Gibson County Court Records Search
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Gibson County, Indiana maintains a court system consisting of the Circuit Court, the Superior Court, and a Magistrate Court — all located within the Gibson County Courthouse in Princeton. These courts collectively generate and preserve official records spanning criminal prosecutions, civil litigation, domestic relations, probate proceedings, and juvenile matters. Under Indiana’s framework, court records include any document related to court proceedings, whether tied directly to a case or related to broader judicial administration, as defined by Indiana Administrative Rule 9.
Indiana residents and others seeking court case information have multiple access points available to them. Clerk offices, public access terminals at the courthouse, and the state’s online case portal all offer pathways to case data depending on what is being sought. IndianaStateCourts.us is a resource for finding publicly available court case information and understanding how Indiana’s trial court system is structured.
How to Look Up a Court Case in Gibson County?
Before searching, it helps to know which court handled the matter. The Gibson County Circuit Court has exclusive jurisdiction over probate, juvenile, and adoption proceedings, while both the Circuit Court and the Superior Court handle major criminal cases, civil litigation, and domestic relations matters. The Magistrate Court focuses on small claims and child support cases.
Online Search — Indiana MyCase Portal
The Indiana Judiciary operates the MyCase portal, which provides free public access to many court case records statewide. To search Gibson County cases:
- Go to mycase.in.gov
- Select “Gibson County” from the county dropdown
- Enter a party name, attorney name, or case number
- Filter by case type (Criminal, Civil, Family, Probate, etc.) to narrow results
The MyCase portal displays case index information, docket entries, and, in some instances, filed documents. It does not provide access to confidential or sealed records.
In-Person Access — Gibson County Courthouse
The Gibson County Clerk of the Circuit Court is the official custodian of records for both the Circuit and Superior Courts. The Clerk’s Office processes and manages all court files, collects and disburses fees, and provides public access to non-confidential records. Public computer terminals are available at the courthouse for on-site case searches.
Gibson County Courthouse — All Courts
Address: 101 N. Main Street, Princeton, IN 47670
Clerk Phone: (812) 385-2541
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (excluding holidays)
Court-Specific Contacts:
| Court | Judge | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Gibson Circuit Court | Hon. Jeffrey F. Meade | (812) 385-4885 |
| Gibson Superior Court | Hon. Robert Krieg | (812) 386-6237 |
The Gibson County Sheriff’s Office can also be contacted regarding arrest records and law enforcement-related matters.
Are Court Records Public in Gibson County?
The legal foundation for public access to court records in Gibson County rests on two statutes working in tandem. The Indiana Access to Public Records Act (APRA), codified at Ind. Code § 5-14-3 et seq., establishes a general right to inspect and copy government records. Indiana Administrative Rule 9 specifically governs court records, defining what is publicly accessible, how remote access works, and which records must be excluded from public view.
Under Administrative Rule 9(G), the following categories of records are excluded from public access or subject to restriction:
- Records declared confidential by state or federal statute
- Sealed documents, including certain expunged criminal records
- Juvenile case records
- Mental health proceedings governed by Ind. Code § 12-26
- Pending criminal matters or sensitive investigative materials
- Records related to pretrial release conditions, supervision programs, or problem-solving court participation
- Medical records filed under Indiana Trial Rule 35 or other health-related documents protected by law
All records that do not fall within a confidential category are publicly accessible during regular courthouse business hours. Many public records are also available remotely at no cost through the MyCase portal. Parties to a case, their attorneys, or individuals with a court order may be eligible to access restricted records when permitted by law.
The local court rules for Gibson County are approved by the Indiana Supreme Court and govern specific procedural areas including special judge selection and court reporter services.
Gibson County Criminal Court Records
Both the Circuit Court and the Superior Court handle criminal proceedings in Gibson County, though the two courts divide the work by case type. The Superior Court, presided over by Judge Robert Krieg, specifically focuses on a range of criminal offenses including arson, theft, home improvement fraud, drug and alcohol offenses, and crimes against public health, order, and decency. It also handles traffic violations and oversees a problem-solving drug court program. The Circuit Court, under Judge Jeffrey F. Meade, handles major felony cases such as murder, robbery, and assault.
Searching Criminal Records
Criminal case records from both courts are searchable through the Indiana MyCase portal. Users should select Gibson County and choose “Criminal” as the case type filter. Searches can be conducted by defendant name or case number. Docket entries, hearing dates, charges, and dispositions are typically visible for non-confidential criminal matters.
For certified copies of criminal case documents, contact the Gibson County Clerk at (812) 385-2541 or visit the Clerk’s Office at the courthouse during regular business hours. The Clerk maintains all official criminal case filings, judgments, and orders.
Criminal History Records
A full criminal history background check — covering arrests and convictions across multiple jurisdictions — extends beyond what court case records provide. The Gibson County Sheriff’s Office and local police departments maintain arrest records and criminal history information for activity occurring within county limits. APRA applies to many of these law enforcement documents, though exemptions may apply to ongoing investigations or other sensitive materials.
Traffic Infraction Fee Schedule (effective July 1, 2023):
| Violation | Fine | Court Cost | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speeding 1–15 mph over | $9.50 | $139.50 | $149.00 |
| Speeding 16–35 mph over | $19.50 | $139.50 | $159.00 |
| Speeding 36+ mph over | $29.50 | $139.50 | $169.00 |
| Speeding in construction zone | $304.50 | $139.50 | $444.00 |
| Speeding in school zone | $64.50 | $139.50 | $204.00 |
| Seatbelt violation | $25.00 | — | $25.00 |
| Other infractions | $9.50 | $139.50 | $149.00 |
| Failure to appear/pay (add) | — | — | +$25.00 |
A deferral program is available with prosecutor approval; the fee is $192.00, and a deferral agreement form must be submitted with payment. Contact the Prosecutor’s Office at (812) 385-5497 for eligibility.
Gibson County Civil Court Records
Civil litigation in Gibson County is shared between the Circuit Court and the Superior Court, both of which handle substantial civil lawsuits involving significant monetary claims and complex legal disputes. The Magistrate Court assumes jurisdiction over small claims matters, allowing the Superior Court to focus on more demanding proceedings.
Small Claims Division Filing Fees:
- $97.00 — Initial filing fee (one defendant)
- $87.00 — Initial filing fee if e-filed (one defendant)
- $10.00 — For each additional defendant
- $28.00 — Sheriff service fee, if required
For civil cases beyond the small claims threshold, the court cost is $177.00, plus an additional $28.00 for Sheriff service if required. Fees are subject to change; confirm current amounts with the Clerk’s Office before filing.
Accessing Civil Records
Civil case records are searchable online via the MyCase portal by selecting “Civil” as the case type and Gibson County as the jurisdiction. For certified copies, requests must be made directly at the Clerk’s Office. Documents must be submitted to the Clerk’s Office by the close of business hours (4:00 p.m.).
The Gibson County Clerk’s forms page on the Indiana State Government website provides downloadable forms for common civil filings. The Indiana Judicial Branch’s court statistics portal also provides official data on case types filed and disposed in Gibson County courts.
Gibson County Family Court Records
Domestic relations matters in Gibson County — including divorce, child custody, child support, and visitation — are handled by both the Circuit Court and the Superior Court. The Magistrate Court takes jurisdiction over child support enforcement cases, helping to reduce the caseload of the Superior Court.
Divorce Records
Divorce records are public documents maintained by the Gibson County Clerk of the Circuit Court, unless sealed by a court order. Basic case information for divorce proceedings is accessible through the MyCase portal by selecting “Family” as the case type and Gibson County as the jurisdiction. For certified copies of divorce decrees or other dissolution documents, visit or contact the Clerk’s Office directly at (812) 385-2541.
Child Custody and Support
The Circuit Court website provides links to the Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines and the Indiana Child Support worksheet calculator, which can help parties understand support obligations and parenting schedules before filing. The Magistrate Court handles child support enforcement proceedings directly to allow for faster case resolution.
Domestic Violence and Protection Orders
Petitions for protective orders in Gibson County are filed with the Clerk’s Office. The Gibson County courts page notes that an Access to Court Records Notice of Exclusion of Confidential Information form, Petition for an Order for Protection, and Request for a Hearing are submitted to the Clerk’s Office as part of that process.
Marriage Records
Marriage records are maintained by the Gibson County Clerk of the Circuit Court under Ind. Code § 31-11-4-7. These records are generally public. To search for marriage licenses issued statewide since 1993, the Indiana Department of Health Vital Records Index provides an online search by party name and year. For older records or certified copies, contact the Clerk’s Office in person.
Birth and Death Records
Birth and death records in Indiana are governed by Ind. Code § 16-37 and managed primarily by the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH). The Gibson County Health Department — located at 203 S. Prince Street, Princeton, IN 47670, Phone: (812) 385-3831 — issues certified birth certificates for individuals born in or out of Gibson County, though amendments for out-of-county births must be made through the county of birth. Requesters must meet eligibility requirements outlined in the Birth and Death ID Requirements, and a Request for Certified Copy of Birth form must be completed. Certified birth certificates are generally available only to the named individual, immediate family members, or authorized legal representatives. Death certificate requesters must demonstrate a direct legal or financial interest. Applications may be submitted in person at the health department or by mail to the IDOH.
Gibson County Probate Court Records
The Gibson County Circuit Court has exclusive jurisdiction over all probate matters in the county. This includes the administration of estates, probate of wills, guardianships, conservatorships, adoptions, and trust proceedings. The Circuit Court’s sole authority over these sensitive matters reflects the specialized nature of probate law and the need for consistent, experienced judicial oversight.
Accessing Probate Records
Probate case records are maintained by the Gibson County Clerk of the Circuit Court. Many probate docket entries are accessible through the Indiana MyCase portal by selecting “Probate” as the case type and Gibson County as the jurisdiction. For certified copies of probate documents — including letters testamentary, guardianship orders, or estate inventories — an in-person request at the Clerk’s Office is typically required.
Gibson County Circuit Court — Probate Division
Address: Gibson County Courthouse, 101 N. Main Street, Princeton, IN 47670
Phone: (812) 385-4885 (Judge’s chambers)
Clerk Phone: (812) 385-2541
Fax: (812) 385-3089
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Probate Case Types Handled by the Circuit Court:
- Administration of decedents’ estates (testate and intestate)
- Probate of wills
- Appointment of personal representatives
- Guardianships and conservatorships for minors and incapacitated adults
- Adoptions
- Trust proceedings
- Juvenile matters (exclusive jurisdiction)
Probate records are generally public under APRA unless they contain information that falls within a confidential category under Administrative Rule 9(G). Mail requests for probate case documents should be directed to the Clerk’s Office at 101 N. Main Street, Princeton, IN 47670, along with a description of the records sought, the requester’s contact information, and payment for any applicable copy fees. The Clerk’s Office can provide current per-page copy rates upon request.