cover a driver’s license, state ID, or passport. The clerk checks your ID to protect the privacy of the defendant. You cannot get certified copies without a photo ID. Basic online lookups do not need an ID. The clerk may also ask for a signed request form. The form shows the case details and the purpose of the request.

Copy Fees and Processing Times

Copy fees depend on the type of record and the page count. Basic lookups stay free online. Printed copies run a small fee per page. Certified copies run a higher fee per page. The clerk’s office sets the fees under state law. Most requests clear within one to three business days. Large requests may take longer. The clerk can tell you the exact fee when you place the request.

• Online view: free
• Printed copy: small fee per page
• Certified copy: higher fee per page
• Mail request: add postage and handling
• Large request: ask the clerk for a quote

Felony Record Accuracy and Availability

Felony records must be accurate for legal use. Errors in records can hurt job, housing, and legal cases. The clerk’s office works hard to keep records correct. You can check the records for errors and ask for fixes. Recent filings may take time to show online. Some records stay held by other courts. You can ask the clerk to help you find the right file. Always double-check the defendant name, case number, and court. This helps you avoid costly errors in background checks.

Confirming the Correct Defendant

You need to make sure you have the right defendant. Common names can lead to wrong matches. The full legal name and birth date help you tell people apart. The record also shows the offense and court. These data points help you confirm the right person. If you see the wrong person, contact the clerk’s office. They can help you find the right file. Wrong matches can hurt the person named in the report.

Matching the Case Number

The case number is the best way to confirm the right file. Each case has its own number. The format starts with the year and the case type. Match the full number, including any letters or dashes. One wrong digit can pull up a different case. Always copy the number from a trusted source. Court papers, lawyer letters, and prior records all show the case number. This avoids costly errors in your search.

Verifying the Court

Each felony case stays in the county where it was filed. St. Clair County cases stay with the Circuit Court in Belleville. If the case was filed in another county, the clerk here cannot pull it. You would need to contact that county’s clerk. The court name shows in the record. Always check the court before you pull a file. This saves time and avoids wrong matches.

Recently Filed Cases

New cases take time to show in the online portal. The clerk updates the system as new filings come in. Some filings may take a few days to load. Very recent cases may not show up right away. You can call the office for help on recent cases. The staff can check the new docket by name. This helps you find cases that just entered the system.

Delayed Record Updates

Some updates take time to reach the public docket. The clerk enters filings as they come in. Heavy filing days can slow the system. Appeals, sealed motions, and ongoing hearings can also delay updates. You can check back in a few days for new entries. The clerk’s office can tell you when the next update will land. You can also sign up for case alerts on the portal.

Missing Documents

Some documents may be missing from the public docket. Sealed motions stay hidden from public view. Juvenile documents stay private under state law. Expunged files get pulled from the public system. If a document is missing, the clerk can tell you why. Some documents may still be in process. The clerk can guide you on how to get a copy of the missing document.

Records Held by Another Court

Some felony records stay with another court. Federal cases stay with the federal court in East St. Louis. Cases from other counties stay with those county clerks. Appellate records stay with the appellate court. The clerk here can only pull St. Clair County cases. For other records, contact the right court. The clerk can tell you where to send your request.

Common Felony Records Search Problems

Search problems happen for many reasons. Wrong names, wrong case numbers, or wrong courts can lead to errors. Sealed or restricted records do not show in public searches. Recent filings may take time to load. The clerk’s office can help you fix most issues. You should always check the basic facts before you search. This cuts down on wrong matches and delays. If you hit a wall, call the clerk’s office for help.

No Record Found

A no record result means the system could not find a match. This can happen with a misspelled name. It can also happen with a wrong case number. The case may be in another county. The case may be sealed or restricted. The case may be very new and not yet loaded. You can try a different search type. You can also call the clerk’s office for help.

Incorrect Defendant Name

A misspelled name can lead to no record or wrong record. Always type the name as it appears on the court file. The full legal name is the best way to search. Common names can return too many results. Adding the middle name or birth date helps. The clerk can help you find the right spelling if you get stuck.

Incorrect Case Number

A wrong case number returns the wrong file or no file. Each case number is unique. One wrong digit can change the result. Always copy the number from a trusted source. Court orders, lawyer letters, and prior records show the right number. If you cannot find the case, try a name search instead.

Wrong Court or County

Felony cases stay in the county where they were filed. The clerk here can only pull St. Clair County cases. If the case was filed elsewhere, you need that county’s clerk. The court name shows on the case file. Always check the court before you search. The clerk can tell you which county to contact.<

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Missing Case Documents

Some documents stay sealed or restricted. Sealed motions and expunged files do not show in public searches. Juvenile documents stay private under state law. If a document is missing, the clerk can tell you why. You may need a court order to see some sealed files. The clerk can guide you on the next steps.

Restricted Record

A restricted record stays private under court order. Only the parties and their lawyers can view the file. The public docket does not show these cases. The clerk cannot give you access without a court order. Restricted records protect witness safety, juvenile cases, and ongoing investigations. You can ask the court to unseal a record in some cases.

Delayed Case Details

New filings take time to load in the portal. Heavy filing days can slow the system. Some updates need clerk review before they go public. If the data is missing, wait a few days and try again. You can also call the clerk’s office for an update. They can tell you when the next data load will happen.

Felony Records and Related Records

Felony records are one type of public record. They differ from arrest records, misdemeanor records, and criminal history files. Each type of record covers different data points. Felony records focus on serious charges in circuit court. Arrest records show police custody data. Misdemeanor records cover less serious charges. Criminal history files pull data from many sources. Background checks combine these records into one report. Knowing the difference helps you pick the right record for your needs.

Felony Records vs. Criminal Records

Felony records cover only felony charges in circuit court. Criminal records cover all charges, including misdemeanors and felonies. The clerk’s office splits felony and misdemeanor dockets. You can search each docket separately. The felony docket shows only Class X, 1, 2, 3, and 4 felonies. The criminal record pulls from both dockets. Pick the felony docket if you only need felony data.

Felony Records vs. Criminal History

Criminal history files pull from many sources. These cover courts, police, corrections, and state agencies. Felony records come only from the court. The criminal history shows arrests, charges, dispositions, and custody data. The felony record shows only the court side. Criminal history files cost more and take longer to get. Felony records stay free online through the clerk.

Felony Records vs. Arrest Records

Arrest records show police custody data. These records cover the arrest date, agency, and charges. Felony records start after the arrest with the court filing. An arrest does not always lead to a felony charge. The arrest record stays separate from the court record. You would check the police or sheriff for arrest data. The clerk’s office only has court records.

Felony Records vs. Court Records

Court records cover all cases in the circuit court. These cover felony, misdemeanor, civil, and family cases. Felony records focus only on felony criminal cases. The court docket splits cases by type. You can search each type separately on the portal. The court record shows the full case file. The felony record shows only the criminal felony file.

Felony Records vs. Misdemeanor Records

Misdemeanor records cover less serious charges. These cover Class A, B, and C misdemeanors. Felony records cover more serious charges. Both records stay with the circuit clerk. The clerk’s portal splits them into separate dockets. You can search the felony docket or the misdemeanor docket. Pick the right docket for the type of charge you need.

Felony Records vs. Background Checks

Background checks pull from many records. These cover court records, credit files, and public data. Felony records are one part of a background check. The check may also cover employment, education, and references. A background check costs more and takes longer. A felony record search stays free through the clerk’s portal. Pick the right tool based on your needs.

St Clair County Circuit Clerk Contact Details

You can reach the St. Clair County Circuit Clerk’s office during business hours. The office sits at #10 Public Square, Belleville, IL 62220. The phone number for the clerk’s office is (618) 825-2334. Office hours run from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday. You can also use the official search portal at https://www.co.st-clair.il.us/departments/circuit-clerk. The portal works for online searches any time. You can visit the office in person for certified copies and complex requests. The staff can help with searches, copies, and record fixes.

Frequently Asked Questions

This list answers common questions about accessing felony records in St Clair County, Illinois.

How can I search St Clair County felony records?

You can start at the Circuit Clerk’s online portal. Enter the defendant’s name, case number, filing date, or court location in the search fields. Results show case details, charges, and outcomes. Public records are displayed unless a court order has sealed them. If online results are limited, visit the clerk’s office at 10 Public Square, Belleville, during regular hours for in‑person assistance.

What info is needed for a felony record lookup?

At minimum you need one of the following: full name of the defendant, exact case number, or the filing date. Providing the court name or the specific charge can narrow results. If you lack these details, the clerk may help you locate the record using partial information, but accuracy improves with complete data.

Where are public felony court documents in Belleville?

Public felony documents are kept at the St Clair County Circuit Clerk’s office. They are also accessible through the county’s official website under the “Court Records” section. You can view filings, motions, and judgments online, or request copies in person. Hours are Monday‑Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, and the office phone is (618) 825‑2334.

How do I find a case number for a St Clair felony?

Search the online portal using the defendant’s name or known charge. The system lists matching cases with their numbers. If the search returns many entries, add the filing year or court location to narrow the list. When online tools do not show a number, contact the clerk’s office and provide the name and approximate filing date; staff can retrieve the case number for you.

Why might a felony record be sealed or unavailable?

A court can seal a felony record if the law permits, such as after a successful expungement or when the case involves a minor. Sealed records do not appear in public searches and require a court order to access. Additionally, certain records may be restricted during ongoing investigations or appeals, so they remain hidden until the matter resolves.